By war's end, Northern Electric has 23 distribution houses in major Canadian
cities, selling extensive lines of electric appliances such
as kettles, toasters, cigar lighters, electric stoves, and washing
machines.
1922 - The first Canadian vacuum tube
Northern Electric produces the first Canadian vacuum tube, used on repeater
apparatus for long-distance lines. The decision to establish
in-house production facilities for these tubes signals the company's
growing drive toward independence from Western Electric.
1922 - Pioneer in broadcast technology
Northern Electric manufactures consumer radios that feature major electronic
advances. The company sets up its own radio transmitter and
broadcasts programs to build interest in radio ownership and
promote its expanding line of radio sets.
1928 - Pioneer in talking pictures
Northern Electric produces the first talking moving-picture sound system
installed in Canada. The system for the Palace Theater in Montreal
is also the first anywhere in the British Empire.
1929 - Diversification and design during the great depression
Demand for telephones sinks as businesses fold and jobs disappear. The
company is forced to downsize its staff by 66 percent and launch
make-work projects.
