How To Improve Reception
It's easiest to pick-up an FM signal if you are in the "line of sight" of the station. Since many of us aren't, here are some suggestions for improving reception.
1) FM signals also reflect off objects such as mountains or buildings. Because of this sometimes just moving a radio to a different location in a room will improve reception.
2) An inexpensive wire antenna called an "FM dipole" can be added to radios that have terminals labeled "antenna." After an "FM dipole" has been added to a radio, the antenna should be oriented for the best reception.
3) If the "FM dipole" doesn't work the last thing to try is a larger directional antenna. These antennas look like TV antennas but are designed for FM. Usually we install these antennas on a roof, as high as possible on the side of a building, or in an attic. They are then connected to the "antenna" terminals on the radio. Turn the antenna until you get the best reception. (KUNC's main signal is broadcast from a site approximately 10 miles west of Fort Collins. If you are listening to one of KUNC's translator signals call us to determine where to aim your antenna.) This type antenna and the supplies to mount them and connect them to your radio are available at most electronics stores.
4) Small "amplified" antennas might work in some situations. We only recommend them if the store will let you "try before you buy." The signal you're trying to pick-up is very small. You are best off getting an antenna up in the air so you can point it towards the station and "gather" only the signal you want. The small "amplified" antennas try to compensate for being small and collecting signal from all directions by adding amplification, "turning up the volume" on everything they pick-up. This usually just makes the noise that is interfering with your reception bigger.
If you need further assistance please call our engineering department at 1-800-443-5862, ext. 111.
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