[Lowfer] 6.1m

[David Willmore]

> Now I think I understand the objective here; to (in essence) have a VHF window
> similar to experiment in as in LowFERs, MedRERs, and HiFERs under the Part 15
> "umbrella".  To that, I say, go for it!
> 
> I know of some of the ground-breaking work that has been done in the weak signal
> area by many of the LowFER people and that should not be discouraged.  It is
> interesting to note that a high percentage of LowFER operators/experimenters
> have their Amateur license too.
> 
> The issue of licensing for a LF HAM band is both controversial and tricky.
> Personally, I have mixed thoughts about it.  Somehow, the interests of those who
> presently do not have a ticket need to be addressed; their efforts should not be
> diminished plus the very nature of an allocation open for ideas without undue
> regulation.  Similarly, I can see where a "different" organization of the LF
> structure could be useful too.  In fact, it is the work done in this
> "unlicensed" Part 15 area that has generated the interest to create a HAM band
> allocation there.  In this regard, success and ingenuity have thus been the LF
> ops own "enemy"; many ideas now being tried on the HF and VHF amateur bands
> (within legal limitations).  At this point, I have said way more than is right
> for me (interested but not yet involved) to propose the ultimate fate of any LF
> allocation.  Perhaps the biggest change would to be to change the transmitting
> antenna restrictions specific to LF and redefine power levels. We all know that
> it is the antenna that makes the major difference in any system, all other
> aspects remaining fixed.
> 
> Thank you for taking the time to (briefly) explain the "goal' here; I apologize
> for not following the threads more closely as to the thought process in place.
> My intention was not to stomp on someone else's toes.

I have no right to claim such sympathy, I'm new to VLF operation, but I think I'll 
suffer if/when there becomes an V/LF amateur allocation.  Did anyone notice that 
the ARRL suggests that it be put under the same use restrictions as the HF spectrum.  
Yep, that means I'll still be using it Part15 when that happens--despite the fact 
that I've been a licensed ham since '93. I wonder if they'll change the 5 WPM code
test to compensate?  I think I could do QRSS60 for 10 minutes. :)  That would
be fair, no?  Nice to see a hobby that's supposed to advocate technological
advancement held up by a ruling that dates from the days of straight keys;
mics made out of razor blades, carbon rods and horse glue; and little glowing bottles.

Well, there's always ELF.

Cheers,
David N0YMV