Topband: Condx and more on 'growl' noise

[N1BUG]

Condx to EU have been particularly poor the past couple of 
days.  However on the 13th I could copy 9M2AX 449-559 just 
after his sunrise.  I missed a potential shot at Ross 
yesterday.  I have not had any copy on 3D2RR the past two 
mornings.  VK signals have not been particularly good 
either.

I received the following additional suggestions regarding 
"growl" type noises on 160:

Wall warts.  Some newer ones are switching supplies.  In 
particular, wall warts for high intensity lamps using 12V 
bulbs and wall warts for modems were mentioned.

110V light / lamp dimmers.

Finally a bit more on my own experience with this noise 
problem.  Yesterday morning my shack computer died 
suddenly.  I scrambled all day trying to find parts to get 
it back on line (which is why I missed sunrise at 9M2AX).  
I could not get what I needed within reasonable driving 
distance, so I was forced to press an older/slower computer 
into service temporarily.  That's where it gets 
interesting.

This older (nearly unusable by today's standards) computer 
makes a VERY loud growl right on top of the ones I've had 
all along!  It is a broad, coarse growl that wanders around 
the band somewhat... nearly identical to what I have been 
hearing.  Interesting!  I suspect it may be the power 
supply but cannot confirm that.  The temporary computer 
also manages to put a very strong (but clean!) carrier 
right on 1832 kHz. 

73
Paul N1BUG