Busselton Historical Society > Records
Linesman's Test Set - Telephone
Subcollections
Historical information
Post Master General (PMG) Buttinski Test Phone (1960s)
Issued to Linesmen and used when working on aerial telephone lines. Often seen dangling from their belt, the Linesman could clip the test phone to the main line and dial numbers – usually to speak to Test Desk staff.
Details
Details
Registration number
cwa-org-124-2022.167
Item type
Objects
Themes
Material
Metal
Width
85 mm
Height or length
240 mm
Depth
70 mm
Inscriptions and markings
Stamped on back of dial;
C46/10411
Contextual information
A Lineman's Test Set—often called a "buttinski" or butt set—is a portable, durable telephone handset used by technicians to test, install, and repair telephone lines directly in the field. It allows technicians to tap into telephone lines to verify dial tones, check for faults, and make calls, usually featuring alligator clips for connection.
Keywords
Primary significance criteria
Historic significance
Social or spiritual significance
Last modified
Friday, 10 July, 2026
Completeness
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