Effect of Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) Noise Energy on WERA Performance Using the "Listen Before Talk" Adaptive Noise Procedure on the West Florida Shelf

Abstract - - This chapter discusses the effects of spatial/temporal radio frequency interference (RFI) variations of two nearby WERA high-frequency (HF) radar sites deployed along the West Florida coast, initially observed via their uneven data storage fill rates. RFI variations impact site operational frequency selection, measurement bandwidth (resolution), and range. These factors ultimately translate to signal-to-noise (S/N) considerations and their relationship to near surface current velocity estimation. The application of WERA's Listen Before Talk adaptive algorithm, along with a wide enough bandwidth to operate within, is shown to increase data coverage and S/N ratio. HF radar systems are routinely used for remotely observing coastal ocean surface currents, and WERA HF radar systems are in use in many locations around the world. This topic is of value not only to the WERA user but also as general information to the overall HF radar and integrated coastal and ocean observing communities.