REFLECTOR: i pad / radio noise

[John Dibble]

I now understand why there is concern with the use of personal 
electronics on commercial aircraft.  Previously I reported erratic radio 
noise.  It was the same noise as I get when I pull the volume knob to 
receive weak signals.  Also my nav was not picking up VORs very well.  
After a long discussion with an avionics technician I decided to 
investigate my i pad.  He said that because it's not shielded, it can 
interfere.  I had a hard time believing that because many are using the 
i pad and no one else is complaining. However, I'm using a power adapter 
and he said that can be a problem also.  So I tried unplugging the power 
adapter and, sure enough, the radio noise went away.  Also the nav came 
alive and picked up VORs like it should.  I also found that if I turned 
off the alternator, I could leave the power adapter plugged in and the 
radio noise was gone.  This did not eliminate the nav problem, however.  
So now I'm turning to the electronics wizards in the group to see if 
there is any way I can have my power adapter and use it too.  Would 
insulation around the power cord help?

Thanks,

John