Verification of background noise in the short wave frequency range according to recommendation ITU-R P.372

The so-called background noise level is a very critical figure in many EMC problems, especially when sensitive radio services are involved. In order to provide a sufficient signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) the minimum signal strength is most commonly calculated on the basis of existing noise levels. On the other hand, if the impact of unwanted emissions on radio services is studied, background noise takes on the function of a reference level. An extensive database of noise levels to be expected is available in the recommendation ITU-R P.372. However, most data concerning man-made noise were already measured in the 1970s. Thus, the significant increase of use of electrical devices with fast digital circuits and various communication systems gives reason to question the validity of the ITU recommendation for today's EMC purposes. This paper deals with different measurement techniques with respect to their suitability for measuring extremely low field strengths in the short wave range and presents measurement results for selected environments. Although the measurements are performed with the constraint of using a mobile measuring setup a considerable sensitivity is reached, leading to the conclusion that the ITU-R P.372 still seems to be valid for estimating noise levels.