All:
While this might best be addressed to the RFI reflector, I'm wondering
if among the learned subscribers here on the Topband reflector, some
of you might have some knowledge or experience with this issue.
Recently, a smart meter was installed here and immediately I heard a buzzing
sound on all of the lower bands including 160 but it was loudest on 30 meters
followed by 40 meters.
On 30 meters, it was 10 over S9!
Using the NB-Wide mode eliminates most of it but causes the usual distortion
associated with the NB being turned on.
It is there most of the time during the day and sometimes during the night.
After considerable effort including shutting down all power throughout my
house and checking the power system ground, a battery operated AM/FM/SW
radio confirmed it was loudest behind the back of the meter.
This is the digital electronics analyzing data that is causing the problem and
not the RF signal that is around 902 MHz.
Sweeping the band, the levels peaks about every 3 MHz including at 7 and
10 MHz.
ARRL says they have had no complaints about these meters!
A maintenance engineer from the utility confirmed the problem and says
his expressed concerns were not addressed.
He further indicated that at business, condo and apartment complexes where
large number of these meters are installed, the interference was particularly
noticed.
I suspect that some appropriate filter at the back of the meter would at least
reduce the level but I wonder if anyone has addressed this problem.
It looks like moving my antennas farther from the house is the most expeditious
route in reducing the levels detected.
Perhaps a direct reply would be best to avoid excessive bandwidth here.
Thanks in advance.
Jim, K1PX
K1PX at msn.com
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