RSGB 2026 Convention workshop – Finding RFI and minimising its impact

THIS WORKSHOP IS NOW SOLD OUT

If you want practical advice on identifying the sources and mitigating the effects of Radio Frequency Interference (RFI), then this five-and-a-half-hour workshop is for you!

Part tutorial, part hands-on workshop, this session is your opportunity to learn from RFI experts, RSGB EMC Committee members: Dr John Rogers, M0JAV; Dr David Taylor, GD4FMB; Dr David Lauder, G0SNO and John Livesey, G0JJL, with Andy Carpenter from SDRplay.

What can I expect?

The session will kick off by looking at the sources and effects of RFI with examples of radiated and conducted emissions. Following this, you will see a demonstration of how these interference sources can be located and identified, with practical suggestions to use when you’re back at home.

In the afternoon, you’ll be exploring radiated emissions by constructing a small loop antenna (H field). All materials will be supplied. For conducted emitters, a current transformer will be used to detect common mode currents. Patch mini whip antennas (E field) will also be available for you to use.

What will I gain?

You’ll learn how to identify sources of interference and about the impact combinations of multiple RFI sources have on the background noise level.

You’ll see how to use an SDR to identify signals and measure their strength, and you’ll gain an understanding of the spectral signature of interference sources. RSP1B SDRs and other receivers will be available to experiment with using different antennas, so you can evaluate their effectiveness. SDRplay is kindly providing the RSP1B SDRs for use at the workshop.

The EMC Committee members will also share recent examples of reports to the EMC Helpdesk, including LineSIGHT power line monitoring and Solar PV panels. You’ll also hear recommendations on how to report these to Ofcom. Recent work by DARC/IARU on the ENAMS system will also be presented.

You will also have plenty of opportunity to seek advice on any RFI problems you may have.

How can I take part?

This RSGB member-only workshop takes place 11:00-16:30 on Friday 9 October 2026 and costs £50. Lunch and refreshments are included within the price.

You need to pre-book as spaces are limited to just 20 people. You can book just for this workshop if you can’t commit to the whole Convention this year.

You will need bring your own laptop running Windows, and recordings of any interference you want help with.