Tips for Best WorldSpace Radio Reception


Can I receive broadcasts on the WorldSpace system from anywhere?

To receive the WorldSpace service you must be located within one of the three broadcast beams of a WorldSpace satellite. Also, as WorldSpace is a satellite-based system, the antenna must be in line-of-sight with the satellite to receive the signal. Therefore, each receiver comes with a detachable antenna and extension cable, which allows the user to place the antenna in the position for optimal reception.


What about Headphones, or amplifiers?

Each receiver has a headphone jack that can be used with currently available earphones for privacy. Also, each receiver has a lineout jack so it can be connected to an amplifier.

Reception: Indoors

For in-building reception of the WorldSpace signal when there is no line-of-sight (LOS), an antenna must be aimed out of a glass window, or must be placed outside.

Reception: Interference

Interference - what is it and what will cause it?

Interference of the WorldSpace signal is caused by one or more unwanted signals near the WorldSpace frequency. These disturbances may make reception of the WorldSpace signal difficult.

Reception: Line-of-Sight (LOS)

Line-of-Sight (LOS), refers to uninterrupted or "obstruction-free" sight to the WorldSpace satellite. LOS is a very important precondition for receiving any satellite service.

How do you obtain Line-of-Sight (LOS)?

Very simple - your reception antenna (e.g. patch antenna, high gain antenna, dish, ...) must have direct LOS to the satellite – with no obstructions such as trees, houses, bridges or the like.

Imagine the satellite as a point in the sky in the direction determined by consulting the antenna pointing guide. Check for anything obstructing clear line-of-sight. Avoid or remove any such objects.

Also, consider that objects may move or be moved in front of your reception antenna without your control, such as a car, bus, or truck. Therefore, carefully select the location for placing or mounting the antenna. In general, the basic guidelines for LOS of TV satellite reception systems apply to the WorldSpace system as well.

Can I connect it to my stereo system?

Yes. Each receiver has a line-out jack that can be hooked up to an amplifier and connected to your stereo system’s speakers for better fidelity.

Can I use the receiver in my car? Is it mobile?

The current line of WorldSpace receivers is not designed for in-car use. However, we have heard from receiver owners who have safely secured the receiver antenna on their dashboard and have been able to pick up reception. In areas where there are few obstructions such a tall buildings or trees, you should be able to maintain line-of-sight with the satellite while in motion.

Can I listen to WorldSpace on ships/boats at sea?

Yes, you can listen to WorldSpace on ships/boats at sea. However, depending upon where you are located and the degree to which your ship/boat shifts direction, you may need to reorient the receiver’s antenna periodically to insure that you maintain a line-of- sight to the satellite.

Will manufacturers be launching a car receiver?

WorldSpace does plan to introduce a car receiver and is currently working toward this goal. We expect to have WorldSpace receivers available in the near future.