Victron Orion XS

[geem]

Navico and SH both say to use it to reduce interference. You don't think it's odd that they install a connector and label it ground but tell you never to use it? Why put it there?

No idea, but that's what it says

 

[Ian_Rob]

https://communityarchive.victronenergy.com/questions/276162/orion-xs-safe-vhf-antenna-distance.html

 

[KompetentKrew]

I am too having issues with interference on CH16 when the Orion XS is delivering a relatively high current (above 20 amps). ... It seems to impact CH16 more than any other, we regularly use CH72 and there is no interference present.

I wonder if this is because the antenna is tuned to be optimal on channel 16 - the interference is only detected when the antenna is at its most sensitive?

I think one could test this by using an antenna which is tuned to be optimal for AIS or some other frequency.

I don't suppose you know if the interference can be detected on channels 14 or 18?

 

[B27]

I wonder if this is because the antenna is tuned to be optimal on channel 16 - the interference is only detected when the antenna is at its most sensitive?

I think one could test this by using an antenna which is tuned to be optimal for AIS or some other frequency.

I don't suppose you know if the interference can be detected on channels 14 or 18?

The differences will be quite small, a reasonable antenna will not vary by more than a dB or so across the band.

You might get better results mounting everything on a metal plate.

Many yachts seem to have wiring with lots of separation between the +ve and return lines.
This causes 'loop area' to be high, perfect for any AC or RF current in the circuit to radiate.
A grounded metal base plate can help that, but many yachts look like they need a complete re-think of their 12V insulation practices before putting any more metal anywhere near their high current wiring.

Ferrites can help. Or they can sometimes make things worse!
Small capacitors or RC snubber networks from the various wires to ground may help.
The problem is, the RF currents causing the issues must be quite high to have such a bad effect, there is a risk that capacitors will fail!

Fundamentally, it sounds like the real issue is internal to the design.
Fast switching in search of small size and high efficiency creates harmonics.
If that's been neglected at the design phase, most solutions are just sticking plasters.
It's often the case that remedial action will appear to work, but then something changes and the problem returns.