Simple Way to Get Better Reception From Your Transistor Radio

All radios can benefit from a better antenna.

Just because a transistor radio has a built-in whip antenna doesn't mean it is a very effective receiver. That telescoping whip is designed more for portability than performance. Another concern is the location of the antenna. If you are listening to the radio indoors, the walls of the building block some of the desired signal, while the building's wiring radiates unwanted noise that the radio can pick up.

Putting a simple wire antenna outside the building is one way to get better reception from your transistor radio.

Things You'll Need

• Electrical wire, at least 20 feet long
• Clip lead

Instructions

1. Locate your listening position near a window.

2. Run the wire through the window. Avoid metal objects.

3. Stretch the wire away from the building, if possible. Fasten the end of the wire to a nearby tree or other object. If this is not possible, stretch the wire alongside the building and fasten it to the eaves.

4. Connect the clip lead to the end of the wire that is inside the building. Connect the other end of the clip lead to the whip antenna of the radio.

References

• Better Shortwave Reception; William I. Orr, Stuart D. Cowan; 1957