tv interference, voices

18 years ago

the other night i have noticed that while watching TV at night, the once good quality image turns into some static and unviewable picture on all the channels, then I hear some guy's voice saying stuff like, "I'm in Garden Grove, ya'll" or "you guys should head down here" So this appears to be some person. But then usually this lasts for about 10 seconds and it goes back to normal, and this repeats it self until I get annoyed and shut it off. I don't think any of my other appliances are effecting it. What can I do if this is a radio operator which sounds like it is, and I don't know who it could be in my neihborhood. I also tried the regular bunny air anteneas and with the same terrible results.

many thanks

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Comments (5)

steve_o
18 years ago
The radio operator is responsible for making sure that his/her broadcasts do not interfere with other transmissions (TV, radio, etc.).

This could be very difficult to track down, especially if the operator is using a mobile radio or a souped-up CB (not legal, but try and find 'em). I've had luck in the past with transmissions long enough to identify call letters or locations; you can then either contact the individual and let them know of the interference or you can contact the FCC (number in the blue pages of your phone book or on their Web site) and give them the information you have.

The alternative is to get a filter you apply to your equipment. A store or Web site that sells electronic components probably would be a better bet than a big-box store; you also could try calling a TV repair service and explain the situation to them and ask them what kind of filter you need.
vegomatic
18 years ago
The problem is that CB doesn't always enter through the antenna. It's getting in by speaker or input wires or some less obvious way. Try unhooking the antenna completely next time. If you still hear it, you'll need to add RF chokes or maybe just relocating the rat's nest of wires behind the set or using a different wall plug-in may help.

Or, maybe hike on down to Garden Grove and join the party!

-Ed
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yogurtpooh
Original Author
18 years ago
okay so last night i was laying in bed and listening to an AM radio station, and I hear voices coming out of my radio again! It isnt as obvious as the television interference, but I hear a double beep sound right before the interference ends, exactly like my television.

What should i do???
steve_o
18 years ago
Well, I'd look around your neighborhood for a radio antenna and either knock on the door or call or drop them some mail explaining your situation. Failing that, you could try calling the local office of the Federal Communications Commission, though without much information on who and where, they won't be able to be very helpful. Or you can go to the electronics store and buy some plug-in filters you can use to try to get rid of the interference.
dgmarie
18 years ago
Decreased staff and budget pressure will make it difficult for the FCC to show much interest in a problem like this. Their resources are pretty much reserved for interference to public safety and aviation radio systems.

The radio operator is NOT required to insure that you don't experience interference. He is only required to insure that his station is operating within the FCC rules. The FCC requires a label to this effect to be attached to each receiver "2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation."

Your best bet to resolve this issue it so find a local ham radio operator who is knowledgeable in this area and who would be willing to provide help and advice. Many of these interference problems can be easily resolved. The best way to locate a ham to help would be through a local ham radio club. The ARRL web site (www.arrl.org) has a link that will allow you find a local club.

Good luck!

Here is a link that might be useful: FCC Unlicensed Rules Link

tv interference, voices

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steve_o

vegomatic

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tv interference, voices

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steve_o

vegomatic

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