- #1
Llama77
- 113
- 0
I have a minor bit of circuit experience. As a fun project id like to build a shortwave radio. Does anybody have any tips on where to start.
What are some tips for building a shortwave radio?
In summary, the conversation discusses building a shortwave radio and asks for tips on where to start. One person suggests starting with a super-regenerative receiver, while another suggests a more advanced heterodyne design. They also mention the importance of having an oscilloscope for construction and troubleshooting. Other resources for building a receiver are shared, including websites and the suggestion to join an electronics course or amateur radio club. It is noted that the current state of the shortwave bands may not be ideal for listening, but the trend is towards software defined radio with simpler receiver hardware.
- #2
waht
- 1,501
- 4
Super-regenerative receivers are the simplest to make, but are difficult to tune:
More advanced are heterodyne designs, which is actually a basis for modern radio topology. With an access to an oscilloscope it would be easier to construct one, and troubleshoot.
http://www.qrp.pops.net/popsuphet.asp
More advanced are heterodyne designs, which is actually a basis for modern radio topology. With an access to an oscilloscope it would be easier to construct one, and troubleshoot.
http://www.qrp.pops.net/popsuphet.asp
- #3
vk6kro
Science Advisor
- 4,079
- 41
You could have a look at this page (from a sticky link above):
http://www.hobbyprojects.com/R/rf_radio_frequency_receivers.html
The first two links I clicked on didn't work. These were the obvious ones of Shortwave Receiver and Superhet. Others were OK.
This page looked useful:
http://homepage.eircom.net/~ei9gq/rx_circ.html
I would suggest, though, that you consider getting into a hobby level electronics course where you could find out enough about how receivers work to make a good choice about what to build and maybe even design your own.
Amateur Radio offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about Electronics. If there is an Amateur Radio club or a school offering electronics instruction, maybe you could try to take advantage of that. They are usually free or run at cost price by enthusiastic volunteers.
The shortwave bands can be pretty dead at the moment due to a lack of sunspots, so you have plenty of time to consider what to build. Maybe in about 3 years it will be a lot better.
In the meantime, simple radios are not likely to hear much.
The current trend is towards Software Defined Radio using your computer to do some clever stuff and making the receiver hardware simpler.
http://www.hobbyprojects.com/R/rf_radio_frequency_receivers.html
The first two links I clicked on didn't work. These were the obvious ones of Shortwave Receiver and Superhet. Others were OK.
This page looked useful:
http://homepage.eircom.net/~ei9gq/rx_circ.html
I would suggest, though, that you consider getting into a hobby level electronics course where you could find out enough about how receivers work to make a good choice about what to build and maybe even design your own.
Amateur Radio offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about Electronics. If there is an Amateur Radio club or a school offering electronics instruction, maybe you could try to take advantage of that. They are usually free or run at cost price by enthusiastic volunteers.
The shortwave bands can be pretty dead at the moment due to a lack of sunspots, so you have plenty of time to consider what to build. Maybe in about 3 years it will be a lot better.
In the meantime, simple radios are not likely to hear much.
The current trend is towards Software Defined Radio using your computer to do some clever stuff and making the receiver hardware simpler.
Related to What are some tips for building a shortwave radio?
What materials are needed to build a shortwave radio?
The materials needed to build a shortwave radio include a radio frequency (RF) coil, variable capacitor, antenna, diode, and a tuning knob. Other optional materials may include resistors, capacitors, and a printed circuit board.
Do I need to have previous experience to build a shortwave radio?
No, previous experience is not necessary to build a shortwave radio. However, some basic knowledge of electronics and radio frequency principles may be helpful.
Is it difficult to build a shortwave radio?
Building a shortwave radio can be challenging for those without experience in electronics. It may require patience and attention to detail, but with the right instructions and materials, it can be a rewarding project.
What is the range of frequencies that a shortwave radio can receive?
A shortwave radio can receive frequencies between 1.6 and 30 MHz, which includes the AM broadcast band, international shortwave bands, and some amateur radio bands.
Can I modify a shortwave radio to receive additional frequencies?
Yes, it is possible to modify a shortwave radio to receive additional frequencies. This may require adding new components or adjusting the existing ones. However, it is important to note that modifying a shortwave radio may void its warranty and should be done with caution.
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