The occasional static noise may be a nearby paging system transmitting around 152 MHz. I have that problem. A potential fix would be a filter. I use a paging filter made by PAR Electronics.
An improved antenna, especially outdoors, may increase the interference as well if it is a paging signal, or the like. It is the “occasional” mention that has me thinking it may be that, or something else causing the RFI (Radio Frequency Interference). If the signal was simply weak all the time, an improved antenna typically resolves that.
One could use an inexpensive USB SDR dongle connected to a computer. Setting the frequency to 152 MHz and then listen to your scanner like you normally do while watching the waterfall set at 152. If the occasional static comes and goes simultaneously when you see a spike on the waterfall, it is probably paging RFI and a filter inline on the antenna may help.
I use a discone antenna mounted above the roofline and the paging signal around 152 is so bad here, I need to use two paging filters inline. Again, a $20 SDR dongle along with some free software will tell you more.
AVOID purchasing a new antenna before looking for RFI first.
I am currently using a tri-band antenna on my WS1040 scanner. I usually monitor Alabama Highway Patrol frequencies (
AL Highway Patrol (Alabama) Scanner Frequencies and Radio Frequency Reference) and it does great. However, occasionally the signal has a bit of static/noise. I was told that having a specific VHF antenna would likely give me clearer reception. If I could get some antenna recommendations I would greatly appreciate it.
Would something like this be what I need?
https://a.co/d/7qYvryW
