Heather E. Ottke and Chriss A. Hammerschmidt

Abstract: With increased demand in the radio spectrum, there have been multiple recent campaigns to quantify spectrum occupancy through measurements. These measurements can pose many challenges, one of which is created by impulsive noise. Below 500 MHz, impulse noise can be particularly prominent and mimic narrowband LMR emissions during measurements that use common swept spectrum measurement techniques. This paper discusses methods to properly measure the intentionally radiated signals in the environment while minimizing measurement of unintentional emissions and describes processing algorithms that may be used to assist in distinguishing between LMR emissions and impulsive noise.

Keywords: radio spectrum; impulsive noise; spectrum measurements; spectrum occupancy; narrowband LMR emissions; swept spectrum; intentionally radiated signals

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