Building a ~20khz Radio on the Cheap

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around building a radio capable of receiving signals in the 200 Hz to 20 kHz range. Participants explore the necessary components and specifications for constructing such a device, including considerations of signal type and modulation methods.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks advice on specific parts needed for building a radio, emphasizing the importance of the signal frequency.
  • Another participant mentions that the only signals of interest in the 10 - 20 kHz range are atmospheric phenomena, suggesting further research on the topic.
  • A participant questions whether the intended signals are AM or FM, indicating that this distinction is important for the project.
  • Several participants clarify that the signals are likely longwave radio signals, which do not fall within the AM or FM frequency ranges.
  • One participant shares their experience building a radio to receive electromagnetic signals from Jupiter, mentioning the use of an LM386 amplifier and a capacitor to enhance signal detection.
  • Another participant emphasizes the need for specific requirements to provide tailored instructions, asking for clarity on the desired signals and frequency ranges.
  • There is a challenge regarding whether participants have reviewed shared resources, with a call for more specific information on the intended reception goals.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the type of signals to be received and the necessary specifications for the radio. There is no consensus on the exact requirements or the best approach to building the radio.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of defining the specific signals and frequencies of interest, as well as the modulation methods, before proceeding with construction. There are unresolved questions regarding the nature of the signals and the appropriate components needed.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in radio construction, signal reception, and those exploring atmospheric phenomena or longwave radio signals may find this discussion relevant.

radiogeek17
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I am trying to build a radio to receive a 200 hz - 20 kHz signal. Can anyone give me a starting point as to what specific parts I would need (breadboard, operational amplifier, transistors, resistors, antennae, etc..)? The signal frequency is the most important thing for this project.

Thanks guys.
 
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Hi
welcome to PF :)

now assuming you didnt err on your frequency range, the only thing of interest in the 10 - 20kHz to listen to are Atmospherics ... Whistlers, Dawn Chorus etc

google is a wonderful thing ;)

http://www.techlib.com/electronics/vlfwhistle.htmDave
 
radiogeek17 said:
I am trying to build a radio to receive a 200 hz - 20 kHz signal.
I think you need to indicate whether this is for AM or FM stations. :wink:

What signal or waveform will you recover from each radio signal?
 
I am trying to receive an audio signal within this range of baseband frequencies. I don't think it is AM or FM signals - these waves are longwave radio signals and fall beneath the range of AM frequencies (540 - 1710 khz). SO neither AM or FM.

Specific instructions would be appreciated :).
 
radiogeek17 said:
I am trying to receive an audio signal within this range of baseband frequencies. I don't think it is AM or FM signals - these waves are longwave radio signals and fall beneath the range of AM frequencies (540 - 1710 khz). SO neither AM or FM.

Specific instructions would be appreciated :).

Http://www.Instructables.comThere are many many radio designs with many frequency ranges available at the site. Are you aiming for the aircraft band or some other particular type of frequency? The radio I just built was for trying to pick up Jupiter's emf so I can hear the "noises" theta net makes. I do not know if I was successful or not t it was interesting to listen to.

Essentially an LM386 with a 1000microFarad cap to set the gain high so you can hear the faint signals being received by the antenna. That's the approach I used. If you have any questions concerning my build please send me a message and I will link you the schematic. However it is also available in the link I posted, just search for anything radio and you should run into something to fulfill your requirements. Hope this helps.
 
Last edited:
radiogeek17 said:
I am trying to receive an audio signal within this range of baseband frequencies. I don't think it is AM or FM signals - these waves are longwave radio signals and fall beneath the range of AM frequencies (540 - 1710 khz). SO neither AM or FM.

Specific instructions would be appreciated :).

A specific requirement would be necessary before you can expect any specific instructions. You need to decide exactly what you want to do before you can obtain any real help here.
FM and AM are forms of modulation and do not 'define' a frequency band, although certain bands tend to be used for particular purposes.
What actual signal(s) do you want to receive and what actual frequency(ies)? Do you just want to detect an unmodulated Carrier Wave? Will these be high level or low level signals? What sort of antenna do you propose to use?
 
radiogeek17 said:
I am trying to receive an audio signal within this range of baseband frequencies. I don't think it is AM or FM signals - these waves are longwave radio signals and fall beneath the range of AM frequencies (540 - 1710 khz). SO neither AM or FM.

Specific instructions would be appreciated :).

Did you even look in the link I gave you ?

its exactly for receiving those frequencies

But as others have asked and you still haven't told us...

Specifically what are you wanting to receive ?

Dave
 

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