They've Started Again :-(

[TFerg53]

I believe I’ve asked this before, but, do the power companies do something on their electric lines that would cause interference on a scanner, especially in the summer? I have a Bearcat BCT15X sitting next to my BCD536HP and it has once again started picking up random “broadcasts” which sound like electrical interference (static) that last anywhere from 5 to 15 seconds. The other day it was on 151.22000 and I eventually had to lock it out. Today it is on 155.07000 and I’m able to lock it out temporarily. I’ve unlocked 151.22000 and it appears to be OK today.

Since the BCD536HP is not doing this, I’m wondering about the difference between the two and how and if the BCT15X can be programmed to avoid these random “transmissions” as well? They are rather annoying and louder than regular traffic.

Tim

 

[jonwienke]

If the signal is not being picked up by the 536, then it's not on those frequencies, it's an image or something on some other frequency that the 15X isn't filtering out. The x36 series scanners have some of the best front ends in the scanner world. I would suggest using a SDR to band scope above and below the frequencies to see if you can find the source of the interference. Ideally have a dongle on a USB extension cable plugged into a laptop, so you can walk around while watching the display to find the source of the signal.

 

[garys]

I used to have something like this happen on my BC15x. It was some sort of electrical interference, but I never tracked it down. I've never had any other scanner show that sort of thing. It was only on VHF and only happened occasionally, but it was a PITA.

It went away eventually. I haven't had the scanner for several years, so I don't know if it would still happen now or not.

Never got it on a Pro 197, BC396XT, or any other scanner just the 15X.

 

[Unforgiven_AF]

Have you turned on any seasonal mechanical devices like central air or a pool?

 

[TFerg53]

Although we do have central A/C going now and a pool filter, they only normally happen during the daytime. Not necessarily wanting to add another 536 at this time, but I use the 15X more or less as my "Priority" radio having all the channels on the 536 and only the few priority frequencies duplicated on the 15X. May switch out the 15X with a Radio Shack handheld and see if there is a difference, but it isn't narrow band and I would need to find the AC adapter for long term deployment.