The Clemson Vehicular Electronics Laboratory

Analysis of AM Radio Interference in a Tractor

Tractor

Modern tractors have a great deal of sophisticated electronics controlling everything from the engine to the entertainment system. Despite all the high-tech entertainment devices that can be installed in the cabin of a tractor, AM radio is still a popular option. Unfortunately, AM radio is particularly susceptible to electronic noise and getting clear reception on a radio that is mounted within a few feet of dozens of other electronic systems can be a significant challenge. The goal of this student project was to identify and characterize electronic noise picked up by an AM radio in a tractor with lots of electronic systems. Coupling paths (conducted and field-coupled) were identified for each noise source and design recommendations were made to ensure that AM radio interference will not be a problem in future tractors.

Publication:

Technical Report: CVEL-07-002