Interference on VHF

[trapper]

Hi guys, not sure if I asked this question before...can't seem to find it... anyway, Is there a way to stop interference on on my VHF from the auto pilot pump? When running on AP it is a constant static burst as it corrects from port or starboard. I have read somewhere one can install an in line capacitor?? but not clear on that and the process. Appreciate any input on the subject. Thanks, trapper

 

[seasick]

There are noise suppressors but I have to do some research. In addition there are 'chokes' that may also help. One thing to check is if the power wires for the autopilot run parallel and in close proximity to the VHF wires, If they do or are tie wrapped together, try separating the bundle and see what happens. Finally, check the VHF antenna connector to make sure it is making a solid connection.
It may help to know if the interference is new or has always been there and if new, what has changed.

 

[Hookup1]

There are snap on ferrite core filters you can try on both the VHF and the pump. As SEASICK said make sure the wires do not parallel if at all possible. If you have to cross do so at 90 degree angle and get the wires away from each other. New VHF I'm installing came with the ferrite filters.

Also make sure all your connection, crimps and splices are 100%. Cut them off and re-do if problems persist.

Amazon.com

 

[seasick]

I guess this solution covers all points of noise injection

Icom IC-7300 Transceiver RFI Kit - 5 Noise Reduction Filters - Store - Palomar Engineers®

BUY THIS KIT NOW TO SOLVE YOUR RFI PROBLEMS! WORKS WITH MANY BRANDS OF HAM/COMMERCIAL HF RADIOS INCLUDING ICOM 7300. This kit will help reduce or eliminate: 1. Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) to electronic devices including audio/video systems, computers, telephones, garage door openers, alarm…

palomar-engineers.com

Overkill maybe but at least there is a solution for all possible sources.

 

[everwhom]

You might want to try bringing a handheld VHF on board to see if you pick up the same interference on that. If so, then it's your autopilot pump that's transmitting the noise and may be defective or have some other problem...

 

[trapper]

Thanks guys for all your good input. This interference has been happening since install of the AP. Will follow through with checking the wire layout and antenna, then if necessary look into suppressors. This my friends is the most helpful site in acquiring marine info and so many with so much marine knowledge, which is shared so willingly. Yes big thanks!

 

[ROBERTH]

I ran new dedicated wiring to my VHF radios in the hardtop, so that might be another good option to make sure you have some good condition, heavier gauge marine tinned wire to help ensure not only do you have the right wire to carry the transmit power, but also keep the wiring away from other interfering type devices.
I have my autopilot pump mounted in the same area as all the main wires running up from under the deck to under the helm and I don't really have any interference currently with the Lowrance Pump1 system.

 

[Fishtales]

most electronics come with the chokes that you can install on the power line - most are ferrites that snap on as stated above. Start here first.

 

[SkunkBoat]

electric motors can put noise on the power. (remember the vacuum cleaner messing up your TV back in the day)
I would certainly try the snap on ferrite on both the AP feed and the VHF feed.

It can also be that your pump is under the helm and the magnetic field of the pump is inducing noise into the power feeds.

Is your VHF in the dash and near the pump?

 

[Hookup1]

Installed a new Standard Horizon GX1850 VHF this weekend and a Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv. Both units shipped with ferrite core filters.

 

[trapper]

Yes Skunk, the VHF is in the dash above the pump which is couple of feet below the hydraulic steering. No hardtop.