HB3YAQLucerne
Use gain deliberately
Louder is not always clearer. Distinguish audio level, gain and overload.
Volume controls how loudly you hear the result. RF gain affects amplification in the receive path. AGC automatically adjusts gain for changing levels; the stage it controls depends on the receiver. These three functions do not solve the same problem.
Excessive input level can overload a receiver, causing distortion or additional apparent signals. When an overload warning appears, check input gain or attenuation according to the receiver manual. Turning down audio volume does not remove overload at the input.
Your turn.
Thought experiment: after increasing RF gain, extra lines appear across the display, speech gets worse and an overload warning appears. Decide on your next check. Use troubleshooting if needed. The SDR lab does not simulate RF gain or AGC.
Check your understanding
Sources & further documentation
Your learning path— / 6
- Understand the receive chain
- Connect frequency and wavelength
- Read the waterfall
- Match mode and filter
- Use gain deliberately
- Tune your own signal
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