Are you interested in listening to shortwave radio? This is a fascinating hobby that will enable you learn news and ethnic programming from around the world (even though it may be biased) and also help you understand scientific principles of radio propagation and communications.

First, virtually any shortwave receiver will pick up the major new organizations like British Broadcasting Corporation, Radio Canada, and Swiss Radio International. The main features to consider for a first radio are (1) number of bands for reception, (2) type of antenna, and (3) quality of speaker. Having the ability to receive numerous bands insures that you can receive broadcasts throughout the day. The latter two points can be comprised, and I'll suggest some ways to enhance reception later.

Second, purchase a guide to listening such as Passport to World Band Radio. This book is updated annually and available at virtually any store that sells shortwave radios and major bookstores. This book, unlike a guide listing, reviews receivers in various classes, gives English programming information, contact information if you wish to receive QSL cards (given upon receipt of your reception report), and a comprehensive listing of programming by both time and frequency.

Third, find others in the hobby and join a group. Other internet sites with information include (1) Passband, (2) International Radio Club of America, and (3) North American Shortwave Association. The internet has chat groups, but there may be a local listening club in your area. Your local electronics store may know a contact person, but do not rule out amateur radio operators. Many hams started in the hobby by listening to shortwave radio. Hams welcome questions on radio communications and may know of a local group or be willing to help you with additional questions. The American Radio Relay League can help you find an amateur radio operator in your area.

Fourth, become familar with UTC (Coordinated Universal Time or Greenwich Mean Time) and band propagation conditions. Since stations transmit throughout the world, listings are given in world time or UTC. Generally, the lower frequencies (or high band meter numbers) are more reliable in the evening and night. For example, the 40 meter band (around 7.125Mhz) is mostly active in the evening here in the US. The 13 meter band (around 21.6Mhz) is a daytime and afternoon band in the US.

Fifth, the antenna has everything to do with your reception. If your radio has an external antenna jack, purchase a dipole tailored for the frequency range you want to hear and hang it outside as high as possible. (Read the antenna documentation for effective locations and important safety considerations.) Otherwise, you can clip a wire extension onto your whip antenna and attach it to a window frame or run a wire along the ceiling. Your reception will be much better.

Sixth, learn to tune your radio. Do not assume that your reception light or meter (if applicable to your radio) must indicate perfect reception to hear a station. Be patient and understand that atmospheric conditions and/or other stations on adjacent frequencies can change your reception at anytime.

Seventh, relax and enjoy hearing news, ethnic music, and foreign language broadcasts. If you become interested in government security and other types of stations, a radio that can receive upper sideband, lower sideband, and Morse code will be a good investment. These radios, however, cost more than a double-sideband AM receiver. Also, you may want to build your own receiver; there are many electronic firms that offer kits that will guide you into constructing a regenerative receiver.