Our LEDs Do Not Emit Radio Frequency Interference

At my recent seminar at the Gypsy Rally Gathering in Yuma, AZ on the subject of Understand LEDs in an RV, I was startled when one, then two, then three of the attendees jumped on the subject of RF (radio frequency) interference from their LED light fixtures.

I studied solid state physics in 1958 and knew that the LED phenomena was a passive, DC type of process. There was no RF involved. But these fellows were adamant.

One told how when he turned on his LED light, his CB radio could not be used. Another described how his television went to No Signal within a minute after turning on the LED light over his head. Another said his AM radio became so staticy he could not use it when the LED light was on. To top this off, yesterday a fellow called to report that when he turned on his light, his hearing aid almost blew his head off.

I asked my expert in Mesa what was going on. Kelly thought a moment and said, "It can only be the way they are handling the DC power. They must be using a SCR (Silicon Controlled Rectifier) to adjust the DC to DC voltage to match what they have coming in to what they need for the LEDs. The LEDs are not the source of the interference; it is their power circuit."

So I went searching for which LED lights are creating this problem. I found that in all cases the products were from one of the more recent entrants into the 12volt LED light market who have come in with a set of products, and more than one of those emit RF interference. It is a serious problem.

First, I want to ensure everyone that the products provided from PrudentRVer.com made and designed by Neutek in Mesa, AZ, do not have an RF problem.

Second, I think the problem is that the designers of this other product were bright engineers in China who did not understand the rules in the USA. The FCC says electronic products should not emit interfering RF. They took a cheap way out, and they have a faulty product.

Third, I am not broadcasting the name of the manufacturer for liability reasons. I can provide some person experienced in FCC rules and RF interference with my research. Hopefully, such a person will know what to do to remove this kind of product from our midst.

sam

Comments

[Irfan]

I'm not sure what to think. I put in two Philips 8 watt LEDs into my garage door opener (standard base). My remote door opener wouldn't work. I took me a week to realize what the problem was. Once I replaced the LED bulbs, the remote worked fine. I put in the LEDs and again the remote wouldn't work! Who knew?

Irfan

[GS]

I installed led lights and have the same problem. Cb has so much noise I cant use it. Also noticed fm radio channel 93.1 all static yet channel 96.6 no problem. Didnt bother to check anymore channels

[Bob Bramel]

Hi! Is this blog still active? I've encountered an LED lighting problem with my iPhone 4 and wife's 4s. I've been installing R30 type LED bulbs as money allows into 25 or so recessed canisters in my house. Yesterday I installed 8 Sylvania floods and this morning neither phone could maintain a connection for more than 20 seconds. I tried more than 15 times, but every time the call got dropped. Signal strength in the house is good, yet the effect lasts no matter which room I'm in. With the lights out the problem goes away. Neither Apple or AT&T acknowledges knowing of any problem. I've emailed Sylvania. A similar number of Philips R30 LEDs don't seem to cause this problem.

[Jenee R]

Similar problem here. Installed 3 LEDs (UtilaTech) in our kitchen canister fixtures, and with the lights on, I cannot listen to NPR! What a shame! In addition, we just purchased a new refrigerator with LEDs and every time we open the door, there is interference with the FM signal as well. Any helfpul info would be greatly appreciated.

[Myles Powers]

I just install a DoctorLED map light at the nav station on my sailboat. It produces a lot of RF noise on most FM bands. Makes it pretty useless. I'm checking with them to see if they can send a replacement....