Solar/Wind Up Radio ~ don't bother

[Two_Sheds]

Mr Sheds bought me this solar powered, wind-up radio for the lottie. It has a cute little flip-down solar panel 111880

trouble is, it only ever picks up static. I guess it's just not powerful enough to pick up a good radio signal?
(the radio on my mobile phone works just perfectly)

And why does it pick up a better signal when I'm holding it than when I put it down anywhere? Am I myself a radio transmitter ? !

[armadillo]

To get a perfect signal:
1-wind radio
2- get a chair
3- stand on chair holding radio
4- hold radio in air
5- lift left leg
6- perfect signal!

Yes, I've had similar problems with the things. Even when the signal's been ok, the charge only lasted for a very short time. Now I use rechargeable batteries, much better. If you feel like splashing out, the 'pure one' digital radio is good, and Roberts do one now that's got about 80 hours running time on 6 rechargeable batteries, or 120 hours if you use it on fm rather than digital.

[terrier]

One of the biggest gaffs was years ago in a mag called 'Practical Wireless'. There was a set of instructions on how to build a "Solar powered pocket radio". Took them a long time to live that one down

[Alison]

The one I have, sorry don't know the make and it's upstairs, is really good. Never really used the wind up bit much but the solar bit works really well and it's been invaluable on camping trips continuing to work all day when we've been stuck in the tent on a rainy day.