Crystal Radio Circuit

Testing the Crystal Radio Reception

1. You need the antenna to be about 3 meters high and preferably higher.
2. For the earth, you need to connect it to the central heating copper pipe.
3. Without the tuning capacitor connected, you should be able to hear around four to five radio stations simultaneously. It should be loud as well.
4. If you have fluorescent lighting, or energy efficient lighting, then the RF noise generated by them can interfere with the radio signal. They act as a jamming device! You will need to switch those OFF.
5. Compared to 1967, the airwaves today are noisy from modern broadcasts such as mobile phones, GPS, Bluetooth, digital television, digital radio, and much more. All of these can reduce the quality of reception in your area.
6. If you live near power lines, then that too might interfere with the operation of the crystal radio.
7. Finally, many radio stations have shut down; however, there might be some strong clear signals in your area.

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