Simple SW Receiver Using ZN414

This is a design simple circuit of a SW receiver using the ZN414. This radio is the maximum operating frequency of about 4 MHz. The SW transmission is so strong that this receiver will work well with signals up to about 6 or 7 MHz. Here’s the simple project circuit of the SW receiver circuit.

The 10k resistor to control voltage for IC operation is very important for good performance. The tuned circuit consists of a variable capacitor and fixed air spaced coil. For the coil, I wound between 10 and 20 changed from a wire in an empty tube of about 1.5 inches in diameter. Branch, a distance so that the overall length is about 3 inches. Variable capacitor tuned 0-300 pF but there is plenty of room to experiment here. One final point, you will need an external antenna to receive broadcasts. I have a cable out of about 7 meters long and is quite effective. The antenna can be connected at both ends of the coil or through a series capacitor values of 10pF and 100pF.