Interference Investigation in Albuquerque
On June 18, 2007, the Federal Communications Commission's Enforcement Bureau, through the Denver District Office, issued an Official Citation (Citation No. C20073280014, File No. EB-07-DV-205) to Fred Grant of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The action follows an investigation into radio frequency interference affecting wireless automotive key fobs in the vicinity of Grant's residence.
The Denver Office initiated the inquiry on May 7, 2007, upon receiving a complaint that a radio signal was disrupting wireless car remote keys in the neighborhood. Enforcement Bureau agents confirmed that wireless remotes operating on 315 MHz ceased functioning in the area immediately adjacent to the residence.
Identification of the Interfering Part 15 Device
During on-site tracking on May 7, 2007, FCC agents located the source of the interfering transmission emanating from a single-family home. The emission was traced to an outdoor security light mounted on top of the garage.
The device causing the disruption was identified as a Part 15 device manufactured by Cooper Lighting bearing FCC ID NCG-T180AC.
- Violator: Fred Grant
- Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Source Device: Security light mounted atop the garage
- Manufacturer: Cooper Lighting
- FCC ID: NCG-T180AC
- Affected Frequency: 315 MHz (wireless car remote keys)
Regulatory Violations and Response Requirements
The citation cites a violation of Section 15.5(b) of the Commission's Rules, which mandates that the operation of an intentional, unintentional, or incidental radiator is permitted only on the condition that it causes no harmful interference.
Under Section 503(b)(5) of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, the FCC issued the citation and informed the recipient that continued violations could lead to monetary forfeitures, in rem equipment seizure, or criminal penalties. The Commission provided 14 days from the date of the citation for Grant to either schedule an interview at the FCC Denver District Office in Lakewood, Colorado, or submit a written statement outlining corrective measures taken to eliminate the interference.