[RFI] Solar Panel Inquiries

[Dave Cole]

Hello Tom,

If it were me, and I were you, I would immediately begin taking RFI 
background readings on all bands, starting today...

See:

http://nk7z.net/sdr-rfi-survey-p1/

for a brief treaties on how to do this.  I have a full set of 
spectrograms there for all bands, for my site...

There are simpler ways, but I know of no other way, short of a spectrum 
analyzer to get this much information as cheaply and in a readable form 
as with an SDR radio as described.

I also, provide a copy of the spectrograms to any installers, or 
potential light operators, PRIOR to the install of RFI generating 
devices if possible.  I also give them the "RFI Mitigation" URL I 
mention later.

I would then let them know that any new RFI will need to be mitigated in 
order to meet FCC R&R, and avoid FCC involvement.  I would also print 
out a copy of Part 15, and 18, and include that with the spectrograms... 
  I would also include a copy of an enforcement letter just for good 
measure.  I would then document that I had given them all of this, in my 
RFI log, by date/time.

I suspect my actions as outlined above, would get them calling the maker 
of the panels to see about RFI issues, which is the intent.

See:

https://transition.fcc.gov/eb/AmateurActions/files/Grow_11_09_30_5275.pdf

for the enforcement letter I have used in the past for grow operations 
near me.  In this case, I would probably look around on the FCC site for 
a Solar enforcement letter and use that instead.

I am of course always nice, always polite, and I try and never make 
anything sound like a threat...  I keep a log of everything said, and 
done, by everyone, including myself.  I never forget that I might be 
building a log that might show up in court as I write it.

I don't have to say I will call the FCC if I provide all of this to a 
potential RFI generator, it is implied.  That sometimes avoids a 
confrontation-- sometimes.

I have a pile of RFI mitigation stuff on my site, just go to

http://www.nk7z.net

and on the right select "RFI Mitigation", from the navigation pane.

If you don't post what is happening to the mail list here, I would 
appreciate hearing how this turns out via email.  If you do post it to 
the list, I will see it here...

If the installers are helpful, I would send them to Mike Gruber of the 
ARRL ASAP.  I found his number on the ARRL web site, and the ARRL lab 
can be very helpful in this sort of thing...  Mike is a really good guy, 
and smart, so the ARRL can be of great help here...

Good Luck!

73s and thanks,
Dave
NK7Z
http://www.nk7z.net

On 11/15/2016 07:11 AM, Tom Lizak wrote:
> Hi RFI subscribers,
>
>
>
> My next door neighbor is going to have solar panels installed on her house
> very shortly.