Short Wave Listening коротковолновое радио

Introduction to Short and Medium Wave Radio Listening

Short wave radio listening was a childhood passion and I enjoy being an SWL just as much today. There seems to be many web pages devoted to construction of radio equipment for the amateur radio experimenter but relatively few for the shortwave radio devotee. I decided to expand this web site to include projects for the SWL Homebuilder in 2005.

My favorite bands are 49 meters (5.9 - 6.2 MHz) at night-time and 19 meters (15.1-15.8 MHz) during the daylight hours. I also listen to medium wave DX around 1400 - 1600 KHz.

Why Listen to Short wave Radio?

Is short wave radio dead? I think not. There is no question that short wave radio is past its prime, however, it is still thriving and still fun. Almost 1/2 of the world's population lives on $2.00 US or less per day. In addition, some people have governmental censorship limiting their local media and Internet content. Shortwave radio is able to break through obstacles such as borders, poverty and censorship and I imagine it will be around a long time to come. Shortwave radio entertains, informs and allows one to study propagation and experiment with radio equipment and antennas.

What About Internet Radio?

Internet radio is not RF broadcasted radio! Static, propagation, QRN, antennas, grounding, baluns, coax, wire and all of the challenges of real radio are fascinating unto themselves. Being an SWL is an adventure; it is unpredictable and varied. There are many modes and techniques to learn and master. Compare this to HAMs using their call signs while being logged on to Internet chat rooms reserved for HAMs, or people listening to a stream of compressed bits fed from a so-called Internet radio station or virtual receiver. There is nothing wrong with the fore mentioned Internet applications, however, they are not radio!

Assembling a station The most important component in your radio shack is your antenna. Don't hesitate to safely experiment with the many antenna designs available on the world wide web. Your sure to find a commercial unit or home brew antenna design that suits your real estate and budget.

Your next task is to find a receiver. It is difficult to recommend any one receiver because there are so many excellent commercial receivers to choose from. If you are thinking about purchasing a used receiver, you might consider checking eBay to find a receiver or to learn the going price for used gear. The ultimate SWL experience in my opinion is to build and operate a receiver on at least 1 band.