[Repeater-Builder] 2 meter noise help!

[Christopher K. Greenhalgh]

While not a true repeater, I hoping the gurus here can help me.
 
Station info can be seen here; http://www.n8wct.com/n8wct-4/
 
The noise is a subtle low-frequency bacon crackling. It is apparent across
the whole 2 meter band. Every piece of (my) equipment has been replaced, or
substituted. We even bypassed the filter, turned everything off, and the
noise was still present, even on battery power. SWR is fine...the station
can be heard 90 miles away.
 
Even though the noise is subtle, the pops seem to be on frequency with the
packet tones, thus, the radio requires an S8 strong receive signal, before
the TNC can decode it!
 
We are pretty sure its environmental...perhaps one of the large roof fans,
a/c unit, or crap from the large adjacent electrical room...whatever it is,
we are guests on the building, and probably would get much sympathy/help
from the owners.
 
Here's where I need help...
 
1. Identifying the source. I have an o-scope, but frankly, don't know much
about how to use it. Is there some sort of antenna analyzer that would help
me with this? Any other comments or advice would be deeply appreciated.
 
2. Repair or eliminate source.
 
Or 3. If I cant repair or eliminate the source, is there a way to filter it
out?
 
This is really a great location, and I'm very eager to remedy the problem,
so if anybody has anything...anything at all, please share.
 
Thanks everyone.
 
73, Chris.
 
_
Chris Greenhalgh, N8WCT
 
www.n8wct.com http://www.n8wct.com/ 
 

[Repeater-Builder] Couple radio questions

[Christopher K. Greenhalgh]

Hello group.
 
Not specifically repeater questions, but thought this group might hold the
folks who have the answers...
 
I have a Motorola Spectra VHF High Power (110 watts) that I am converting
for packet use, as an APRS digi-peater.
 
It will be a high-profile machine...probably running around 30-40% TX duty
cycle...possibly more during certain times.
 
My first question is about cooling. It, along with a 35 amp power supply,
will be located in a gutted Motorola repeater cabinet, which has 4 large
ventilation grills on each door (2)...should I be concerned with
supplemental cooling?
 
And second, anybody have any information on how to go about adding an
S-meter to the Spectra?
 
73, and happy holidays.
 
_
Chris Greenhalgh, N8WCT
 
www.n8wct.com http://www.n8wct.com/