CHINESE ANALOG AM PORTABLE ALIGNMENT

Steps for Extending Frequency Coverage to 1700 kHz, and Maximizing the AM Sensitivity of the Kaito WRX911, Tecsun R911 and R9012 Models
(by Gary DeBock, March 2009)

Reflecting the original SRF-59 boom of late 2007 which gave rise to the Ultralight radio DXing phenomena, there has recently been profound interest in small Chinese-made analog AM receivers, particularly concerning their superlative nulling ability. The fact that the Chinese-market versions of these portables retail for extremely low prices (under $20, shipping included) no doubt contributes to their charm. Unfortunately these Chinese-market models rarely have the AM alignment optimized at the factories, and none of the models are designed to cover the North American X band (1610-1700 kHz). With such a profound ordering boom underway for these ultra-cheap portables, DXers are certain to require clear, accurate instructions on optimizing AM sensitivity and selectivity, as well as on extending the frequency coverage up to 1700 kHz. That is the purpose of this Chinese Analog AM Portable Alignment article. Kaito WRX911 and Tecsun R911 Disassembly: Remove batteries. Use a small Phillips screwdriver to remove two screws from the back cabinet section (one long screw from behind the back stop, and one short screw from the battery compartment). Gently separate the front and back cabinet sections, taking care not to pull on the whip antenna connector wire (which tends to break with little provocation). Tecsun R9012 Disassembly: Remove batteries. Use a small Phillips screwdriver to remove five screws from the back cabinet section (including one from behind the back stop, and one short screw from the battery compartment). Gently separate the front and back cabinet sections (note: this model does not have a whip antenna connector wire). Extending Frequency Coverage to 1700 kHz: Reinstall batteries. On all Chinese-market models such as the R911 and the R9012, use a small, flat-bladed jewelers screwdriver to slowly adjust the indicated trimming capacitor in a counter-clockwise direction, checking progress by turning on the radio and observing the dial position of an X-Band station. The correct position will allow reception of a 1700 kHz station, as well as a 530 kHz station at the left side of the dial (this adjustment is possible on all Chinese-market portables, using only the indicated trimming capacitor).

Preparation for Loopstick Alignment Using a small, flat-bladed jewelers screwdriver, gently scrape off all wax on the border(s) between the loopstick coil form and the ferritbar. (Typically, the Tescun factories only place wax on one side of the coil form, and removal of this wax will allow the coil form to slide along the ferrite bar for alignment.) After removal of the wax, gently attempt to slide the coil form along the ferrite bar for about a half inch both ways (from the original position). If the coil form still will not slide, carefully remove more wax until it will. Do not force the coilit should slide easily when all wax is removed. Loopstick and 1400 kHz Trimmer Alignment Reinstall batteries, and tune in a weak station around 600 kHz. Gently slide the loopstick coil form until this weak station has the strongest signal. Temporarily tape the coil form at this peak signal position. Tune the radio to a weak station around 1400 kHz, and adjust the indicated trimming capacitor until this weak station has the strongest signal. Then again tune in the weak station near 600 kHz, and remove the tape from the loopstick. Again slide the coil form along the ferrite bar, until this weak station has the strongest signal. Repeat these alignment steps until no further improvement is noted, and then secure the loopstick coil form with tape, wax or glue at the last position. Remove batteries, and reinstall the back panel of the Kaito WRX911 (or Tecsun R911) model with two screws, or the Tecsun R9012 back panel with five screws. CONGRATULATIONS, you have now successfully aligned your new Chinese analog radio for maximum AM DXing performance! For maximum sensitivity, remember to place the whip antenna in a vertical position (away from the loopstick) in all these models during AM DXing sessions. The whip antenna need not be extended, but getting it away from the loopstick does typically provide a significant boost in performance. With optimum AM performance ensured by your own alignment, you should have great fun with your bargain DXing machine. Good luck! 73, Gary DeBock (Thanks to John Bryant for his extensive assistance in preparing this alignment article)