Signal Scout – Crystal Radio Experimenter Kit

Signal Scout – Crystal Radio Experimenter Kit

Some signals are easy to find. Others take a little scouting.

Signal Scout is a hands-on crystal radio kit for builders who want the freedom to experiment.

Instead of following one fixed layout, you choose how to build it. Use a breadboard, mount the components to wood with screws, build a solderless version with alligator clips, or create your own permanent soldered design.

Wind the coil, choose your layout, experiment with antenna placement, and see what signals you can find.

What’s Included

• 1 – 1N60 germanium diode
• 1 – 0.001 µF capacitor
• 1 – 47K resistor
• 1 – Dual-section 266 pF plastic variable capacitor
• 1 – 20.3 mm variable capacitor knob
• 1 – 12 mm variable capacitor shaft and screw
• 1 – Ceramic earphone
• 1 – 3.5" diameter × 3" high-impact polystyrene coil form with brass hardware
• 47 ft – 22 AWG green magnet wire

You’ll Need to Provide

• Project board or other suitable mounting surface
• Antenna wire
• Ground wire

Almost any non-shielded wire can be used for the antenna and ground. An antenna of at least 30 feet is recommended; longer antennas may provide better reception depending on your location and setup.

Experiment With the Signal

Signal Scout includes SHORT and LONG antenna connection options.

For antennas approximately 30–60 feet long, try both connections to see which works best. Longer antennas will generally favor the LONG connection. Use only one antenna connection at a time.

Antenna height, direction, surroundings, grounding, and time of day can all affect reception. Reception is often noticeably better after dark.

Change one thing at a time. Tune slowly. Keep scouting.

Build Resources

Signal Scout Experimenter Guide

Winding the Coil

Example Builds