Shortwave radio is a fascinating hobby where a listener (DX’er) can pick up radio broadcasts from the other side of the world. While many of today’s shortwave radios have decent antennas and can receive signals pretty well, building a homemade outdoor antenna will heighten your experience. The lead-in wire from the antenna to your receiver should be insulated so that it will not short against anything as it enters your home, such as the metal screen in your window or aluminum siding. An no. 18 insulated wire will be adequate. The height of the antenna off the ground isn’t critical, but it is best to try to keep it at least 20 feet off the ground. Make sure that the ends of the antenna are insulated by using commercial glass or plastic insulators or make your own by cutting 1 ½- to 2-inch in diameter PVC pipe into 3-inch long sections (at a minimum) and drilling holes in the ends to connect the wire to. Lastly, make sure you solder your connections together, such as where the lead-in wire connects to the antenna, and coat the connection with silicon to protect it from the elements.

Homemade Shortwave Antennas - 57