[Elecraft] OT: LED Light Bulbs

[w4sc]

An observation:

I too had RFI from LED lights, but the interference was to OTA television, Channel 10 (192-198 MHz) DTV.

Not all LED bulbs are created equal in this regard, RFI reduction / elimination.  The RFI was generated in this case by the SMPS integral to the bulb.

The offending bulb is Utilitech part # 5DG6 (printed on the bulb) and is ‘C  UL  US’ listed, purchased from LOWEs.  

I have a overhead fixture that was populated with four 800 lumen (60w?) bulbs, 2 being Utilitech, and 2 Sylvania OSRAM.

By removing the bulbs and observing channel 10 reception, the offending bulb was determined to be the Utilitech.

I replaced the the the Utilitech bulbs with Sylvania OSRAM, and the RFI on channel 10 OTA was eliminated.

The Sylvania OSRAM part number used is LED8.5A19/DIM/0/827/G5/RP as printed on the box UPC, and were purchased from LOWEs also.

NOTE: There may be interference from Sylvania OSRAM bulbs on other frequencies.  LED bulbs are required to meet FCC Part 15 FCC, Class B regulations.

YMMV

I have not seen a comprehensive report or article that unveils “good” vs “bad” LED bulb manufacturer and part identification as far as RFI emissions across the spectrum.

Ben W4SC