9
Receiver Controls and Connections
Most of the controls are self explanatory. However, it is very important to understand the
correct use of the Regeneration Control and the two internal trimmer adjustments of the
receiver.
BANDSWITCH (SW1)
This quality rotary switch selects any one of the 5 tuning ranges from A to E indicated on
the tuning scale.
TUNING (C1)
The Tuning knob controls an air-variable capacitor (C1) which also has a built-in 6:1
vernier reduction drive to which the dial pointer is attached. This reduction permits very
smooth tuning. The frequency markings on the dial scale must be understood to be
approximate due to the 10% tolerance ratings of the fixed inductors (L1 through L5).
PUSH SWITCH (SW2) AND LED. INDICATOR (CR1)
While the purpose of the on/off switch and LED is obvious, remember to turn your
receiver OFF when not in use. A weakened battery degrades receiver performance.
REGENERATION (R1)
Because understanding and controlling regeneration is at the heart of your receiver's
performance, we've provided a separate section on its use. In brief, it controls receiver
sensitivity and adjusts between AM broadcasts and CW-SSB.
VOLUME (R2)
This potentiometer performs the normal function of any volume control. Of interest to
the technically-minded, it controls the output of the LM386 audio IC, rather than the
input, which enhances the stability of the regenerative detector.
RF GAIN (R19)
This trimmer potentiometer is adjustable with a small screwdriver. Maximum gain is
clockwise when viewing the rear panel. A good normal setting is 3/4 of its full rotation.
If you are using a marginal antenna (5 to 10 feet of wire indoors), keep R19 at its
maximum setting. If you are using a very good antenna (a long, high outdoor wire or ham
antenna), keep R19 at about 2/3 or so of its range. If your listening interests require
frequent RF gain adjustments, install an external 10K control in series with your antenna.
REGENERATION RANGE TRIMMER (R20)
Ordinarily, this trimmer is adjusted only after kit construction or in the unlikely event that
any of the FET transistors are replaced. This adjustment assures smooth regeneration over
all five of the tuning ranges. See Construction Phase 5.