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Hi Pat:
A couple of things to keep in mind here.
AM radio antennas are usually either etched into windshields or poorly coupled
into rooftop modules that also designed for satellite reception.
Since new vehicles are truly spaceships, they are equipped with an arsenal of
CPU driven computing and logic.This creates a beehive of computer noise.Even if
your car's AM radio is sensitive and selective,the onboard noise will mask what
it can really hear.All the SDR magic in the world isn't worth much with a +20
noise level.Even worse, when you are in 'aux' mode with the car nearly off,all
the CPUs keep purring away.There is no relenting even if you are sitting in a
parking lot or at a sea shore.
The new world answer is Internet radio now common in cars.Driving home, I can
hear Radio New Zealand International in perfect stereowithout any worries about
propagation. I can hear several varieties of ABC Australia, too.It compensates
for my 9580 withdrawal every morning!I'm really good except when I pass a pole
pig sending out signals like a spark gaptransmitter from 110 years ago. The
more things change....
Pat: I doubt a new Caravan has an AM trimmer.It is all incorporated into the
design now.It is probably software controlled.I have memories of removing knobs
on pushbutton car radios to trim the antenna matching.Those days are gone - but
we are not gone yet!Also, forget the AM boosters. They only amplify noise.Best
solution: Drive closer to the AM station (how sad.)Enjoy the cow pastures and
beautiful seashores.
All the best, Karl From: Patrick Martin <[email protected]>
To: IRCA <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 14, 2017 9:58 PM
Subject: [IRCA] OT 2014 Dodge Caravan radio question
I recently bought a 2014 Dodge Caravan as my old 1997 finally quit. Anyway, I
like the vehicle, but I found the AM section of the radio nearly useless (FM
and CD are fine). The noise level was terrible with computer noise. Yesterday
in checking the antenna was not too tight. I tightened the antenna and the
noise is gone. The signal strength could be better. I have not taken the radio
out to check, but is there a peaking screw (cap) like there used to be? Anyone
know? I see there are AM boosters for car radios, but I presume that may
generate noise.
Any thoughts? The old Caravan AM sections were pretty decent in sensitivity,
but not many listen to AM now. Thanks.
Patrick
Patrick Martin Seaside OR KGED QSL Manager
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