Characterizing Transient Radio-Frequency Interference From Motors for the Square Kilometer Array Radio Telescopes

Abstract

This letter considers the characterization of wideband radio-frequency interference generated by motors, diesel generators, as well as fans for the Square Kilometer Array (SKA) radio telescopes. The transient and/or impulsive nature of the emissions from the equipment, required as part of the telescope or ancillary hardware designs, can have a detrimental impact on highly time-sensitive scientific observations, such as pulsar science or gravitational wave detection. Wideband interference from pulses generated by servo motors with pulse-width modulation drivers, diesel generators, and compressor alternating current fans are presented.