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Radio Free Amerika The ins and outs of the radio frequency spectrum, including scanners, trackers, building your own transmitters, mixers, and antennas, station formats, frequencies, favorite pirate radio stations, the FCC, radio stories, working at radio stations, and more.

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 #1 
Old 2007-09-17, 16:10
Fubar_v2.0 Fubar_v2.0 is offline
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Default RF interference from car alternator?

Not sure if this belongs in T&T but since it deals with the "waves" thought you guys might be able to help.

Sometimes my speakers will buzz in a morse code fashion when calling or receiving calls or texts on my cell phone. Lately when cars start outside the speakers will buzz in a similar fashion to the slow "chug chug chug" a turning alternator makes, in the same rythem and timing as I hear it outside. Wondering if this is even possible the alternator is creating interference for my speakers that far away or I am just going crazy.
 #2 
Old 2007-09-17, 16:48
Super Moderator
 
In a nuclear crater
Default Re: RF interference from car alternator?

First off, you posted in the right forum. :D

Second, it's quite believable for the alternator to produce RF interference. It's basically creating a moving electromagnetic field, so yes, it's a transmitter of sorts. The strength of the interference would depend on how well the system is grounded, the distance involved and the intensity of the electromagnetic field produced (among others factors).

After thinking about this a while longer, there are other explanations for the RF you're describing. If it were the alternator, it should continue for as long as the vehicle is in operation (or at least in proximity while in operation) since the alternator never stops working so long as the engine is running (we hope). The starter would produce a short-lasting RF pulse that could produce the effects you describe, as one example.
 #3 
Old 2007-09-18, 19:44
Moderator
 
Kelso, Washington, USA
Default Re: RF interference from car alternator?

It does happen quite often. I get that morse code clicking and beeping from my TV, my computer speakers, and lots of things when my cell phone wakes up. I've been searching for a solution for months.
 
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