At the place where my radio-controlled clock is located (night table), the reception of the radio-controlled signal (DCF77) is too weak. As a result, the clock cannot automatically align itself with the signal. Is there a way to amplify the radio-controlled signal within the bedroom? In order to receive a better signal, I now have to place my clock somewhere else and that is not the intention…
Answer
Bye Rudy
Normally, the reception of DCF77 in our country presents few problems. You’ve probably already tried rotating it clockwise: the receiver probably uses a ferrite antenna. Ideally, its axis should be perpendicular to the transmitter direction; the transmitter is located in Germany near Frankfurt. Within Belgium, north/south is therefore a good orientation for the antenna. You should also check whether there are any sources of interference in the area: tube lamps and dimmers are notorious in this area.
If all this does not help, then improving reception is a difficult matter. There are separate, active antennas on the market, which you can place in front of the window, for example. But that is far from beautiful, and results in extra cables. I can imagine that you would rather not start with that…
In summary: no dimmers or tube lamps (also watch out for some energy saving lamps!) nearby, and changing the position of your radio – a small change can help a lot. Success with it !
Kind regards
Answered by
Tony Vandenborn
electronics, telecommunications
UC Leuven Andreas Vesaliusstraat 13 | 3000 Leuven Hertogstraat 178 | 3001 Heverlee UC Limburg Campus Diepenbeek, Agoralaan Building B bus 1 3590 Diepenbeek
http://www.ucll.be
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