Shortwave: Basic Setup of Shortwave Radios

Shortwave radios allow listeners to hear music, news and utility transmissions from around the world. A portable shortwave radio is a good starting point for those interested in monitoring shortwave frequencies.

 

To really explore shortwave frequencies, you need to pick up a little more equipment than a portable radio. Shortwave radio kits usually include a tabletop shortwave receiver, an external shortwave antenna and earphones.

A shortwave basic setup only requires a shortwave receiver and a shortwave antenna. Whip antennas (the standard retractable antenna seen on most radios) are not the best choice for shortwave radios. They have limited range and do not receive signals well in steel-framed buildings.

If your only choice is a whip antenna, improve reception by extending the antenna with a length of wire. To really get the most out of your shortwave receiver, however, you need an external SWL antenna.

An external SWL antenna is permanently mounted outside. The antenna must be properly grounded to prevent damage from lightening strikes and should not be installed where it could tangle power lines. Be sure to check with your local zoning laws before putting up a shortwave antenna.

You can also purchase compact portable SWL antennas. Called a reel antenna, a portable antenna is essentially a long length of wire that can be extended and retracted from a casing, similar to a retractable dog leash. A reel antenna retails for $15 to $35.

A tabletop shortwave receiver will have an external antenna jack, and installation is as easy as plugging the antenna cable into the jack.

The location of the shortwave receiver is important. The receiver needs to be away from household items that can cause radio interference. Computer monitors, televisions and other electronics are common sources of interference. Even if you plan on connecting the shortwave receiver to your PC, it’s best not to have the receiver right next to the computer monitor.

Tabletop shortwave receivers can be pricey, starting at $1000 and ranging upwards. As a general rule, higher priced shortwave receivers can scan a wider range of shortwave frequencies, although this rule is open to exceptions.

If you purchase only one addition to the shortwave basic setup, make it a good pair of earphones. Earphones help you listen to faint signals by blocking out other sounds. Earphones also help maintain household peace: Not everyone in the home always appreciates the sounds coming from the shortwave receiver.

A good Morse code book is a great help if you plan on deciphering messages sent by ham operators. You can also purchase antenna tuners to improve reception and shortwave converters to increase your receiver’s frequency range.

Some of the more popular shortwave radio kits allow you to connect your shortwave receiver directly to your PC. These kits include software that enhances your use of a shortwave receiver.

While you can purchase all you need for a shortwave basic setup at most radio stores and online, some people prefer to build their shortwave receiver and antenna from scratch. DIY shortwave radios require a thorough knowledge of electronics and are definitely not for the novice.