[AMRadio] AM Power Obsession

[Paul Christensen]

> Please explain how one form of ILLEGAL POWER can be
> considered more (or less) acceptable than another form of ILLEGAL POWER?

They're equal sins under the law and you raise a good point, Don. 
Logically, in order to comply with 97.313 (a) almost requires an illegal 
operation unless you just happen to get lucky and find the exact power level 
that is the absolute "minimum transmitter power necessary to carry out the 
desired communications."  Hmmm, that word "desired" looks awfully ominous. 
Once you're at one power level and then discover that communication can be 
carried out at *any* power level below the prior level, you've just violated 
97.313(a).  Not almost, not if -- you are flat-out guilty of violating the 
regulation.

But in the spirit of the service, the reality is that the rule was imposed 
with a degree of flexibility.   None of us are really too concenred and the 
FCC doesn't seem to be too concerned either -- unless enough complaints are 
generated.

> Do the same people who worry excessively over this issue (and even worse,
> concern themselves over other people's operation) conscientiously obey the
> posted speed limit 100% of the time when they drive an automobile?

It's an interesting issue.  Does every law enforcement officer drive at or 
under the speed limit when not on duty?  Does every judge obey the law and 
drive at or under the speed limit at all times?  They know the rules and 
they are responsible for their enforcement and judicial outcomes.  Yet, they 
break the law every day just like the rest of us.  Should they be held 
accountable to a higher standard because of their professions?

Whoops, venturing way past topic...

Paul, W9AC