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Scanning and Interference

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Jason:
Hello All.  I currently own a Uniden Bearcat 780XLT (27 Bands from 25 MHz - 1300 MHz with 500 channels).  It is hooked up to an external Outdoor Scanner Discone Antenna with the same range of bands as the scanner.  I have ran into a few problems.  I could only install the antenna in the attic.  I live about 13 miles to the Northwest of KBDR (Bridgeport).  When my computer is turned off I am able to pick up about 5-10 NY frequencies, 5 Boston as well as KBDR ATIS, Tower, Ground and KOXC ATIS.  When my computer is turned on (quite often) I am not able to pick any transmissions up from ATC.  I have a feeling it's because of computer radio waves, but when other computers in the house are turned on it works fine.  Any suggestions on what to do?  The scanner is about 3 or 4 feet away from the computer.  I can always move the scanner further away and get a longer coax cable if need be.

Thanks,
Jason

P.S.  Congratulations to Ed (PHL_Approach) a friend of mine who recently has the KNXX feed going!  Great job Ed!  Nice and clear!

dave:
Jason-

As you've discovered, computers produce man-made noise.  It could be your computer or it could be your monitor.  Most likely it's the computer and its power supply.

The only thing you can do is get that antenna as far away from the computer as possible, ideally outside the house.

We'd love to get some of those Boston Center and New York Approach feeds from you some time...and KBDR.

-dave

Jason:
Hy Dave -

Thanks.  I'll see what I can do.  I have the antenna over 100 feet away from the computer... Do you think moving the scanner further away would help?

Jason

dave:

--- Quote from: Flyinguy1120 ---Hy Dave -

Thanks.  I'll see what I can do.  I have the antenna over 100 feet away from the computer... Do you think moving the scanner further away would help?

Jason
--- End quote ---


It depends on where the noise is coming in.  Most likely it's coming in through the antenna, though.  The other thing you can try is passing the audio cable (if you're using one) through a toroid.  But I doubt that will help given the way you described the noise.

Good luck!

Dave

Jason:
Ok.  Thanks.  I'll see what I can do about moving it.  The odd thing is that when other computers are on in the house it does not affect it.

Thanks once again!

Jason

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