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How to Use a Transceiver as an SWL Receiver

While the ham radio transceiver is normally used for communications between amateur radio operators, manufacturers of these devices have typically made the reception capabilities over a much wider range than they can transmit. This allows the transceiver to be easily used for shortwave listening, allowing the radio amateur to listen to radio stations around the world.

Things You'll Need

Ham Radio Transceiver
High-frequency antenna
List of Shortwave Frequencies

Instructions

- 1
  Ensure your ham radio transceiver has reception capabilities outside of the ham radio bands it transmits on. If it is a multi-band transceiver, chances are it will have wide reception capabilities. Check the specifications typically located near the beginning or at the end of the instruction manual for guidance.
- 2
  Consult a shortwave frequency listing and select a frequency that falls within the reception capabilities of the transceiver. Select several frequencies, keeping in mind broadcaster larger and more developed countries will likely have stronger shortwave transmissions. Ensure that the broadcast you have selected is currently broadcasting: Times are typically listed with the frequencies in such guides.
- 3
  Turn on the transceiver, using the antenna typically used for high-frequency (HF) communications. As per the instructions for the transceiver, tune to the desired first frequency selected. Listen for a broadcast. Adjust the direction of the antenna if possible in the direction of the broadcasts source for better reception. Select another frequency if no transmission is heard.
- 4
  Repeat the previous step to locate a frequency that you would like to listen to, or to change from one frequency to another. Look for some broadcasters to offer more than one frequency that is broadcasting to your location: if you cannot hear it on one frequency, try one of the others.

Ham Radio