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This resource details the fundamental aspects of deploying longwire antennas, emphasizing ease of construction and installation for shortwave listening (SWL) and broadcast reception. It covers wire gauge selection, suggesting 14 to 24 AWG for general use, with heavier gauges (14-20 AWG) for permanent outdoor installations. Guidance is provided for various deployment scenarios, including indoor setups where the wire can be run around a room, temporary outdoor installations from balconies using light 18-24 AWG wire, and permanent outdoor configurations requiring higher placement and slack for tree movement. Feeding methods are discussed, recommending coaxial cable (50-75 ohms) to mitigate man-made interference, with instructions for connecting only the center conductor to the longwire. Safety precautions are highlighted, particularly avoiding contact with power lines and conductive materials, and managing static electricity buildup by unplugging the antenna after use and bleeding off charges before connection. The article also advises against using outdoor longwires during thunderstorms or snowstorms due to static and lightning risks. Optimal height considerations are presented, advocating for the highest safe placement, ideally a couple of feet above underlying structures, to maintain free air space. The text mentions a personal setup with one end at a roof peak (20 feet) and the other at a 17-foot mast, illustrating practical deployment without strict height requirements beyond safety and clearance.

Schema of a self made balun used to match randmon wire antennas, mainly for shortwave listening pourposes, in italian

Monitoring shortwave broadcast stations effectively requires accurate schedule information to identify transmissions. This online utility offers a straightforward, graphical interface designed to search for and display current shortwave radio broadcasting schedules. Users can precisely filter results by frequency, specific language, broadcaster, time of day, and even by shortwave band, which simplifies the process of pinpointing desired content. The database, last updated on March 26, 2023, details station callsigns (e.g., BBC), start and end times in UTC, days of the week, broadcast language, transmitter power in kilowatts, and azimuth. Crucially, it includes the precise geographical coordinates of transmitter sites, such as Woofferton in the UK or Al Seela in Oman. This data is invaluable for predicting signal paths and optimizing antenna direction for improved reception, a key consideration for serious SWLs. For instance, a search for BBC English broadcasts at 21:04 GMT quickly reveals multiple active frequencies like 17780 kHz from Woofferton, offering a clear overview of current transmissions. The tool processes queries rapidly, returning results within seconds, demonstrating its efficiency for broadcast listening enthusiasts seeking timely information.

A well documented plan to build a magnetic loop antenna for Shortwave Listening, includes photos and diagrams.

Advices for newcomers on shortwave listening by Daniel A. Grunberg

WiNRADiO Communications, a division of Radixon Group, was established in 1996 to commercialize extensive research in radio communications. The company specializes in integrating radio and computing technologies, offering a diverse product range for government, military, security, and amateur radio enthusiasts. Their product line includes the WR-G65DDCe 'EXCALIBUR Sigma' HF/VHF SDR receiver, noted for its capabilities, and the G31DDC EXCALIBUR, recognized for its price/performance ratio in shortwave listening with improved AMS and Noise Blanker features. The company also produces the G39DDC series EXCELSIOR for serious monitoring, WR-G526e/G527e/G528e modular SDR solutions for high-performance applications like phase-coherent direction finding, and the low-cost WR-G305e/G305i VHF/UHF receivers. Professional counterparts, the WR-G315e/G315i, support APCO P25 decoders and trunking options. WiNRADiO's offerings extend to the PFSL-G3 field strength logging system for mobile signal coverage, advanced multichannel telemetry systems like the MS-8323, and specialized antennas such as the AX-31C Log-Periodic and AX-81S active HF antenna. DRM decoder software is available for G3 Series receivers, enabling clear reception of DRM broadcasts. The WSS-420 Weather Satellite Receiving System and various antenna rotators are also part of their product ecosystem. WiNRADiO supports multiple operating systems, with MacRadio for Apple Macintosh users and LiNRADiO for Linux developers, providing drivers and network receiver solutions like the RLX-810.

Contruction notes of an Umbrella Loop antenna for AM shortwave listenings

Over 40 years of experience inform the reviews and commentary presented on Dave's Radio Receiver Page, covering a wide array of radio receivers and transceivers. The resource details specific models such as the **ICOM IC-R8600** SDR Communications Receiver, which is lauded as Icom's best wide-band receiver, even surpassing the IC-R9500 in performance. Other notable reviews include the ICOM IC-7300 HF Transceiver, highlighting its direct sampling SDR technology and spectrum scope capabilities, alongside numerous models from Japan Radio Co. (JRC), Kenwood, Yaesu, and various portable shortwave receivers. The content provides practical insights into the performance and characteristics of each radio, often drawing comparisons between models. For instance, the early issues with the AOR AR7030 receiver's Bourns mechanical encoders are thoroughly documented, including AOR's eventual switch to higher-quality Alps encoders. The page also features reviews of antennas like the MFJ-1026 Noise Canceling Signal Enhancer and various power supplies, offering a holistic view of radio monitoring setups. The author's "2 ear / 2 eye method" emphasizes real-world listening experiences over laboratory measurements, providing a unique perspective on equipment utility.

VA3STL experience on reorganizing his shack and setting up a new random lenght wire antenna for his Yaesu FRG-7 receiver

Creative Express Corporation software to enhance shortwave radio listening. Support for Drake R8A/B, NRD535/D, WJ HF-1000 and TEN-TEC RX-320 receivers, as well as propagation, path evaluation and database management.

Get the most out of the shortwave listening hobby. Follow these steps to get started with your new radio.

Shortwave dxing newsletter, Cumbre DX is dedicated to reporting what's hot in regional and international shortwave broadcast listening

Presents a dynamic, searchable database of shortwave broadcast schedules from around the world, enabling users to locate active stations or plan listening sessions based on scheduled transmission periods and frequencies. The resource details specific station names, such as _Radio Habana Cuba_, _Deutsche Welle_, and _All India Radio_, alongside their operational times and assigned kilohertz frequencies. It also incorporates a distance calculator, which leverages geographical coordinates to estimate propagation paths, though it notes occasional data inaccuracies leading to transmitters appearing in oceanic locations. The platform's development log highlights continuous updates, including the integration of new seasonal schedules like "A24 frequencies" and "B23 schedule," reflecting the fluid nature of shortwave broadcasting. It documents challenges with geolocation services, particularly concerning Google API changes that impacted distance calculations and required user-side browser configuration adjustments for optimal functionality. The site owner, VAXXi, frequently communicates these technical adjustments and database updates, often acknowledging user contributions and donations. Distinctively, the resource provides a historical perspective through its update archives, illustrating the evolution of shortwave listening over more than a decade since its inception in 2011. It also mentions specific events, such as the BBC adding shortwave broadcasts for Ukraine on 5875 kHz and 15735 kHz, demonstrating its responsiveness to global events impacting broadcast schedules. The site's commitment to user feedback is evident in its bug reporting and feature request mechanisms, contributing to its ongoing refinement.

Cobalt Pet is a weblog focusing on shortwave radio. It features shortwave reception reports, product reviews, photos, listening tips, and links. International broadcasters and amateur / ham radio operators are monitored and discussed.

Presents a Brazilian online portal dedicated to **amateur radio**, **CB radio**, and shortwave listening (SWL) communities. The platform facilitates free classified advertisements for radio equipment, including HF, VHF, and UHF transceivers, antennas, and accessories. It also aggregates a substantial collection of technical articles from Brazilian amateur radio operators (e.g., PY2DJW, PY1LJ, PY1LL/4LC), covering topics such as CW training with RufzXP, balun importance, and radio wave characteristics. Furthermore, the resource provides extensive links to Brazilian ham radio sites, clubs, international organizations, and official ANATEL (Brazilian National Telecommunications Agency) documents regarding licensing, equipment homologation, and regulations. The portal features sections for user evaluations of transactions, a "Top Ten" list of most visited pages, and a calendar of past and upcoming ham radio events across Brazil, including "Feirinhas" (local swap meets) and "Encontros de Radioamadores" (hamfests). It also includes a directory of ham radio related businesses and services in Brazil, such as antenna manufacturers (Diex), QSL card printers (Arte Final), and repair technicians (PY2MOK). The site also offers propagation maps, DX cluster links (e.g., DX-SUMMIT), and satellite tracking tools, making it a central hub for Brazilian radio amateurs seeking to buy, sell, learn, or connect with the community.

The antenna was built to be used for shortwave listening with a Tecsun PL-660 radio receiver. Later it was used with Yaesu VX-6 handheld transceiver and with Yaesu FT-817ND for shortwave listening.

Speakers for Amateur Radio, 2-Way Radio, Shortwave and Scanner listening

Shortwave listeners and amateur radio operators interested in _numbers stations_ can engage with this mailing list, which serves as a platform for discussing the enigmatic transmissions. The resource facilitates the exchange of information regarding these unusual broadcasts, often associated with intelligence agencies, by allowing members to share observations, decode attempts, and theories. It provides a community space for those who monitor the HF spectrum for these unique, often automated, voice or digital signals. Participation on the list enables members to contribute to a collective understanding of numbers station activity, including changes in frequencies, broadcast schedules, and message formats. While specific technical analysis or signal processing techniques are discussed by members, the primary function is information sharing. The list is administered by csmolinski at blackcatsystems.com, and prior postings are archived for reference, allowing new members to review historical discussions and data.

The **KC0KJF** personal amateur radio page provides a collection of resources for fellow hams, particularly those interested in operations within southwest Missouri. It offers detailed listings for **Missouri repeaters** on both 2 meters and 70 centimeters, serving as a practical reference for local VHF/UHF communication. The site also includes information about the operator's station setup and antenna projects, such as a dipole and a bazooka antenna, which can offer insights into basic antenna construction and deployment. Beyond local repeater data, the page features links to the FCC Part 97 rules, essential for understanding amateur radio regulations. The operator, licensed as a Technician Class since April 16, 2001, shares his journey from Citizen's Band Radio to amateur radio, driven by a lifelong fascination with shortwave listening. This narrative provides context for the resource's focus on practical operating information and foundational regulatory knowledge. Additional content covers specific equipment like the 2-meter/70-centimeter Arrow Antenna, useful for hams considering portable or fixed station VHF/UHF setups.

Discussion groups for Shortwave Listening, Propagation, Amateur Radio, and related topics.

Introduction to Shortwave Antennas. Understanding Shortwave Radio Listening and Antenna Design and Construction

Experiments with reception of digital shortwave broadcasts

LA6EIA Ole's DX-blog details shortwave listening (SWL) and amateur radio DX operations from Norway, providing insights into propagation conditions and station reception. The blog frequently features specific reception reports, often including details such as frequency, mode, and signal strength, alongside observations of various broadcast and utility stations. It documents the author's personal experiences in chasing DX, offering a practical perspective on radio propagation and equipment performance. The content includes logs of received stations, sometimes accompanied by audio clips or screenshots of waterfall displays, illustrating successful decodes or strong signal captures. This resource presents a chronological record of DX achievements and challenges, reflecting the dynamic nature of radio propagation across different bands and times. The blog distinguishes itself by its focus on real-world SWL and amateur radio DXing from a Nordic QTH, offering a unique regional perspective on global radio phenomena. It serves as a personal journal of radio exploration, highlighting specific callsigns, frequencies, and operational details encountered during DX sessions.

Maintaining vintage Eddystone receivers often presents unique challenges, as detailed by Victor Jenkins in his refurbishment of an EA12, where his deep understanding of RF circuits ensures optimal performance for daily shortwave listening. Similarly, Gerry O’Hara VE7GUH, a prolific contributor to the EUG website and a trustee, meticulously documented his restoration of an Eddystone S830/2, even addressing an unusual instability issue with a follow-up postscript article and YouTube videos demonstrating the fix. His work, along with numerous other articles on the "Restorations" page, showcases a master's approach to bringing vintage sets back to factory specifications or better. Beyond technical restorations, the EUG also shares compelling historical narratives. One such story recounts the discovery of a long-lost 78rpm recording featuring Eddystone Radio Ltd.'s founder, George Stratton Laughton, and other key figures discussing the company's wartime and post-war contributions to shortwave communications. This six-minute BBC production, transcribed into an MP3 file by Peter Carney, offers a rare auditory glimpse into the company's legacy, highlighting its role in supplying equipment to police, ministries, and expatriate British workers. The community aspect thrives through shared experiences, like Roger Trickett's anecdote about his Eddystone EC10, which has been continuously powered for 50 of its 54 years, traveling across continents and enduring various modifications. Another intriguing account from Roy GM4VKI details the "S640 Identity Crisis," where a seemingly standard S640 receiver turned out to be a masterfully engineered 80/20-meter SSB transceiver built into the original chassis by GI3ZX, showcasing incredible ingenuity from a bygone era of amateur radio.

A blog mainly about my favourite hobby-amateur radio, shortwave listening and radio in its many forms.

Shortwave listening web site from Brazil

A nice blog about DXing, Shortwave Radio Listening (SWL) and Amateur (Ham) Radio by VK3BVW

Presented is a historical collection of short-wave listening (SWL) QSL cards, primarily from the late 1930s and early 1940s, offering a glimpse into early international broadcasting and the technical pursuits of SWL operators like Les Miles during that era. The resource showcases specific QSLs from stations such as _Broadcasting Corporation of Japan_, _XGOY - The Central Broadcasting Administration_ in Chungking, China, and _Australian broadcasting ship, Kanimbla VK9MI_, each with reception dates and frequencies like 11.90MHz or 9.525MHz. It highlights the self-sufficiency of SWL enthusiasts who constructed and maintained their own radio and test equipment, evoking the sensory experience of vintage valve receivers. The collection provides concrete examples of international broadcast stations active before and during World War II, including _2RO3 - Rome_ and _WRUL - World Wide Broadcasting Foundation_ from Boston. Each QSL entry details the station, location, reception date, and often the frequency, such as 9.63MHz or 11.26MHz, allowing for historical verification of broadcast schedules. The resource also briefly mentions the operational details of the _VK9MI_ offshore radio station, directing readers to further information on its history. This compilation serves as a tangible record of global radio communication during a pivotal historical period.

Shortwave radio listening club in Brazil

A Web forum dedicated to HF underground and in particular to Shortwave Pirate Radio Forums and Spy Numbers listenings

GARS official web site. Our club is for those with an interest in Amateur Radio and Shortwave Listening in the Grimsby and Cleethorpes areas of North East Lincolnshire.

Mitigating impulse-type noise, a common challenge in the **HF radio spectrum**, often requires specialized processing before the signal reaches the transceiver's receiver stages. The NR-1 addresses this by functioning as an RF interference removal device, specifically a noise blanker, targeting transient noise sources. Its operational range extends from 1.6 MHz to beyond 70 MHz, making it suitable for various amateur radio bands and general shortwave listening applications. Unlike QRM eliminators or X-phasers, the NR-1 does not require a separate noise antenna for its operation, simplifying its integration into existing station setups. The device's design focuses on wideband performance, allowing its use both within and outside the allocated amateur radio frequencies. Documentation detailing its operation is available, providing insights into its technical specifications and deployment. This unit is a hardware product, conceptualized and implemented by SV3ORA.

This channel is all about radio listening and dxing. I will be covering frequency bands like longwave, AM/MW and shortwave. I'm embarking on my renew interest in this hobby since my childhood.

First released in 1988, _SWLog_ is a comprehensive suite of applications providing logging and remote control for both amateur radio and shortwave, utility, and broadcast listening. It integrates program schedules from sources like _HFCC_, _ILGRadio_, and _EiBi_ for broadcast reception, while also linking with amateur radio logbooks such as _ClubLog_, _eQSL_, _QRZ_, and _LoTW_. The software supports radio control for various transceivers, including _Flex_, Icom, Yaesu, and Kenwood, alongside interfaces like _FLRig_, _OmniRig_, and _HamLib_. Mobile applications for Android and iOS facilitate on-the-go logging and remote control, seamlessly transferring logs without manual ADIF export. _SWLog_ leverages an enterprise-grade relational database (SQL Server) for robust data management and analytics, enabling features like mapping QSOs by band or state. It offers specific integrations for _POTA_ monitoring, displaying active spots with real-time propagation and automatic radio tuning. The application's scalability allows multiple users to log to a centralized database, suitable for Field Day or DXpeditions. The user interface features modern aesthetics with light, dark, and gray themes, the latter optimized for outdoor visibility during activities like _POTA_ or _SOTA_. The Plus Edition, available for an annual fee, expands capabilities with advanced QSL integration, additional map providers, and enhanced propagation calculations using _VOACAP_.

This guide explores the captivating hobby of shortwave listening (SWL), offering insights for beginners and enthusiasts alike. It covers key shortwave broadcast bands, essential tools like antennas and receivers, and practical tips to enhance listening experiences. Recommendations include budget-friendly SDR receivers, traditional radios like the TECSUN PL-680, and antennas suited for various environments. Additional resources, such as the World Radio & TV Handbook and online tools like Short-Wave.Info, are highlighted to help identify signals and maximize the enjoyment of SWL.

Assessing the ICOM IC-R9000 communications receiver, this review details its operational parameters and user experience for radio enthusiasts. Introduced in 1985, the IC-R9000 covers a broad frequency spectrum from 0.1 MHz to 1999.8 MHz, making it suitable for a wide array of listening activities from medium wave (MW) to VHF/UHF. Key performance metrics include a dynamic range of **102 dB** with the narrow SSB filter, crucial for discerning weak signals in crowded bands, and its substantial physical dimensions of 424 x 150 x 365 mm and 20 kg weight. The receiver's architecture supports various modes, though it notably lacks synchronous detection, a feature often desired for improved AM reception under fading conditions. It incorporates 1000 memory channels and robust scanning capabilities, facilitating efficient monitoring across its extensive frequency range. This analysis provides insights into the IC-R9000's capabilities and limitations, offering a historical perspective on a significant piece of amateur radio and shortwave listening hardware.

The **Yaesu FRG-100** shortwave receiver, introduced in 1992, operates across a frequency range of 50 kHz to 30 MHz, accommodating AM, LSB, USB, and CW modes, with an optional narrow-band FM capability. Its physical dimensions are 238 x 93 x 243 mm, with a weight of 3 kg, making it suitable for both portable and fixed station deployments. Power options include standard mains voltage or 12VDC, providing operational flexibility for diverse listening environments. The front panel integrates a manual tuning knob, an analogue signal strength meter, and an LCD display that provides critical information such as frequency, operating mode, memory channel, and time. Users can configure various operational parameters, including tuning steps and bandwidth filters, to optimize reception for specific signals. This review highlights the FRG-100's straightforward interface and its utility for shortwave listening enthusiasts. The design emphasizes user-friendly adjustments for settings, which contributes to its appeal among those interested in general coverage reception.

Examines the AOR AR-7030 communications receiver, detailing its technical specifications and operational characteristics. The resource describes its compact design, CNC machined aluminum cabinet, and a frequency range spanning 0-32 MHz. Key features include a ceramic metal cased 4 kHz AM filter, with typical bandwidths of 2.2 kHz, 4.0 kHz, 5.3 kHz, and 9.5 kHz, alongside 400 memory channels and multi-timer functionality. It emphasizes the receiver's high-quality components and a design philosophy focused on reliable performance without superfluous features, making it a dedicated tool for serious listeners. The review assesses the AR-7030's performance within its price class, particularly for **medium wave** and **shortwave** reception. It provides insights into how the receiver's design choices, such as its robust construction and specific filter options, translate into practical listening experiences. The analysis highlights its suitability for users prioritizing signal clarity and operational stability over extensive, complex features, offering a clear perspective on its utility for dedicated DXers and broadcast listeners.

Examines the Sangean ATS-505 portable receiver, a unit introduced in March 2000, providing an in-depth analysis of its capabilities. The review details critical specifications such as its 6 Volt DC power requirement, utilizing 4 AA batteries, and its physical dimensions of 128 x 214 x 39 mm, weighing 840 g without power cells. Frequency coverage spans **LW** from 153-279 kHz, **MW** from 520-1710 kHz, **SW** from 1711-29999 kHz, and FM from 87.5-108 MHz, making it a versatile listener for various broadcast types. Key features highlighted include a backlit display for low-light operation, 45 memory presets for quick access to favorite stations, and the inclusion of Single Sideband (SSB) mode, which is crucial for serious shortwave listening and utility monitoring. The review also draws technical comparisons with other Sangean models, specifically the ATS-404 and ATS-909, pointing out differences in band coverage and operational features. This independent assessment offers practical insights into the ATS-505's performance, helping enthusiasts understand its place within the portable receiver market.

Define the SWL contest 2026 as an event for monitoring a variety of languages on _medium wave_ (MW) and _shortwave_ (SW) AM radio stations. Participants can utilize either traditional radio receivers or _WEB SDR_ platforms to log their findings. The contest encourages the use of both analog and digital methods to maximize the diversity of languages captured. The contest rules specify that entries must include detailed logs of the stations received, including frequency, time, and language identified. Logs should be submitted in a standardized format to ensure consistency and accuracy in judging. The use of WEB SDR is particularly highlighted for its ability to access distant stations that may not be reachable with local equipment. The contest is open to all SWL enthusiasts worldwide, with a focus on European WEB SDR access. The event aims to foster a deeper understanding of global broadcasting patterns and linguistic diversity. Participants are encouraged to explore various bands within the MW and SW spectrum, enhancing their skills in signal identification and language recognition. The contest offers a unique opportunity to engage with the global SWL community and share insights into the art of listening.