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How to Install an SWL Antenna Outdoors

Shortwave listening, or SWL, involves hearing radio stations or amateur radio conversations via a shortwave receiver. Transmissions originate from locations around the world. Some radio broadcasts take place in languages other than English and provide students of a foreign language the opportunity to hone their skills. A receiver is only as good as the antenna that receives the broadcast. Installation of an outdoor SWL antenna improves the strength and number of stations you receive.

Things You'll Need

Ladder
3/16-inch nylon line, 100 feet long
Measuring tape
3/16- by 3/4-inch screw eye, 2
1/8-inch drill bit
Cordless drill
Pliers

Instructions

- 1
  Contact your local zoning department, home owners association or landlord about possible antenna restrictions.
- 2
  Locate an antenna installation site. The antenna location must be free of obstructions and hazards such as power lines and poles. One possible location is between the house and a tree or outbuilding. In addition, consider that an antenna receives the strongest signals along its side. If you want to receive stations to the east or west, for example, orient the ends of your antenna north and south.
- 3
  Measure the distance between the antenna's two mounting locations.
- 4
  Calculate the length of nylon line needed to install the antenna. Subtract the length of the antenna from the measured distance between the mounting locations. Divide the result by two; this yields the minimum length of each nylon rope. Add several extra feet to ensure adequate length.
- 5
  Install a screw eye for the mount on the house. Safely position a ladder for support. Drill a pilot hole as high up on the house as you can safely reach. Look for a fascia or trim board as a drill site. Screw in the eye with a pair of pliers. Tie the nylon rope closest to the antenna feed wire to the screw eye.
- 6
  Install the other screw eye for the antenna's other end. Use a ladder for support. Drill another pilot hole into the tree or structure you have chosen. Install the screw eye using pliers. Tie the other nylon rope to the screw eye, taking out as much slack in the antenna as possible.
- 7
  Install the antenna feed wire. Open a window near the antenna. Place the antenna feed wire on the window sill. Place weather stripping on either side of the wire to protect it from damage when the window is closed on the wire.
- 8
  Attach the antenna to your shortwave receiver according to the manufacturer's instructions.

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