Crystal Radio

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JonathanBD
Posts: 1
Joined: Wed Oct 23, 2013 1:30 am
Occupation: Student 12th grade
Project Question: Generating Electricity from radio waves using the crystal radio circuit
Project Due Date: n/a
Project Status: I am conducting my research

Crystal Radio

Post by JonathanBD »

Is it possible to have a crystal radio circuit without a ground? Or are there any alternatives to a ground?
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rmarz
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Posts: 634
Joined: Sat Oct 25, 2008 1:26 pm
Occupation: Technology Consultant
Project Question: n/a
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Project Status: Not applicable

Re: Crystal Radio

Post by rmarz »

JonathanBD - Unfortunately, a ground of some sort is required to receive any meaningful AM broadcast. Unless you were extremely close to the transmitting antenna, no meaningful signal strength could be demodulated into the audio component. The ground does not have to be an earthen connection, and often a water pipe or grounded appliance might suffice to get acceptable signal strength that could be heard in the earphones. A very sensitive, high impedence earphone will also improve reception. Because there is no RF or AF amplification in a simple crystal set, the kind of signals we are talking about are mere millivolts. Hope this helps.

Rick Marz
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