Help: Radio transmitter&reciever

[StoneFrog]

Hey,
i have been wanting to build a radio transmitter and receiver for sometime. No real reason behind it just for the hell of it really. I have always wanted to learn about how communication systems work and i guess this is the best way to learn. So i ask does anyone know of any text that i can find online to do with this area?
I first want to start small, but eventually make a variable frequency system. I also am a computer programmer, so i want to get my home made system linked up to my comp for better systems control.

just thought since im here on these forums i'd see if anyone here has knowledge on this stuff, and know of where i should start. I have a lot of time on my hand atm and very willing to learn. I need a project for myself before i go mad =P

-Wn.M

[RED DAVE]

google: DIYers best friend

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/can-you-really-build-your-own-radio.html

RED DAVE

[StoneFrog]

cheers!

i was wondering if anyone here has tried this before? I know it use to be a big thing, but the newer generation seems to have lost interest in it. Also found an old 2 way radio and took it apart... and got my mind blown away =P
The receiver seems very straight forward to make, still not 100% sure all the workings in the transmitter tho.

[Bitter Ashes]

I've personaly got no experiance with this, but I know somebody who will. I'll try get him to respond to this thread.

One note though, please be careful. There are broadcasting laws about that can get you in trouble if you're caught transmitting without a license in most frequency bands. The trick of course is not to get caught :wink:

[Steve_j]

Do you have any experience with electronics? Do you understand basic components, circuit diagrams ect?

If not may be best to start simple, assuming you have little or no electonics knowledge.

Simple crystal recievers,

http://scitoys.com/scitoys/scitoys/radio/homemade_radio.html

Plenty of variations there, will give you a good understanding of the general theory.

From there find a little FM transmitter kit, stick with the transister type (no chips) as the are easier to understand,

http://www.hobbytron.com/Mini-FM-transmitter-3-Volt-FM-Transmitter-bug-kit.html

Thats a good example, from there you can learn what the caps, resistors, transistors and transducers to get to learn the basic circuitry.

Or

If you have a basic understanding of electronics (circuits schematics components ect), or like me you like to jump in the deep end, check out a local "Ham Radio" club or something similar, check some ham radio forums, and ask around for some recomended two way kits or schematics for a beginner and go from there.

Hope that helps,

Oh and by the way, what do you mean by "i want to get my home made system linked up to my comp for better systems control"

Do you mean to be able to opperate the transmitter/reciever from your comp?

[Bitter Ashes]

Just thought of something. You could try looking into foxhole radios. These things were made of coathangers and planks of wood by squaddies during the war.

[redSHARP]

if you want to use the radio, then getting a radio license might not be a bad idea. I used to fool around with ham radios when i was younger and i had a great time, though the license is a must in order to cover your ass. nothing sucks more than a fine for using a radio.

[Bitter Ashes]

You have to take like a course to get a license here in the UK, but apparantly it is a pretty good course that you actualy learn stuff about how the radio works and what all the bits do and etticute for the airwaves. Local radio enthusiast clubs do them and do the licensing for OFCOM.

[Pilotgrrl]

I have to agree about getting a license. I am a ham radio operator but when I started out I knew nothing about radios, literally nothing lol. Just by studying for the test I learned a lot and now am very comfortable taking my radio's apart and even doing minor repairs. I'm not saying its necessary, but it really does help teach you the basics. If you decide you want to continue with getting a ham license I would suggest going to the local amateur radio club and talking to them. I am sure there is a person there who would be more than willing to teach you and help you out.