PC RFI technical problem

[James True N5ARW]

Ray

Greg Werstiuk is right, start at the beginning and make sure that you
are causing the problem.  Then if you are, be sure you clearly understand
the symptoms.  Once you have a good starting point, you can work
from there.  Greg is also correct that if the computer is experiencing an
"instant power off" like you flipped a switch, the power supply is shutting
down.  If the machine stays on and just reboots, it could still be a power
supply problem, or RF affecting the mother board.

Here are a couple of other things to try assuming that you still have a
working relationship with your neighbor.

You didn't say, but is sounds like this problem is a new development.
How long has it been happening?  Have you made any station changes
during that time?  Has he made any changes to his PC during that time?
Even something simple like moving something.  If the just got the PC,
has it ever worked correctly?

Also keep in mind that it may have more to do with the proximity of your
neighbors PC to your antenna than to your transmitter.  Is his PC closer
to your antenna than your own computer?  What happens if you take your
computer to the neighbors house?  What happens if he brings his computer
to your shack?

Check his power outlet and make sure it is wired correctly and grounded.
If you are not comfortable doing that with a meter, you can get a little
plug-in outlet tester at radio shack.  Check the line voltage as well.  Since
we are getting into summer, you may discover that he just got a brand new
window air conditioner which happens to be plugged into the same
circuit and every time the AC kicks in, his PC dies.  (I have seen this
happen so don't dismiss the possibility).

See if the computer is plugged into a surge suppressor.  Whether it is
or not, plug it into a known good surge suppressor.

Disconnect all external peripherals from the computer and see if the problem
still occurs.  You will need to leave the keyboard and possibly the mouse
connected so that you can control the computer but once it is up and
running, you can even disconnect the monitor and then plug it back in
when the test is complete.  You can tell if it has powered off or rebooted
by watching the shift state LEDs on the keyboard.  You might also try
the test using the keyboard and mouse from your PC if they are compatible.

You can do all of these things without modifying his PC.  And remember
that you may have to live with your neighbor for a long time.  Friendly,
genuine concern for his problem can go a long way.  Contests are not
the only time good listening skills are important ;-)

One last note.  I have repaired PCs in the past that would reboot themselves
and it was a power supply that was failing but not quite dead yet.  This will be
hard to diagnose without a new power supply that you can substitute.  This
would be a more likely failure mode if it is an older machine.
Since PCs are so common around radios, I would be interested in your
progress, even if you don't want to post it to the list.

73 and best of luck with your problem

James True N5ARW
in beautiful Hot Springs National Park, AR
http://www.boatanchor.com

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