Notes on Spectrum

Amateur Radio Spectrum

I appreciate the efforts of the ARRL on behalf of all amateurs to aggressively represent our interests in front of the FCC in regards to radio spectrum assignments.

Radio spectrum is a shared national resource. As radio amateurs we have been allocated some of that resource for the advancement of the radio art, for community service and for our own enjoyment. It is always in our own best interest to use the spectrum efficiently, with decorum and with a level of humility for being allocated a chunk of a national resource. It is kind of like getting to be the keepers of a large national park. Surely a park ranger wouldn't throw his gum wrapper on the ground; radio amateurs should have a similar appreciation for their position.

So I see the issues of spectrum protection and rules enforcement as intertwined and mutually supporting.

Take the issue of BPL for example. The ARRL has taken a leadership role in describing to the FCC what the implications are of an unregulated or misregulated BPL industry. That is of importance not only to radio amateurs but to broadcast, emergency service and business band users. Ultimately the developers of BPL, the investors, the customers, the whole industry will be better served because the ARRL has stepped up. Because we take the high road, amateur radio has the ability to present a respected opinion.

That's the reason we don't want "lids" on the air: because it erodes the respect that has been built up over decades. I'm proud to have an amateur radio license. Not because I'm smart or can take a test but because there is a tradition and an expectation of quality that goes with the license.