[600MRG] Beacon Operation

[Glen Zook]

Answering your questions in order:
#1:  An automatic beacon can only be operated within the small frequency segments specified in 47 CFR Part 97 Section 97.203(d).  That definitely means on the "new" bands, when finally authorized.


#2:  If the operator is present at ALL times, a beacon can be operated on any frequency for which the operator is licensed.  However, be warned that beacons outside of those frequencies authorized in 97.203(d) are, generally, NOT welcomed by the vast percentage of amateur radio operators


#3:  Yes, if you are not physically present at a control point or are not continuously monitoring the beacon even at a control point, then, by definition, the beacon would be automatically controlled.  You cannot legally leave the room, go to sleep even in the same room, or otherwise cease continuously monitoring the operation. 

Glen, K9STH 
Website: http://k9sth.net

      From: Frank Lotito <k3dz at live.com>
 To: 600 / 630 Meter Group <600mrg at w7ekb.com> 
 Sent: Monday, May 29, 2017 3:03 PM
 Subject: [600MRG] Beacon Operation
   
The present on-line e-CFR edition for amateur radio communications has a section on beacon operation, 47CFR97 article 203.  I am having trouble interpreting subparagraph (d) which speaks of "automatic control" and specifies a minimum permitted frequency of 28.20 MHz for "automatic control."

QUESTION #1: Does this mean for all other amateur bands, including the pending 600 and 2200 bands "automatic control" is not permitted?

QUESTION #2: I assume beacon operation on "any" amateur frequency that the "control operator" (licensee) is authorized to participate on, beacon operation is permitted if the control operator is present and can "kill the beacon transmission" if something goes amiss?  For example, a beacon transmitting someplace on the anticipated 630 or 2200 meter bands?  Or on the 160 meter band?  30 meter band? 17 meter band?  It is understood a reasonable attempt is made by the control operator to insure non-interference with normal on-going transmissions for that band,  and as a courtesy, adhere to gentlemen's agreements for band plans.

Probably the key words in 47CFR97.203 is the FCC's meaning of the words "automatically controlled" and "control operator." For example, when I use my 630 meter transmitter in the beacon mode I use a dedicated PIC controller to key my transmitter and I use a DDS VFO system to establish the transmit frequency.  I also use my R-70 receiver to listen to my transmitted frequency.  Once everything is tuned up and properly operating I go upstairs to watch TV, or I hit the hay, and usually leave the R-70 fired up.  Needless to say the audio volume on my R-70 receiver is turned "way down" in amplitude.

QUESTION #3:  Is my transmitter "automatically controlled" when I get beyond earshot of my transmitter and monitor receiver?  I'm definitely no where around to monitor what is going on, and the "kill switch" certainly is not within reach.