Howdy:

Starting about three weeks ago I now have an S7-8 'crackling' noise on the
lower portions of the HF band but it can be heard distributed thoughout the
HF band although at reduced levels. There are times when the 'crackling'
noise becomes pulses of white noise (data stream?) with a duration of 1
second and separation of 0.1 second. I was able to time the pulses with WWV
'time-ticks' with perfect coincidence. There are instances when the noise is
non-existent or can barely be heard. Last night the 'crackling' noise
started at exactly 12:00 am and continues as I compose this posting.

When the noise started I was able to locate it with a portable AM radio
tuned to the high end of the broadcast band. I was able to trace the noise
directly to the TV and thence to the cable; the noise then peaked to a very
high level. Checking the mains with the radio also resulted in noise
strengths of similar levels. Checking outside I was able to find a noise
peak on the 'drop' running to the masthead from the pole, power meter,
breaker box and I found the noise on the telephone line as well. The noise
is confined to the immediate vicinity of the wiring although it is heard
with reduced strength in other parts of the front and back yard.

I am at the end of the 'line' at my location for telephone and cable TV
although the power line continues for a length until it terminates at
another pole and to a residence. I listened to the noise as I re-played the
'ARRL BPL Trials' QuickTime video and I was able to conclude that the
'crackling' noise sounded very similar if not identical to that on the
recording.

While tuned to a net channel on the 75 meter band I heard a ham comment that
there was a strong scratching noise that sounded odd and than maybe it was
coming from the powerline but didn't know for sure; the individual is
located in another part of the state. I don't claim that the noise he is
referring is being propagated from my location but may originate from a
similar source as mine.

I am not aware of any BPL service in my central Florida location nor have I
seen it advertised.

RG