Looking at the current keypad usage if it is possible to enter a frequency this can be accomplished by pressing and holding the zero. Adding an extra key for the decimal would not be necessary. For example 100.1 can entered as 1001. For frequencies below 100.0 leading zeros can be assumed by the software. It is not a problem reading from right to left when the software needs to get the data. Therefore entering 893 can jump to 089.3 with no problem.
As for finding what stations are available in new areas, this can be done by pressing and holding the left or right arrow to initiate the scan to the next radio station that is transmitting. You might have to adjust the sensitivity with the number 7 key if you are not finding too much. Here is another key that can be assigned. Pressing and holding the number seven key can be programmed to do a continuous scan. For instance it will automatically scan and stop for ten or fifteen seconds when it finds a station that is transmitting. Then pressing seven or cancel will stop where the system has landed. As for antennas, FM receivers have been using the headphone cable for a number of years now. FM antennas like a V or T shape in order to get the best reception. This is not always necessary though. I use a pillow speaker at home. It has a two metre/six foot chord. This works very nicely as an antenna, because I have more than enough play to find a good position. The material in the walls of your building might not make it easy to hold on to a frequency. For example if metal studs are used they will interfere with reception. Concrete also doesn't help. Then if you have stucco wire along the outside walls this too has a negative impact on reception. Finally some of the reflective coating used on windows will block radio frequencies. Vic If you reply to this message it will be delivered to the original sender only. If your reply would benefit others on the list andyour message is related to GW Micro or the BookSense, then please consider sending your message to [email protected] so the entire list will receive it. To manage your subscription to gw-booksense, visit: http://www.gwmicro.com/listserv
