Post by David (N4DLT) on Oct 2, 2009 14:22:24 GMT -5
The following is a Q-S-T. The ARRL makes its position known on the pecuniary interest in ham radio controversy, new B-P-L worries in southern California and in the United Kingdom, an over the horizon radar system causes grief in Europe and a digital Amateur Television test is a big success down-under. Find out the details on Amateur Radio Newsline™ report number 1677 coming your way right now.
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RADIO RULES: ARRL RELEASES POSITION PAPER ON PECUNIARY INTEREST IN HAM RADIO
The long anticipated ARRL position paper dealing with pecuniary interest versis involvement in emergency communications has been released. Amateur Radio Newsline's Mark Abramovich, NT3V, takes a look at what the League has to say on this very hot button issue:
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The ARRL makes it clear up front in its introduction that it is not passing judgment about the actions of individual amateurs. Rather, quoting now:
"Its objective is to educate both amateurs and the organizations we serve about what is permitted under the FCC's current rules and to assist amateurs in making reasoned decisions about the appropriateness of services we may offer to organizations in our communities."
The ARRL notes that the contributions amateur radio operators have made in disaster response and effective public relations efforts about them may have gotten the attention of organizations looking to benefit from the reliability of amateur radio.
Quoting now from the report: "The ARRL has been informed that enterprises as diverse as insurance companies, federal agencies not engaged in emergency preparedness, city government, state government and businesses offering continuity of operations services to clients may be using or planning to have employees use amateur radio.
"Some of these entities have questioned the necessity for their employees to have licenses in order to use Amateur Radio frequencies."
It was no accident, perhaps that FCC analyst Bill Cross, W3TN, used part of his presentation at the Dayton Hamvention's FCC forum this past May to address the issue. He said Section 97.113 of the FCC's rules addresses the issue head-on:
"No amateur station shall transmit communications for hire or for material compensation - direct or indirect - paid or promised, except as otherwise provided in these rules.
"There are two exceptions there - they are exceptions for teachers who are using amateur radio as the control operator of a station in an educational institution as part of a classroom thing; and, control operators of club stations in certain cases."
Cross also tipped his hat to the ARRL's Dave Sumner, K1ZZ, for addressing the issue in an editorial earlier this year. Cross said Sumner hit it right on:
"The bottom line is that when any of us are on the air as amateurs in the ham bands, we are not pursuing financial gain for ourselves or our employers. The no pecuniary principle has been reflected in the FCC regulations since 1928."
And, finally, Cross noted there isn't a distinction on mode:
"It does not matter what type of technology, whether it's single-sideband, whether it's digital, slow-scan TV or CW is used to transmit that communications."
The ARRL's National Emergency Response Planning Committee's report to the ARRL board played a large role in the ARRL position statement.
As to why amateurs shouldn't let the FCC just decide this issue, the ARRL statement says going to the regulatory agency for clarification weakens the long-standing view that amateurs are very much a self-regulating bunch who understand the FCC rules.
Quoting: "In the past, when the FCC staff has been informally asked detailed questions about what is and is not legal, the outcome has been inconsistent and occasionally undesirable."
For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Mark Abramowicz, NT3V, in Philadelphia.
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As we go to air the ham radio blogs are ripe with conversations and posts that seem to be equally supportive and opposed to the ARRL position on this issue. But many of those opposed do not seem to understand what the real question is. (ARNewsline™ from ARRL release)
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RESCUE RADIO: HAMS ASSIST IN SOUTH PACIFIC STORMS AND EARTHQUAKES
A severe tropical storm in the Philippines and earthquakes in Indonesia have seen radio amateurs providing emergency communications and other relief and recovery assistance. Philippines Amateur Radio Association (PARA) President, Dr Joey Panganiban, DU1BP reports that a tropical storm named ‘Ondoy’ hit the Philippines five days ago creating a tragic calamity with hams swinging into action to help.
Joey DU1BP said, “We have mobilized our amateur radio clubs for the relief operations. The frequencies of 7.045Mz have been used for general announcements while 2-metres FM is for our community operations.
The disaster has affected more than two million people and the death toll is headed for around 300.
Joey DU1BP added, “All amateur and civic radio clubs are now on operation in Metro Manila under the guidance of the National Telecommunications Commission and PARA.”
He said the PARA Secretariat has been designated to receive donations and soliciting donations both in kind and cash for the victims.
Joe DU1BP said, “What the evacuees need is food that are ready to eat (those without much preparation) such as canned goods, noodles, rice, bread, coffee, milk, sugar, salt and water.
“They also need medical attention and medications needed for cough, colds, fever, diarrhea and vitamins. These items will be repacked and given direct to the recipients, using community officials as contact points.”
Meantime a powerful earthquake rocked western Indonesia on Wednesday, trapping thousands under collapsed buildings and triggering landslides.
At least 1100 people were killed on Sumatra island after the 7.6 on the Ritcher scale earthquake strike.
In a brief message just hours after that disaster from the Organisasi Amatir Radio Indonesia (ORARI), received by IARU Region 3 Disaster Communications Committee Chairman, Jim Linton VK3PC, it has been confirmed that hams are involved there too.
Wisnu Widjaja W1SNU/YB0AZ reports “We are active on the field now to support the emergency Communications in West & South Sumatera, Indonesia. Now, we are using 2-meters and 40-meter band.”
More information can be expected in coming days. However no reports so far of amateur radio emergency communications in the Pacific as a tsunami hit Samoa leaving trail of death and destruction.
For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Jim Linton VK3PC (VK3PC)
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THE BPL WAR: EXPERIMENTAL BPL SYSTEM COMING TO SAN DIEGO CA.
BPL Internet access is raising its head in Southern California. This with word that the FCC has granted a Special Temporary Authorization and the callsign WD9XZG to PCN Technology Inc.. This to permit the company to provide a Broadband on Power Lines communication demonstration in the San Diego area. The STA is good from this past September 23rd and expires on January 30th of 2010. It permits PCN Technology the right to operate a limited BPL Internet access system from 3 to 30 MHz including any ham radio bands that might be affected. The FCC says that this Special Temporary Authorization is granted upon the express condition that it may be terminated by the Commission at any time without prior notice to PCN Technology Inc. or anyone using the experimental system for Internet access. Hams in and around the San Diego area will want to keep their eyes on their S-meters and ears on background noise to see what if any impact this BPL system might have on their ability to communicate. (CGC, FCC)
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THE BPL WAR: RSGB MAY SUE OVER BPL POWER LINE ADAPTERS
The battle over the use of data transfer Power Line Adapters in the UK looks set to escalate. This, with a threat of legal proceedings looming by that nations national amateur radio society.
Power Line Adapters are a BPL distribution system that use the AC power mains power to supply broadband communications around a house or building,. Unfortunately they also cause severe interference to the HF Radio Spectrum over a wide area of up to 300 meters.
The Radio Society of Great Britain has been fighting against the introduction of this technology. It now appears ready to mount a legal challenge over the UK telecommunications regulator Ofcom's position allowing the use of these devices to be widely used.
And in a position statement made public on Wednesday, September 30th the RSGG is quoted as saying that it continues to find Ofcom’s responses and position regarding Power Line Adapters as being totally unacceptable. As such the national society has recently instructed its lawyers to investigate a legal challenge on the Ofcom position. (Southgate)
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BREAKING DX NEWS: GLORIOSO ISLAND OPERATION CONTINUES
The FT5GA team on Glorioso Island continues to be on the air and is trying to satisfy the needs of the international ham radio community.
As of September 27th, they had made over 26.600 QSO's even though they have has problems with two transceivers went down out of the four they had brought with them. One was repaired on site and put back in service.
Still most stateside stations report that the FT5GA signals are very weak and propagation is not helping.
Operations will last until October 5th, as per the Web page at glorieuses2008.free.fr
We will have more DX related news at the end of this weeks Amateur Radio Newsline report. (FT5GA Operation)
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BREAK 1
From the United States of America, We are the Amateur Radio Newsline, heard on bulletin stations around the world including the Mid State Amateur Radio Club repeater serving Franklin, Indiana.
(5 sec pause here)
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COMMUNICATIONANS LAW: FCC CHIEF JUSTIFIES REGULATING INTERNET CONNECTIVITY SPEED
A follow-up to last weeks story on the Internet, F.C.C. Chairman, Julius Genachowski outlined the concrete actions he believes the Commission must take to preserve the free and open Internet at a speech he gave at the The Brookings Institution. Amateur Radio Newsline's Fred Vobbe W8HDU,
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According to Genachowski, and I quote "The Internet is an extraordinary platform for innovation, job creation, investment, and opportunity. It has unleashed the potential of entrepreneurs and enabled the launch and growth of small businesses across America. It is vital that we safeguard the free and open Internet."
He went on to say that the Commission previously embraced four open Internet principles affirming that consumers must be able to access the lawful Internet content, applications, and services of their choice, and attach non-harmful devices to the network. These four principles guide the FCC's existing case-by-case enforcement of communications law.
In his speech, Chairman Genachowski proposed the addition of two new principles. The first would prevent Internet access providers from discriminating against particular Internet content or applications, while allowing for reasonable network management. The second principle would ensure that Internet access providers are transparent about the network management practices they implement.
Chairman Genachowski will seek to begin the process of codifying the Commission's existing four open Internet principles, along with the two additional principles, through a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM). The NPRM will ask for input and feedback on the proposed rules and their application, such as how to determine whether network management practices are reasonable, what information broadband providers should disclose about their network management practices, and how the rules apply to differing platforms, including mobile Internet access services.
Ham radio operators using the Internet for interconnectivity with such applications as I.R.L.P. and D-STAR will surely want to keep an eye on this topic in Washington.
In Lima, Ohio, I'm Fred Vobbe, W8HDU for Amateur Radio Newsline.
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As part of Chairman Genachowski's commitment to openness and transparency, the F.C.C. launched a new website at www.openInternet.gov This, to encourage public participation in an open Internet for all. (W8HDU)
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RESCUE RADIO: SUCCESSFUL SOUTH AFRICA HAM RADIO EMCOMM EXERCISE
The United States is not the only place where rescue radio and first response is quickly becoming the most prominent element of the service. In South Africa, Hamnet's Disaster Management Specialized Communication Volunteers of South Gauteng recently took part in an exercise during which a major flood in the Kempton Park area was simulated. The objective was to assist new members to understand what type of information is required, to be concise and only respond on the frequency when the command center calls the person out in a real life emergency situation. (SARL)
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EMERGING TECHNOLOGY: NEW HIGH EFFICIENCY SOLAR CELLS DEVELOPED
Turning to the emerging technology page, an Electronics Weekly article reports that Belgian researchers have taken another step towards creating a new generation of mechanically-stacked triple junction solar cells. These new cells are expected to eventually become the most efficient available.
According to the article in a triple junction cell, each junction is tuned to absorb a different part of the solar spectrum, with the upper layers designed to be transparent to wavelengths absorbed in the lower layers. This is similar to the way many color films were made prior to the advent of digital photography. The researchers say that this broad coverage of the spectrum is why high efficiencies are obtained.
This is the first promising demonstration of this new stacking technology which is expected to produce cells with efficiencies above 40%. The complete article on this new is at www.electronicsweekly.com/Articles/2009/09/23/47021/imec-opens-door-for-record-breaking-solar-cells.htm (EW)
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D STAR NEWS: ANOTHER NEW UK D-STAR REPEATER ON THE AIR
Yet another new D-Star repeater is on the air in the United Kingdom. GB7NE operates on 439.450 MHz and covers most of the county of Northumberland.
he repeater is maintained by G7RWC and has a website, gb7ne dot org dot uk. It currently operates as a stand alone digital audio system but will be connected to the D-Star network within the next few weeks.
(RSGB)
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THE SOCIAL SCENE: LIMARC HAMFEST OCTOBER 25 IN HICKSVILLE NY
And the Long Island Mobile Amateur Radio Club's annual LIMARC Hamfest is slated for Sunday, October 25th. This years venue is Levittown Hall in the town of Hicksville New York. More details can be found on-line at www.imarc.org. (LIMARC)
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THE SOCIAL SCENE: HAMVENTION ATTENDENCE NUMBERS UP FOR 2009
The Dayton Amateur Radio Association says that 18,877 people attended last May's Dayton Hamvention. That was up by almost a thousand from the approximate 17,800 that showed up in 2008 but still nowhere near 25,000 to 30,000 mark of the latter 1980's through the mid-1990's.
Dayton in the United States and the Ham Radio show in Germany have long been considered the bellwethers of the economic health of the service by the world-wide amateur radio business community. This year Ham Radio had approximately 17,400 visitors which was also up by some 300 over 2008. As such there is growing belief that the increased attendance at these shows is a sign that the economy of ham radio is improving even if all else lags behind.
Hamvention 2010 will be held next May 14th to the 16th. More about the Dayton Hamvention is on-line at www dot hamvention dot org. (DARA RF Carrier and other sources)
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NAMES IN THE NEWS; EDITORIAL STAFF CHANGES AT CQ MAGAZINE
CQ magazine Editor Rich Moseson, W2VU, has announced two changes to the magazine's editorial staff, including the addition of a new column. First up is a new "Kit-Building," column which will be anchored by Joe Eisenberg, K0NEB, of Lincoln, Nebraska. It replaces "The Weekender," a small-project column that had been without a regular columnist since the departure of Phil Salas, AD5X, at the end of 2008.
Joe Eisenberg has been a ham for more than 40 years and has been building kits and leading kit-building forums at hamfests and conventions for over a decade. The column will mix kit-building tips and techniques with close-up looks at building a variety of currently-available kits. Joe, who also maintains the database for the Roy Neal Amateur Radio Mentoring Program for Amateur Radio Newsline and the QCWA can be reached by e-mail at k0neb@cq-amateur-radio.com.
And John Wood, WV5J, of Germantown, Tennessee, has been named New Products Editor. Wood succeeds Anthony Luscre, K8ZT, who had to step down due to increased time demands at his full-time job.
John Wood, WV5J, is both a longtime ham and a longtime journalist, having held a variety of positions with newspapers in Tennessee and Arkansas. He has also been a regular contributor to CQ, with his most recent article appearing in the October, 2009, issue. According to Moseson, Wood will continue to write occasional feature articles in addition to his monthly new products column. John's first column will appear in the December issue.
Manufacturers and marketers of products for the amateur radio market are encouraged to keep John informed when new products are released. He may be reached by mail via the CQ office in New York, or by e-mail to either wv5j@cq-amateur-radio.com or productnews@cq-amateur-radio.com. (CQ)
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NAMES IN THE NEWS: NJ POLICE CHIEF HONORED BY RADIO CLUB
Members of the Garden City Amateur Radio Club in New Jersey have honored Fire Chief Bill Forbush with an honorary lifetime membership in that group. Forbush, who is a ham and holds the call N8SFV serves as Emergency Management Director for Garden City. According to news stories he has forged a close working relationship with the radio group in support of community's emergency preparedness efforts.
Club President Roy Watts, W8ROY, presented Forbush with a certificate signed by the group's Board of Directors. In making the presentation Watts called Forbush a true friend to the amateur radio community with tremendous dedication to Garden City. More information about the club can be found online at can be found at www.gcarc.net. (eHam)
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NAMES IN THE NEWS: TALK SHOW HOST WANTS SAT HAMS
Broadcaster Ted Randall, WB8PUM, host of the shortwave broadcast QSO Radio Show, is looking for ham radio satellite operators who are interested in talking about their personal experiences in satellite communication to contact him. He is specifically in need of someone who can take an entry level approach to explain satellites to the new and young hams listening to his weekly broadcasts. If you think you can help, please contact Ted by e-mail to tedrandall (at) kaij (dot) us. More about the QSO Radio Show is on-line at www.tedrandall.com. (QSO Radio Show)
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BREAK 2
This is ham radio news for today’s radio amateur. From the United States of America, We are the Amateur Radio Newsline with links to the world from our only official website at www.arnewsline.org and being relayed by the volunteer services of the following radio amateur:
(5 sec pause here)
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INTRUDER WATCH: RUSSIAN OTH RADAR DESTROYING 20 M IN EUROPE
An over the horizon radar system in Russia is ruining reception on 20 meters in Europe. Jeramy Boot, G4NJH, is in Nottingham in the U-K with the details:
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The IARU Region 1 reports that the Russian over-the-horizon radar is active daily on 14.440MHz and is producing splatter plus and minus 110kHz. The upper part of the 20m band is affected, too.
The location of the ABM2-radar is in the area of Smolensk. The German PTT has been informed. More information is available on their website at www.iaru-r1.org.
I'm Jeramy Boot, G4NJH.
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What influence the International Amateur Radio Union might have on getting this Russian radar out of 20 meters is open to speculation (GB2RS)
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EMERGING TECHNOLOGY: VK ATV DTV TEST A SUCCESS
Amateur television down-under is going digital. Barry Robinson, VK3PV, has the details:
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A digital uplink test has been held at the Mt Dandenong site of the ATV repeater VK3RTV with four stations participating VK3GMZ, VK3KHB, VK3TRX and VK3CH.
This test session on Saturday the 19th of September result in all stations being received at Mt Dandenong, reports Peter Cossins VK3BFG, with no errors or pixilation. The digital uplink standard for the repeater is
DVS-S Satellite.
Experiments with power levels demonstrated that low power operation is possible. Mick VK3CH at Thornbury was successful with just 150 milliwatts, which must be some kind of ATV record covering a distance of 30 kilometres.
The VK3RTV Controller is almost finished and it is envisaged that full Digital operations will commence around the end of the month. VK3RTV will take both analogue and digital input signals, but the output will be DVB-T, which is the standard used by commercial TV stations.
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The upgrade to VK3RTV was funded by Amateur Radio Victoria with the Wireless Institute of Australia also covered part of the cost through its Club Grants Program. And no matter where you might be in the world, if you operate a ham radio A-T-V repeater and have or are in the process of converting to digital operation, please drop us a note to newsline at arnewsline dot org. Include the call, location, service area and the digital standard you will be using. We will collate the data and eventually post it on our website at www dot arnewsline dot org. (WIA News)
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WORLDBEAT: IARU TO EXHIBIT AT TELECOM WORLD 2009
Meantime, word that the International Amateur Radio Union will be exhibiting and participating at the upcoming ITU Telecom World 2009 in early October. The event will be used to roll out the new IARU Emergency Communications Brochure. It will also showcase some publications of IARU member societies. (GB2RS)
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HAM RADIO IN SPACE: NEW HAM ASTRONAUT IS KF5DBF
Another astronaut has gotten her ham radio license. Mission specialist Tracy Caldwell recently passed her amateur radio license exam and has been issued the callsign KF5DBF.
Caldwell, who is a PH.D, was born in Arcadia, California and enjoys sports, hiking, and auto maintenance.
She is scheduled to fly with Expedition 23 in April 2010. (Southgate)
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RADIO SPORTS: NORTH AMERICAN HIGH SPEED METEOR SCATTER
The North American High-Speed Meteor Scatter Contest has been reinvented using distance scoring and will be held on December 12 through December 16 as the 2009 North American VHF WSJT Geminids Test. This contest, as always, is sponsored by the WSJT Group. Rules are at www.sportscliche.com/wb2fko/w09/rules_w09.pdf. A more formal announcement will be made in October on all the VHF reflectors. (W5WVO)
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ON THE AIR: CELEBTRATING THE ONTARIO PROVENCIAL POLICE
On the air, listen out for Ontario Provincial Police Force officer Bob Cooke, VE3BDB and other current or retired uniform or civilian members of the force to activate the special callsign VC3COPP from October 2nd to the 31st. This activity is to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Ontario Provincial Police Force. Since its formation on October 13, 1909, that service organization has grown to become one of the largest deployed police forces in North America. Activity will be on the HF bands, possibly 6 meters, and using CW and SSB. QSL via VE3BDB only direct. (Southgate)
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DX
In DX, AA5UK will be operating portable EA6 from Ibiza, Spain from October 14th to the 29th. This operation will feature activity on various FM and SSB satellites. Scheduled requests are welcome and encouraged; via e-mail to the address listed at QRZ.com. QSL via home call, direct, via the bureau, or electromically on Logbook to the World or eQSL.
OH2HAN and OH3DF will be on the air portable 9 from the Arctic Amethyst Mine in Luosto, Lapland, from October 15th to the 18th. Operation will be on the H-F bands using SSB and RTTY. A special QSL will be available via the operators home callsigns.
And listen out for ON5JV and ON6AK will be active portable EA8/homecall from Tenerife Island between
November 20th and next February 10th. Their activity will be on 40 through 10 meters during their evenings. QSL via their home callsigns using the bureau.
JK2VOC, will once again be active slash KH Zero from the Northern Marianas between October 23rd to the 26th. QSL via his home callsign, by the Bureau or direct.
N7OU, will be QRV October 5th to the 30th from Rarotonga as E51NOU. He will be working only CW on 80 theough 10 meters with a 100 watt radio and a vertical antenna. QSL's via his home call.
K8PT will be active from Belize as V31PT between November 24th and December 6th. No other details were provided at this time, oowever, in past operations hes usually been on 160 through 6 meters using CW, SSB, RTTY and some PSK-31. QSL via his home callsign.
Lastly, F6AXX and F6HBR will be active from Cambodia as XU7UFT between December 3rd through the 8th. This operation will be C-W only on the H-F bands. QSL via F6AXX, by the bureau or direct with a self addressed envelope and return postage. Look for direct QSLs to be answered after January 15th, 2010.
(Above from various DX news sources)
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THAT FINAL ITEM: FOR THE YOUNG OF EARS
And finally this week the story of a tone. In fact its about a number of tones, their connection to the Morse Code and even to a television drama. Jim Linton, VK3PC, tells us about the connection.
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"The most common transceiver default is 800Hz.
If a tone is over 17 kHz then it is called the 'Mosquito tone', 'Teen Buzz' and other names because only young ears, people under 25 years, can hear such a high frequency due to hearing deteriorating with age in humans.
Nao Hosada JO3HPM writing in the FISTS EAST ASIA Newsletter reports that a popular Japanese TV drama has been using the Mosquito tone to send a special message to a young girl in the show. Recognising the market potential of the idea, the Morse Mosquito Ring tone for mobile phones is now available with various messages, all using Japanese Morse code.
The tone has another application called the Mosquito Alarm. Blasting away at 108 decibels to ward off young people gathering in specific areas and being unruly, which has raised concern about human rights and calls for governments to impose guidelines on its use.
Now lets enjoy the sound of another Mosquito, powered by Rolls Royce, that most listeners to this VK1WIA broadcast will be able to hear?
I'm Jim Linton VK3PC".
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And that last tone? Yes it was an aircraft. Specifically a World War 2 era de Havilland DH 98 Mosquito fighter bomber. Powered by a pair of Rolls-Royce Merlin piston engines, the wood and metal plane could reach speeds of up to 366 miles per hour and had as service ceiling of over 29,000 feet. (WIA News)
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NEWSCAST CLOSE
With thanks to Alan Labs, AMSAT, the ARRL, the CGC Communicator, CQ Magazine, the FCC, the Ohio Penn DX Bulletin, Radio Netherlands, Rain, the RSGB, the Southgate News and Australia's W-I-A News, that's all from the Amateur Radio Newsline™. Our e-mail address is newsline@arnewsline.org. More information is available at Amateur Radio Newsline's™ only official website located at www.arnewsline.org. You can also write to us or support us at Amateur Radio Newsline™, P.O. Box 660937, Arcadia, California 91066.
For now, with Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF, at the editors desk, I’m Jim Damron, N8TMW saying 73 and we thank you for listening.
Amateur Radio Newsline™ is Copyright 2009. All rights reserved.
__________________
Fred Lloyd, AA7BQ
Publisher, QRZ.COM
aa7bq@qrz.com
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RADIO RULES: ARRL RELEASES POSITION PAPER ON PECUNIARY INTEREST IN HAM RADIO
The long anticipated ARRL position paper dealing with pecuniary interest versis involvement in emergency communications has been released. Amateur Radio Newsline's Mark Abramovich, NT3V, takes a look at what the League has to say on this very hot button issue:
--
The ARRL makes it clear up front in its introduction that it is not passing judgment about the actions of individual amateurs. Rather, quoting now:
"Its objective is to educate both amateurs and the organizations we serve about what is permitted under the FCC's current rules and to assist amateurs in making reasoned decisions about the appropriateness of services we may offer to organizations in our communities."
The ARRL notes that the contributions amateur radio operators have made in disaster response and effective public relations efforts about them may have gotten the attention of organizations looking to benefit from the reliability of amateur radio.
Quoting now from the report: "The ARRL has been informed that enterprises as diverse as insurance companies, federal agencies not engaged in emergency preparedness, city government, state government and businesses offering continuity of operations services to clients may be using or planning to have employees use amateur radio.
"Some of these entities have questioned the necessity for their employees to have licenses in order to use Amateur Radio frequencies."
It was no accident, perhaps that FCC analyst Bill Cross, W3TN, used part of his presentation at the Dayton Hamvention's FCC forum this past May to address the issue. He said Section 97.113 of the FCC's rules addresses the issue head-on:
"No amateur station shall transmit communications for hire or for material compensation - direct or indirect - paid or promised, except as otherwise provided in these rules.
"There are two exceptions there - they are exceptions for teachers who are using amateur radio as the control operator of a station in an educational institution as part of a classroom thing; and, control operators of club stations in certain cases."
Cross also tipped his hat to the ARRL's Dave Sumner, K1ZZ, for addressing the issue in an editorial earlier this year. Cross said Sumner hit it right on:
"The bottom line is that when any of us are on the air as amateurs in the ham bands, we are not pursuing financial gain for ourselves or our employers. The no pecuniary principle has been reflected in the FCC regulations since 1928."
And, finally, Cross noted there isn't a distinction on mode:
"It does not matter what type of technology, whether it's single-sideband, whether it's digital, slow-scan TV or CW is used to transmit that communications."
The ARRL's National Emergency Response Planning Committee's report to the ARRL board played a large role in the ARRL position statement.
As to why amateurs shouldn't let the FCC just decide this issue, the ARRL statement says going to the regulatory agency for clarification weakens the long-standing view that amateurs are very much a self-regulating bunch who understand the FCC rules.
Quoting: "In the past, when the FCC staff has been informally asked detailed questions about what is and is not legal, the outcome has been inconsistent and occasionally undesirable."
For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Mark Abramowicz, NT3V, in Philadelphia.
--
As we go to air the ham radio blogs are ripe with conversations and posts that seem to be equally supportive and opposed to the ARRL position on this issue. But many of those opposed do not seem to understand what the real question is. (ARNewsline™ from ARRL release)
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RESCUE RADIO: HAMS ASSIST IN SOUTH PACIFIC STORMS AND EARTHQUAKES
A severe tropical storm in the Philippines and earthquakes in Indonesia have seen radio amateurs providing emergency communications and other relief and recovery assistance. Philippines Amateur Radio Association (PARA) President, Dr Joey Panganiban, DU1BP reports that a tropical storm named ‘Ondoy’ hit the Philippines five days ago creating a tragic calamity with hams swinging into action to help.
Joey DU1BP said, “We have mobilized our amateur radio clubs for the relief operations. The frequencies of 7.045Mz have been used for general announcements while 2-metres FM is for our community operations.
The disaster has affected more than two million people and the death toll is headed for around 300.
Joey DU1BP added, “All amateur and civic radio clubs are now on operation in Metro Manila under the guidance of the National Telecommunications Commission and PARA.”
He said the PARA Secretariat has been designated to receive donations and soliciting donations both in kind and cash for the victims.
Joe DU1BP said, “What the evacuees need is food that are ready to eat (those without much preparation) such as canned goods, noodles, rice, bread, coffee, milk, sugar, salt and water.
“They also need medical attention and medications needed for cough, colds, fever, diarrhea and vitamins. These items will be repacked and given direct to the recipients, using community officials as contact points.”
Meantime a powerful earthquake rocked western Indonesia on Wednesday, trapping thousands under collapsed buildings and triggering landslides.
At least 1100 people were killed on Sumatra island after the 7.6 on the Ritcher scale earthquake strike.
In a brief message just hours after that disaster from the Organisasi Amatir Radio Indonesia (ORARI), received by IARU Region 3 Disaster Communications Committee Chairman, Jim Linton VK3PC, it has been confirmed that hams are involved there too.
Wisnu Widjaja W1SNU/YB0AZ reports “We are active on the field now to support the emergency Communications in West & South Sumatera, Indonesia. Now, we are using 2-meters and 40-meter band.”
More information can be expected in coming days. However no reports so far of amateur radio emergency communications in the Pacific as a tsunami hit Samoa leaving trail of death and destruction.
For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Jim Linton VK3PC (VK3PC)
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THE BPL WAR: EXPERIMENTAL BPL SYSTEM COMING TO SAN DIEGO CA.
BPL Internet access is raising its head in Southern California. This with word that the FCC has granted a Special Temporary Authorization and the callsign WD9XZG to PCN Technology Inc.. This to permit the company to provide a Broadband on Power Lines communication demonstration in the San Diego area. The STA is good from this past September 23rd and expires on January 30th of 2010. It permits PCN Technology the right to operate a limited BPL Internet access system from 3 to 30 MHz including any ham radio bands that might be affected. The FCC says that this Special Temporary Authorization is granted upon the express condition that it may be terminated by the Commission at any time without prior notice to PCN Technology Inc. or anyone using the experimental system for Internet access. Hams in and around the San Diego area will want to keep their eyes on their S-meters and ears on background noise to see what if any impact this BPL system might have on their ability to communicate. (CGC, FCC)
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THE BPL WAR: RSGB MAY SUE OVER BPL POWER LINE ADAPTERS
The battle over the use of data transfer Power Line Adapters in the UK looks set to escalate. This, with a threat of legal proceedings looming by that nations national amateur radio society.
Power Line Adapters are a BPL distribution system that use the AC power mains power to supply broadband communications around a house or building,. Unfortunately they also cause severe interference to the HF Radio Spectrum over a wide area of up to 300 meters.
The Radio Society of Great Britain has been fighting against the introduction of this technology. It now appears ready to mount a legal challenge over the UK telecommunications regulator Ofcom's position allowing the use of these devices to be widely used.
And in a position statement made public on Wednesday, September 30th the RSGG is quoted as saying that it continues to find Ofcom’s responses and position regarding Power Line Adapters as being totally unacceptable. As such the national society has recently instructed its lawyers to investigate a legal challenge on the Ofcom position. (Southgate)
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BREAKING DX NEWS: GLORIOSO ISLAND OPERATION CONTINUES
The FT5GA team on Glorioso Island continues to be on the air and is trying to satisfy the needs of the international ham radio community.
As of September 27th, they had made over 26.600 QSO's even though they have has problems with two transceivers went down out of the four they had brought with them. One was repaired on site and put back in service.
Still most stateside stations report that the FT5GA signals are very weak and propagation is not helping.
Operations will last until October 5th, as per the Web page at glorieuses2008.free.fr
We will have more DX related news at the end of this weeks Amateur Radio Newsline report. (FT5GA Operation)
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BREAK 1
From the United States of America, We are the Amateur Radio Newsline, heard on bulletin stations around the world including the Mid State Amateur Radio Club repeater serving Franklin, Indiana.
(5 sec pause here)
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COMMUNICATIONANS LAW: FCC CHIEF JUSTIFIES REGULATING INTERNET CONNECTIVITY SPEED
A follow-up to last weeks story on the Internet, F.C.C. Chairman, Julius Genachowski outlined the concrete actions he believes the Commission must take to preserve the free and open Internet at a speech he gave at the The Brookings Institution. Amateur Radio Newsline's Fred Vobbe W8HDU,
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According to Genachowski, and I quote "The Internet is an extraordinary platform for innovation, job creation, investment, and opportunity. It has unleashed the potential of entrepreneurs and enabled the launch and growth of small businesses across America. It is vital that we safeguard the free and open Internet."
He went on to say that the Commission previously embraced four open Internet principles affirming that consumers must be able to access the lawful Internet content, applications, and services of their choice, and attach non-harmful devices to the network. These four principles guide the FCC's existing case-by-case enforcement of communications law.
In his speech, Chairman Genachowski proposed the addition of two new principles. The first would prevent Internet access providers from discriminating against particular Internet content or applications, while allowing for reasonable network management. The second principle would ensure that Internet access providers are transparent about the network management practices they implement.
Chairman Genachowski will seek to begin the process of codifying the Commission's existing four open Internet principles, along with the two additional principles, through a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM). The NPRM will ask for input and feedback on the proposed rules and their application, such as how to determine whether network management practices are reasonable, what information broadband providers should disclose about their network management practices, and how the rules apply to differing platforms, including mobile Internet access services.
Ham radio operators using the Internet for interconnectivity with such applications as I.R.L.P. and D-STAR will surely want to keep an eye on this topic in Washington.
In Lima, Ohio, I'm Fred Vobbe, W8HDU for Amateur Radio Newsline.
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As part of Chairman Genachowski's commitment to openness and transparency, the F.C.C. launched a new website at www.openInternet.gov This, to encourage public participation in an open Internet for all. (W8HDU)
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RESCUE RADIO: SUCCESSFUL SOUTH AFRICA HAM RADIO EMCOMM EXERCISE
The United States is not the only place where rescue radio and first response is quickly becoming the most prominent element of the service. In South Africa, Hamnet's Disaster Management Specialized Communication Volunteers of South Gauteng recently took part in an exercise during which a major flood in the Kempton Park area was simulated. The objective was to assist new members to understand what type of information is required, to be concise and only respond on the frequency when the command center calls the person out in a real life emergency situation. (SARL)
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EMERGING TECHNOLOGY: NEW HIGH EFFICIENCY SOLAR CELLS DEVELOPED
Turning to the emerging technology page, an Electronics Weekly article reports that Belgian researchers have taken another step towards creating a new generation of mechanically-stacked triple junction solar cells. These new cells are expected to eventually become the most efficient available.
According to the article in a triple junction cell, each junction is tuned to absorb a different part of the solar spectrum, with the upper layers designed to be transparent to wavelengths absorbed in the lower layers. This is similar to the way many color films were made prior to the advent of digital photography. The researchers say that this broad coverage of the spectrum is why high efficiencies are obtained.
This is the first promising demonstration of this new stacking technology which is expected to produce cells with efficiencies above 40%. The complete article on this new is at www.electronicsweekly.com/Articles/2009/09/23/47021/imec-opens-door-for-record-breaking-solar-cells.htm (EW)
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D STAR NEWS: ANOTHER NEW UK D-STAR REPEATER ON THE AIR
Yet another new D-Star repeater is on the air in the United Kingdom. GB7NE operates on 439.450 MHz and covers most of the county of Northumberland.
he repeater is maintained by G7RWC and has a website, gb7ne dot org dot uk. It currently operates as a stand alone digital audio system but will be connected to the D-Star network within the next few weeks.
(RSGB)
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THE SOCIAL SCENE: LIMARC HAMFEST OCTOBER 25 IN HICKSVILLE NY
And the Long Island Mobile Amateur Radio Club's annual LIMARC Hamfest is slated for Sunday, October 25th. This years venue is Levittown Hall in the town of Hicksville New York. More details can be found on-line at www.imarc.org. (LIMARC)
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THE SOCIAL SCENE: HAMVENTION ATTENDENCE NUMBERS UP FOR 2009
The Dayton Amateur Radio Association says that 18,877 people attended last May's Dayton Hamvention. That was up by almost a thousand from the approximate 17,800 that showed up in 2008 but still nowhere near 25,000 to 30,000 mark of the latter 1980's through the mid-1990's.
Dayton in the United States and the Ham Radio show in Germany have long been considered the bellwethers of the economic health of the service by the world-wide amateur radio business community. This year Ham Radio had approximately 17,400 visitors which was also up by some 300 over 2008. As such there is growing belief that the increased attendance at these shows is a sign that the economy of ham radio is improving even if all else lags behind.
Hamvention 2010 will be held next May 14th to the 16th. More about the Dayton Hamvention is on-line at www dot hamvention dot org. (DARA RF Carrier and other sources)
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NAMES IN THE NEWS; EDITORIAL STAFF CHANGES AT CQ MAGAZINE
CQ magazine Editor Rich Moseson, W2VU, has announced two changes to the magazine's editorial staff, including the addition of a new column. First up is a new "Kit-Building," column which will be anchored by Joe Eisenberg, K0NEB, of Lincoln, Nebraska. It replaces "The Weekender," a small-project column that had been without a regular columnist since the departure of Phil Salas, AD5X, at the end of 2008.
Joe Eisenberg has been a ham for more than 40 years and has been building kits and leading kit-building forums at hamfests and conventions for over a decade. The column will mix kit-building tips and techniques with close-up looks at building a variety of currently-available kits. Joe, who also maintains the database for the Roy Neal Amateur Radio Mentoring Program for Amateur Radio Newsline and the QCWA can be reached by e-mail at k0neb@cq-amateur-radio.com.
And John Wood, WV5J, of Germantown, Tennessee, has been named New Products Editor. Wood succeeds Anthony Luscre, K8ZT, who had to step down due to increased time demands at his full-time job.
John Wood, WV5J, is both a longtime ham and a longtime journalist, having held a variety of positions with newspapers in Tennessee and Arkansas. He has also been a regular contributor to CQ, with his most recent article appearing in the October, 2009, issue. According to Moseson, Wood will continue to write occasional feature articles in addition to his monthly new products column. John's first column will appear in the December issue.
Manufacturers and marketers of products for the amateur radio market are encouraged to keep John informed when new products are released. He may be reached by mail via the CQ office in New York, or by e-mail to either wv5j@cq-amateur-radio.com or productnews@cq-amateur-radio.com. (CQ)
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NAMES IN THE NEWS: NJ POLICE CHIEF HONORED BY RADIO CLUB
Members of the Garden City Amateur Radio Club in New Jersey have honored Fire Chief Bill Forbush with an honorary lifetime membership in that group. Forbush, who is a ham and holds the call N8SFV serves as Emergency Management Director for Garden City. According to news stories he has forged a close working relationship with the radio group in support of community's emergency preparedness efforts.
Club President Roy Watts, W8ROY, presented Forbush with a certificate signed by the group's Board of Directors. In making the presentation Watts called Forbush a true friend to the amateur radio community with tremendous dedication to Garden City. More information about the club can be found online at can be found at www.gcarc.net. (eHam)
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NAMES IN THE NEWS: TALK SHOW HOST WANTS SAT HAMS
Broadcaster Ted Randall, WB8PUM, host of the shortwave broadcast QSO Radio Show, is looking for ham radio satellite operators who are interested in talking about their personal experiences in satellite communication to contact him. He is specifically in need of someone who can take an entry level approach to explain satellites to the new and young hams listening to his weekly broadcasts. If you think you can help, please contact Ted by e-mail to tedrandall (at) kaij (dot) us. More about the QSO Radio Show is on-line at www.tedrandall.com. (QSO Radio Show)
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BREAK 2
This is ham radio news for today’s radio amateur. From the United States of America, We are the Amateur Radio Newsline with links to the world from our only official website at www.arnewsline.org and being relayed by the volunteer services of the following radio amateur:
(5 sec pause here)
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INTRUDER WATCH: RUSSIAN OTH RADAR DESTROYING 20 M IN EUROPE
An over the horizon radar system in Russia is ruining reception on 20 meters in Europe. Jeramy Boot, G4NJH, is in Nottingham in the U-K with the details:
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The IARU Region 1 reports that the Russian over-the-horizon radar is active daily on 14.440MHz and is producing splatter plus and minus 110kHz. The upper part of the 20m band is affected, too.
The location of the ABM2-radar is in the area of Smolensk. The German PTT has been informed. More information is available on their website at www.iaru-r1.org.
I'm Jeramy Boot, G4NJH.
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What influence the International Amateur Radio Union might have on getting this Russian radar out of 20 meters is open to speculation (GB2RS)
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EMERGING TECHNOLOGY: VK ATV DTV TEST A SUCCESS
Amateur television down-under is going digital. Barry Robinson, VK3PV, has the details:
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A digital uplink test has been held at the Mt Dandenong site of the ATV repeater VK3RTV with four stations participating VK3GMZ, VK3KHB, VK3TRX and VK3CH.
This test session on Saturday the 19th of September result in all stations being received at Mt Dandenong, reports Peter Cossins VK3BFG, with no errors or pixilation. The digital uplink standard for the repeater is
DVS-S Satellite.
Experiments with power levels demonstrated that low power operation is possible. Mick VK3CH at Thornbury was successful with just 150 milliwatts, which must be some kind of ATV record covering a distance of 30 kilometres.
The VK3RTV Controller is almost finished and it is envisaged that full Digital operations will commence around the end of the month. VK3RTV will take both analogue and digital input signals, but the output will be DVB-T, which is the standard used by commercial TV stations.
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The upgrade to VK3RTV was funded by Amateur Radio Victoria with the Wireless Institute of Australia also covered part of the cost through its Club Grants Program. And no matter where you might be in the world, if you operate a ham radio A-T-V repeater and have or are in the process of converting to digital operation, please drop us a note to newsline at arnewsline dot org. Include the call, location, service area and the digital standard you will be using. We will collate the data and eventually post it on our website at www dot arnewsline dot org. (WIA News)
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WORLDBEAT: IARU TO EXHIBIT AT TELECOM WORLD 2009
Meantime, word that the International Amateur Radio Union will be exhibiting and participating at the upcoming ITU Telecom World 2009 in early October. The event will be used to roll out the new IARU Emergency Communications Brochure. It will also showcase some publications of IARU member societies. (GB2RS)
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HAM RADIO IN SPACE: NEW HAM ASTRONAUT IS KF5DBF
Another astronaut has gotten her ham radio license. Mission specialist Tracy Caldwell recently passed her amateur radio license exam and has been issued the callsign KF5DBF.
Caldwell, who is a PH.D, was born in Arcadia, California and enjoys sports, hiking, and auto maintenance.
She is scheduled to fly with Expedition 23 in April 2010. (Southgate)
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RADIO SPORTS: NORTH AMERICAN HIGH SPEED METEOR SCATTER
The North American High-Speed Meteor Scatter Contest has been reinvented using distance scoring and will be held on December 12 through December 16 as the 2009 North American VHF WSJT Geminids Test. This contest, as always, is sponsored by the WSJT Group. Rules are at www.sportscliche.com/wb2fko/w09/rules_w09.pdf. A more formal announcement will be made in October on all the VHF reflectors. (W5WVO)
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ON THE AIR: CELEBTRATING THE ONTARIO PROVENCIAL POLICE
On the air, listen out for Ontario Provincial Police Force officer Bob Cooke, VE3BDB and other current or retired uniform or civilian members of the force to activate the special callsign VC3COPP from October 2nd to the 31st. This activity is to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Ontario Provincial Police Force. Since its formation on October 13, 1909, that service organization has grown to become one of the largest deployed police forces in North America. Activity will be on the HF bands, possibly 6 meters, and using CW and SSB. QSL via VE3BDB only direct. (Southgate)
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DX
In DX, AA5UK will be operating portable EA6 from Ibiza, Spain from October 14th to the 29th. This operation will feature activity on various FM and SSB satellites. Scheduled requests are welcome and encouraged; via e-mail to the address listed at QRZ.com. QSL via home call, direct, via the bureau, or electromically on Logbook to the World or eQSL.
OH2HAN and OH3DF will be on the air portable 9 from the Arctic Amethyst Mine in Luosto, Lapland, from October 15th to the 18th. Operation will be on the H-F bands using SSB and RTTY. A special QSL will be available via the operators home callsigns.
And listen out for ON5JV and ON6AK will be active portable EA8/homecall from Tenerife Island between
November 20th and next February 10th. Their activity will be on 40 through 10 meters during their evenings. QSL via their home callsigns using the bureau.
JK2VOC, will once again be active slash KH Zero from the Northern Marianas between October 23rd to the 26th. QSL via his home callsign, by the Bureau or direct.
N7OU, will be QRV October 5th to the 30th from Rarotonga as E51NOU. He will be working only CW on 80 theough 10 meters with a 100 watt radio and a vertical antenna. QSL's via his home call.
K8PT will be active from Belize as V31PT between November 24th and December 6th. No other details were provided at this time, oowever, in past operations hes usually been on 160 through 6 meters using CW, SSB, RTTY and some PSK-31. QSL via his home callsign.
Lastly, F6AXX and F6HBR will be active from Cambodia as XU7UFT between December 3rd through the 8th. This operation will be C-W only on the H-F bands. QSL via F6AXX, by the bureau or direct with a self addressed envelope and return postage. Look for direct QSLs to be answered after January 15th, 2010.
(Above from various DX news sources)
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THAT FINAL ITEM: FOR THE YOUNG OF EARS
And finally this week the story of a tone. In fact its about a number of tones, their connection to the Morse Code and even to a television drama. Jim Linton, VK3PC, tells us about the connection.
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"The most common transceiver default is 800Hz.
If a tone is over 17 kHz then it is called the 'Mosquito tone', 'Teen Buzz' and other names because only young ears, people under 25 years, can hear such a high frequency due to hearing deteriorating with age in humans.
Nao Hosada JO3HPM writing in the FISTS EAST ASIA Newsletter reports that a popular Japanese TV drama has been using the Mosquito tone to send a special message to a young girl in the show. Recognising the market potential of the idea, the Morse Mosquito Ring tone for mobile phones is now available with various messages, all using Japanese Morse code.
The tone has another application called the Mosquito Alarm. Blasting away at 108 decibels to ward off young people gathering in specific areas and being unruly, which has raised concern about human rights and calls for governments to impose guidelines on its use.
Now lets enjoy the sound of another Mosquito, powered by Rolls Royce, that most listeners to this VK1WIA broadcast will be able to hear?
I'm Jim Linton VK3PC".
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And that last tone? Yes it was an aircraft. Specifically a World War 2 era de Havilland DH 98 Mosquito fighter bomber. Powered by a pair of Rolls-Royce Merlin piston engines, the wood and metal plane could reach speeds of up to 366 miles per hour and had as service ceiling of over 29,000 feet. (WIA News)
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NEWSCAST CLOSE
With thanks to Alan Labs, AMSAT, the ARRL, the CGC Communicator, CQ Magazine, the FCC, the Ohio Penn DX Bulletin, Radio Netherlands, Rain, the RSGB, the Southgate News and Australia's W-I-A News, that's all from the Amateur Radio Newsline™. Our e-mail address is newsline@arnewsline.org. More information is available at Amateur Radio Newsline's™ only official website located at www.arnewsline.org. You can also write to us or support us at Amateur Radio Newsline™, P.O. Box 660937, Arcadia, California 91066.
For now, with Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF, at the editors desk, I’m Jim Damron, N8TMW saying 73 and we thank you for listening.
Amateur Radio Newsline™ is Copyright 2009. All rights reserved.
__________________
Fred Lloyd, AA7BQ
Publisher, QRZ.COM
aa7bq@qrz.com