Difference between 1A- and 1C-type payphones

[mst269]

Hi again folks-

I've got a question about the difference between the original 1A/2A-type single-slots and the 1C/2C-type that followed- specifically, what's the difference?  I see from the BSPs that the A seems to be coin-first (probably ground-start like a three-slot) and that it has a mercury relay for... something.  The 1C-type, which I have two of, has a switchable totalizer (dial tone first or coin first) and no mercury relays. 

Is there any other difference?  For example, are the coin tones different or something, where a 1A1 or 1A2 couldn't have been in service recently on a regular coin line?  I seem to recall reading somewhere that As could only handle TSPS with operators intervening in long distance calls but when equipped with a special circuit, that C and Ds worked with ACTS?  (Certainly I know they do; I've placed long distance calls on 1D2s in service.  I'm mainly wondering about whether a 1A2 could have been on the street corner in the last 10 or so years, or if it would have been modernized when ACTS came along.)

Thanks,
Richard

[paul]

You might want to check these manuals:

http://wedophones.com/TheBellSystem/pdf/bsp/coin/PublicServices2reduced.pdf
http://wedophones.com/TheBellSystem/pdf/bsp/coin/PublicServices1reduced.pdf

(found through another forum )

[mst269]

Hello Paul-

Very good, answers my questions pretty well.  Thanks!

Richard