Radio Taste Reception

The purpose of this research was to determine the feasibility of reception of radio telegraphic signals by the sense of taste. Electrodes were made which could be placed against the tongue in such a way as to cause a taste sensation when a source of potential was connected to them. Tests were made, using low potential direct current and 60-cycle alternating current to ascertain the amount of energy and potential necessary for taste reception. Tests were then made, using signals from a buzzer source. By employing a two-stage transformer-coupled audio-frequency amplifier it was possible to obtain taste sensations from a signal having an audibility of 500 in the detector circuit. The possible speed of transmission appeared to be limited to a maximum of about 10 words per minute because of the characteristics of the taste organs. Finally, the reception of actual signals from an antenna was tried. It was found possible by using four stages of amplification to obtain taste sensations from all signals the audibility of which was greater than 500 in the detector circuit. The results obtained thus indicate that from an electrical standpoint it is possible to receive radio telegraphic signals by the sense of taste. When compared to the sense of hearing or even of sight, however, the sense of taste is much inferior as a means for receiving intelligence.