How To

How to Strengthen AM Radio Reception

By eHow Electronics Editor
Rate: (11 Ratings)

Although the golden age of AM radio is long past, it's still popular for news, talk shows and sports broadcasts. Noisy reception, though, is a common problem. Several simple techniques can ensure that you're pulling in the best signal possible.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • At Least 1 Foot (30 Cm) Of Wire
  1. Step 1

    Check to see whether your radio has an input for an AM antenna. If it does, you can attach a length of wire--measuring at least 1 foot (30 cm)--to see if that improves reception. Experiment with moving the wire around.

  2. Step 2

    If you've got a portable radio with only a built-in antenna, try turning the radio around to find a position where reception improves. By the way, the telescoping antenna that comes with portable AM-FM radios has no effect on AM reception.

  3. Step 3

    If the radio plugs into the wall with a nonpolarized plug (where both prongs are the same size), try reversing the plug in the outlet. Moving the plug to another outlet might help, too.

  4. Step 4

    If possible, position an indoor radio or its antenna near a window. AM reception is affected by walls of brick, metal or concrete, not to mention aluminum siding.

  5. Step 5

    Other potential sources of interference are electrical devices in your house--anything from a fluorescent light to a TV. Try positioning the radio away from these things or switch them off while you enjoy the ballgame.

Tips & Warnings
  • AM reception is usually better at night because AM radio signals bounce off the ionosphere.

Comments  

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on 5/30/2008 WHY IS IT THAT I CAN GET ALL THE FM STATIONS I WANT WHILE SITTING IN MY CAR BUT CANT GET ANY OF THEM IN MY HOME VIA MY FM TURNER?

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