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Old May 5th 07, 02:11 PM posted to rec.radio.amateur.antenna
Robert11 Robert11 is offline
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First recorded activity by RadioBanter: Jun 2006
Posts: 105
Default Radiate Power Question ?

Hello:

I realize that everyone is going to probably write back and tell me I'm
crazy, but this is really driving me crazy, so let me ask, please.

I'm a retired engineer, but have never worked much with RF.

I have been putting up several models of Kidde and First Alert smoke
detectors in my new house recently.

Several different models, from both brands, both ionization and
photoelectric, some with the 9V battery, some with
the built in 10 year Li cell.

All exhibit the same performance:

About once every day or so, at totally random times, they give 3 or 4
Chirps, then nothing for approx another day or so.
This is not the indication that it gives for an actual fire; rather from the
skimpy instructions they include, an indication of needing a new battery, or
some internal fault the circuitry has discovered on its own.

All the batteries are brand new.

Here's what I'm leading up to:

About a quarter of a mile from my house, in a direct line, there's a Ham
operator with a massive mast of what must be pushing 100 feet in height.
Almost the kind you would see for a small commercial station. Has all sorts
of antenna and beams mounted to it.
I have no idea what freq's he operates at, and really don't want to ask him.

This is obviously a chap who takes his hobby seriously, and probably
radiates at the max allowable power levels, I would guess.

Is there any possibility that if he points his array at my house, it might
radiate enough power to cause my problem ?

If not, any thoughts on what else might be causing these chirps from two
different mfg's., and several models ?

Much thanks,
Bob