LF, MF, HF, VHF, and UHF signals and Walls

  • Thread starter Miss Amy
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In summary, the number of walls a HF signal can pass through before it starts to fade considerably depends on the construction materials and dimensions of the walls, as well as the frequency of the signal. Lower frequencies, such as LF, MF, VHF, and UHF, may go through more walls before fading out compared to higher frequencies. However, this also depends on the materials and dimensions of the walls. The KiwiSDR is designed for the HF range and lower frequencies, but without an external antenna, it may be susceptible to digital and switch-mode power supply noise. Overall, the number of walls a signal can pass through before fading depends on various factors and cannot be answered simply.
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Miss Amy
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How many walls does a HF signal has to go through before the signal starts to fade considerably? How about LF, MF, VHF, and UHF signals? From what I've read, lower frequencies go through more walls than higher frequencies before fading out, is that correct? Thanks a lot for reading this!
 
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  • #3
Miss Amy said:
How many walls does a HF signal has to go through before the signal starts to fade considerably?
Define 'fade considerably'.

Depending on materials and wavelength, the walls, floor and ceiling surfaces may take any combination of transparent, absorptive or reflective. Significant attenuation only occurs with some materials and some dimensions. Doors and windows may block or encourage propagation depending on material, size and wavelength.

A conductive copper sheet will be an excellent mirror at RF. But unless you completely close the box without gaps, the RF surface currents will pass around the boundaries at the edge of the wall.

So the answer to your question depends on why you ask such a general question.
 
  • #4
Methinks @Miss Amy is asking this because of her SDR project... :smile:
Miss Amy said:
I'm talking about the HF range (30mhz-3mhz) and lower (since that is the range the KiwiSDR has). Unfortunately, I have to have the antenna inside my house and near my computer/internet connection. Would that be okay? Are general internet connestions HF and lower?
 
  • #5
The KiwiSDR looks good for 10kHz to 30MHz, especially with the 14 bit A-D converter. But without an external antenna, I expect Miss Amy will be making a study of digital and switch-mode power supply noise in the HF band. Walls will not be the problem. Small external antennas are possible for RX.
 
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1. What is the difference between LF, MF, HF, VHF, and UHF signals?

LF, MF, HF, VHF, and UHF are all different bands of radio frequencies. LF stands for Low Frequency and has a frequency range of 30-300 kHz. MF stands for Medium Frequency and has a frequency range of 300-3000 kHz. HF stands for High Frequency and has a frequency range of 3-30 MHz. VHF stands for Very High Frequency and has a frequency range of 30-300 MHz. UHF stands for Ultra High Frequency and has a frequency range of 300-3000 MHz. Each band has its own unique characteristics and applications, such as LF being used for long-distance communication and UHF being used for television and cell phone signals.

2. How do walls affect LF, MF, HF, VHF, and UHF signals?

Walls can affect radio signals in different ways depending on the frequency. LF signals can easily penetrate through walls and other obstacles due to their long wavelengths. MF and HF signals can also penetrate through walls to a certain extent, but their wavelengths are shorter so they may experience some attenuation. VHF and UHF signals have shorter wavelengths and are more likely to be blocked or weakened by walls, buildings, and other objects.

3. Can LF, MF, HF, VHF, and UHF signals travel through water?

Yes, LF, MF, HF, VHF, and UHF signals can all travel through water, but their ability to do so depends on the frequency and the depth of the water. LF signals have the best ability to travel through water, with their long wavelengths allowing them to penetrate deep into the water. MF and HF signals can also travel through water, but their shorter wavelengths may cause them to dissipate more quickly. VHF and UHF signals have the most difficulty traveling through water and are often used for communication between ships and submarines.

4. How are LF, MF, HF, VHF, and UHF signals used in wireless communication?

LF and MF signals are commonly used for long-distance communication, such as AM radio broadcasting and navigation systems. HF signals can also be used for long-distance communication, but are more prone to atmospheric noise and interference. VHF signals are used for FM radio broadcasting, television broadcasting, and two-way communication such as walkie-talkies and air traffic control. UHF signals are commonly used for cell phone signals, Wi-Fi, and satellite communication.

5. What are the potential health effects of exposure to LF, MF, HF, VHF, and UHF signals?

There is currently no scientific evidence that exposure to LF, MF, HF, VHF, or UHF signals has any negative health effects. These signals are a form of non-ionizing radiation, which means they do not have enough energy to cause damage to cells or DNA. However, it is always recommended to follow safety guidelines and regulations for the use of wireless communication devices.

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