I've had solar panels with optimizers for 4 months and they definitely cause RFI on both HF and VHF. I think they are Solar Edge panels. I'll confirm the manufacturer and, if they are Solar Edge panels, I'll contact Mr. Simpson. I'll send a follow-up to this forum once I found out more.
By the way, I specifically asked the installer about RFI and he told me that he never heard any complaints about it. Selective listening?
Of course, I should've done my homework first, but maybe there's a way to make it work.
Steve AI9IN
On 2018-05-04 14:56, Tony wrote:
All:
I have an ongoing RFI case with the solar panel manufacturer, Solar Edge. Their field engineer, Tom Simpson, has handled many RFI cases in the past so they are aware of the problem.
My case is on schedule for repair and Tom assures me that the RFI will be negligible once the proper RFI suppression methods are installed. The RFI emanates from a neighbors solar panel system about 150 feet from my home.
In my case, the noise began the day the system was installed so finding the source was easy. Knowing who the manufacturer was helped get the ball rolling. If that's not possible, file a complaint with the FCC and be persistent. Mike Gruber of the ARRL can assist: [email protected] mailto:[email protected]
If you know of a Solar Edge system causing RFI, contact Tom at: [email protected] mailto:[email protected] Additional Contact Info: T.J. Simpson, Solar Edge Field Engineer Phone: 510-498-3262
Tony-Brock Fishers April 2016 QST article "Can Home Solar Power and Amateur Radio Coexist?" may help those who purchased a home system. He writes about Solar Edge products and the RFI suppression methods he used.
By the way, the noise has shown itself on VHF as well so it's not just HF.
Tony -K2MO
Sent via [email protected]. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of AMSAT-NA. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb