Power line RF interference-sounds, patterns, and myths

Some new insights into the causes and effects of power-line RFI (radio frequency interference) are presented. Certain myths about such RFI, which include interference to radio, television, and to other services throughout the electromagnetic spectrum, are dispelled. Several observed oscilloscope patterns from “sparking” RFI show that there is no special and characteristic sound for power-line noise, contrary to a popular myth. These patterns also illustrate that power-line RFI does not result from harmonics of the power-line frequency, a common myth. The paper presents practical information of special value to persons involved in the locating of power-line RFI sources