[amsat-bb] OT: Universal Text Messaging and Pagers (WAS Re: Re: dream)

[Ben Jackson]

Bob Bruninga wrote:

> Using paging devices on Amateur Radio is perfectly legal like any
> other radio.  It all boils down to use.  If you use it for setting up
> a one-way systemm for a pizza delivery service, it is clearly
> illegal.  If you use it as part of your overall local communications
> network of amateur radio volunters it is just one more tool in the
> tool box.

Bob:

We had this discussion a while back on APRSSIG (I know, I started it!)
Unfortunately, the way Part 97 currently reads is that most pager
transmissions to an individual are illegal under §97.111(b), as it is a
"one way" transmission that, in most cases, would not qualify under the
"legal" list.

> You just have to ignore the curmudgeons who have nothing better to do
> than nit-picking ways to prevent other hams from developing useful
> applications of technology.  A pager is simply the text-to-user
> device integrated into the normal local 2-way amateur radio
> communications system.

I hardly consider myself a curmudgeon. I'd *love* to set up a local
pager network in the way you describe. The issue is that, according to
Part 97, it can't be used beyond QSTs, telemetry, or "necessary"
emergency communications. Could I get away with setting up such a
system? Likely. Do I foot to stand on when my local OO comes knocking?
Not so much.

> An amateur satellite would make a great downlink to these pagers.
> Again, the goal should simply be, any message, any time, anywhere
> using any device to any user by callsign alone.

This would be great. Can someone please seek a clarification or
modification of the rules from the FCC to allow this?

				~Ben

-- 
Ben Jackson - N1WBV - New Bedford, MA
bbj <at> innismir.net - http://www.innismir.net/