What does Radio Frequency Interference Entail?

Radio Frequency Interference basically entails the presence of unwanted, interfering radio frequency signals responsible for the disruption of normal system operations.  Radio Frequency Interference is thus seen as a kind of extraneous or external energy which interferes or impedes with the normal reception of signals.

Where does Radio Frequency Interference Originate from?     

Radio Frequency Interference is something that all people encounter at some or other stage during their lives.  The origin of Radio Frequency Interference can be attributed to a number of different factors.  These include natural phenomena such as sun spots and lightning, as well as man-made generators.  However, man-made factors are considered much more serious than the natural phenomena.  Man-made factors leading to Radio Frequency Interference include communication systems like mobile telephones, paging, 2-way radios, and emergency and public safety communication systems, as well as high power broadcast systems like TV transmitters and AM/FM radios.  It should be noted though that there are also unintentional emitters responsible for Radio Frequency Interference.  Unintentional, as they bring forth Radio Frequency Interference when performing their functions.  Examples of these include electro-mechanical switches, medical equipment, transformers, and power lines, to name just a few.

What Impact does Radio Frequency Interference have?

The impact of Radio Frequency Interference is not always the same, as it depends on what you are busy with at a specific moment. 

  • A radio frequency based system can become totally non-functional due to Radio Frequency Interference causing an intrusion of music, conversation, or noise.  Radio Frequency Interference can also create problems in system performance that are extremely difficult to trace back to the original Radio Frequency Interference source;
  • Cell phones may lead to Radio Frequency Interference causing problems for firefighters and police officers in densely populated areas, seeing as they use the same broadcast spectrum as cell phones and it subsequently hinders their ability to communicate properly:
  • Radio Frequency Emissions are guarded extremely carefully around explosives, as it can cause denotation;
  • Apart from radios, TVs, telephones, and computers, Radio Frequency Interference also affects a lot of other electronic devices, which include security systems, fluorescent lights, automatic garage doors, kitchen appliances, and audio systems; and 
  • In common communication systems, Radio Frequency Interference degrades or completely disrupts overall system performance, signal quality, system carrying capacity, and connectivity between two or more stations.

What are some Examples of Radio Frequency Interference?  

  • Distortion of the transmitted audio signal;
  • The static on a distant radio station;
  • Data errors between a computer and its modem; and
  • The buzzing noise speakers make moments before a cell phone starts to ring.

 How can Radio Frequency Interference be Prevented?

Below are some recommendations on how Radio Frequency Interference can be prevented:

  • Locate and treat the offending source;
  • Always keep cables as short as possible;
  • Pay careful attention to the routing;
  • Rather use cables with heavy gauge shields;
  • Maintain good connections;
  • Never add unnecessary grounds;
  • Make use of ground isolators in problem signal paths; and
  • Install Radio Frequency I filters in the signal path.