Radio Frequency Interference Monitoring
(RFIM) Vans

System Description

The RFI Van (RFIM) is composed of state-of-art commercially-off-the-shelve (COTS) test equipment components that can be used to perform a number of Spectrum and Radio Frequency tasks. With the GPS DF enhancements the RFI vans will be capable of detection and direction finding from 500 kHz to 3000 MHz. The RFI Van has an automatically controlled telescopic mast that allows for an effective range of approximately 7 miles at surface level. Equipped with a full suite of tests equipment and a separate electronics equipment engine generator the RFI van can operate for an extended period of time in a stand alone mode or remotely controlled unattended. The RFI van has the capability to automatically obtain direction finding bearings while mobile.

Production/Delivery Status:

There are 10 RFIM vans located throughout the National Airspace System (NAS), one at each of the 9 FAA Regions and one at the FAA Technical Center at Atlantic City, NJ. All vans are under the control of the FAA Regional Frequency Management Officer (FMO). Each van is being enhanced with new antennas that can detect and locate interference to any of the GPS frequencies. Four vans have been modified and the remaining 6 systems have been acquired. It is expected to have all 10 RFI Vans completed with the GPS DF enhancement by the end of 2001.