Building a Radio: Basics for the High Schooler in Australia

In summary, the conversation discusses building a radio receiver with the help of an Arduino and potential legal issues in Australia. The expert suggests focusing on learning about receivers before attempting to build a transmitter, as transmitting requires a license. They also recommend contacting a local ham radio club for guidance and resources. The conversation also includes personal experiences and recommendations for further research.
  • #1
ISamson
Gold Member
438
151
Hello.
I have been interested in radios lately and wanted to make one by myself. I know that it requires a lot of knowledge in physics and electronics, but what basics do I need to know? Frequency, antennas, voltages... Could there be any legal issues?
I live in Australia.
I am only a high schooler.
If such project is possible to make what would I need? Kits? I have an Arduino that could help me.
Please do ask for further clarification if I have missed out on anything that could improve a reply...
I deeply appreciate any help.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Do you want to build a receiver (to be able to listen)? As far as I am aware that doesn't require any permits.

Googling for "diy simple radio receiver" gives about half million hits. Arduino will be - in general - of no use here. It is much easier to build receiver with just a handful of resistor, capacitors, inductor and few transistors. Some wire and soldering iron will come handy as well.
 
  • Like
Likes ISamson
  • #3
Borek said:
Arduino will be - in general - of no use here.
Ok, good.
Borek said:
It is much easier to build receiver with just a handful of resistor, capacitors, inductor and few transistors. Some wire and soldering iron will come handy as well.
Is it really that easy? (Sounds easy...:rolleyes:).
Borek said:
Do you want to build a receiver (to be able to listen)?
Yes, but if with a transmitter, it will be better, if possible to make.
Borek said:
Googling for "diy simple radio receiver" gives about half million hits.
That's the problem. Which one to click? Youtube? Are they reliable? Which are reliable?
That is why I decided to ask some people, which exist, and not a bunch of transistors and wires, like my computer.
Thank you Borek.
 
Last edited:
  • #4
Borek said:
Do you want to build a receiver (to be able to listen)?

ISamson said:
Yes, but if with a transmitter, it will be better, if possible to make.

transmitting will require licences for any significant power... more than ~ 100mW

I suggest you forget about transmitters for a while and concentrate on learning about receivers, how they work and how to
build a reasonably basic one, then improve on those basics to improve the reception quality.

If you really want to get into transmitters, you need a solid understanding of how things work, test equipment to ensure it's on the correct frequency etc
for this sort of thing, you can get in touch with a local ham radio club and maybe look at studying for your amateur radio license exam

Dave
 
  • #5
davenn said:
transmitting will require licences for any significant power... more than ~ 100mW

Why such power, why does it matter? What sort of license and where/how can I get it in Australia, where I live (Perth)?
davenn said:
for this sort of thing, you cab get in touch with a local ham radio club and maybe look at studying for your amateur radio license exam

I will do some research for this.

davenn said:
exam

What exam?
Thank you, davenn.
 
  • #6
ISamson said:
Why such power, why does it matter? What sort of license and where/how can I get it in Australia, where I live (Perth)?

because that's what the authorities say

ISamson said:
why does it matter?

because uncontrolled transmitters and higher power levels can interfere with other licenced users/services
and you upset those people and you can get into lots and lots of legal trouble

ISamson said:
What exam?

As I said a local amateur radio club will do courses for doing amateur radio licencing exam

I'm In Sydney

I have had my amateur license for 30+ years
 
  • Like
Likes berkeman and ISamson
  • #10
ISamson said:
You must be very active!

it's been an awesome hobby for many years ... lots of reading, learning from others, and self teaching as well :smile:
 
  • Like
Likes ISamson
  • #11
davenn said:
it's been an awesome hobby for many years ... lots of reading, learning from others, and self teaching as well :smile:

That's the way to live!
 
  • #12
  • Like
Likes berkeman

FAQ: Building a Radio: Basics for the High Schooler in Australia

What materials are needed to build a radio?

The materials needed to build a basic radio include a diode, a coil of wire, a tuning capacitor, a speaker, and a power source. You may also need additional tools such as wire cutters, pliers, and a soldering iron.

Is it difficult to build a radio?

Building a basic radio can be a fun and educational project, but it does require some technical knowledge and manual dexterity. With the right instructions and patience, a high schooler in Australia can successfully build a radio.

What is the purpose of each component in a radio?

The diode acts as a one-way valve for the radio signals, allowing them to flow in one direction. The coil of wire, also known as an inductor, helps to tune the radio to specific frequencies. The tuning capacitor, which is made up of two plates separated by an insulating material, allows the user to adjust the frequency being received. The speaker converts the electrical signals into sound waves, and the power source provides the necessary energy to power the radio.

Can I listen to commercial radio stations with a homemade radio?

Yes, you can listen to commercial radio stations with a homemade radio as long as you have properly tuned it to the frequency of the station you want to receive. However, the quality of the sound may not be as clear as a commercially produced radio.

Are there any safety precautions to keep in mind when building a radio?

Yes, it is important to follow safety precautions when building a radio. Make sure to read and follow any instructions provided with the materials and tools you are using. Additionally, make sure to work in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate protective gear, such as safety goggles, when working with tools or soldering. If using a power source, be sure to take precautions to prevent electrical shocks. If unsure about any aspect of the project, seek guidance from a teacher or experienced adult.

Similar threads

Electrical Troubleshooting Crystal Radio: Tips for Building and Improving Reception
2
Replies
40
Views
8K
Electrical Need advice on building a linear particle accelerator
Replies
2
Views
1K
Crystal Radios and Followups
2
Replies
37
Views
926
Auto/Motor Build a Motor DIY - No Machine Shop Needed
Replies
23
Views
3K
Misc. Custom building a CNC mill for aluminum
Replies
5
Views
2K
Suggestions for a hobby DIY project?
Replies
13
Views
3K
Electrical What are some DIY electronics gift ideas for the holiday season?
Replies
2
Views
2K
Misc. Isolation box to measure light source inside (closer to visible light)
Replies
21
Views
689
RadioInstigator: Building a SIGINT
Replies
5
Views
3K
Electronics Building an Alarm Clock with Basic C Programming Skills
Replies
5
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top