Good radio reception is dependent on signal strength and the type of radio receiver and antenna used by the listener. Signal strength can vary greatly with the distance from the radio transmitter and in different environments such as built up, wooded or hilly areas.
Reception quality changes significantly between small portable radios and high fidelity tuner and speaker systems.
The radio antenna is the most important factor in achieving good reception. Many radio reception difficulties are caused by deficiencies in the radio or antenna installation. Interference or obstruction of a radio signal to the antenna should be kept to a minimum. The antenna should be placed away from electrical devices such as computers, refrigerators, power tools or wiring. The antenna should point in the direction of the transmitter and be positioned to minimise the effect of obstructions such as trees and buildings.
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For the best possible reception, particularly for FM radio, your antenna should be mounted outside and look similar to a TV antenna.
Listeners should first check the ABC’s current Maintenance Works for the transmitter network, to see if there are any repairs being completed in their area which may cause temporary disruption to their reception of ABC services. Listeners still experiencing FM reception problems should then check to see if their radio and antenna are operating correctly:
Listeners should also note that FM radio signals travel in almost straight lines and are unable to travel over or penetrate large obstructions, consequently parts of a coverage area may have a weak signal particularly in hilly terrain or highly built up urban areas.
Listeners should first check the ABC’s current Maintenance Works for the transmitter network, to see if there are any repairs being completed in their area which may cause temporary disruption to reception of ABC services.
AM broadcasts can be susceptible to the high levels of electrical interference in built up areas caused by utilities such as street lamps, power lines or railway lines. AM radio reception can also be susceptible to interference from a wide variety of household electrical appliances including refrigerators, hair dryers, power tools and even electric razors.
AM radio reception can vary from day to night. At night, in certain weather conditions, it is not uncommon for fortuitous AM broadcasts to be received thousands of kilometres away - the ABC has had reports of its services reaching New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. However, night time reception is variable, prone to interference and the actual planned coverage area will reduce. During the day, reception of AM services is less susceptible to interference and the planned coverage area is greater. Listeners experiencing reception problems with AM Radio, should first check the following:
Listeners who continue to experience electrical interference to their radio reception may want to contact a local electrician or technician who can recommend a suitable mains filter to reduce the problem.
AM interference can also be caused by nearby powerlines, particularly if they are not regularly maintained. If you think this is the case, contact the local electricity supply authority listed in the White Pages.
