RSGB respond to Ofcom plans for 433 MHz

The RSGB have responded to the Ofcom consultation on removing restrictions for licence exempt devices in 433.05-434.79 MHz.

The Society point out that removing restrictions on Short Range Devices (SRD) will create a significant increase in risk of harmful interference.

They say
"We see no pressing reasons or market demand for such a change when requirements for licence exempt voice etc can be met by PMR446 or other exempt 868MHz systems."

"The effect of such a change will be to permit unlicensed FM speech/audio transmitters that would effectively be using compatible emissions modes with UHF Amateur Service users and in particular our Repeater Inputs. The latter could then inadvertently re-transmit their unlicensed content over large service areas of tens of kilometres"

"The Impact Assessment table entry for Non-Specific SRDs on p34 of the consultation document fails to mention the impact of the changes on licensed users of the 433/434 MHz band where there is a potentially serious and costly impact."

Read the full RSGB response at
http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/devices/
responses/RSGB.pdf

Consultation on Licence Exemption changes
http://www.southgatearc.org/news/march2010/
licence_exemption_changes.htm