AM Radio reception interference from my computer

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Feb 28, 2003 | 04:16 AM

karljay

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Cargo Master

Joined: Jul 2000

Posts: 2,281

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From: Northern California

AM Radio reception interference from my computer

Any of you know how to stop the interference on my in home AM radio from my computer (other than turning off the computer)

I usually listen to several am talk shows and can get a clear signal when the computer is running, this didn't happen with the older computer, just this one.

I can't upgrade the computer and don't want to buy another radio. I was thinking along the lines of metal plates around the computer or something like that.

The problem is that I really don't know much about radio signals and figure someone here must know, you all seem to have so much collective knowledge!

Feb 28, 2003 | 08:12 AM

dutchtreat

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Joined: Dec 2002

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From: rome, georgia

AM Radio reception interference from my computer

I would move the radio away from the computer.or try plugging the radio into another circuit.

Feb 28, 2003 | 10:54 AM

51dueller

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Joined: Aug 2002

Posts: 6,682

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From: Saskatoon SK Canada

AM Radio reception interference from my computer

Try turning off the monitor. I cannot listen to radio when the monitor is on but when I turn it off it's clear. My radio is 2 feet from the computer.

Feb 28, 2003 | 11:20 AM

winfordr

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Joined: Jan 2001

Posts: 1,124

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From: Rural Florida Panhandle

AM Radio reception interference from my computer

The newer compuer runs at a higher frequency, causing more rf noise than your old one.

The suggestion to move the radio will work, but sometimes, you may want to listen to the radio while computing.

Another option is to use an outside or remote antenna for the radio. You may have to purchase a 'better' radio, in order to connect an outside antenna.

Putting your computer inside a metal shield would help some, but that is difficult, and clumsy. One other option, you could move your radio to the fartherest place from the computer, and run a speaker back to where you listen. You could possibly use a wireless speaker, but you run the risk of more rf noise (900 mhz) when you do that.

Hope this helps

(Presently inactive Extra Class Amateur Radio Operator- KI4EU)

Feb 28, 2003 | 11:48 AM

albertafarmer

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Joined: May 2001

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From: Alberta

AM Radio reception interference from my computer

I don't have a radio close, but I do have a small tv about 3 feet away from my computer and can't get all the channels with the computer on. The higher channels (9-13) are okay but 3 is unwatchable because of interference.

Feb 28, 2003 | 09:03 PM

wolfmanagh

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Joined: Mar 2002

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From: Twin Cities, MN

AM Radio reception interference from my computer

I have a small 36inch TV about 3 inches above my monitor, no interference. I don't listen to the radio much. But I just checked to see if I get interference, and I get none.

I have my PC running through a battery backup surge protector, which cuts down a lot of interference with the power on other items near by. Its also nice for when the power goes out, cause I can run it for a half hour after that saving any data and closing things and shutting down. If I'm lucky the power will come back on.

Mar 1, 2003 | 01:36 AM

damonlan

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Joined: Dec 2002

Posts: 277

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From: San Rafael, NM

AM Radio reception interference from my computer

For starters I would go with an LCD flat screen monitor. 90% of "computer noise" is not actually generated by the computer, rather it is generated by the flyback transformer in the TV or monitor operating at around 15khz. This is definately in the audible range and the varriances in what is being displayed will cause even more noises at lower frequencies depending on when the cathode ray is being activated/de-activated. The FCC does permit this noise from monitors because it does not cause "harmful interference" but I wish they would tighten up on monitor emissions.

Another thing that can help is to try to reduce the intensity/brightness of the display. This will lessen the electron flow in the tube and will create less noise.

Also you could try ferite beads on your power and data cords. Noise from the computer/monitor could actually be getting back into the wiring in the walls and act as a radiator.

One of the previous posts had the best suggestion though. Get a radio with a metal chasis and run an external antenna to the outside.