02-14-2001, 10:04 PM
The FCC reports it's gotten word of a rash of interference problems created by oscillating preamplifiers built into Winegard TV antennas used primarily on RVs, campers and motor homes.
The oscillations generally appear in the 400-500 MHz range, and have caused interference problems to public safety and Amateur Radio operation at distances of several miles away. The FCC's Gary Hendrickson says Winegard has acknowledged the problem and estimates that there may be as many as 40,000 defective units in the field, which it has agreed to replace at no charge. Owners, RV dealers or repair shops that might have new, but defective, units in stock should contact the factory at Burlington, Iowa, at 319-754-0600. Winegard also has proposed a proactive program in which service technicians will visit the larger campgrounds, rallies and dealers around the country, actively look for defective/radiating units in operation or on the dealer's shelves, and replace them at no charge to the customer, regardless of the age of the unit.--Gary Hendrickson/FCC
The oscillations generally appear in the 400-500 MHz range, and have caused interference problems to public safety and Amateur Radio operation at distances of several miles away. The FCC's Gary Hendrickson says Winegard has acknowledged the problem and estimates that there may be as many as 40,000 defective units in the field, which it has agreed to replace at no charge. Owners, RV dealers or repair shops that might have new, but defective, units in stock should contact the factory at Burlington, Iowa, at 319-754-0600. Winegard also has proposed a proactive program in which service technicians will visit the larger campgrounds, rallies and dealers around the country, actively look for defective/radiating units in operation or on the dealer's shelves, and replace them at no charge to the customer, regardless of the age of the unit.--Gary Hendrickson/FCC