Friday, September 28, 2012

Amateur Radio Newsline Report 1833 - September 28 2012






Amateur Radio Newsline report number 1833 with a release
date of September 28 2012 to follow in 5-4-3-2-1.

The following is a QST.  Dedicated Cubesat downlinks to be
discussed at WRC 2018; Ofcom lifts spectrum restrictions
imposed because of London Summer Olympics; Kosovo takes to
the ham radio airwaves and the results of the World Radio
Direction Finding competition.  Find out the details are on
Amateur Radio NewslineT report number 1833 coming your way
right now.


(Billboard Cart Here)


**

HAM RADIO IN SPACE:  DEDICATED CUBESAT DOWNLINKS FOR
DISCUSSION AT WRC-18

IARU Secretary Rod Stafford, W6ROD, reports that the
International Amateur Radio Union's Administrative Council
will meet in the next 45 days to address the agenda items
for the 2015 World Radiocommunication Conference.  Planning
for the dedicated spectrum for university research cubesats
will begin at that gathering, but the actual allocation of
frequencies may not occur until the 2018 World
Radiocommunication Conference.

In an article posted on the ARRL web, Stafford noted, "A lot
of radio amateurs are aware of the increasing use of amateur
spectrum by small satellites, mainly by universities.  It is
becoming an increasingly difficult situation to accommodate
the number of small, non-commercial satellites within the
amateur bands.  These education-based satellites do not
really fit within the definition of the Amateur Radio
Service, but have been accommodated there.

According to W6ROD, these small birds are categorized as
nano-satellites weighing between 1 to 10 kilogram and pico-
satellites weighing less than 1 kilogram.  The International
Telecommunications Union is trying to deal with this issue
in an orderly manner and a `preliminary' WRC-18 agenda item
is to consider whether these satellite operations can be
accommodated in an already crowded radio spectrum is being
researched.

Stafford concludes by noting that as these issues develop,
the IARU will keep its Member-Societies, such as the ARRL,
aware of developments with an eye to building the best
strategy to deal with those agenda items in a way that is
most favorable to the Amateur Radio Service.

You can read the full article, including many other IARU
agenda items at tinyurl.com/looking-at-tinysats.  (ANS,
ARRL)

**

RESCUE RADIO:  UK PARISHES ABANDONING EMCOMM SYSTEM FOR
CELLPHONES AND RAYNET

An emergency radio system that has provided a lifeline to
Heathfield in the United Kingdom for 25 years is to be
scrapped and to be replaced by cellular telephones.  But
users of the ageing service have criticized the decision to
rely on patchy mobile phone service in an emergency.  Bill
Pasternak, WA6ITF, has the details:

--

That's right Jim.  It is supposed to go away and here's why.

The radio system was created back in 1987 after what has
been called the Great Storm.  Six parishes still have the
gear in service to use emergency situations.

But the district council now wants to abolish them because
they are too expensive to maintain.  The council pays 3,600
British Pounds a year to maintain the radio gear and a
repeater that they are used through.

Parish councilor Bob Wood who has one of the old radios.  He
says that while thee gear my be old and possibly inadequate
for what they want, that doing away with them is silly.  He
notes that mobile phone networks can only hold a certain
number of calls at a time if an emergency happens.

But according to Jim van den Bos, of the District Council,
the Wealden emergency radio network radio equipment is now
old, less reliable and more difficult to repair.  He says
that last year a survey of parishes was conducted asking
which had been active in the network over the past three
years.  Out of the 15 who took part, only seven were in
favor of continuing.

So what will happen when the old emergency radio system
falls silent?  According to van den Bos it will likely be
ham radio that will be used to augment the cellular network.
In a statement he said that the council supports local
members of a network of amateur radio users called RAYNET
who are willing to respond in an emergency.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF,
in the newsroom in Los Angeles.

--

RAYNET in the UK would be quite similar to a combined RACES
and ARES here in the United States.  (Sussix Courier,
Northcliff Media, Southgate)

**

RADIO LAW:  OFCOM LIFTS TEMPORARY SPECTRUM RESTRICTIONS ON
UHF AND SHF BANDS USED FOR OLYMPICS

UK telecommunications regulator Ofcom has announced that as
of midnight on September 23rd, temporary operating
restrictions on parts of the 70 centimeter and several
microwave bands have come to an end.  The restrictions on
spectrum usage by British radio amateurs had been put in
place to permit use of several spectral parcels in relation
to the now conceded 2012 London Summer Olympic and
Paralympic Games.  (RSGB)

**

BREAKING DX NEWS:  KOSOVO NOW OFFICIALLY ON THE AIR

The Republic of Kosovo is now officially on the air. Station
Z-60-K near Pristina commenced amateur radio operation
shortly after 1700 UTC on September 17th.  The call had been
issued to the club station of the Amateur Radio Association
of Kosovo.  For this operation QSL via G3TXF or using
ClubLog.

It has to be noted that as Kosovo is not yet a member of the
United Nations nor does it have an assigned callsign block
allocated by the International Telecommunications Union, it
does not meet the established requirements of the ARRL's
DXCC program at this time.   However CQ has recognized
Kosovo as a separate entity for its award and contest
programs since 2007.  More is on line at www.art-ks.org
(DXNL, CQ Newsroom)

**

DX SPECIAL:  AZORES 9 ISLANDS HUNT SEPT 29 - 30

While short notice, all nine of the Azores islands will be
operational from 12:00 UTC on Saturday, September 29th
through 12:00 UTC on Sunday September 30th.  This a part of
the Azores 9 Islands Hunt operating event.

Callsigns to be used are CU1ARM from Santa Maria; CU2ARA
from San Miguel; CU3URA on Terceira; CU4ARG from Graciosa;
CU5AM on Sao Jorge; CU6GRP on Pico; CU7CRA from Faial;
CU8ARF on Flores and CU9AC operating on Corvo.

Operations on CW will be from 7.000 to 7.015, 14.050 to
14.065 and 18.080 to 18.090 MHz.  SSB phone operations will
be found on 7.175 to 7.195, 14.250 to 14. 275 and 18.120
through 18.135 MHz.

But that's not all.  Those holding a QSO with at least 5
different islands will have a corresponding number of
tickets placed into a lottery for a free trip to the Azores.
Additionally, the first 25 operators making QSOs with all 9
islands will be eligible for a second lottery.

All QSOs will be confirmed through the bureau network with
special full-color cards. Direct QSL requests via CU2CE.
More information on this activation and trip give-away is on-
line at azores-islands-hunt.com. And we will have more DX
related news at the end of this weeks Amateur Radio Newsline
report.  (OH2BH)

**

BREAK 1

From the United States of America, We are the Amateur Radio
Newsline, heard on bulletin stations around the world
including the Dirty Dozen Club Net in Des Moines Iowa.

(5 sec pause here)


**

ENFORCEMENT:  YET ANOTHER FLORIDA UNLICENSED BROADCASTER
BUSTED BY THE FCC

From the seemingly never ending Florida unlicensed radio
station scene comes word that the FCC's Miami Office has
issued yet another Notice of Apparent Liability to Monetary
Forfeiture.  This time the recipient of a proposed $10,000
fine is Burt Byng of Miami who the regulatory agency claims
operating an unlicensed radio transmitter on the frequency
107.1 MHz.  Amateur Radio Newsline's Bruce Tennant, K6PZW,
reports:

--

By way of background, this past February 9th agents from the
Enforcement Bureau's Miami Office T-hunted the source of a
signal on the 107.1 MHz to a transmitting antenna mounted on
the roof of a commercial property in Miami.  The agents
determined that the signals on 107.1 MHz exceeded the limits
for operation under Part 15 of the Commission's rules and
therefore required a license.  While monitoring the
transmission, the agents also heard the station identify
itself on the air as "WEROC Radio."  Commission records
showed that no authorization was issued to Burt Byng or to
anyone else for operation of an FM broadcast station at or
near this address.

On the same date, agents from the Miami Office, accompanied
by the property owner, inspected the unlicensed station's
antenna and transmitter located on the rooftop of the
commercial building.  According to information provided by
the property owner, a company called J & B Enterprise US,
Inc. was the tenant of the particular area where the
transmitting equipment was located.

The property owner provided a copy of Burt Byng's driver's
license and identified him as the individual who rented the
rooftop space.   According to Florida records, Byng is the
President of an inactive business named "J & B Enterprises
US, Inc."

While researching the matter the agents also discovered that
Mr. Byng registered the domain name, ww.werocradio.com, a
webpage for "WEROC Radio."  The agents also noticed that the
phone number listed in the domain registration was the same
phone number listed on in the information provided by the
property owner.

In issuing the $10,000 NAL the FCC says that it finds that
the record evidence in this case is sufficient to establish
that Burt Byng violated Section 301 of the Act by operating
radio transmission equipment without the required Commission
authorization.   As such he is liable for the proposed fine.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Bruce Tennant, K6PZW, in
Los Angeles

--.

As is usual, Byng was given the customary 30 days to pay the
$10,000 NAL or to file an appeal.  (FCC)

**

RADIO LAW:  FCC EXTENDS COMMENTARY DEADLINE ON MD DOCKET 12-
201

The public as well as concerned industries have been given
more time to tell the FCC what they think of the agency's
process for collecting regulatory fees as outlined in MD
Docket 12-201.  Originally, comments on commission proposals
to reform the way in which it evaluates the regulatory fees
for the industries it regulates were due by September 17th.
While that date has passed, the agency has announced that
the new commentary cutoff date is October 9th, with reply
comments due by October 23rd.

The FCC also says that it would also like to receive
comments on a recent report from the Government
Accountability Office.  That report is titled "The Federal
Communications Commission Regulatory Fee Process Needs to Be
Updated."  In that document the Accountability Office
observes, among other things, that the commission's
regulatory fee, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposes some
fundamental changes to FCC's regulatory fee program that
relate to many of the concerns raised in its report. (FCC,
RW)

**

HAM HAPPENINGS:  LAST MAN STANDING K6T SPECIAL EVENT
CANCELLED

The highly publicized Last Man Standing K6T operating event
will not take place.  This according to the television shows
Producer John Amodeo, NN6JA.

The thank you to the ham radio community had been slated to
happen on Sunday, October 28th.  According to Amodeo the
decision to cancel was based on concerns about a possible
violation of FCC Regulation 97.113(a)(3).

For those not aware, this rule bars any communications using
ham radio in which the station licensee or control operator
has a pecuniary interest.  It also precludes any
communications on behalf of an employer.

In making the announcement Amodeo notes that while everyone
involved with the planned operation are very disappointed
with the cancellation of what would have a fun, one of a
kind event, that as a licensed radio amateur and producer of
broadcast programs, compliance with FCC rules must take
precedence.

Special event station K6T would have worked hams from around
world on HF, VHF, UHF, D-STAR and IRLP.  While that's not
going to take place the good news is that the ham station
that is a part of the set of Last Man Standing will remain
and continue to be a part of the shows ongoing plot line.
(NN6JA)

**

PUBLIC SERVICE:  HAM RADIO AT THE USAF MARATHON

David Crawford, KF4KWW, reports that over fifty amateur
radio operators from all over the greater Dayton, Ohio. area
and coming from as far away as Detroit, Michigan, recently
converged on Wright Patterson Air Force Base.  This, support
the 2012 United States Air Force Marathon held on Saturday,
September 15th.

Ham radio operators provided emergency and logistic
communications between the race director and his staff.
They also assisted with communications to the hydration
stations positioned throughout the course.

The United States Air Force Marathon is described as a world
class event with over 15000 participants registered and
another estimated 15000 volunteers and spectators in
attendance.  Amateur radio operators were indispensable in
communicating information on runner's locations and status,
weather heat indexes settings, severe weather notifications
and logistic issues.

Robert Aguiar is the marathon Race Director.  He says that
the senior base leaders of the event have come rely on the
communication skills of the amateur radios operators and use
them a as a vital resource.  He adds that this race would be
extremely difficult if not impossible to accomplish without
their support and dedication.  More about this event is on-
line at www.usafmarathon.com.  (KF4KWW)

**

HAM HAPPENINGS:  AMATEUR RADIO TO ASSIST AT VK NATIONAL FUN
FLIGHT DAY 2012

Amateur Radio will once again be a part of Australia's
National Fun Flight Day this coming November 4th.  Amateur
Radio Newsline's Jim Meachen, ZL2BHF, has the details:

--

National Fun Flight Day is an event staged by Australian
flying clubs to provide pleasure flights for children and
families touched by adversity.  Amateur radio began its
association with this event back in 2011.  Thats when the
Victoria-based Midland Amateur Radio Club and its station
VK3CMZ were invited to participate in the National FunFlight
Day by the Bendigo Flying Club.  The Midland Club was more
than happy to oblige and an operating High Frequency, VHF
and UHF station was set up at the event site.  A handheld in
a plane also provided communication back to children on the
ground.

The operation was deemed a major success and the Midland
Committee saw it as a worthwhile national amateur radio
event.  So it then approached the FunFlight manager
regarding other amateur clubs' participation.  The result of
the meeting was very positive and contact information has
now been provided to participating flying clubs so that they
can contact their nearest amateur radio club.

For the amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Jim Meachen, ZL2BHF, in
Nelson, New Zealand.

--

More event information on this fun in the sky event down-
under is on-line at www.funflight.org.  (Midland Amateur
Radio Club)

**

WITH ARNEWSLINE:  ARNEWSLINE FACEBOOK PAGES BREAKS 1000
BARRIER

The Amateur Radio Newsline fan page on Facebook has just
passed the 1000 subscriber point.  In fact, as we go to air,
the number of members subscribed stands at 1004.

The page is managed for Amateur Radio Newsline by James
Pastorfield, KB7TBT, who devotes a lot of time and energy to
it.  So as we pass the 1000 mark and hopefully head toward
2000 or more, we want to pause to thank KB7TBT for his
volunteerism in making the page possible and to all of you
who contribute to it.

If you are on Facebook but have not yet joined the Amateur
Radio Newsline family, you can find us there at by simply
typing Amateur Radio Newsline in the blue Facebook search
line.  We would love to have you there with us.
(ARNewslineT)

**


NAMES IN THE NEWS: BILL TYNAN W3XO TO RECEIVE RCA BARRY
GOLDWATER AWARD

The Radio Club of America has announced that former AMSAT
North America President Bill Tynan, W3XO, is to be the
recipient of its 2012 Barry Goldwater Amateur Radio Award.
The award recognizes Tynan's lifelong service to the public
through amateur radio.

The award will be presented to W3XO at the club's annual
awards banquet in New York on November 16th.  ARRL Chief
Executive Officer Dave Sumner, K1ZZ, will be the keynote
speaker at the event.  (RCA, W2RS)

**

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)

**

THE CHANGING OF THE GUARD:  WIA PRESIDENT MICHAEL OWEN,
VK3SI - S.K.

The changing of the guard in our service continues.  This,
with the sad news that Michael Owen, VK3KI, the Chairman of
Region III of the International Amateur Radio Union and
President of the Wireless Institute of Australia has became
a Silent Key.

Owen's sudden passing came after suffering what is only
being described as a medical condition at his home on
Saturday, September the 22nd.

During his many volunteer years, Owen, who was age 75 at the
time of his passing, participated in many IARU committees
and had been a member of the IARU Observer Team at a number
of World Radiocommunication Conferences.  He served as IARU
Vice President from 1989 to 1999 and is perhaps best
remembered for his work on a package of revisions to the
international Radio Regulations.  These were specific to the
Amateur Radio and Amateur Satellite services and presented
at the 2003 World Radiocommunications Conference.

Michael Owen, VK3KI, is survived by his wife Nan, and his
two daughters. His funeral was to be held on Friday,
September 28th at St Andrews Anglican Church in Brighton.
Australia.  Condolence messages can be sent via the Wireless
Institute of Australia by e-mail to condolences (at) WIA
(dot) org (dot) au or direct to the surviving family members
at PO Box 2042, Bayswater, Victoria 3153 Australia.
(WIA, VK6POP)

**
WORLDBEAT:  NEW FOCUS FOR RADIO NETHERLANDS WORLDWIDE

The Board of Supervisors of Radio Netherlands Worldwide has
appointed William Valkenburg as editor-in-chief.  This,
effective January 1st of  2013.

According to the announcement, Valkenburg will set out the
new course for the organization with the recently appointed
director general Robert Zaal.  The broadcaster will focus on
free speech in countries where press freedom is limited and
Valkenburg will take responsibility for journalism within
the organization.

As of 2013, Radio Netherlands Worldwide's main focus will be
on Africa, and the Arab World, as well as countries such as
China, Cuba and Venezuela. (RW)

**

WORLDBEAT:  FRENCH POLYNESIA GETS BROADBAND ACCESS

Another remote area of the world is now on-line.  Amateur
Radio Newsline's Skeeter Nash, N5ASH, has the details:

--

High speed Internet access has come to the islands of the
South Pacific.  This with word that OmniAccess has expanded
its network coverage in the remote French Polynesian
islands.

The news follows the company's investment into the opening
of a high-capacity network on the Intelsat 18 satellite that
first became operational in November 2011. This provides the
capacity to enable enhanced broadband internet coverage and
network services via Ku-band coverage platform to that
isolated part of the world.

As a result, for the first time private yachts, charter
yachts and commercial vessels cruising in the region can now
benefit from high quality uninterrupted broadband
connectivity via the new high speed service.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Skeeter Nash, N5ASH,
reporting.

--

More on this new service can be found by going to
www.noonsite.com and using the search engine at that
website.  (noonsite.com via K4CPX)

**

EMERGING TECHNOLOGY:  DARC AND GERMAN NSI COLLABORATE ON
FIELD STRENGTH ARTICLE

The National Standards Institute of Germany in cooperation
with the Deutscher Amateur Radio Club have jointly authored
an article on the calibration of field strength monitors
that has been published in the publication Advances in Radio
Science'.  The article covers a detailed description of a
possible calibration setup including uncertainty
calculations.  You can download an abstract and the full
article at tinyurl.com/field-strength-monitors.  (DARC)

**

HAM HAPPENINGS:  WESTERN STATES VHF/UHF WEAK SIGNAL NET ON
SUNDAYS

The Western States VHF/UHF Weak Signal 75m Net meets every
Sunday on 3.920 MHz at 17:30 Pacific Daylight Time.  This
net is a wide ranging discussion dealing with all aspects of
VHF to microwave building, contesting, and operating. More
about this weekly gathering is on-line at www.weaksig.net
(N8DEZ)

**

DX

In DX, G0VJG will be operational stroke 3A from Monaco
between October 1st and the 5th.  His activity will be on
the High Frequency bands using 100 watts on SSB only.  QSL
via G4DFI.

A multi-national team is on the air from Conway Reef in the
South Pacific Ocean.  They plan to be there through October
5th using the callsign will be 3D2C.  Their QSL manager is
YT1AD.

DL7VSN will be active from Tanzania through October 13th.
His operation will be from two locations using the 5H1HS
from Zanzibar Island and 5H1HS/3 from Lazy Lagoon Island.
Activity is expected on 160 through 10 meters using mainly
CW and RTTY.  QSL via his home callsign.  More about his
operation is on-line at Visit his Web page at
www.qsl.net/dl7vsn

Lastly word that DJ7RJ who was expected to be active stroke
FR from Reunion Island between September 26th and October
21st, has announced he had to cancel his trip. No reason for
the cancellation was given.
(Above from various DX news sources)

**

THAT FINAL ITEM:

And finally this week, hidden transmitter hunters held their
world championships this month and hams from the USA came
home with more medals than ever.  Amateur Radio Newsline's
Joe Moell, K0OV, the details.

--

Every two years, on-foot hidden transmitter hunters get
together to see who is best in the world. The Sixteenth
World Championships of Amateur Radio Direction Finding, or
ARDF, took place at a ski resort in the mountains of central
Serbia. In these big forests, about 330 foxhunters from 33
countries searched for transmitters on two meters and 80
meters using direction finding gear, maps, and compasses,
but no GPS. USA was represented by nine men and four women
from six states. They ranged in age from 27 to 71.

In previous world championships, USA has won no more than
two medals, and no golds. But this year, the team members
packed thirteen medals into their suitcases, including four
golds.

Standing on the medal podium and hearing the Star-Spangled
Banner the most times was Bob Cooley KF6VSE of Pleasanton,
California. He won two golds in the division for men over
age 70 in the World Cup competition for individuals and
another gold for his two-meter run during the main ARDF
competitions. Also winning a playing of our national anthem
was Vadim Afonkin KB1RLI of Newton, Massachusetts, who was
this year's Team Captain. His gold medal was in the 80-meter
ARDF competition.

Other Team USA members on the podium included Jay Hennigan
WB6RDV of Goleta, California, who was a silver medalist on
80 meters. Winning bronze in their divisions on that band
were Alla Mezhevaya of Loves Park, Illinois, Ruth Bromer
WB4QZG of Raleigh, North Carolina and Karla Leach KC7BLA of
Bozeman, Montana.

Team USA members earned their right to go to Serbia by
medaling in the USA ARDF Championships this June at Mt.
Laguna, California and in earlier US championships.

You can read more about Team USA and the ARDF World
Championships at www.homingin.com. There are plenty of
photos, plus links to the complete results. That's homingin,
as one word, homingin.com.

From southern California, where ARDF activities take place
all year long, this is Joe Moell, K0OV, for the Amateur
Radio Newsline.

--

Again, more information is on-line at www.homingin.com.  And
"homingin" is spelled as one word.  (K0OV)

**

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, TWiT-TV and Australia's WIA News, that's all from the
Amateur Radio NewslineT.  Our e-mail address is newsline(at)
arnewsline (dot) org.  More information is available at
Amateur Radio Newsline'sT only official website located at
www.arnewsline.org.

And a reminder to those of you who still receive these
newscasts over our 661-296-2407 dial in line rater than
downloading the MP3 file from our website.  Of late we have
noticed a major decline in the number of those calling into
it and as such we are giving consideration to discontinuing
it by years end.  But before we do, we want to know how many
people are actually using it.  If you are one of those who
call in each week on the phone, please send us a note
telling us who you are and the reason you are using
telephone access rather than simply downloading the newscast
from the Internet.

Our address is the Amateur Radio Newsline, 28197 Robin
Avenue, Saugus California, 91350.  Or, as we said, you can e-
mail us at newsline (at) arnewsline (dot) org.  We look
forward to hearing from you.

For now, with Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF, at the editors' desk,
I'm Jim Damron, N8TMW, saying 73 from Charleston, West
Virginia.  And, as always, we thank you for listening.

Amateur Radio NewslineT is Copyright 2012.  All rights
reserved.

Friday, September 21, 2012

Amateur Radio Newsline Report 1832 - September 21 2012







Amateur Radio Newsline Report 1832 - September 21 2012

Amateur Radio Newsline report number 1832 with a release
date of September 21 2012 to follow in 5-4-3-2-1.

The following is a Q-S-T.

Political wrangling over making spectrum available to expand
broadband could impact on ham radio in years to come; the
South African Radio League backs the Radio Society of Great
Britain in is stand on in-home B-P-L; a bunch of new
cubesats reach orbit; a dozen operations approved for DXCC
and the upcoming Last Man Standing on-air celebration gets
the special event callsign K6T.  Find out how to make
contact with the sound stage on Amateur Radio NewslineT
report number 1832 coming your way right now.


(Billboard Cart Here)


**

RADIO POLITICS:  HOUSE MAJORITY REPORTEDLY WANTS SPECTRUM
CLEARING RATHER THAN SHARING

According to news reports, the majority control in the
United States House of Representatives favors clearing
federal spectrum for commercial use instead of seeking
sharing arrangements.  This, according to the majority staff
memo circulated for a House of Representatives hearing prior
to a meeting held recently in Washington D.C..  And there is
a chance that any decisions could impact on future access to
the highest Ultra High Frequency and Super High Frequency
bands used by ham radio.  Amateur Radio Newsline's Don
Carlson, KQ6FM, takes a look at what's transpiring in the
national capital:

--

On September 13th, House members of the Communications and
Technology subcommittee were to discuss the subject of
Creating Opportunities through Improved Government Spectrum
Efficiency.  But in rejecting a report from the President's
Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, the memo said
that sharing spectrum in the way it envisions is less useful
than clearing spectrum and too untested to be the focus of
the subcommittee's spectrum strategy.

The memo went on to say that such sharing should be reserved
for cases in which federal clearing is impossible.  However
the President's Council of Advisors on Science and
Technology and the National Telecommunications and
Information Administration both endorse public-private
spectrum sharing.  They also claim that clearing the
spectrum would cost more than $18 billion and 10 years to
clear the targeted airwaves.

But the staff memo claims that this figure was inflated and
unconfirmed by independent analysis.  Instead it calls the
figure merely aggregated the estimates of the federal
agencies currently using the spectrum.  The memo claims that
the NTIA and the President's Council of Advisors on Science
and Technology never fully investigated the agencies'
relocation estimates.  Nor has it determined whether the
agencies need all the spectrum they have, or whether they
could get by with less if they had more efficient equipment
or relied more on commercial services.

At this moment its not known exactly what spectrum would be
impacted if a non-sharing plan is eventually passed.  That
said, it could impact negatively on amateur radio if the
reallocated spectrum was that shared between Part 97 users
and government agencies as quite a bit of the U-H-F and
higher bands are today.  And while am eventual compromise
between the two factions is most likely, this is yet another
matter that the nations ham radio community will have to
watch closely in the days, weeks and months ahead.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Don Carlson, KQ6FM, in
Reno.


--

For its part, the President's Council's proposed a sharing
arrangement is similar to unlicensed devices in the
broadcast bands, which use a dynamic database to check for
open frequencies.  However the majority House staff appears
to have rejected that approach.  (Adapted from TV
Technology)

**

RADIO POLITICS: SARL SAYS IT SUPPORTS RSGB STAND ON BPL/PLT

Over on the other side of the world, the South African Radio
League says that it supports the Radio Society of Great
Britain's concerns over Access Broadband over Powerline also
known as  Powerline Technology.  These are the internet
access ports carried on unshielded in-home and powerline to
home wiring.

As reported last week, the RSGB had written an official
letter to the International Amateur Radio Union Region 1
Electromagnetic Compatibility Working Group.  In it the U-K
national ham radio society asked that the Working Group
reconsider its policy on the draft European Broadband over
Power Line standard.  One that the RSGB claims to threaten a
38dB increase in RF pollution over much of the short wave
radio spectrum.

Now, in its own public statement, the South African Radio
League days that it fully  supports the RSGB's views.  It
says that any relaxation in emission levels can have far
reaching negative effects which ultimately may impact on
South Africa as well.  (SARL)

**

HAM RADIO IN SPACE:  NEW CUBESATS NOW ON-ORBIT

What might best be called a flotilla of new cubesats
operating in the ham radio bands are now on-orbit.  Amateur
Radio Newsline's George Bowen, W2XBS, has the details:

--

The long awaited launch of a number of new ham radio
cubesats has finally taken place.  The group of tiny birds
winged their way to Earth orbit on September 13th on board a
The Atlas 5 launch vehicle from Vandenberg Air Force Base in
California.

The launch carried a satellite for the National
Reconnaissance Office. Also aboard this flight at four
cubesats as part of NASA's Educational Launch of
Nanosatellites mission and seven cubesats for government
use.  The non government mini-birds include the Cubesat for
Ion, Neutral, Electron, Magnetic fields that downlinks its
science telemetry is in 2200 to 2300 MHz range.

Also now on-orbit is the Colorado Student Space Weather
Experiment that can be heard on 437.345 MHz transmitting 9k6
modulation in AX.25 protocol.  Another is CP5 also known as
PolySat with its downlink at 437.405 MHz at 1 watt, AFSK on
Lower Sideband in AX.25 protocol.  Rounding out the set is
XBN which is a Cosmic X-Ray Background Nanosatellite with
its downlink 437.525 MHz running G-F-S-K also in AX.25
protocol.

Several hours after launch Justin Foley, KI6EPH, announced
via the Cubesat Internet Rely Channel that all of the
microsats had been successfully deployed.  A detailed
article of the launch can be found on-line at
tinyurl.com/microsats-to-orbit.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm George Bowen, W2XBS,
monitoring the sky at the North East Bureau in Albany New
York.

--

A detailed article on the payloads of this mission and the
reason for the launch delays can be found on-line at
tinyurl.com/multi-microsat-launch.  (ANS)

**

HAM RADIO IN SPACE:  FIVE CUBSATS TO GO ON-ORBIT FROM ISS

The long awaited deployment of five CubeSats from the
International Space Station will take place on Thursday,
September 27.  Four of the micro sized birds carry amateur
radio payloads.  These are identified as F-1, FITSAT-1, WE-
WISH and TechEdSat.  More about this microsat project is on-
line at tinyurl.com/iss-micro-birds.  (AMSAT-UK)

**

AMATEUR RADIO IN SPACE: THREE HAMS RETURN TO EARTH

Three astronauts hams have returned safely to Earth after
completing a four month mission aboard the International
Space Station.  The Expedition 32 crew made up of American
Flight Engineer Joe Acaba, KE5DAR with Russian Commander
Gennady Padalka, RN3DT, and Flight Engineer Sergei Revin,
RN3BS, undocked their Soyuz TMA-04M spacecraft from the
orbiting space lab at 7:09 p.m. EDT.  They landed in
northern Kazakhstan at 10:53 p.m. EDT Sunday night.

The homeward bound Soyuz fired its orbital engines one last
time at 9:56 p.m.  The descent module then separated from
the spacecraft and fell through the atmosphere.  It then
deployed its parachutes and fired landing engines shortly
before touchdown to soften the impact.

The successful landing wraps up a mission that began on May
17 with the Expedition 32 crew spending 125 days in space.
(ARRL, Southgate, others)

**

DXCC NEWS:  ARRL APPROVES A DOZEN OPERATIONS FOR DXCC

A busy day at the ARRL's DXCC Desk with word that an even
dozen operations have been approved for DXCC credit.
Amateur Radio Newsline's Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF, is in the
newsroom with the list:

--

According to Bill Moore, NC1L at the ARRL Awards Desk, the
following 2012 operations have been approved for DXCC
credit.  In no particular order they are the 3B8 stroke
IW5ELA operation from Mauritius Island; E40VB from
Palestine; JY8VB from Jordan; 9A8VB from Croatia; E7 stroke
UA4WHX from Bosnia-Herzegovina; 4O7VB from Montenegro; Z38VB
from Macedonia; ZA stroke UA4WHX from Albania; YU9VB from
Serbia, EY8 stroke UA4WHX from Tajikistan and the UN stroke
UA4WHX operation from Kazakhstan.

And that's quite a list.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF,
in the Newsroom in Los Angeles.

--

If you missed any of that you can find the entire list in
this week's printed Amateur Radio Newsline report.  (ARRL
DXCC Desk)

**

BREAK 1

From the United States of America, We are the Amateur Radio
Newsline, heard on bulletin stations around the world
including the WB0QXW repeater serving St. Louis Missouri.

(5 sec pause here)


**

BREAKING DX NEWS:  N8HS SWAINS ISLAND OPERATION GOES QRT
EARLY

The NH8S team on Swains Island is now QRT and is reported to
be in the process of tearing down their camp.  This, for a
possible early departure.

Sanford Houston, K5YY, who is the DXpedition's Pilot
Station.  He says that the decision to go silent before the
announced September 18th end of operations date was due to
several factors.  This included bad weather conditions,
antennas that had come down, a number of operators that had
fallen ill with some wounds requiring medical care.

During its stay on Swains the NH8S team has made a total of
105,455 QSOs with 26,010 Unique callsigns.  Of these 43,126
were on SSB, 54,128 on CW and 8,201 made using RTTY.

Direct QSLs can be mailed to the Swains Island DXpedition,
P.O. Box 5005, Lake Wylie, South Carolina. 29710, in the
USA. Bureau QSLs go to AA4NN.

More information on this operation is on-line at
http://nh8s.org   And we will have more DX related news
later on in this weeks Amateur Radio Newsline report.
(OPDX)

**

RADIO CRIME:  HAM RADIO EMCOMM REPEATER VANDALIZED

Steven Tidwell, KF5NDG, reports to Amateur Radio Newsline on
a recent case where a repeater used for Skywarn and other
ham radio emergency communications was criminally damaged.
The only good news us that it appears the perpetrators have
been caught.  Amateur Radio Newsline's Cheryl Lasek, K9BIK
has the details:

--

It all happened a few weeks ago at about 4:15 a.m. local
time on August 20th.  That's when the 147.12 MHz hub of the
W5RHS linked repeater system in Benton, Arkansas, was taken
off the air by an act of vandalism.

The repeater site is located on a water tower that sits
behind a fence and locked gate.  The suspects managed to
break in to the site, and cut the hard-line going to the
repeater and the link antennas.  They also cut the coax
going to the Water Association radio system.  The latter is
the commercial radio system communicates between the plant
and the water tower.

According to KF5NDG the system owner is Kelly Hesters, whose
call is W5RHS.  He reportedly noticed that his repeater was
off the air when he was leaving work about 7 AM.  He made a
stop at the repeater site and noticed a Toyota pickup truck
outside the gate.  He then went inside he found the damage.

The next day when he went back to see what parts and
supplies he needed to get the repeater back on the air he
found a key that the suspects dropped on the ground.  He
contacted the Saline County Sheriffs office which determined
that the key belonged to the vehicle.  As a result of some
detective work by the local authorities the suspects in the
break-in have been arrested.

Meantime W5RHS is waiting on the delivery of some new hard-
line to get the repeater back on the air.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Cheryl Lasek, K9BIK, in
Zion, Illinois.

--

By way of reference, the W5RHS repeater is the main hub for
a multi-linked repeater system in Arkansas.  This repeater
system is also very involved in Skywarn operations as well
as carrying NOAA weather radio alerts.  (KF5NDG)

**

ENFORCEMENT:  FCC AFFIRMS $15000 NAL TO UNLICENSED MIAMI
BROADCASTER

The FCC has affirmed a $15000 monetary forfeiture previously
issued to Jeffrey Darius.  This for his alleged operation an
unlicensed transmitter in the Miami, Florida area.

Back on March 6th the Enforcement Bureau's Miami Office
issued a Notice of Apparent Liability for Forfeiture to
Darius after tracing an unlicensed broadcast operation on
88.7 MHz to him.  To date, Darius had not filed a response
to the proposed fine.  As a result the forfeiture has been
affirmed.

As is the custom, Darius was given the usual 30 days from
the September 14th release date of the order to pay or file
an appeal.  (FCC)

**

RADIO BUSINESS:  ICOM AMERICA ANNOUNCES NEW SUBSIDIARY IN
BRAZIL

Icom America has announced the establishment of Icom Brazil.
This as a subsidiary with headquarters located in Belo
Horizonte which is the capital city of Minas Gerais state.

The creation of the new subsidiary will allow the radio
manufacturer to solidify its brand visibility in an emerging
South American market.  According to the Central
Intelligence Agency's "World Factbook" publication, Brazil
became the world's seventh largest economy in terms of gross
domestic product in 2011.

The initial objective of Icom Brazil will focus on the
public safety industry with Brazil's government.  The new
subsidiary will also help existing distributors expand their
dealer networks nationwide. (Icom, Southgate)

**

NAMES IN THE NEWS:  BECKY SCHOENFELD, W1BXY, NAMED QST
MANAGING EDITOR

The ARRL has announced that Book Editor Becky Schoenfeld,
W1BXY, has been promoted to QST Managing Editor.   A
Connecticut native, Schoenfeld has more than two decades of
publishing experience.

Prior to her employment at ARRL Headquarters, Schoenfeld
served as Senior Editor at Teaching Kindergarten through 8th
grade magazine and Senior Project Editor for textbook
publisher Macmillan/McGraw-Hill.  She is also the founder of
Amaranth magazine which is a highly successful poetry
journal.

W1BXY holds a Masters of Fine Arts from Emerson College and
a Bachelor of Arts from Fairfield University.  Her Amateur
Radio activities include chasing grid squares in pursuit of
her 6 meter VUCC award and DX hunting on 10 meters.

Schoenfeld replaces the position formerly held by Joel
Kleinman, N1BKE, who died tragically in a house fire several
weeks ago.  (ARRL)

**

NAMES IN THE NEWS:  AMSAT 2012 BOD ELECTION RESULTS
ANNOUNCED

Tom Clark, K3IO, Lou McFadin, W5DID, and Gould Smith,
WA4SXM, will serve on the AMSAT North America Board of
Directors for the next two years.  The first alternate is
Mark Hammond, N8MH and the second alternate is Patrick
Stoddard, WD9EWK.  In all some 700 AMSAT North America
members cast ballots in this year's election.  (AMSAT)

**

HAM HAPPENINGS: HUNTSVILLE ARC TO ACTIVATE THREE LIGHTHOUSES

The Huntsville Alabama Amateur Radio Club says that it will
be activating three light houses in Mobile Bay for Alabama
Lighthouse Weekend.  The event takes place beginning at 1800
Central Time on October 5th and runs through 1800 Central on
the 7th.  During that period the club will be on the air as
N4L from the Sand Island lighthouse near the entrance to
Mobile Bay, W4L which is the Mobile Point lighthouse at Fort
Morgan , and K4L at the MidBay lighthouse in Mobile Bay.
Operations will be on the High Frequency bands.  For more
information please contact the event organizer Warren Alford
by e-mail to KJ4RAQ (at) comcast (dot) net. (HARC)

**

HAM HAPPENINGS UPDATE:  W5KUB TO WEBCAST MFJ 40TH
ANNIVERSARY

The 40th anniversary hamfest gathering of MFJ Enterprises
will be streamed live to the Internet thanks to Tom Medlin,
W5KUB.  The event takes place October 5th and 6th from the
grounds of the company's production complex in Starkville
Mississippi.  As reported last week, there will be all sorts
of fun activities and now those hams unable to travel to the
gathering will be able to enjoy it vicariously thanks to Tom
and his highly skilled video production crew.  As in past
webcasts Tom will be offering prizes to some of those who
tune in.  Updated information will be posted to Tom's
Facebook webpage at facebook.com/groups/w5kub/.  The on-line
address to enjoy all of what looks to be a fun gathering at
MFJ is simply w5kub.com.  (W5KUB)

**

HAM HAPPENINGS:  PACIFICON TO FEATURE NEW MEDIA AND SOCIAL
NETWORKING

And an update on plans for the joint Pacificon and ARRL 2012
National Convention.  A major theme this year is New Media
and Social Networking.  And to emphasize its importance the
Mount Diablo Amateur Radio Club and Pacificon have teamed up
to host "Night of the New Media Elmers" with well-known
amateur radio podcasters.

At airtime, speakers scheduled to appear include Jerry
Taylor, KD0BIK, Randy Hall, K7AGE, Chris Matthieu, N7ICE,
and Ham Nation co-host Gordon West, WB6NOA.

Jim Siemons, AF6PU, is the event's co-General Chairman.  He
says that forums and seminars are the very heart and soul of
Pacificon:

--

AF6PU:  "Pacificon specifically is a forum driven event and
we have fantastic speakers from all over the country.  We've
had Nobel Laureates and astronauts and all sorts of folks
come out and talk about whatever you are into in amateur
radio we are going to have something for you."

--

The New Media and Social Networking gathering takes place at
7 P.M. on Friday night, October 12th.  The location is in
the Sedona Ballroom of the Satern Conference Center at the
Mariott Hotel and Convention Center in Santa Clara,
California.

Pacificon has also created a Facebook page where you can
post photos, videos, comments, and get up-to-date
announcements about what's happening at the convention.  To
join it sign onto Facebook and then go to
facebook.com/Pacificon2012 and click "Like" to join the
page.
(MDARC, Pacificon)

**

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)

**

EMERGING TECHNOLOGY:  ULTRA HIGH DEFINITION TV SYSTEM
EXPECTS ITU APPROVAL

The next generation of super high definition television may
soon be on its way as we hear from Amateur Radio Newsline's
Jim Damron, N8TMW:

--

Ultra High Definition Television also known under the
acronym Super Hi-Vision, will likely be approved by the
International Telecommunication Union as the next generation
universal global television standard.

Developed by public broadcaster NHK at its Science and
Technical Research Laboratories, Ultra High Definition
Television is a system that delivers 16 times the resolution
of current high definition images.  The new format can
deliver images with 33 million pixels through 7,680
horizontal lines and 4,320 vertical lines.  It also boasts a
video refresh rate of 120 frames per second, as well as 22.2
channel multi-dimensional sound.

The system is collaboration between NHK along with
electronics manufacturers Panasonic and Sharp.

From Charleston West Virginia, I'm Jim Damron, N8TMW,
reporting.

--

Test broadcasts are scheduled to begin in Japan by 2020.
(Published News Reports)

**

RADIOSPORTS:  CALIFORNIA AND PENNSYLVANIA QSO PARTIES COMING

Two of the nations most popular radiosporting events are
looming on the near horizon.  Amateur Radio Newsline's Mark
Abramowicz, NT3V, is here with the details:

--

The first weekend of October, it's the granddaddy of all
state QSO parties - the California QSO Party. It's sponsored
by the Northern California Contest Club.

The action starts on Saturday, Oct. 6 and wraps up Sunday,
Oct. 7.

The following weekend, Saturday, Oct. 13 and Sunday, Oct.
14, it's the Pennsylvania QSO sponsored by the Nittany
Amateur Radio Club in State College, PA.

It's promoted as the "Friendly QSO Party."

Let's start right up front here.

You don't have to be a contester to take part in either of
these events.

In fact, most of the operators competing in either of the
parties like to hear from the many casual operators who
might turn on their radios during the weekend, hear some
activity, and tune up and down the HF bands offering a
simple contact and, perhaps, a much needed multiplier.

So, you're just as valuable, sometimes even more valuable,
than you might think.

Don't be afraid. Squeeze the mic or touch the CW paddles or
the key and give a fellow ham a hand.

California's party features activity from all 58 counties in
the Golden State and has special competitions for Y-Ls,
youth operators, first-time contesters and even school
clubs.

Club competitions are highly encouraged, so if you decide to
jump in, put the name of your radio club into the entry
form.

The California Party gives away a host of plaques for
various operating categories, offers unique T-shirts to
those who are interested, and even awards special prizes for
the top 20 California and top 20 non-California single
operator stations. See their website for more on that.

The following weekend, the bands get active again as
operators fan out across Pennsylvania's 67 counties for a
great operating event.

It's one of the few competitions where lots of non-
contesters get together with friends to set up Field Day-
style stations to activate some of the rare Pennsylvania
counties.

There's lots of buzz in the months before the party on a
reflector operated by the party organizers.

And, there are plaques and certificates awarded to
contestants both within Pennsylvania and across the country.
Even DX stations are recognized.

First-timers also are welcome in the PA Party. And, there
are T-shirts for those who to get one.

So, is your station ready?

If you're a contester, maybe you consider each of the
parties a warm-up for the fall contest competition.

If you're not a contester, get on anyway. Pick up a few
counties in Pennsylvania or California, maybe a few unique
call signs if you're a prefix hunter.

The bottom line: Have some fun.

We'll see you on the air!

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Mark Abramowicz, NT3V,
in Philadelphia.

--

More on the California QSO Party is on line at
tinyurl.com/cal-qso-party.  The website for the Pennsylvania
QSO Party is simply tinyurl.com/pa-qso-party.  We say good
luck in both contests.

(NT3V)

**

Radiosports:  ARRL 2011 EME CERTIFICATES IN THE MAIL

Sean Kutzko, KX9X, who is the ARRL's Contest Branch Manager
says that Certificates for the Leagues 2011 E-M-E Contest
were mailed out on September 18th.  Winners should see them
begin to arrive shortly.  Awards processing for ARRL
contests can be tracked at arrl.org/plaques-and-
certificates.  (ARRL)

**

ON THE AIR:  GB1LM CELEBRATES UL LIVERPOOL MARATHON

On the air, listen out for GB1LM which is the special event
call sign for the United Kingdom's famed Liverpool Marathon.
The station will be active on the High Frequency bands
through October 14th.  For QSL information please check
GB1LM on QRZ.com.  (Southgate)

**

DX

In DX, The Republic of South Sudan has issued its first
amateur radio license.  The call Z81A went to Jim Pratt who
holds the United States call letters of K7QI. The second
license issued was Z81D.  It went to Diya Al Sadi, YI1DZ.
Both are reportedly now on the air.

Also new, on September 17th, shortly after 1700 U-T-C, a
combined group of international and local operators started
operating as Z-6-zero-K from near Pristina, Kosovo on both
20 and 17 meter SSB. Operators included 9A9A, MD0CCE, OH2BH
and OH2TA. Local television recorded the historic moment
live on air. QSL via G3TXF.

And word that the Martello Tower Group will be activating
the Island of Herm which from October 4th to the 8th.
Operations will be on 80  through 10 meter  SSB and RTTY.
QSL via G6NHU.

Lastly ON6KE will be active as 9H3AK from Gozo Island
through September 28th.  His activity will be holiday style
on 40, 30 and 20 meters operating about 5 watts QRP on CW
only.  QSL only electronically via Logbook of the World or
eQSL.  No printed cards will be available for this
operation.

(Above from various DX news sources)

**

THAT FINAL ITEM:  LAST MAN STANDING GETS SPECIAL EVENT CALL
K6T

And finally this week, word from Last Man Standing Producer
John Amodeo, NN6JA, that the callsign K6T has been approved
for use for the shows special event operation to be held on
Sunday, October 28th.  NN6JA says that K6T will take to the
air at approximately 9 a.m. Pacific with exact bands and
frequencies to be announced as the date gets closer.  And
according to Amodeo, he wants this to be a fun event that
everyone can share in:

--

NN6JA:  "We at the show are so excited about ham radio and
we have so much incredibly cool amateur radio here; not to
mention some 12 licensed amateur radio operators on the
staff; that we decided why not share our good fortune with
hams out around America and our ham (radio) fans in
particular and get on the air and talk directly to our ham
(radio) fans through all of our great gear.

"So we took a few minutes, put all of our antennas on the
roof so we could improve our range; tuned everything up; and
we are ready to go.

"So we are hoping everybody from around the country will
take a few minutes away from contesting, because that is a
big contest afternoon, and come on over (to where we are
operating) and call us up."

--

NN6JA says that the current plan is to operate on the High
Frequency, VHF and UHF bands as well as D-STAR, Echolink and
IRLP.  This should make it possible for hams anywhere to
make contact with K6T.

--

NN6JA:  "We are going to provide a large number of paths for
people to get in so we kind of feel that everyone in the
country should be able to find some path to get to our stage
(ham radio operation) to talk to our crew and the PAPA
members who are helping us out."

--

According to Amodeo, members of the LA based PAPA System
will assist the licensed operators who are part of the shows
the crew in running the event.  They will use several PAPA
System repeaters to run its local and linked communications.
The operators will also be monitoring other linked repeater
systems from around the country as well.

As the day approaches further information will be posted on
Facebook at www.facebook.com/KA0XTT.  Amodeo also says to
monitor @nn6ja on Twitter for the fastest updates.

Last Man Standing stars actor and comedian Tim Allen as Mike
Baxter, KA0XTT.  The show airs on ABC.

(NN6JA, ARNewslineT)

**

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, Pacificon, the RSGB, the
Southgate News, TWiT-TV and Australia's WIA  News, that's
all from the Amateur Radio NewslineT.  Our e-mail address is
newsline(at) arnewsline (dot) org.  More information is
available at Amateur Radio Newsline'sT only official website
located at www.arnewsline.org.  You can also write to us or
support us at Amateur Radio NewslineT, 28197 Robin Avenue,
Santa Clarita California, 91350

For now, with Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF, at the editors' desk,
I'm Skeeter Nash, N5ASH, near Houston, Texas, saying 73 and
we thank you for listening.

Amateur Radio NewslineT is Copyright 2012.  All rights

Friday, September 14, 2012

Amateur Radio Newsline Report 1831 - September 14 2012







Amateur Radio Newsline report number 1831 with a release
date of September 14 2012 to follow in 5-4-3-2-1.

The following is a Q-S-T. Two illegal operations in Canada
are evicted from 2 meters; the Radio Society of Great
Britain takes on Region One of the International Amateur
Radio Union over the endorsement of a more liberal B-P-L
standard; the FAA to begin a new study of the use of
broadband devices on aircraft in flight and a safety warning
about those tiny button batteries. Find out the details are
on Amateur Radio NewslineT report number 1831 coming your
way right now.


(Billboard Cart Here)


**

ENFORCEMENT: TWO COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS EVICTED FROM 2
METERS IN CANADA

Radio Amateurs of Canada has announced that two cases of
frequency incursion to the 2 meter band by business users
have been resolved. Amateur Radio Newsline's Aaren Jensen,
VA7AEJ, reports:

--

In the first incident, a transportation company based in
Reinfeld, Manitoba was observed to be operating illegally on
144.100 Mhz. The company in question had purchased VHF
radios from a US based supplier who failed to indicate
correct licensing procedures.

Once contacted by Radio Amateurs of Canada the company
agreed to immediately cease operating in the two meter band
and shifted its operation to a business band frequency.
Industry Canada was notified of the incursion and continues
to work with the company to secure a licensed channel. In
addition to illegally transmitting inside the amateur radio
two meter band, this operation posed a threat to low signal
operations across a wide portion of North America

In the second matter, a home moving company was observed to
be operating on 144.940 Mhz. The company in question is
based in Winkler, Manitoba, but the operation was observed
in Alberta during the moving of a house.

In this case, the company had already been licensed to
specific frequencies with Industry Canada. However it had
requested 144.940 Mhz as a channel. Their request was
denied and a business band channels were issued. However,
the company failed to check tits license paperwork and
assumed it had been approved for their requested frequency.

As in the first case, the moving company was also contacted
by Radio Amateurs of Canada and agreed to move their
operations to their correctly licensed frequencies. Given
their wide geographic operations Industry Canada had
licensed their operation on four separate frequencies
including 140.730, 154.325, 158.940 and 151.730 MHz.

In both cases, it appears that frequencies in the two meter
band were chosen by these businesses because their new vhf
radios defaulted to that frequency range. This is
definitely an indicator that the actual radio gear being
used is likely to be modified amateur radio transceivers.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Aaren Jensen, VA7AEJ, in
Lumby, British Columbia Canada.

--

The use of equipment intended for amateur radio operation
outside of the amateur bands or by persons who do not hold
an Canadian Amateur Radio Certificate is illegal. What
punitive action Industry Canada might impose on the two
companies for their incursion into the 2 meter band is at
this time unknown. (RAC, VE4WO)

**

RADIO LAW: RSGB ASKS IARU R-2 TO RECONSIDER PLT STANDARD

The Radio Society of Great Britain has formally asked the
International Amateur Radio Union Region 1 Electromagnetic
Compatibility Working Group to reconsider its policy on the
draft European Broadband over Powerline or PLT standard.
One that the RSGB claims to threaten a 38 dB increase in R-F
pollution over much of the short wave radio spectrum

The request from the RSGB came in an August 28th letter to
C.M. Verholt, who is the Chairman of the IARU Region 1 EMC
Working Group from the RSGB's Don Beattie G3BJ. In it,
Beattie says that there is no way that the emissions from
devices meeting this new standard can satisfy the essential
requirements of the EMC Directive outside the notched
frequencies. As such, G3BJ says that the IARU Region 1 EMC
Working Group is in effect condoning overriding the
essential requirements of the Electromagnetic Compatibility
Directive by backing the standard. He says that this action
of the Commission is clearly contrary to the law of the
European Union and therefore open to judicial review.

Beattie goes on to say that the new emission levels, if
sanctioned, will inevitably become the baseline for future
standards. In this context he notes that that there are
already some new drafts that are circulating which reference
the more liberal proposed emission levels.

Beattie ends his letter by saying that the RSGB hopes that
common sense will prevail and that IARU Region 1 will amend
its position on this matter. The IARU Region 1 EMC Working
Group had previously added its support to the new Pan-
European Electromagnetic Compatibility standard that the
RSGB so vigorously opposes. (GB2RS)

**

RADIO LAW: PLMRS NARROWBANDING TAKES EFFECT ON JANUARY 1
2013

The FCC has sent out a notice to the manufacturers,
importers, distributes and users of Private Land Mobile two-
way radio that the deadline to switch to 12.5 Khz narrow
band transmission is January 1, 2013. This is for two way
radio gear that operates in the 150 to 174 MHz and 421 to
470 MHz frequency bands, not including the 2 meter or 70
centimeter Amateur Service spectrum from 144 to 148 MHz or
430 to 450 MHz. Amateur Radio Newsline's Jim Davis, W2JKD,
reports:

--

According to the FCC the reason for this mandated change is
to promote the efficient use of private land mobile radio
spectrum and to facilitate the introduction of advanced
technologies. In other words, this government edict is not
only applicable to analog FM based communications but to
current and all future digital modes as well.

The FCC also notes that Private Land Mobile Radio licensees
are not required, at this time, to modify their licenses to
remove wideband emission designators. However, the presence
of a wideband emission designator on a license does not
authorize operation after January 1, 2013 that does not
comply with the new narrowbanding standards.

The FCC release also reminds manufacturers, subject to the
limited exceptions, that they must cease manufacturing and
importing equipment that is capable of 25 kHz mode operation
in the VHF and UHF bands by the narrowbanding transition
deadline.

I'm Jim Davis, W2JKD.

--

While the Amateur Service is exempt from the new
narrowbanding mandate, do not be to surprised if future
generations of off the shelf VHF and UHF ham gear is built
to conform to this new commercial radio standard.
Especially if a manufacturers primary business is in
supplying Private Land Mobile Service radio gear with ham
gear as a secondary product line. Its simply less expensive
for them to do it that way. (FCC)

**

RADIO LAW: NEW ZEALAND TO ENFORCE UHF CB NARROWBANDING

In a similar move, New Zealand's telecommunications
regulator has issued an edict to all manufacturers and
importers of UHF CB radio equipment with 25 kHz channel
spacing. It notes that in accordance with the nations
General User Radio License for citizen band operation,
equipment that does not comply with a new narrowbanding
specification cannot be sold in that nation if it is
manufactured or imported after December 1st. Only current
stock of 25 kHz radios on hand and merchandise in the
domestic New Zealand distribution pipeline can be sold after
that date. (NZART)

**

RESTRUCTURING: TV SPECTRUM AUCTION UPDATE

According to top FCC officials, FCC Chairman Julius
Genachowski will soon circulate the FCC's long-awaited
framework for reclaiming and re-auctioning broadcast
spectrum for wireless use, and repacking remaining stations.
This, with the target of having a report and order voted by
mid-2013 and the auctions completed by the end of 2014.

The document is described as a comprehensive treatment
rather than the first of a series of items. As such it's
expected to contain many detailed proposals that the FCC
will then seek comment on and adjust as needed. The FCC is
trying to move far enough down the road with this initial
proposal to make that auction goal of 2014 a realistic one.

While ham radio is not directly involved in this frequency
shuffle, there is always the chance that some bands like 222
to 225 MHz and 50 to 54 MHz could be impacted. This is
because 222 to 225 MHz lies between what is known as the
spectrum between the VHF low and VHF high band TV channels.
50 to 54 MHz that we call 6 meters is actually VHF low band
TV channel 1. If the sell-off of the coveted UHF broadcast
spectrum results in a lot of TV stations returning to the
VHF bands then both these spectral parcels could come under
some future reallocation scrutiny. We are not saying that
it will happen that way, but ham radio has to keep a careful
watch on how it might be affected in the years to come.
(Published reports)

**

BREAK 1

From the United States of America, We are the Amateur Radio
Newsline, heard on bulletin stations around the world
including the W8RLC repeater serving Lowell, Michigan.

(5 sec pause here)


**

RADIO LAW: FAA TO BEGIN INVESTIGATION OF BROADBAND DEVICES
ON FLIGHTS

It's going to be a while before airline passengers can use
their wireless electronic devices during an entire flight.
Amateur Radio Newsline's Stephen Robertson, KB3HGM, is near
the nations capital with the details:

--

On Monday, August 27th the Federal Aviation Administration
said that it is starting a process to study the issue, with
a timeline that means it will take at least until March 2013
for a recommendation and likely longer for action.

Smartphones, laptops and tablet computers are common in the
passenger cabin, and some pilots are using these devices in
flight. But passengers have to shut off electronic devices
when the plane is below 10,000 feet because of worries that
they might interfere with electronics in the cockpit. And
anything that has a broadband connection that cannot be
disabled must be kept off for the entire flight.

Now, in its recent statement, the FAA says that it will form
a committee to study the issue for six months and then make
recommendations. The group will include representatives of
the mobile technology companies, aircraft manufacturers,
airlines, pilots, flight attendants, and even
representatives of passenger associations. The agency will
also ask for public input. The FAA often uses such aviation
rulemaking committees when it is considering regulatory
changes and their discussions often last months and
sometimes even years.

It should be noted that the FAA doesn't actually ban the
devices. However its rules state that airlines can only
allow devices that have been tested and proven not to
interfere with a given make and model aircraft's
electronics. With thousands of devices on the market and
new ones coming out each day, airlines simply ban them all
during takeoff and landing. And it looks as if that's the
way it will continue for some time to come.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, Im Stephen Robertson,
KB3HGM, in Silver Spring, Maryland.

--

As to ever getting permission for hams to use radio gear
like handie talkies on a commercial airline flight? There
is no consideration being given to ever permit any hobby
radio electronics to be used. The FAA says that allowing
cellphone use during flights isn't under consideration
either. (FAA, RW, other published reports)

**

RADIO LAW: FENDER AND THE FCC ENTER CONSENT DECREE

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation and the FCC's
Enforcement Bureau have come to an agreement regarding how
the company marketed digital RF devices and how it will do
so in the future.

The case which began in June of 2010, involves how the
company marketed bass amplifiers, preamplifiers, tuners,
wireless microphones and audio mixers. Imported digital RF
devices are subject to the agency's equipment verification
or declaration of conformity procedures.

As part of the agreement, Fender Musical Instruments
Corporation will designate a compliance officer within 30
days and set up a plan within 60 days to ensure the company
complies with the FCC's equipment marketing rules. The
company has also agreed to develop and implement an online
compliance training program for all if its overseas Original
Equipment Manufacturers that build some of its equipment.
The company is to report to the commission within 15 days
any discoveries of noncompliance and submit regular
equipment compliance reports to the agency.

Based on a consent decree, Fender will make a voluntary
payment of $265,000 to the U.S. Treasury and admits no
guilt. In turn, the commission will end its investigation.
The first installment of its U.S. Treasury payment of
$132,500 is due within 30 days of the signing of the Consent
Decree. (FCC, RW)

**

ENFORCEMENT: BROADCASTER FINED $20000 FOR UNLIT TOWER

Not lighting a broadcast tower for more than a decade will
likely cost Renacer Broadcasters Corporation a hefty $20,000
fine from the FCC.

Renacer owns the antenna structure located in Maricao,
Puerto Rico. Responding to a complaint, an FCC Enforcement
Bureau agent inspected the tower and found the structure had
never been painted and had no lights installed. Because the
tower had been that way for more than 10 years, the
commission found the violation to be egregious and doubled
the proposed penalty to $20,000.

Renacer was given the customary 30 days to submit a sworn
statement certifying that the tower is now in full
compliance with FCC rules and also to pay the penalty or
file an appeal. (FCC)

**

ENFORCEMENT: FCC SAYS RADIO STATION MUST REVEAL ALL CONTEST
RULES

The FCC has affirmed a $4000 Notice of Apparent Liability
against Good Karma Broadcasting. This, for airing contest
information without fully disclosing the terms.

The case concerns WKRN AM in Cleveland. The FCC received a
complaint alleging that from November 2007 to September
2009, the station conducted what the complainant called a
"bogus" contest called "Who Said That?" In it, those
calling into the station were required to accurately
identify who actually voiced a clip that was played on-air.

In 2009, the FCC wrote to WKRN asking about the contest.
The agency said that in its reply WKRN admitted the bit
aired regularly from early 2007 until the summer of 2008,
and then sporadically thereafter. Once someone guessed the
voice a new clip would air.

The station admitted that for more than 20 months, no one
guessed the voice behind the clip. Also that the station
was not announcing all the prizes, but rather focusing on
the new prize. Also that it eventually stopped announcing
them unless a listener called in and tried to guess the
voice behind the last clip.

Good Karma also said that by September 2009, some of the
original prizes were no longer available. It claimed that
if a listener correctly identified the voice in a clip, the
station would have offered a similar prize package to the
one that was originally announced. As such, Good Karma
disputed that it violated the contest rules, arguing that
"Who Said That?" was better characterized as a feature or
bit rather than a real contest. It argued that as such the
material was not subject to the FCC's contest rules.

But the FCC would not buy that explanation. In affirming
the fine it stated that licensees must accurately disclose
all of the material terms of a contest. Also that licensees
must conduct the contest substantially as announced or
advertised.

Good Karma Broadcasting was given the customary 30 days to
pay the fine or to file a further appeal. (FCC, RW)

**

HAM HAPPENINGS: YOUTH IN AMATEUR RADIO PODCAST #3 RELEASED

If you are a young ham or know of one, you might want to
spread the word that Episode 3 of the Youth in Amateur Radio
Podcast is now on line and ready for download. In this
installment the young hosts discuss what you should do after
earning your amateur radio license including getting your
first radio and joining a radio club. Heres a sample:

--

Net Audio: ".to find a ham who will be able to assist you in
finding your first radio go to a local radio club and become
a member. Radio clubs will help you find your first radio
and they usually have monthly meetings which discuss local
issues in amateur radio and also organize fun activities
like Fox Hunts."
--

The Youth in Amateur Radio Podcast is produced by and for
the youngsters in amateur radio. Its primary hosts are
Anthony Spinelli, K2RCN, Sterling Coffey, N0SSC and Jacob
Keogh, KD0NVX. Other voices include Joe Andrews, KD0LOS,
and Matthew Chambers, NR0Q. Jerry Taylor KD0BIK serves as
the shows Executive Producer. To hear the complete program
and the two that preceded it simply take your web browser to
yarphams.com. You can also find it on itunes under Youth in
Amateur Radio podcast. (Youth in amateur Radio)

**

NAMES IN THE NEWS: NORM ACES THE AZ TEST

Some names in the news. We lead off with Amateur Radio
Newslines own Norm Seeley, KI7UP who tells us that recently
scored 100% on the State of Arizona Traffic School test.
While he does not know if he broke any records, Norm says
that he finished the exam in less than 4 minutes and 30
seconds. At that point he got up and left his computer,
after seeing that he had answered all questions correctly.
We say, congratulations.

(ARNewslineT)

**

NAMES IN THE NEWS: W7EQI BEING EYED TO HEAD THE REPUBLICAN
NATIONAL CONGRESSIONAL COMMITTEE

Regardless of the upcoming outcome of the November
presidential election, don't be too surprised if Oregon
Representative Greg Walden, W7EQI, is named to the
chairmanship of the Republican National Congressional
Committee. News reports say that House Speaker John Boehner
recently gave a broad hint when he praised Walden by saying
that he would soon have a "bigger job."

While the post doesn't get much attention from the general
public, it's of major importance on Capitol Hill and is
often viewed as a step up on the House leadership ladder.
This is because thee chairman plays a key role in
distributing millions of dollars in campaign help, in
recruiting candidates and in making the tough calls on which
districts to bet heavily on. (Published news reports)

**

THE SOCIAL SCENE: CELEBRATING MFJ 40th ANNIVERSARY OCT 5
AND 6

Turning to the ham radio social scene, all eyes will be on
the city of Starkville, Mississippi, the weekend of October
5th and 6th. That's when hams from around the country and
around the world are invited to join in on the 40th
anniversary of the founding of MFJ Enterprises by the
company's founder Martin Jue, K5FLU:

--

K5FLU: "Its going to be a fun event. We're opening all the
factories up for tours. We will have people working there
with the machines up so that you can see everything.

"We are going to have a free lunch. You can come over and
we will feed you some good fried chieken.

"We are going to have free tailgating. You bring your stuff
(to sell).

"We will have a VE session for taking license tests. And we
will have a special event station with our club K5MFJ.

"And we are going to have door prizes from each of our
companies. From MFJ, Ameritron, Hy-Gain, Cushcraft, Mirage
and Vectronics.

"And everybody is invited and we hope that everyone comes."

--

Again the dates for the MFJ Enterprizes 40th anniversary
party are October 5th and 6th at the company's headquarters
in Starkville, Mississippi. For more information take your
web browser to www.mfjenterprises.com. And oh yes, Ill see
you there. (MFJ)

**

THE SOCIAL SCENE: PACIFICON IN SANTA CLARA CA. OCT 12-14

Two weeks later on October 12th, 13th and 14th the joint
Pacificon and ARRL 2012 National Convention will take place
at the Mariott Hotel in Santa Clara, California. Hosted by
the Mt. Diablo Amateur Radio Club, Pacificon is considered
the premiere West coast ham radio gathering and this year
with the addition of the ARRL Expo, planners are going all
out to make it the best ever. And by going all out we mean
some 80 forums, a huge exhibit hall featuring all of the
well known ham radio manufacturers, distributors and
retailers; a huge flea market and several special
gatherings.

Among those who will be appearing at these years Pacificon
is Amateur Radio's best known educator and the co-host of
the T-V webcast Ham Nation, Gordon West, WB6NOA. Gordo will
be the keynote speaker presenting the Saturday Opening
Address and word is that this is already a complete
sellout.

Also attending is NASA Astronaut Lee Morin, KF5DDB. He has
been announced as the evening banquet featured speaker.
Morin served as a Mission Specialist on the space shuttle
Atlantis for STS-110 mission that launched in April of 2002.

And flying in all the way from Lincoln, Nebraska is ham
radios favorite kit building enthusiast, Joe Eisenberg,
K0NEB. Eisenberg will be giving his acclaimed talk and
demonstration titled Kit Building 101 and 102 at Pacificon.

Add to that the ARRL Expo, an all day Friday antenna
seminar, special event station W1AW/6 and so much more that
there's no time to mention it all and you have the makings
of a great West coast ham radio gathering. And you can find
out more by simply going to www.pacificon.org on the World
Wide Web. (Pacificon)

**

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)

**

EMERGING TECHNOLOGY: WB2MGP WORLDRADIO COLUMN ON FRACTAL
ANTENNA MEETING

An upcoming article in a popular ham radio on-line
publication will peak your interest if you are interested in
the future of the hobby and what some of those in it now are
doing to insure its future. Amateur Radio Newsline's
Heather Butera-Howell, KB3TZD, has the details:

--

If you are a reader of Worldradio On-Line, then keep an eye
open for an interesting column by Carole Perry, WB2MGP.
Back in June, WB2MGP and one of her Radio Club of America
Young Achievers, Austin Schaller, KD0FAA, accepted an
invitation from Dr. Chip Cohen W1YW to visit his facility in
Waltham, Massachusetts.

Dr. Cohen is the inventor of fractal antenna technology and
in 1988 built the world's first fractal element antenna. He
is also the founder and Chief Technology Officer of Fractal
Antenna Systems and was interested in meeting with the 17
year old ham. This after KD0FAA gave a presentation on
fractal technology at a Radio Club of America Technical
Symposium in Dallas, Texas, last November.

According to Perry, W1YW attributes his ham radio background
as being responsible for his career choices and interests.
She tells Amateur Radio Newsline that KD0FAA was inspired by
the experience. Even more so when Dr. Cohen invited the
teenage ham to co-author an article with him.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Heather Butera-Howell,
KB3TZD, in Berwick, Pennsylvania.

--

WB2MGP says that this is what she calls the ham radio ripple
effect at its very best. You can read the entire story in
the next issue Worldradio Online when it hits you e-mail in
box. (WB2MGP)

**

NEWS FROM SPACE: EXPLOSION ON JUPITER NOTED BY AMATEUR STAR
GAZERS

Amateur astronomers last week reported a bright fireball on
the planet Jupiter that appears to be the result of a small
asteroid hitting the planet during the early hours of
September 10th. As the fireball faded, attention has turned
to trying to discover any possible debris around the impact
site. Observers will be monitoring the region in the nights
ahead to see what if anything surfaces. Updates will be
posted on-line at spaceweather.com (Spaceweather)

**

HAM RADIO IN SPACE: ISS TO GERMANY STUDENT Q AND A SESSION

A fascinating Amateur Radio on the International Space
Station or ARISS contact was held on Friday, September 7th.
This, between astronaut Sunita Williams, KD5PLB and students
at the Michelstadt Gymnasium in Michelstadt, Germany. The
clarity of the space to Earth link via ham radio was
amazing. It enabled Williams to answer 14 questions posed
by the students during the ten minute pass. Here's a
sample:

--

Jessica: "What was the most scientific project you have
been involved in on the ISS?"

KD5PLB: ".I think the most interesting thing is the
investigations that we are doing on ourselves to see what
happens to the human body after being in space for a long
time. We are doing bone density; muscle measurements;
workouts; different nutrition projects and all of that is
going to help us understand what happens to the human body
after a long time so that we can prepare the next generation
which is your generation to go further. Back to the Moon
and on to Mars."

--

With this being a political season here in the United
States, one student was curious if astronauts can vote from
space:

--

Arissa: "How do American astronauts vote for the
president?"

KD5PLB: "Great question. Actually we vote by state in the
U.S. and I am a Florida resident so I actually voted before
I left. But you can vote from space. People have done that
who are from the state of Texas."

--

Over 1600 students, teachers, and others were in attendance,
as well as representatives from German radio, television and
newspapers. The entire contact was video recorded and is
posted on-line at tinyurl.com/iss-german-contact (ARISS)

**

RADIOSPORTS: ICOM D-STAR QSO PARTY SEPT 21 - 23

This years Icom sponsored D-STAR QSO Party runs from 00:00
UTC on Friday, September 21st to 24:00 hours on Sunday the
23rd. The goal of the D-STAR QSO Party is to communicate
through as many D-STAR repeaters as possible throughout the
world. All operators who submit an approved log will be
eligible for the prize draw with winners randomly selected
for each prize. For more information on this year's event
take your web browser to tinyurl.com/DSTAR-contest-2012.
(ICOM)

**

DX

In DX, word that DL3JH, is active stroke 6Y5 from Jamaica
through September 22nd. His operation should be on all of
the High Frequency bands using CW and SSB. QSL via his home
callsign only.

PT2OP will be operational as 3D2OP from Fiji between October
7th and the 14th. His activity will be holiday style on
the High Frequency bands. QSL via his home callsign, either
direct or via the bureau.

And speaking about Fiji, PY7ZY will be on from there as
3D2ZY from there between October 11th and the 15th. This
just prior to his participation in the Tarawa Island,
Western Kiribati, DXpedition. His operation will also be on
the High Frequency bands with QSL's also going via his home
callsign.

F6ICX will be active as 5R8IC from Saint Marie Island,
Madagascar between November 10th and December 9th. His
operation will be holiday style operating CW, RTTY, and
PSK63 on 20 through 10 meters. QSL via his home callsign as
listed on QRZ.com.

SQ1DWR, will be active signing stroke CE3 from Chile between
October 10th and the 22nd. Operations will be on 40 through
10 meters using CW only. QSL as directed by the operator.

YJ8RN is currently visiting Loh Island in the Torres Island
Group and is active as YJ8RN stroke P. The length of stay
unknown and his operation has been mainly on 20 meter SSB.
QSL direct only to Rod Newell, Box 905, Port Vila, Vanuatu.

Lastly, Members of the "Invoker Team" will be active as
EG5INT from Columbretes Island between September
20th to the 24th. No frequencies or operating schedule has
yet been announced. If you work them please QSL only via
EA5KA.

(Above from various DX news sources)

**

THAT FINAL ITEM: KEEP YOUR KIDS AWAY FROM BUTTON BATTERIES

And finally this week a warning from the Center for Disease
Control saying that children and small button batteries are
a dangerous and increasingly common problem for one another.
Amateur Radio Newsline's Bruce Tennant, K6PZW, tells us why:

--

According to a new Center for Disease Control report, in
1998 battery related injuries sent 1,900 children to the
emergency room. In 2010 that number had risen to 4,800
cases being reported.

Overall, more than 40,000 children were admitted to
Emergency Rooms nationwide between 1997 and 2010. Almost
three quarters of them were 4 years old or younger. One in
10 children required hospitalization. 14 of them died.

Now the CDC has singled out button batteries as the most
potentially harmful type for young children to be near.
These are the small, thin round batteries often used to
power watches, hearing aids, and other small devices. They
are easy to swallow and can get stuck in a child's esophagus
leading to serious injury or death. In fact, the C-D-C
report says that twelve of the fourteen child mortalities
were attributed to button batteries and that the remaining
two also likely involved them.

The data, primarily from the National Electronic Injury
Surveillance System was collected and analyzed by the
federal Consumer Product Safety Commission. The report
states that the C-P-S-C is urging the electronics industry
and battery manufacturers to develop warnings and industry
standards to prevent serious injuries and deaths from button
batteries.

The symptoms of battery ingestion
include vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, and diarrhea, as
well as difficulty breathing and swallowing. As these
symptoms can be attributed to numerous causes, it is
difficult to diagnose battery ingestion quickly. The
report's authors point out that this is especially true when
a child swallows a battery when no one is around to see them
do it.

Battery safety standards for children's toys are dictated by
law. All batteries must be inaccessible in toys designed
for children under age three, while toys for kids under age
twelve must make batteries under a certain size
inaccessible. Even so, at least three of the deaths noted
in the report were caused by batteries from devices not
meant for children. These including a remote car alarm, a
garage door opener, and a radio remote control.

A new law is being considered by Congress that may require
child-proofing for button battery enclosures on all consumer
products. Meantime its important that parents and
caregivers should be aware of the potential hazards
associated with battery exposure and ensure that products
containing them are either kept away from children or that
the batteries are secured safely in the product.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Bruce Tennant, K6PZW, in
Los Angeles.

--

The Consumer Product Safety Commission says that if a child
swallows a battery that you immediately contact your local
poison control center, your family doctor, or the 24-hour
National Battery Ingestion Hotline at 202-625-3333. You can
learn more about this hazard and how to proceed in the event
a child does swallow a battery at tinyurl.com/kids-button-
batteries. (CDC)

**

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, TWiT-TV and Australia's W-I-A News, that's all from
the Amateur Radio NewslineT. Our e-mail address is
newsline(at) arnewsline (dot) org. More information is
available at Amateur Radio Newsline'sT only official website
located at www.arnewsline.org. You can also write to us or
support us at Amateur Radio NewslineT, 28197 Robin Avenue,
Santa Clarita California, 91350

For now, with Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF, at the editors' desk,
I'm Don Wilbanks, AE5DW, in Southern Mississippi saying 73
and we thank you for listening.

Amateur Radio NewslineT is Copyright 2012. All rights
reserved.

Friday, September 7, 2012

Amateur Radio Newsline Report 1830 - September 7 2012






Amateur Radio Newsline report number 1830 with a release
date of September 7 2012 to follow in 5-4-3-2-1.

The following is a Q-S-T. Ham radio responds to a typhoon
in Korea and an earthquake in the Philippines. Also, Yaesu
donates a pair of FT-2000 transceivers to help rebuild a
flood ravaged national society station in Thailand; the
European Commission proposes an all out spectrum sharing
plan; a shortwave transmitter in Bangladesh vacates the
amateur exclusive section of 40 meters and an old modulation
technique makes a money saving comeback for commercial
broadcasters. Find out the details are on Amateur Radio
NewslineT report number 1830 coming your way right now.


(Billboard Cart Here)


**

RESCUE RADIO: IARU REGION 3 HAMS RESPOND TO TWIN DISASTERS

A powerful storm called Typhoon Bolaven battered Korea on
August 27th and 28. Then on August 31st a major earthquake
occurred off the coast of the Philippines. Responding to
both disasters were ham radio operators equipped to provide
emergency communication. Amateur Radio Newsline's Norm
Seeley, KI7UP, reports:

--

The South Korean state disaster management agency reported
ten deaths as a result of Typhoon Bolivan. It was the
strongest storm to hit the country for almost a decade and
left hundreds of thousands without electricity and suffering
property damage. It also churned up rough seas that smashed
two fishing ships into rocks off southern Jeju island.

Yong-Surke Lee, HL1FB, is the spokesperson for the Korean
Amateur Radio League. He said when Bolaven hit that
emergency traffic between the affected areas kept flowing to
the authorities via its D90IK, 2 meter repeater. In charge
of the ham radio relief operations was 6K2BUF acting as the
network control officer. At the height of the severe
weather outbreak almost two million South Korean homes and
businesses were without power or telephones.

Meantime the strongest earthquake in more than two decades,
measuring 7.6 on the Ritcher scale, hit the Philippines on
August 31st local time. Almost immediately after the event
members of the Ham Emergency Radio Operations group were
exchanging messages with the affected coastal areas.

Eddie Valdez DU1EV, is the Chief Operating Officer of the
Philippines Amateur Radio Association. He says that Roberto
Vincencio, DU1VHY, handled traffic and got reports from the
affected areas.

Valdez said the area of DU5 was nearest the epicenter.
Lester Price, DV5PO said that there was a power outage in
Borongan, on Samar Island. Reynaldo Tan, DV5RAY reported
that people had been evacuating because of the tsunami
alert. The alert was lifted after officials reported that
only small waves had been generated. Tens of thousands of
people who headed out of the danger zone have since
returned.

According to DU1EV, many hams in the affected areas showed
up on the 2 meter and 40 meter emergency channels. He added
that other districts were on standby if needed.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Norm Seeley, KI7UP, in
Scottsdale, Arizona.

--

The Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction Management
Council initial assessment was that there was no major
structural damage in the affected areas. It noted that most
structures destroyed were built from light material.
(VK3PC, Post World, BBC)

**

RESCUE RADIO: YAESU DONATES NEW GEAR TO HELP REBUILD RAST
STATION HS0AC

Yaesu has donated a pair of FT-2000D transceivers to the
Radio Amateur Society of Thailand. This to help rebuild its
headquarters station HS0AC that lost its radio gear during
severe flooding last year.

The presentation of the two transceivers to the Radio
Society of Thailand was made by Dennis Motschenbacher, K7BV,
who is the company's Executive Vice President Amateur Radio
Sales and also holds the call sign HS0ZKS.

In his note, K7BV said that Thailand is what he called
extremely "radio active" with over 300,000 hams most of whom
are on VHF. However, that is in the process of changing.

Dennis says that after seven years of waiting, Thai hams are
once again able to test for a license that gives them
operating privileges on the High Frequency bands. According
to K7BV some 40 applicants have already passed the new exam
this year and at least one more test is schedule before
years end.

Photos of the presentation of the new Yaesu transceivers can
be seen at tinyurl.com/yaesu-thailand-radios (K7BV)

**

RADIO LAW: EUROPEAN COMMISSION RECOMMENDS NEW SHARED
SPECTRUM PLAN

The European Commission has unveiled plans to deal with the
exponential growth in mobile and wireless data traffic.
This, by enabling wireless technologies, including
broadband, to share the use of the radio spectrum with other
services.

The European Commission notes that with new technologies it
is possible to share radio spectrum among several users such
as internet providers or use the spectrum available between
TV frequencies for other purposes.

The Commission says that national spectrum regulation often
does not reflect the new technical possibilities, leaving
mobile and broadband users at risk of poor service as demand
grows. It also prevents a single market for investment in
such communications growth. Because of this the Commission
believes that a coordinated European approach to sharing
spectrum will lead to greater mobile network capacity,
cheaper wireless broadband, and new markets such as tradable
secondary rights for a given spectrum allocation.

The proposal is 12 pages long and does not seem to exclude
any service from the possibility of sharing spectrum with
another. What impact this proposal might eventually have on
amateur radio operations across Europe is at this point
unknown. You can download the proposal in PDF format at
tinyurl.com/european-shared-spectrum. (Southgate)

**

INTRUDER WATCH: RADIO BANGLADESH VACATES 7.105 MHZ

Some good news for users of the low end of 40 meters. The
Radio Society of Great Britain reports that Radio
Bangladesh has left 7 point 105 MHz after the broadcaster
finished its experimental transmissions and is now using 7
dot 250 MHz in the shared portion of the band.

The move is likely due to the many amateur radio operators
world wide who reported the infringement on the band.
Particular thanks go to the German telecommunications
authority which filed the official complaints to Radio
Bangladesh. (GB2RS)

**

RADIO PROPAGATION: SOLAR CME HITS EARTH ON SEPTEMBER 3RD

If you were wondering about the strange band conditions this
past week you can blame it on old Sol. This after a Coronal
Mass Ejection or C-M-E hit Earth's magnetic field on at
approximately 1200 UTC on Monday, September 3rd.

According to Spaceweather.com the impact induced measurable
ground currents in the soil of northern Scandinavia and
sparked bright auroras around the Arctic Circle. In fact,
at the time the alert was issued, a moderately strong
geomagnetic storm that lasted several days was underway.

For current and future information on what the Sun is up to
and how it might affect radio propagation here on Earth,
simply take your web browser to spaceweather.com for the
very latest updates. (Spaceweather)

**

RADIO HISTORY: CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF STANDARDIZED RADIO
PREFIXES

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the use of ITU
callsign prefixes, special event station PB-100-PREFIX will
be on the air between October 4th and the 31st.

The back story on the standardization of calls came
following the loss of the ocean liner Titanic in April of
1912. The Titanic used the call letters MGY with the "M"
representing the Marconi company.

As a result there was an acknowledgement that there should
be international standards for radio communications. This
lead to several international meetings in the aftermath of
the Titanic's sinking and the emergence of the callsign
prefix system that has evolved into what we have today.

For more details, visit on this special commemorative
operation please take your web browser to
www.PB100PREFIX.nl. And if you make contact with
PB100PREFIX QSL via PB0P. (OPDX)

**

BREAKING DX NEWS: GROUGH ISLAND "SLIM"

Hams making contact with a station signing ZD5KN on Gough
Island will not be getting any credit for the contact. This
is because Zed-D-9-K-N is what DX'ers call a "slim" or a
"pirate" operation.

According to the Ohio Penn DX Newsletter several sources
report that ZS1A, has confirmed that the callsign ZD9KN has
never been issued. As such the advice being given is to not
waste time working this station if you happen to hear him.

But there is some good news regarding this rather rare
entity. Word is that ZS6KX will be going to Gough Island
sometime this month and will be there for a year. He is
hoping to be issued the callsign ZD9KX and is waiting for
the approval of his license. No QSL route has yet been
announced so look for more details to be forthcoming. And
we will have more DX related news later on in this weeks
Amateur Radio Newsline report.

(OPDX)

**

BREAK 1

From the United States of America, We are the Amateur Radio
Newsline, heard on bulletin stations around the world
including the Alaska Morning Net serving America's final
frontier.

(5 sec pause here)


**

RESTRUCTURING: NEW RULES AND MORE SPECTRUM FOR PHILIPPINE
HAMS

Restructuring has come to ham radio in the Philippines.
This according to an announcement by the Philippines Amateur
Radio Association which says that following meetings between
the Amateur Radio Consultative Panel and the National
Telecommunications Commission or NTC, numerous changes to
that nations amateur service have been enacted. Amateur
Radio Newsline's Jim Meachen, ZL2BHF, is in Nelson, New
Zealand with more:

--

As reported by Philippines Amateur Radio Association that
organization has now been officially recognized by the
National Telecommunications Commission as the nations only
national amateur radio organization with the NTC to
maintaining a database of licensees that will be made
available in the public domain.

Under the revised rules an applicant for a Philippine
amateur license who passes an exam but does not own a radio
will be given an operator certificate with his own call
sign. Also a new entry level Foundation License or Class D
certificate with VHF-only privileges has been created with a
minimum age requirement of 9 years. And in the area of
administering Philippine Amateur Service exams, new question
pool and oversight committees have been officially
organized.

One other very important change is that the NTC will now
allow Philippine radio amateurs what it calls convergence
with the Internet. In other words it has authorized
interconnects for operations such as Echolink, IRLP and
other VoIP operations.

Lastly, hams in the Philippines have been granted to some
additional spectrum. Depending on license class, hams will
be permitted to operate from 135.7 kHz to 137.8 kHz; 472 kHz
to 479 kHz and 7.201 MHz to 7.300 MHz with Class B and Class
C allowed to operate High Frequency mobile.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, Im Jim Meachen, ZL2BHF.

--

These changes to the Philippine Amateur Radio Service
regulations came into effect on August 30th. More details
can be found at www.para.org.ph/news.htm (PARA)

**

ENFORCEMENT: THE VANISHED VENTURA UNLICENSED STATION BUSTED
BY THE FCC

A follow up to a story from a few weeks ago involving an
unlicensed station in Ventura, California, on 89.7 MHz that
called itself KSSR, The Peoples Radio. It has now been
established that this station has been busted by the FCC
with a Notice of Unlicensed Operation issued to the station
itself as well as to the property owners that hosted it.
Amateur Radio Newslines Jim Damron, N8TMW, reports:

--

In a pair of letters dated August 14th the FCC notified the
station as an entity well as property owners John and Lisa
Darby that KSSR was found to be operating without a license
and must leave the air immediately. Both letters also
advised the recipients that they had ten days from the date
of the notice to respond with any evidence that they have
authority to operate granted by the FCC.

The notices said that the FCC staff will use all relevant
material information before it to determine what, if any,
enforcement action is required to ensure your compliance
with FCC Rules. This will include any information that the
station management or the property owners disclose in their
reply.

This notification from the FCC ends speculation that perhaps
the pirate saw private DF'ing activity taking place and
voluntarily suspended operations. But the station my have
had the final word. As of August 26th the unlicensed
stations website carried the following message: "Due to
unforeseen circumstances KSSR had the leave the FM airwaves
for a while."

Whether that means the station operator plans to return to
the airwaves at a later date or is just a smug way of
bidding its audience a fond farewell, is unknown. But if
the FCC has its way, the unlicensed KSSR will never be heard
on the Ventura, California airwaves, ever again.

From Charleston West Virginia, Im Jim Damron, N8TMW
reporting.

--

As is normal in these cases both the station and the
property owner were give the customary 30 days to file a
response. (CGC, FCC)

**

RESCUE RADIO: SUFFOLK COUNTY NY SEEKS DONATION OF TRAILER

New York's Suffolk County Radio Club is seeking a donation
of a mid-sized trailer to continue its Emergency
Communications Field work. This after its present
communications vehicle has become unusable due to its age.

For those not aware, the Suffolk County Radio Club was
established in 1947 and is the oldest radio club on Long
Island. Its members provide free manpower as a public
service for special events in addition to their volunteer
emergency communications during disasters such as hurricanes
and wildfires.

If you have a covered trailer in the 12 by 8 foot category
that you would consider donating, please contact club Vice
President, Jim Fehling, N2JFD by telephone at area code 631-
926-4370. Or you can e-mail him to n2jfdny (at) gmail (dot)
com. (Suffolk Radio Club)

**

RADIO TRAGEDY: COLORADO HAM RADIO OPERATOR AND WIFE DIE
FROM INJURIES SUFFERED IN CAR COLLISION

A Colorado Springs, Colorado, ham radio operator and his
wife who were involved in an automobile accident on their
way home from church have died from their injuries. This,
after their car was broadsided by a driver alleged to have
been going the wrong way down a one-way street. Amateur
Radio Newsline producer Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF, has the
details on this tragic event:

--

According to police reports, Teddy Allison, N0NKG and his
wife Mary Ann were in their Saturn headed home from church
services at about 10:45 a.m. on Sunday, August 12th. That's
when a Chevrolet Malibu, driven by 18 year old Khalil
Sanders allegedly drove the wrong way on a one-way street,
entered an intersection without stopping and slammed into
the Allison's car.

The couple was taken to the hospital, both in critical
condition. Teddy Allison, who was age 67, died on August
15th. Mary Ann Allison succumb to her injuries on August
18th.

Khalil Sanders was also taken to the hospital and was
treated and later released. Police continue to investigate
the crash and are still determining what charges, if any, he
potentially faces.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF,
I the newsroom in Los Angeles.

--

Teddy Allison, N0NKG, was an electronics technician at
Hewlett Packard and Mary Ann Allison was a homemaker and
accountant at Young life. The Allison's had just celebrated
their 49th wedding anniversary on July 7th. (N0RDC)

**

NAMES IN THE NEWS: ARRL SUMMER SECTION MANAGER ELECTION
RESULTS ANNOUNCED

Some new faces and some old ones are returning to the ARRL
Field Operations arena. This following the counting of
ballots in this years Section Manager elections.

In the North-East, ARRL Connecticut Section Manager Betsey
Doane, K1EIC, was re-elected to another term. Meantime John
Mueller, K2BT, won out as the new Western New York Section
Manager.

Also, Puerto Rico will be getting a new Section Manager in
Rene Fonseca, NP3O, of the city of Fajardo. Fonseca will be
taking over from Roberto Jiminez, KP4AC, who has served as
Section Manager since 2007 but decided not to run for
another term of office.

All elected start their new terms on October 1st. (ARRL)

**

NAMES IN THE NEWS: K3EST RETIRES FROM DIRECTOR OF CQWW DX
CONTEST

Some names in the news. CQ Magazine has announced that Bob
Cox, K3EST, has retired as Director of the CQ World Wide DX
Contest and as CQ's Director of Contesting. Cox has been at
the helm of the CQ World Wide DX contest for 35 years.
During his tenure he guided the competition through numerous
changes in technology and growth to become the world's most
popular amateur radio contest. Cox's retirement is effective
immediately. A successor has not yet been named. (CQ)

**

NAMES IN THE NEWS: MIKE BAXTER KA0XTT OF LAST MAN STANDING
GETS NEW ANTENNA FARM

According to a posting on Facebook by the lead character of
the situation comedy Last Man Standing, as soon as it get
closer to the shows season two premiere of Friday, November
2nd, they will be holding a combined HF, VHF, UHF and D-Star
ham radio operating event. This will put all of the amateur
radio gear used on the show and the licensed staff members
on the air for you to contact.

The shows producer is John Amodeo, NN6JA. He has just
uploaded to Facebook close to a dozen photos of the new
outdoor antenna installation on the roof of the Studio City,
California sound stage where the Last Man Standing is
recorded. If you are on Facebook you can see them by
putting the words "Last Man Standing Season 2 Antenna Farm"
into the search line at the top of any Facebook page.

For those of you who have not yet seen the show, Last Man
Standing follows the adventures of Mike Baxter played by
actor and comedian Tim Allen. Baxter's character is the
director of marketing at an outdoor sporting goods store in
Denver, Colorado, whose world is dominated by women. This
is especially true at home with his wife and three
daughters. His hobby turns out to be amateur radio with
Baxter using the call letters KA0XTT. Last Man Standing
airs on the ABC television network. (ARNewslineT)

**

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)

**

HAM RADIO IN SPACE: NASA ANNOUNCES OPPORTUNITIES FOR
CUBESAT LAUNCHES

Want to put a small satellite into orbit? Well now is your
chance providing the bird you want to launch meets some
specific criteria. Amateur Radio Newslines Don Wilbanks,
AE5DW, has the details:

--


NASA is seeking proposals for small satellite payloads to
fly on rockets planned to launch between 2013 and 2016.
These miniature spacecraft, known as CubeSats, could be
auxiliary payloads on previously planned missions or on yet
to be announced orbital opportunities.

CubeSats are a class of research spacecraft called nano-
satellites. These cube-shaped satellites are approximately
four inches long, have a volume of about one quart and weigh
less than three pounds.

Proposed CubeSat investigations must be consistent with
NASA's Strategic Plan and the NASA education vision and
goals. The research must address aspects of science,
exploration, technology development, education or
operations.

Applicants must submit proposals electronically by 4:30 p.m.
EST, November 12th. NASA will select the payloads by next
January 31st. Selection does not guarantee a launch
opportunity but the selected spacecraft will be eligible for
flight after final negotiations when a launch opportunity
arises. It should be noted that NASA provides only a
possible launch opportunity but it will not provide funding
for the development of the small satellites.

Meantime from the first three launch initiatives, 64
payloads made the short list for launch opportunities
between now and 2014. These satellites come from 25 states
and are eligible for la ride to orbit pending an appropriate
opportunity and final negotiations.

I'm Don Wilbanks, AE5DW.

--

For additional information about NASA's CubeSat Launch
Initiative program, visit go.nasa.gov/puk9K2 (NASA)

**

WORLDBEAT: ZAMBIA MAKES READY FOR DIGITAL BROADCASTING

The Zambian government has issued 10 licenses and 16
construction permits to radio and TV stations in the
country.

Those chosen are expected to switch to digital broadcasting
before the 2013 deadline set by the Southern Africa
Development Community.

According to the nations Minister of Information and
Broadcasting Services, the move is intended to enhance
participation in the affairs of the country, as well as
offer people an opportunity to air their views on issues of
national interest. (RW)

**

ON THE AIR: COMMEMORATING THE LIBERATION OF KNOKKE BELGIUM

On the air, special event station ON44CLM will be
operational from October 16th through November 15th in
commemoration of the liberation of the town of Knokke in
Belgium by the Canadian Army in 1944. The C-L-M suffix
stands for Canadian Liberation March. More information is
on-line at www.on44clm.be. (Southgate)

**

ON THE AIR: CELEBRATING THE DUBLIN BUS

Hams in Erin's Isle have taken to the air to celebrate the
25th anniversary of the Dublin Bus with special event
special event station E-I-25-D-B operational from now
through June 30th of 2013. The station will be operated by
current and former employees of Dublin Bus Company led by
EI9HQ and EI4GZB. QSL this operation to EI9HQ or
electronically using either Logbook of the World or
HamLog.eu. The Dublin Bus Company is a major public
transportation supplier through out the city of Dublin,
Ireland. (Southgate)

**

ON THE AIR: VOODOO CONTEST CLUB TO BE ACTIVE FROM LIBERIA

For the 24th straight year look for the VooDoo Contest
Group to again be active from Liberia between November 21st
and the 27th. Operations will be from a location just South
of Monrovia, the capital of Liberia. Their main goal is to
be an entry in the CQ World Wide DX CW Contest on November
24th and 25th as a Multi-Multi category using the callsign E-
L-2-A. Outside of the contest the operators will use their
own personal callsigns. QSL as directed by each operator.
(OPDX)

**

DX

In DX, SM1TDE will be active portable 5Z4 from Diani Beach,
Mombasa, Kenya between November 5th and the 22nd. This will
be a family vacation and activity will be limited to how
much his XYL and kids allow. His operation will be on 40
through 10 meters on CW only. QSL via his home callsign,
either direct, via the bureau or electronically using
Logbook of the World.

JA7SGV is now operational as 9J2JA from Zambia. His length
of stay is unknown. Activity has been on the 30, 20, 17 and
15 meters using CW only. QSL via his home callsign.

W4XP who was expected to be active now as VQ9XP from the
club station VQ9X on Diego Garcia Atoll has been forced to
cancel the operation. He says that this is because the
station has been placed off-limits by the installation
Commander.

PA0FAW will be operating PC12WSF through September 30th for
the World Statues Festival in Arnhem in the Nethlands.
Modes mentioned are CW, SSB and PSK. QSL to PA0FAW either
direct, via the bureau or electronically via eQSL. This
operation will not accept Logbook of the World confirmation
requests.

Lastly, CT1FJZ will be working in Angola for the next year
or so and will be operational on 80 through 10 meter SSB
using the callsign D2FJZ. His activity will be mainly at
the weekends but he will try to get on the air whenever
possible during weekdays. QSL as directed on the air.

(Above from various DX news sources)

**

THAT FINAL ITEM: CONTROLLED CARRIER AM -SOMETHING OLD IS
NEW AGAIN

And finally this week, an old modulation technology is
making a comeback for A-M broadcast stations in a new and
money saving way. Amateur Radio Newsline's George Bowen,
W2XBS, has the details where something old is new again:

--

Back in the days of full carrier A-M transmission one very
popular and low cost way to put ones voice onto a carrier
wave was to modulate the final power amplifier's screen
grid. A variation on this that required no heavy modulation
transformer was to vary the output power of the transmitter
at an audio rate by varying the final amplifier's screen
voltage at an audio rate. This system was called controlled
carrier A-M and it was made very popular on the ham bands in
the 1940's, 1950's and 1960's in such budget priced
transmitters as the Heathkit DX-35, DX-40 and DX-60 to name
only a few.

With the advent of single sideband transmission, full
carrier A-M fell out of favor in the ham radio world but it
has remained a staple in the broadcast industry and other
services that want to get their message to the public. And
now, carrier control modulation is making a comeback among
broadcasters but not in the way it was done by radio
amateurs of the past.

For broadcasters who spend 10's of thousands of dollars a
year paying for electric service, the ability to raise and
lower power levels can be a major cost cutting factor. And
because of this a number of stations have received waivers
from the FCC to experiment with several new forms of carrier
control technology.

In one instance, transmitter manufacturer Harris Broadcast
and New York City powerhouse WOR-AM say they have had
success with a power-saving Modulation Dependent Carrier
Level algorithm. This with no effect on Arbitron Portable
People Meter data encoding/decoding, the stations H-D Radio
signal coverage or digital audio quality.

Harris engineers worked with Tom Ray, W2TRR , who is the
Corporate Director of Engineering WOR AM in New York, to
test the compatibility of two Harris Modulation-Dependent
Carrier Level algorithms. Amplitude Modulation Companding
provided the largest reduction in transmitter power
consumption, by saving 37 percent in average AC power input
to the transmitter. WOR estimated this translates up to a
$3,000 per month savings on the electric bill at his New
Jersey transmitter site.

So will this new form of Amplitude Modulation Companding
bring back full carrier AM to the ham bands? While a tiny
segment may decide to experiment with it more than likely
SSB will remain the preferred voice system among ham radio
operators world wide. At least until it's replaced by a
digital voice system at sometime in the future.

For the Amateur Radio Newsline, I'm George Bowen, W2XBS, at
the North East Bureau in Albany New York.

--

Nautel, another transmitter manufacturer has estimated that
a 50 kilowatt AM transmitter using this technology and
operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week could easily save
$20,000 a year or more in electricity costs. This based on
modest electricity rates of 10 cents per kilowatt hour.

The complete story can be found on-line at
tinyurl.com/harris-modulation (RW)

**

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, TWiT-TV and Australia's W-I-A News, that's all from
the Amateur Radio NewslineT. Our e-mail address is
newsline(at) arnewsline (dot) org. More information is
available at Amateur Radio Newsline'sT only official website
located at www.arnewsline.org.

Before we go a reminder that we are continuing our survey to
learn who still receive these newscasts over our 661-296-
2407 dial in line rater than downloading the MP3 file from
our website. If you are one of those who call in each week
on the phone, please send us a note telling us who you are
and the reason you are using telephone access rather than
simply downloading the newscast from the Internet. Our
address is the Amateur Radio Newsline, 28197 Robin Avenue,
Saugus California, 91350. Or you can e-mail us at newsline
(at) arnewsline (dot) org. We look forward to hearing from
you.

For now, with Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF, at the editors' desk,
I'm Jim Davis, W2JKD, saying 73 and we thank you for
listening.

Amateur Radio NewslineT is Copyright 2012. All rights
reserved.