Rap 'n Tap
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From: Mike Lee
Date: 6/5/00
Time: 4:54:34 PM
Remote Name: 206.16.140.254
Hi Mike, The reason for making crystal radios is not to have a radio. It is for the mental exercise, satisfaction and learning by making one of the most challenging of electronic devices. It is like running, you could get around the block quicker for a few dollars of gas.
As for the antenna, you are up against a fundamental law of physics. The electrical size of the antenna is called it's apature. The antenna's signal sensitivity is determined by its apature, the amount of wave it "subtends". You can use a smaller antenna, but it won't be as sensitive. May I suggest get creative about packing and deploying a big antenna.
Regards, John