How to Make the Best Use of a Shortwave Radio

Modern communications tie the nations of the world together. A few minutes a day spent tuning in the shortwave radio bands can be entertaining and enlightening.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Morse Code Books Or CDs
• Area Maps
• Antenna Coaxes
• Dipole Antennas
• Ground Wires
• Headphones
• Shortwave Radio Receivers
• Copper Rods
• UTC Clocks
• Morse-code Instruction Software
• Aluminum Push-up Pole
• Phillips Screwdrivers
• Cable Ties
• Copper Wire
• Electric Drill/assorted Bits
• Electrical Testers
• Nut Drivers
• Pulleys
• Slotted Screwdrivers
• Solder
• Soldering Guns/irons
• Wire Nippers
• Wire-insulation Strippers

1. Select, purchase and install a shortwave radio.
2. Install an antenna that you purchase or build.
3. Invite children to listen and learn about the world.
4. Track signals and help your family learn geography.
5. Develop a familiarity with other cultures.
6. Get a different viewpoint on news and political happenings.
7. Scan the bands for the latest information following natural disasters or political upheavals.
8. Use a foreign language broadcast as a language tutor.
9. Listen on the ham-radio bands to learn Morse code.

Tips & Warnings

• Many international broadcast stations will return colorful QSL cards to acknowledge your receipt of their signal.
• Children especially will enjoy marking the location of broadcasters on a globe or map.
• Broaden your shortwave radio knowledge by joining a club or an e-mail discussion list.
• Unhook your shortwave radio from any outdoor antenna lead when the radio is not in use.
• You may need to send IRCs to receive QSL cards.