Search results

RFI/EMI RadioFrequency interference/electromagnetic interference by ARRL Technical Information Service page

Constructing a Lindenblad antenna for 137MHz NOAA satellite reception involves specific design considerations for optimal performance. The resource details the use of 4mm galvanised steel fencing wire, 300-ohm television ribbon cable, and wood/plastic components for the antenna structure. Key dimensions for a 137.58MHz-resonant antenna are provided, derived from the ARRL Satellite Handbook, specifying s, l, w, and d as 42, 926, 893, and 654mm respectively. The antenna is designed for Right Hand Circularly Polarised (RHCP) signals, requiring the four folded dipole elements to be tilted clockwise by 30 degrees. A significant aspect covered is impedance matching between the antenna's 75-ohm impedance and a typical 50-ohm receiver input. A twelfth-wave matching transformer, constructed from 117mm sections of 50-ohm RG-58 and 75-ohm RG-59 coax with a 0.66 velocity factor, is described. The article also addresses coaxial cable and connector selection, recommending 75-ohm Type-N connectors for RG-6 cable in professional setups and F56/F59 connectors for general use, while strongly advising against PL-259/SO-259 connectors for VHF. Strategies for mitigating Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) are discussed, including antenna placement to shield from local TV transmitters and the use of commercial or DIY band-pass filters, such as cavity resonators or helical notch filters, along with ferrite chokes on coaxial cables. Antenna orientation is explored, noting the Lindenblad's 'cone of silence' directly overhead and its maximized sensitivity towards the horizon. An experimental vertical tilt of 90 degrees is presented as a method to improve overhead reception and reduce interference from strong horizontal signals, particularly relevant in high RFI environments like the Siding Spring Observatory site.

Demonstrates practical solutions for reducing **Radio Frequency Interference (RFI)** in amateur radio operating environments, specifically addressing issues with PC monitors, receivers, and transceivers. The resource compiles advice from experienced operators regarding the selection and application of ferrite cores, including split cores and toroidal cores. It details specific material types like **43, 73, 75, and 77 ferrite**, outlining their effective frequency ranges for RFI suppression, such as 43 material for 30-400 MHz and 77 material for 2-30 MHz. The content provides part numbers for various ferrite products from manufacturers like Fair-Rite Products Corp, distributed by Amidon, and discusses their impedance characteristics across different HF bands. It compares the performance of various ferrite materials at frequencies like 4 MHz, noting that 75 material offers 27 ohms, 73 material 17 ohms, and 43 material just under 10 ohms. Additionally, it touches upon the use of bypass capacitors in conjunction with ferrites to create low-pass filters, emphasizing the importance of identifying common-mode versus differential-mode RFI paths for effective mitigation.

One specific challenge in the KazShack, operating Single Operator Two Radios (SO2R), involved sharing a K9AY receive antenna between two transceivers without direct RF connection or manual feedline swapping. The solution, detailed in this project, adapts the **W3LPL RX bandpass filter** design to split 160m and 80m signals, feeding them to separate radio inputs while maintaining isolation. This approach also addresses the issue of strong broadcast band interference from a nearby 50KW WPTF transmitter on 680kc. The construction utilizes T-50-3 toroids and NP0 ceramic capacitors, built in a "dead bug" style on copper clad board. Each band's filter coils are identical and resonated to the desired frequency using an MFJ-259 antenna analyzer. A single DPDT relay, controlled by a remote toggle switch mounted on an aluminum panel, facilitates quick band switching between radios, simplifying low-band operations. While some signal loss is noted, the expected lower noise levels from the receive antenna are anticipated to compensate, potentially reducing the need for constant volume adjustments during toggling between transmit and receive antennas.

The document is a technical guide on designing RF filters for radio frequency applications. It covers topics such as interference suppression, band-pass filters, and low pass filters, with a focus on filter design and circuit filters.

Details the Northern Amateur Relay Council of California (NARCC) as the regional coordinating body for amateur radio repeaters operating on the 10-meter band and above. It outlines NARCC's function in managing frequency allocations to minimize interference and ensure efficient spectrum use across Northern California. The resource specifies that NARCC operates in cooperation with the FCC and ARRL, indicating its recognized authority within the amateur radio community. The organization's role centers on repeater coordination, a critical aspect of VHF/UHF operations where multiple stations share limited frequency segments. It highlights the support received from local amateur radio operators, underscoring a community-driven approach to spectrum management. The site serves as a primary reference for hams seeking to establish or operate repeaters within the designated service area. NARCC's activities directly impact the operational landscape for _VHF_ and _UHF_ enthusiasts, providing essential guidelines and coordinated frequencies. This ensures orderly communication and prevents conflicts, particularly in densely populated areas of Northern California.

Radio Frequency Interference To/From touch lamps and dimmers

Mitigating RF noise in a mobile operating environment, particularly within a _Jeep TJ_ vehicle, presents unique challenges due to the vehicle's electrical system and chassis characteristics. This resource details practical methods for identifying and suppressing various forms of radio frequency interference (RFI) that can degrade receiver performance for both CB and amateur radio transceivers. It covers common noise sources such as ignition systems, alternators, fuel pumps, and computer modules, explaining how these components generate broadband or specific frequency noise that impacts radio communications. The guide offers actionable solutions, including proper grounding techniques, the strategic use of ferrite beads and toroids on power and data lines, and the installation of bypass capacitors. It discusses the effectiveness of different filtering strategies for DC power lines and antenna feedlines, illustrating how a clean power supply and shielded cabling can significantly reduce conducted and radiated noise. The information presented helps operators achieve a lower noise floor, improving signal-to-noise ratio and enabling clearer reception of weak signals, which is crucial for effective mobile DXing or local ragchewing.

Understanding the operational impact of Broadband over Power Line (BPL) on amateur radio communications is crucial for any radio amateur, especially given the potential for significant radio frequency interference (RFI). This ARRL tutorial delves into the technical aspects of BPL, explaining how the technology operates by transmitting data over existing electrical power lines, which can inadvertently radiate broadband noise across various amateur bands. My own field experience, particularly on the lower HF bands, has often involved tracking down noise sources that exhibit characteristics consistent with BPL emissions, making this a pertinent topic for maintaining clear receive conditions. The resource further details the specific FCC rules and regulations implemented to restrict BPL deployment. These regulations aim to protect licensed radio services, including amateur radio, from harmful interference. It outlines the technical standards and operational limitations imposed on BPL systems to minimize their impact on the electromagnetic spectrum, a critical aspect for contesters and DXers alike. For those engaged in RFI mitigation, the tutorial provides a foundational understanding of the regulatory framework that can be leveraged when addressing BPL-related interference issues. It serves as a valuable reference for hams seeking to comprehend the technical challenges and regulatory solutions surrounding this pervasive noise source.

Broadband over power lines (BPL) is a technique for transmission of high speed data (broadband Internet) over powerlines. Access BPL technology injects radio frequency energy into powerlines which were not designed for transmission of radio frequency energy, and leak substantial energy that causes interference to radiocommunications service

Operating a ham station often involves encountering radio frequency interference (RFI), RF feedback, or RF burns, which are frequently misattributed to poor equipment grounding. This resource meticulously dissects these assumptions, asserting that RF grounds on the operating desk often merely mask more significant system flaws. It identifies five primary causes for RF problems, including antenna system design flaws, proximity of the antenna to the operating position, DC power supply ground loops, equipment design defects, and poorly installed connectors or defective cables. The content emphasizes that issues like "hot cabinets" or changes in SWR when connecting a ground indicate substantial RF flowing over wiring or cabinets, a phenomenon known as common-mode current. The article provides detailed explanations of common-mode current generation, particularly from single-wire fed antennas like longwires, random wires, and OCF dipoles, which inherently present high levels of RF in the shack. It also illustrates how vertical antennas, lacking a perfect ground system, can excite feed lines with significant common-mode current. Through simulations, the author demonstrates how a dipole without a proper _balun_ can cause RF problems at the operating desk, showing current patterns and voltage distributions on feed line shields. The discussion extends to the proper application of _RF isolators_ and _ferrite beads_, clarifying their role in modifying common-mode impedance on cable shields and cautioning against their use as a band-aid for fundamental system defects. The resource advocates for correcting the actual source of RF problems, such as antenna system issues or poor connector mounting, rather than relying on internal shack grounding or isolators. It highlights that properly functioning two-conductor feed lines, like coaxial or open-wire lines, should result in minimal RF levels at the operating position, even without a desk RF ground. The author shares personal experience, noting that his stations since the late 1970s have operated without RF grounds at the desks, relying instead on proper antenna system design and feed line integrity.

MorseExpert 1.15 decodes Morse Code audio to text, leveraging algorithms from CW Skimmer for optimal performance on weak, fading signals amidst interference on amateur radio bands. It processes audio from the device's built-in microphone or an external radio receiver via cable, optionally highlighting Ham callsigns and keywords. The application features a waterfall display with a bandwidth of 200-1200 Hz, decodes frequencies between 300-1100 Hz, and supports keying speeds from 12-45 WPM with automatic CW pitch detection. Recent updates include support for Android 15, edge-to-edge mode, improved stability, and a pause decoding button. A premium version offers an ad-free experience and user-selected text colors. Users can switch between General Text mode and Ham Radio QSO mode, which enhances word segmentation and highlights callsigns. The app also includes a frequency lock mode, text selection capabilities for copying, sharing, or saving decoded text, and provides guidance on reducing acoustic echo and constructing an audio attenuator for optimal radio interfacing.

Amateur radio repeaters extend communication range for mobile and remote stations by retransmitting signals on a different frequency, often for emergency communications. The resource details various repeater bands, noting that 2 meters and 70 cm are primary for activity, with 10-meter repeaters offering potential national and overseas coverage. It specifies **18 channels** on 6 meters and **31 channels** on 2 meters, along with a new 70 cm offset of _7 MHz_ adopted in 2015. The content explains how repeaters can be linked via dedicated transmitters/receivers, landlines, or Internet VoIP systems like _IRLP_ and Echolink, enabling global connections. It also describes simplex gateways for multi-band operation and the use of CTCSS subaudible tones for access control and interference mitigation. The document highlights specialized repeaters for modes beyond voice, such as SSTV and ATV, particularly on 70cm and higher bands. Operational guidelines for efficient and courteous repeater use are referenced, along with links to Australian repeater listings and band plans.

Article on radio frequency interferences, with a long list of common RFI cause, like Plasma TV, Solar panels inverters, fluorescent tube lamps.

Ham radio transmissions can interfere with television reception. This is called television interference, or ham radio TVI. Consumer adoption of cable television has significantly reduced ham radio TVI. But the introduction of IPTV, or television over phone systems, has brought ham radio TVI back, often with a vengeance. Here's why

Effective operation of amateur radio repeaters, particularly in high-density areas, relies on coordinated frequency assignments to prevent interference. This resource from the _Illinois Repeater Association_ (IRA) serves as the official frequency coordination body for the state of Illinois, providing essential information for repeater owners and users. It details coordination policies, guidelines, and application forms for new and existing repeaters, ensuring fair and consistent spectrum utilization. The site also includes a comprehensive band plan, last revised in 2006, and a selective access policy (PL/Squelch Plan) updated in 2015, which are critical for maintaining orderly operations. The IRA website offers various repeater directories, sortable by frequency, city, and region, including a dedicated section for digital systems. These directories are invaluable for hams traveling through Illinois or setting up new repeater projects, helping them identify available frequencies and coordinated systems. The resource also provides meeting minutes, newsletters, and links to other regional repeater councils, demonstrating its role in fostering inter-state coordination. This structured approach to frequency management helps ensure reliable communications and minimizes QRM across the state, supporting thousands of repeater contacts annually.

The video delves into the significance of interference reduction in ham radio setups by utilizing ferrite materials. It demonstrates the use of spectrum analyzers and tracking generators to showcase the performance of ferrite devices in minimizing noise levels. The analysis includes insights on resistance levels, attenuation factors, and the impact of using multiple ferrite clamps or rings to enhance noise reduction capabilities. Viewers gain a deeper understanding of ferrite composition, characteristic curves, and winding techniques for effective noise attenuation in different frequency ranges. Overall, the video serves as a comprehensive guide to optimizing interference reduction in radio environments through the strategic use of ferrite materials.

Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) has always been a source of concern for the Radio Amateur. Until the recent introduction of complex circuitry in the home, our communications gear has been the main source of potential RFI. In this computerized age of ours, increasingly complex and sensitive receivers are being barraged by these and other sources of RFI.

In this study, the author builds upon Muncy's research, demonstrating that radio-frequency current on cable shields affects audio systems through the "pin 1 problem" and shield-current-induced noise (SCIN). An enhanced equivalent circuit for ferrite chokes is proposed, addressing dimensional resonance and inductor self-resonance. Field tests confirm that chokes reduce interference across 500 kHz to 1,000 MHz. Guidelines for diagnosing and mitigating EMI from various sources are provided for product development and field installations.

Effective suppression of harmonics and parasitic radiation from HF transmitters is crucial, especially with the increasing sensitivity of VHF/UHF radio channels to interference. This project details a hybrid low-pass filter (LPF) designed to operate across the HF bands up to 51 MHz, making it suitable for 6-meter band operations while providing deep VHF/UHF suppression. The design addresses the challenge of modern interference landscapes, where even microvolt-level signals can disrupt wireless sensors and other simple VHF/UHF receivers. The filter utilizes a single elliptic link, combining high cutoff steepness with robust suppression in the hundreds of megahertz range. A key feature is the use of only two standard capacitor values, simplifying construction and component sourcing. The article provides a detailed schematic, performance characteristics, and _RFSim99_ model file, demonstrating a reflection coefficient S11 below 0.017 (VSWR < 1.03) across 1-51 MHz, ensuring minimal degradation to the antenna system. Construction notes include coil winding specifications and capacitor selection guidance, with recommendations for _FR-4_ assembly. Two capacitor sets are presented, with the first variant recommended for its lower RF current demands, keeping currents below 3 A at 1 kW passing power at 51 MHz. Fine-tuning involves adjusting frameless coils, with considerations for capacitor tolerance and high-frequency capacitance measurement accuracy.

Demonstrates the application of Software-Defined Radios (SDRs) as effective tools for conducting Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) site surveys. The resource details the methodology for capturing and analyzing RFI, specifically focusing on the 80-meter band over a 24-hour period. It outlines the setup of an SDR-based survey tool, utilizing software like _S-Meter Lite_ and _Spectrum Lab_ to visualize and quantify noise sources. The article emphasizes the SDR's wideband capabilities, which allow for comprehensive identification and documentation of RFI across broad frequency ranges, crucial for effective mitigation strategies. The analysis presents practical results, illustrating how continuous monitoring can reveal intermittent RFI sources that might otherwise go undetected. For instance, the survey identified noise peaks exceeding **S9+20dB** on 80 meters during specific hours, correlating with local appliance usage. The methodology provides a repeatable process for hams to characterize their local noise floor, enabling targeted RFI suppression efforts and improving weak-signal reception, particularly for DXing and contesting.

When new to the 2-meter FM transceiver, securing a quiet frequency for chatter seems straightforward, but it's essential to navigate FCC rules and band plans effectively. Even though frequency allocations are consistent above 50 MHz for Technician licenses, adherence to specific segments within the 2m band—ranging from 144 MHz to 148 MHz—is crucial. This includes respecting designations for different modes like CW, SSB, and FM to prevent interference, particularly with satellites and exotic modes like EME. Understanding and following the structured band plans not only ensures legal compliance but also optimizes frequency use and minimizes disruptions in the amateur radio community.

The article details how to eliminate Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) from the Behringer HA400 headphone amplifier when used in ham radio setups. While the HA400 is praised for its quality and affordability, it was not designed for RF environments, causing distortion when used with a 500-watt radio station. Initial attempts using clamp-on ferrites on the headphone and power cables only partially resolved the issue. Upon opening the unit, the author discovered the circuit lacked RF bypassing components. The solution involved installing 0.1μF (104) capacitors at key points in the circuit: the power supply input, audio circuits, and op amp inputs. This modification, combined with the external ferrites, completely eliminated the RFI problem, making the unit suitable for ham radio operations.

This page describes a project involving repurposing the Weathalert receiver for controlling a radio club's beacon system remotely. The author details the modifications made to the receiver, including changing the crystal frequency and adding a DTMF decode chip and PIC for remote control. The project aims to enable the turning off of beacons to prevent interference, with plans to control each beacon and the Packet Radio digi. The article provides insights into the technical aspects of modifying the receiver and showcases the author's experimentation with different crystals for optimal performance.