FAQ
TL;DR: 20 dBm equals 100 mW, and “0 dBm is equal to 1 mW.” Use a data‑logging RF meter or spectrum analyzer to map bursts, add near‑field shielding, and document evidence before contacting authorities. Avoid jamming. [Cisco, 2025]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps apartment dwellers diagnose intermittent RF emissions at night and choose safe, legal mitigation steps.
- Typical home Wi‑Fi power: 20 dBm ≈ 100 mW EIRP; each −3 dB halves power. [Cisco, 2025]
- Jamming devices are illegal to use, sell, or advertise in the U.S. [GPS.gov]
- Household aluminum foil can attenuate >100 MHz electric fields by >80 dB; weak for low‑frequency magnetic fields. [Aluminium foil]
- Intermittent signals need logging tools (e.g., spectrum analyzer with waterfall/history). [RF Explorer Touch Manual]
- U.S. RF exposure limits for the general public are defined in 47 CFR §1.1310. [47 CFR §1.1310]
Quick Facts
- Typical home Wi‑Fi power: 20 dBm ≈ 100 mW EIRP; each −3 dB halves power. [Cisco, 2025]
- Jamming devices are illegal to use, sell, or advertise in the U.S. [GPS.gov]
- Household aluminum foil can attenuate >100 MHz electric fields by >80 dB; weak for low‑frequency magnetic fields. [Aluminium foil]
- Intermittent signals need logging tools (e.g., spectrum analyzer with waterfall/history). [RF Explorer Touch Manual]
- U.S. RF exposure limits for the general public are defined in 47 CFR §1.1310. [47 CFR §1.1310]
How can I start identifying a suspected RF source in my apartment?
Walk the space with an RF field meter or receiver and record levels by location and time. Focus on early‑morning periods when bursts occur. Build a simple heat map of stronger readings to localize walls or rooms. Shield near your bed while testing to see changes. Document dates, times, and readings to support any complaint later. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21683250]
What gear should I use to catch short nighttime bursts?
Use a meter or handheld spectrum analyzer with logging and a waterfall or history view. Leave it running overnight near suspected walls. Review time‑stamped peaks to spot patterns around 1:30–4:00 AM. Save screenshots or CSV logs for evidence. “It is a very efficient way to display intermittent signals.” [RF Explorer Touch Manual]
Is it legal to jam the signal to make it stop?
No. Operating or selling jammers is illegal in the U.S., with potential fines, seizure, and criminal penalties. Instead, collect technical evidence and report interference. Jamming can also disrupt 911 and public safety communications. [GPS.gov]
What did forum experts suggest about jamming versus exposure?
“To jam a signal you need to send out a stronger signal,” which increases RF in your environment and risk. Focus on measurement, evidence, and shielding rather than adding transmitters. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21683255]
How do I map a signal inside my unit? (3‑step How‑To)
- Set your meter to log and scan likely bands (e.g., 300 MHz–3 GHz).
- Walk the room grid every 0.5–1 m; note peak dBm values and times.
- Plot a floorplan heat map; repeat during the suspected window to confirm hotspots. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21683250]
What counts as useful evidence if I escalate to authorities?
Capture time‑stamped logs, photos of meter screens, and a brief diary correlating awakenings, headaches, and meter spikes. If you detect a continuous unauthorized transmission, authorities may act. Until then, add shielding around sleeping areas. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21683251]
Who do I contact in the U.S. for interference or suspected illegal emissions?
File an interference complaint with the FCC. For issues posing danger to life or property, use the FCC’s emergency interference option. Provide logs, dates, times, and any recordings. [FCC Complaints]
What’s a safe, legal way to reduce exposure while I investigate?
Increase distance from hotspots, relocate your bed, and add conductive shielding fabrics or foil layers near the sleeping area. Ensure good coverage without gaps to avoid leakage. Re‑measure after changes to verify reduction. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21683251]
Does aluminum foil really help as shielding?
At >100 MHz, continuous foil can attenuate electric fields by over 80 dB, but it is weak against low‑frequency magnetic fields. Seal seams and avoid gaps to prevent leakage through openings. [Aluminium foil]
What frequencies are we talking about when people say “RF” or “microwaves”?
RF spans about 3 kHz to 300 GHz. Microwaves are a subset, around 300 MHz to 3 GHz. Knowing this helps pick the right antenna and meter range. [OSHA, Exposure Evaluation]
What’s a typical router power level, and why does it matter?
Many Wi‑Fi systems operate near 20 dBm EIRP (≈100 mW). A 10 dB drop cuts power to one‑tenth; a 20 dB drop cuts to one‑hundredth. These relationships help you judge mitigation success. [Cisco, 2025]
Can FCC actually force a neighbor to fix the problem?
Yes, if harmful interference or illegal operation is verified. One forum member advised turning it over to the FCC, which can require remediation. Provide solid technical evidence to speed action. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21683257]
I only see bursts at 1:30 AM—what metering feature should I look for?
Choose meters with data logging or analyzers with scheduled or continuous recording. This captures transient spikes automatically while you sleep and preserves time‑stamped evidence. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21683259]
Are there standards that limit public RF exposure?
Yes. The FCC defines general population exposure limits by frequency, field strength, power density, and averaging time. Consumer RF sources must meet these limits. [47 CFR §1.1310]
What’s an edge case where shielding fails?
Thin foil shields poorly at low‑frequency magnetic fields due to skin depth. Multiple layers or high‑permeability materials are needed for such fields. [Aluminium foil]
Could the perceived issue be something common, not a weapon?
Yes. Forum participants noted ordinary consumer electronics could be involved. Investigate methodically with measurements before drawing conclusions about intent or exotic devices. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21683257]
