Human Antenna: Improving Poor FM Reception in Hilly Locations

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the challenges of improving FM radio reception in hilly locations, particularly focusing on the interaction between the human body and antenna performance. Participants explore the concept of "touch capacitance" and its effects on signal reception, as well as alternative solutions for enhancing radio reception without extensive installations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that their FM reception improves significantly when they are close to or touching the antenna, prompting a question about the role of the human body in this phenomenon.
  • Another participant humorously suggests that the human body acts as a large capacitor, implying that this could enhance signal reception.
  • A further inquiry is made into how the body shape might influence the effectiveness of the antenna, suggesting a playful exploration of the concept.
  • Reference is made to the term "touch capacitance," indicating that this is a recognized effect among some radio enthusiasts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying degrees of humor and curiosity about the concept of touch capacitance, but there is no consensus on the mechanisms at play or how to effectively improve FM reception without significant modifications to the antenna setup.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the underlying technical details of how human interaction with antennas affects reception, nor does it clarify the assumptions behind the proposed ideas.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in radio technology, signal reception challenges, and those living in hilly areas seeking alternative solutions for FM radio reception may find this discussion relevant.

jnorman
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i live in a hilly location where i have very difficult radio reception, so i am always futzing around with my little "active" antenna for FM radio (PBS). i notice that reception always improves as i move near the antenna (like within 3-5 feet is noticeable), and gets much better if i just touch the antenna box.

what is it about the human body that would improve the antenna operation? and how can i make the stupid antenna work better without having to stand there touching it? other than installing some monstrous physical antenna on my roof, is there any other way to get decent FM reception in a poor location? thanks.
 
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You are a large capacitor.
 
mommy! JD called me a big capacitor! make him take it back!
 
JDługosz said:
You are a large capacitor.

Could you elaborate on how that improves signal reception?
 
jnorman said:
what is it about the human body that would improve the antenna operation?

What is your body-shape type? Are you pear, hourglass or parabolic-dish?
 
That's all I remember. Old radioheads call the effect "touch capacitance".

You are a lot larger than that antenna, right?
 

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