Since the signals are refracted by the Earth's ionosphere, shortwave frequencies are capable of reaching any location in the world, although factors such as time of day and season can effect reception.

There are 14 short wave bands (some with limited or no use), and within each of those bands there can be hundreds of broadcasters. The practice of searching for and identifying stations in other countries is known to hobbyists as DXing, and many listeners also tune into utility broadcasts of maritime or military signals. International programs including BBC World News and Radio Australia also broadcast on shortwave bands.

• AM (520-1700 KHz), FM (88-108 MHz), Shortwave (6000-12100 KHz)
• NOAA weather: all 7 channels plus "Alert"
• Built-in hand crank power generator…

• AM (520-1700 KHz), FM (88-108 MHz), Shortwave (6000-12100 KHz)
• NOAA weather  all 7 channels plus "Alert"
• Built-in hand crank power generator recharges the internal rechargeable
• Ni-MH battery and cell phone batteries
• Solar power source:
  1) Powered by the suns energy through waterproof, shatterproof, high performance, glass encapsulated amorphous solar panel with built-in UV inhibitors to reduce possibility of heat damage
  2) Solar cells function anytime the sun is shining and is powerful enough (even in overcast weather) for direct play
• Can be powered from four different sources:
  1) From the built-in rechargeable Ni-MH battery that takes charge from the dynamo crank and from an AC adapter (not included)
  2) From 3 AA batteries (not included)
  3) From the AC adapter alone (not included)
  4) From solar power
  
• Built-in four white LED, one red LED lights with magnifying lens for brighter, more powerful light source
• Emergency/SOS siren
• Built-in cell phone charger
• Rotary all band selector knob
• Analog frequency dial with digital display  easy to read, large, green
• LED illuminated backlit
• Digital clock function: 12-hour clock with alarm function, snooze, and sleep timer
• Connectors, with rubber gaskets/plugs to seal out moisture, for headphones, DC-in, USB phone charger, USB iPod charger
• Telescopic antenna provided for maximum range and reception
• Power source: built-in rechargeable Ni-MH battery pack; 3 AA batteries (not included); AC adapter (not included); solar power
• Dimensions: 7-3/4W X 8-1/2H X 2-1/2D and 196.9mm x 215.9mm x 63.5mm (W x H x D)
• Weight: 1.9 lbs. and 0.86 kg
• Accessories: owners manual, warranty card, card for cell phone tip,USB/cell phone charging cord