Calls to establish a
Defence for Amateur Radio fund
At AMSATCON 2004, held at the University of KwaZulu-Natal Saturday last
week, calls were made for the establishment of a Defence for Amateur Radio
fund.
This followed on a presentation on the threats of PLC on amateur radio
and how it can ultimately also detrimentally affect VHF weak signal communication
and satellites.
BPL is the term the US is using for Power
Line Communication.
The presentation by Hans, ZS6AKV included an ARRL video which clearly
demonstrates the interference PLC can cause on HF and VHF frequencies.
Arrangements are being made to make the video available from the SARL
and SA AMSAT websites.
The President of the SARL Graham Hartlett, ZS6GJH said that while the
SARL is not against progress or PLC as a system of carrying information,
the SARL is very concerned about the effects of PLC on Amateur Radio and
will remain vigilant and continue to engage ICASA and various other groups
to ensure that Amateur Radio is not compromised.
He said that the proposal to start a defence fund is sound as the SARL
is likely to have to incur costs in the process. He said that it will
be discussed at the next SARL Council teleconference and an announcement
will be made shortly.
Amateurs are encouraged to report any unusual interference that spreads
over a wide spectrum of frequencies.
Send as much detail as possible to plc@sarl.org.za.
This becomes particularly important as several companies are targeting
metro councils to pilot projects in an effort to gain sufficient data
to have PLC licensed by ICASA.
The SARL needs all the information that can be gathered. Also watch the
local press for any PLC or BPL news items and send details to plc@sarl.org.za.
Courtesy of
The South African Radio League
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