5MHz Amateur Radio Worldwide Update

[KQ6XA]

The use of 5 MHz by amateur radio operators is expanding into more countries, with emergency channels, propagation experiment operation, secondary status, and normal amateur use. Australia's amateur radio organization, the Wireless Institute of Australia, is the most recent addition to 5MHz. WIA (http://www.wia.org.au/) now has a licence for two new 5MHz channels in emergency situations involving the Wireless Institute Civil Emergency Network WICEN (http://www.wicen.org.au/), using non-amateur callsigns and type-approved radios that are common in Australian outback HF land mobile.

Propagation on 5MHz fills in the distance gap between 40 metres and 80 metres, especially during morning and evening hours. It also provides different band openings during winter and at higher latitudes than 40 metres.

Here is a recently updated list of 5MHz channels, bands, and frequencies related to amateur radio (as of 12-2005).

Worldwide 5MHz Frequency and Channel List

CHANNEL DIAL FREQ ... LOCATION REMARKS
102.0 = 5102.0kHz USB (Australia)[WIA/WICEN Emergency]
167.5 = 5167.5kHz USB (Alaska)[Emergency]
194.5 = 5194.5kHz USB (Germany) [DRA5 Beacon]
250.0-310.0 = 5250 to 5310kHz Bangladesh
258.5 = 5258.5kHz USB (UK)[Canada-Experimental]
267.5 = 5267.5kHz USB (Canada-Experimental]
278.5 = 5278.5kHz USB (UK/Finland/Norway/Iceland)
288.5 = 5288.5kHz USB (UK/Finland/Norway/Iceland)[Canada Exp][UK Beacons]
298.5 = 5298.5kHz USB (Finland)
318.5 = 5318.5kHz USB [Canada-Experimental]
327.5 = 5327.5kHz USB [Canada-Experimental]
330.5 = 5330.5kHz USB (USA/Finland/Norway/Iceland/St.Lucia)
346.5 = 5346.5kHz USB (USA/Finland/Norway/Iceland/St.Lucia)
355.0 = 5355.0kHz USB (Australia)[WIA/WICEN Emergency]
366.5 = 5366.5kHz USB (USA/Finland/Norway/Iceland)
371.5 = 5371.5kHz USB (USA/Finland/Norway/Iceland/St.Lucia)
398.5 = 5398.5kHz USB (UK/Finland/Norway/Iceland)[Canada-Exp]
403.5 = 5403.5kHz USB (USA/UK/Norway/Iceland/St.Lucia)[Canada-Exp]

Notes on the 5MHz List (International):

1) Dial Frequency: Above listed frequencies are "dial frequencies" as you see them on your radio. The center-of-channel offset is already figured out for you. (The center-of-channel is usually 1.5kHz higher than the dial frequency).

2) Worldwide: The current worldwide standard for Amateur Radio on 5MHz is Upper Sideband (USB). Other emission types are also in use.

3) USA: Only USB voice with 2.8kHz bandwidth is authorized in USA for all General class or higher licensees, using the equivalent of 50 Watts into a dipole.

4) UK: Voice, Digital, and CW modes within a 3kHz bandwidth at 200 Watts are authorised in UK for holders of experimental or N.O.V., and channels are often described by the centre-of-channel frequency (dial+1500Hz) or the formal "Foxtrot" designators FA-FB-FC-FE-FM. The Beacon Network (http://g4irx.nowindows.net/fivemegs/comparison.php) on 5290kHz is active for real-time ionospheric propagation soundings.

5) Germany: DRA5 Experimental Beacon, operated by DARC (DK0WCY beacon team), transmits propagation data (dial+1500Hz) CW/RTTY/PSK31.

6) Canada: Experimental licensed operation by Marconi Radio Club (VO1MRC) members. CW or USB on 5260, 5269, 5280, 5290, 5319, 5400 and 5405 kHz with 100 watts output. Some beacon testing on 5269.5 kHz and CW QSOs on 5260 kHz.

7) Finland: Club stations may apply for authorization to operate the 5MHz channels with maximum power of 50 Watts on USB only. The USB dial frequencies for Finland are: 5288.6, 5298.6, 5330.6, 5346.6, 5366.6, 5371.6, 5398.6 kHz.

8) Australia: Wireless Institute of Australia is licenced for 2 HF land mobile 5MHz channels, for emergency use by the Wireless Institute Civil Emergency Network, using non-amateur callsigns AXF404 and AXF405, and ACMA type approved radio equipment (such as the transceivers normally used for HF outback communications in the VKS737 HF net).

9) Remote bases and Echolink HF stations: Some HF remote base stations in USA have been in operation on 5371.5kHz, using Internet Remote Base or Echolink with voice squelch and/or UHF remotes.

10) Evening/Night Guidelines: 5MHz channels are a shared resource with many users. In many countries, amateurs are secondary users and must QRT when a primary station is on the channel. For this reason, transmission time should be kept to a minimum, and it is best to wait a few seconds before responding during a QSO. Considerate hams usually try to avoid longwinded ragchews during peak evening hours whenever activity is high and propagation is open for wide regional communications on the 5MHz channels.

11) Iceland: 8 channels with 3kHz bandwidth, USB or CW at 100W.

12) Bangladesh: 5250 to 5310 kHz Amateur Applications; Amateur propagation experiments with stations of administrations permitting such activities. Secondary status.

13) St. Lucia (J6) has the same 5 channels as USA and there continues to be activity.

14) Other countries: Some other authorised 5MHz operations have been reported such as the 5Z4HW DXpedition in Kenya, and the ZD8I (G8WVW) operation in Ascension Island in April 2005. Some experimental operation has also been reported from Russia. Other reports of operation include Columbia and Mexico.


Here are some useful operating techniques for the 5MHz channels:

1. Put the 5MHz channels in your transceiver memory, including the USB mode. If possible, also include narrow TX bandwidth,and the correct transmit power level.

2. Before transmitting, check your transceiver's calibration against a time/frequency reference signal such as WWV on 5000.000 kHz. Select a channel, check your power setting, lock your VFO dial, and lock your microphone "channel Up/Down" switch and keypad.

3. Use your RIT or receive clarifier to tune other stations in. Do not change your main VFO dial or transmit frequency unless you discover that you are out of calibration.

4. Avoid long auto-tuning or manual-tuning times if possible. Transmission of a carrier, especially zero-beat, is not allowed in some countries (such as USA).

5. Before starting to transmit, listen on the channel for at least 3 minutes. If it is vacant, start by just saying your callsign. Similar to VHF repeater operation, it is not necessary to call a long CQ. Just announcing your callsign (phonetically) and your location is sometimes enough to start up a contact.

6. If you have a very high receive noise level at your QTH, be very cautious about transmitting because you may be interfering with primary users or a QSO that is already in progress between amateurs.

7. Try to peacefully co-exist and share the channel with other stations talking in the background. Unlike other HF SSB ham bands, 5MHz is channelised and very limited. Don't insist upon a totally clear channel, because it is possible for there to be several layers of QSOs going on simultaneously in different areas on the same channel.

8. ID more often than you normally would. Once you establish contact, say your callsign and the callsign of station you are talking to. This will help a lot when there are multiple stations simultaneously using the same channel.

9. Avoid ragchewing. Use short transmissions, drag your feet between overs, and give everyone a chance to use the channels. Be open to other stations calling each other between gaps in your QSO.

10. There are many 5MHz channels around the world now, and the list is growing. Among regular 5MHz operators, the channels are often called by the last few digits in kiloHertz, such as "403.5" (meaning the dial frequency 5403.5kHz).


USA, here are the 5MHz FCC Rules:

"§97.303 (s) An amateur station having an operator holding a General, Advanced or Amateur Extra Class license may only transmit single sideband, suppressed carrier, (emission type 2K8J3E) upper sideband on the channels 5332 kHz, 5348 kHz, 5368 kHz, 5373 kHz, and 5405 kHz. Amateur operators shall ensure that their transmission occupies only the 2.8 kHz centered around each of these frequencies. Transmissions shall not exceed an effective radiated power (e.r.p) of 50 W PEP. For the purpose of computing e.r.p. the transmitter PEP will be multiplied with the antenna gain relative to a dipole or the equivalent calculation in decibels. A half wave dipole antenna will be presumed to have a gain of 0 dBd. Licensees using other antennas must maintain in their station records either manufacturer data on the antenna gain or calculations of the antenna gain. No amateur station shall cause harmful interference to stations authorized in the mobile and fixed services; nor is any amateur station protected from interference due to the operation of any such station."

USA FCC "Emergency Communications Declaration" information for USA emergency net operators using 5MHz:

In 2004, the FCC changed its general policy for issuing Emergency Communications Declarations (ECD) on Amateur Radio Service frequencies. ECDs typically are issued to temporarily protect certain frequencies for emergency net use only. The policy says that ECDs may now be issued for one or two 5MHz channels and/or VHF/UHF frequencies. Prior to this policy, ECDs typically were issued during weather-related and wildfire emergencies for frequencies in the 75 and 40 meter bands. The FCC also said that frequencies in other Amateur Service bands where emergency nets already have been established may be used during emergencies under the provisions of rule §97.101c (which stipulates that Amateur Radio Service operators give priority to stations providing emergency communications at all times and on all frequencies).

5MHz interference from BPL and HomePlug transmitters:

Some Broadband Over Power Line (BPL) and in-building powerline communications systems (PLCs) use HF and low VHF spectrum for transmitting signals which radiate in the general area of the power lines. Some of these systems have voluntarily conformed to the HomePlug standard which uses "spectrum notches" in most of the HF ham bands in their effort to mitigate some of the interference they cause to hams. However, the existing HomePlug standard does not provide spectrum notches for the 5MHz channels. The USA FCC requires that any new BPL systems have the capability to notch out frequencies whenever they generate interference to licensed services. However, in practice, it is has been difficult to get BPL systems to deal with interference complaints.

For reference purposes, here is a list of the USA FCC-authorized BPL (Broadband over Power Lines) transmitting bands for USA

1.705 MHz to 2.850 MHz (160m Amateur Radio Service)
3.025 MHz to 3.400 kHz
3.500 MHz to 4.650 MHz (80m Amateur Radio Service)
4.700 MHz to 5.450 MHz (60m Amateur Radio Service)
5.680 MHz to 6.525 MHz
6.685 MHz to 8.815 MHz (40m Amateur Radio Service)
8.965 MHz to 10.005 MHz
10.100 MHz to 11.275 MHz (30m Amateur Radio Service)
11.400 MHz to 13.260 MHz
13.360 MHz to 17.900 MHz (20m Amateur Radio Service)
17.970 MHz to 21.924 MHz (17m,15m Amateur Radio Service)
22.000 MHz to 74.800 MHz (12m,10m,6m Amateur Radio Service)
75.200 to 80.000 MHz

Note:
It is certainly not my intention to turn this into a BPL discussion. The above information about BPL is only provided as a reference guide for those who are using 5MHz and experience interference from BPL.

If anyone has other information about 5MHz operation in any country, that you think should be included in future 5MHz updates, please post the information to this forum or send it to me by direct email. For those who are interested in staying more informed or participating in further discussions about changes in 5MHz internationally, I also moderate the international 5MHz (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/5mhz/)group on Yahoogroups.

73---Bonnie KQ6XA




.

[nf0a]

Hmmmmm, Sound like a good band to listen in while I hope its intended purpose is respected....

[kb7uxe]

isn't that incorrect :
Quote[/b] ]3) USA: Only USB voice with 2.8kHz bandwidth is authorized in USA for all General class or higher licensees, using the equivalent of 50 Watts into a dipole

I thought it was 50watts ERP.. 50 watts into a dipole would be too much as a dipole is 2.1db gain ( not computing coax loss ) ...

Prolly just me thinking too much.. I need a rest now...

[wa5znu]

Bonnie's right: the rules state relative to a dipole, not an isotropic radiator.

The ARRL 60m FAQ (http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/faq-60.html) explains:
Quote[/b] ]Transmissions shall not exceed an effective radiated power (ERP) of 50 W PEP.

For the purpose of computing ERP, the transmitter PEP will be multiplied with the antenna gain relative to a dipole or the equivalent calculation in decibels.

A half-wave dipole antenna will be presumed to have a gain of 0 dBd.

Licensees using other antennas must maintain in their station records either manufacturer data on the antenna gain or calculations of the antenna gain.

[KQ6XA]

I look forward to more QSOs with operators on 5MHz.
I tend to use channel 371.5 most often.

Don't overlook the chance to catch some quick contacts for interesting DX on 5MHz. During the night, the propagation on 5MHz often has the long distance qualities of 40 meters, but without the Shortwave Broadcast QRM. I've worked coast-to-coast in USA, Alaska, Hawaii, Maritime Mobiles, and islands in the Pacific. I've even worked crossband to New Zealand.

In the morning before noon, and from late afternoon to sunset, it is great for working local and regional NVIS.

It isn't surprising why so many other radio services use 5MHz for communications. The unique propagation makes it one of the most valuable parts of the HF spectrum.

73---Bonnie KQ6XA

[KC9ECI]

If I wanted to operate on channels, I'd buy something made by Uniden.

[KB5WX]

Quote[/b] (KC9ECI @ Dec. 19 2005,17:56)]If I wanted to operate on channels, I'd buy something made by Uniden.
Ditto !!!!! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

[KC0OFZ]

Well, channel or not I have worked them and put South Dakota on the map. #It seems to be a popular contact too as some are suprised that anyone is unfrozen up here (sometimes I wonder myself).

As Bonnie said ( I agree here totally, wow) I put the exact frequency in the memory of the radio including all settings. #The only setting I have to watch is power. #On the FT-847 I need to adjust that manually. #I #have a note displayed so I can read it. #It says "50 watts max you dummy on 60 meters." #It makes the point and helps me remember to follow the rules.
Get on and enjoy it channels or not is is fun so warm up the finals and have a blast
KC0OFZ

[G8ADD]

I don't see TF mentioned above but Icelandic stations have also been worked on FE (5398.5).

The band often seems to be open in the evening here due to sporadic E.

73 and Happy Xmas

Brian G8ADD

[KQ6XA]

Quote[/b] (G8ADD @ Dec. 20 2005,03:00)]I don't see TF mentioned above but Icelandic stations have also been worked on FE (5398.5).
Brian G8ADD

Hi Brian,

Thanks for the reminder.
Iceland has 8 channels (http://www.ira.is/frettir/frettir20050907_2.html)of SSB/CW on 5MHz with 100Watts.
I have updated the list to include the Iceland channels.

Bonnie KQ6XA

[ad5td]

My personal opinion, it's just too much trouble for five "channels" at low power. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

[kc2egl]

Quote[/b] (AI4FP @ Dec. 19 2005,18:11)]Quote[/b] (KC9ECI @ Dec. 19 2005,17:56)]If I wanted to operate on channels, I'd buy something made by Uniden.
Ditto #!!!!! # #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif
The reason for this band being channelized is because we are not primary users. Ham's are secondary users of the band.

[K3XR]

Operate on the band often, it is a little different but in a positive way. Nice to be able to work the stations in the UK from time to time with 50 wtts, or less. #For those that have no interest in the band, thanks, that means more room for those of us that do enjoy it. #

I would propose we take the old novice bands and apply a similar channel arrangement and power level and perhaps add additional modes.

[n4kz]

Excellent compliation of 5 MHz information. Good stuff to have and know. There does seem to be some hope in the future of expanded amateur privileges on 5 MHz for those of us in the U.S. Some federal agencies asked ARRL to make a proposal for expanded amateur operations. ARRL President Jim Haynie told me this at Dayton in response to my question about the future of 5 MHz operation. And this was months before amateur radio's place in the spotlight as a result of the Gulf Coast disasters -- situations that are bound to have strengthened our position in gaining more at 5 MHz.

I asked Jim what was on the table -- more frequencies, modes or power. He said, "All of the above." It's not possible to predict what might happen and when but potential for more amateur privileges in the U.S. on 60 meters would appear good.
73, Dave, N4KZ

[k2gw]

>>If I wanted to operate on channels, I'd buy something made by Uniden.

I guess we won't be hearing you on any Amateur VHF or UHF Repeaters, then ;-) #

Sometimes channelization is necessary. #In this case, it allows us to use an interesting area of HF spectrum while it's still used by other services. #The long term goal is to get an amateur band in this part of the spectrum, but we have to prove we can follow rules first.

Nice article, Bonnie!

73

Gary, K2GW

[wi7b]

Good article and summation on where 5 Mhz is today. #For me, that band brings out the best in radio amateurs. #Most times, they're considerate and respectful of their fellow hams - and the primary users. #Not always, but on occasion someone casually jumps in to act as a de facto net control if conditions warrant it.

I noted your list of "etiquette points." #However, I think it simply gets down to something like the FISTS motto "Accuracy over speed; Courtesy at all times". #That's 60m.

73,

---* Ken

[na4it]

The folks that argue about the channels need to look at things a little differently.

Do you talk on any repeaters? Then you are talking on a "channel". A "channel" or "fixed frequency" was assigned to a particular repeater. The repeater owner has to operate within the frequency he is assigned. He cannot move without recoordination. Even some coordinating bodies refer to repeater "pair" as "channels". They even use the term "co-channel separation" in coordinating new and existing repeaters.

Also, it is a good bet that if you operate on repeaters, you have the repeater input and output frequencies as well as any CTCSS or other tone in a memory in your radio. Then, that memory becomes in effect a "channel" or "fixed freqeuncy".

So therefore, that argument over "channels" is ridiculous. I bet some of you even have your favorite HF freqeuncies in memories in you HF rig. And you probably never touch the VFO while on the frequency in that memory. Guess what? You are operating on a "fixed frequency" or "channel".

I hope that explains it.

Here is another thought. Go to your favorite "fixed frequency", "channel", or memory and move your vfo off a few KHz and see what happens. I bet the first thing you'll hear is that "your off frequency". Guess what else? To stop hearing that, you are going to have to get back on frequency.

So channelization really didn't stop with amateur radio. It just got a little more technical, and the FCC or NITA trusts you to make sure you radio is operating on a correct frequency and mode.

In other words, the trust you to act like you have "technical expertise".

And as for 60M, I enjoy it. It's nice not to hear a KW being used to talk 100 miles when it only takes 50W.

73, NA4IT

[N2ACX]

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif I don't see the problem with 60 meters being "channelized" ......so what. What is this stigma over "Channels just because the CB band has always had them? Well I believe that 99.9% of all military equipment is chanellized. Lots of HF gear switches in 1khz steps.

I use 60M and like it. The FCC has allowed it, therefore I will use it. It's no big deal, just follow the rules which are pathetically simple and you can have a good time on it.

For those who don't like it......Whew!!! thank you.....thats just makes it less crowded and more pleasant to operate.

Running 50 watts ERP.......Hmmmmmmm, seems some feel that anything less than 2 KW is an embarrassment or something. Many hams are having a great time with a 100 Watts and less and I have never and most likely will never run an amplifier. I had a choice years ago buy 2 or three Alpha Amps or a large musical instrument I elected to spend about $14,000 on that, and just keep using my 100 Watt transciever, Tuner, and home-made dipole's and long wire which some may concider a modest station.

I don't have to be the biggest guy on the block to have a great time in amateur radio and personally I would welcome a 500W maximum for all bands, and let the hams use their expertise in making their antennas more efficient.

I have a great time with 100W or less and the 50W ERP on 60 meters works well, the UK gets to run a 100W on Channel 5 but that only represents maybe one "S" unit anyway.
Channels in new allocations or continuious tuning........makes no difference to me,I will enjoy both of them.
73 and whatever you operate..... 5 watts or a kilowatt, just have fun doing it and be courteous.

73 Gary N2ACX

[N0FQN]

I guess the military NEED there radios "channelized". Makes it easier for the simple minded. Must prove too difficult if it had a VFO.

[aa5te]

Quote[/b] (N0FQN @ Dec. 20 2005,19:05)]I guess the military NEED there radios "channelized". Makes it easier for the simple minded. Must prove too difficult if it had a VFO.
I hope all of that was a joke.

[wr8y]

Quote[/b] (N0FQN @ Dec. 19 2005,20:05)]I guess the military NEED there radios "channelized". Makes it easier for the simple minded. Must prove too difficult if it had a VFO.
Ok, YOU try operating a backpack radio using a VFO, a list of frequencies, a telescopic antenna; and keep your head down while being shot at.

Our military is NOT comprised of a bunch of simpletons.

[K2WH]

Quote[/b] (KC0OFZ @ Dec. 19 2005,16:17)]Well, channel or not I have worked them and put South Dakota on the map. #It seems to be a popular contact too as some are suprised that anyone is unfrozen up here (sometimes I wonder myself).

As Bonnie said ( I agree here totally, wow) I put the exact frequency in the memory of the radio including all settings. #The only setting I have to watch is power. #On the FT-847 I need to adjust that manually. #I #have a note displayed so I can read it. #It says "50 watts max you dummy on 60 meters." #It makes the point and helps me remember to follow the rules.
Get on and enjoy it channels or not is is fun so warm up the finals and have a blast
KC0OFZ
I would say without a doubt, the best rig for 60m is the FT-847. #I got one of these do everything radios on Ebay for about $ 1,000. #To my surprise, it was already modified and can transmit just about anywhere. #Most of the memory channels were loaded with 27mhz frequencies. #Can anyone guess who had the radio before me?

The rig is very happy on 60 meters. #I currently have 7 countries confirmed and all 50 states using a dipole up about 80 feet. I'm also using a 5kw amplifier with soft tubes so the output is about 50 watts. Also perfect for the band.

This band has wonderful DX capabilities day or night.

K2WH

[aa5te]

Quote[/b] (wr8y @ Dec. 21 2005,08:03)]Quote[/b] (N0FQN @ Dec. 19 2005,20:05)]I guess the military NEED there radios "channelized". Makes it easier for the simple minded. Must prove too difficult if it had a VFO.
Ok, YOU try operating a backpack radio using a VFO, a list of frequencies, a telescopic antenna; and keep your head down while being shot at.

Our military is NOT comprised of a bunch of simpletons.
I was giving him a chance to clarify before attacking.

I was in the Navy, and am used to the comments that existed well before I entered about anyone in the military being simple minded, although they were usually in a joking format with appropriate clarification.

N0FQN?

[wr8y]

I don't consider my post to be an attack, but a defense.

But I understand your point.

[wx5nco]

Has anyone modified an Icom 718 for 60 Meters? I see that a mod is available. I'd like to see if anyone else has done it without any problems. Reason being, it took me a while to save the $$$ to get that rig. I'd hate to do the mod for the band and end up hurting the rig.
Jon
WX5NCO

[K8YZK]

I have listened and tried to operate on 60 meters not long after it became available, plus some since. I have found it to be a lot like 75 meters at night, the good ole boy network, and this was on 5371.5, the main HFPACK hangout. Maybe it was just the time of day etc but I have a radio that has different bands and a vfo so I use it and go some place else.

Now for the comment about military and channels instead of a vfo, try running with a radio strapped to your back, or even walking with one. I spent 20+ years in the Army Signal Corp and the comment was and is a very cheap shot.

73
Kurt
US Army Retired

[ab6mh]

Quote[/b] (N0FQN @ Dec. 20 2005,19:05)]I guess the military NEED there radios "channelized". Makes it easier for the simple minded. Must prove too difficult if it had a VFO.
Hmmm, does not even deserve a comment. He's already made an ass out of himself! (He he he)

[W0LPQ]

TE: Think it was a simple cheap shot. Early military systems (SSB)were compised of either the Collins KWS-1/S-1/S-3/M-1/M-2 or Eldico lines. LeMay had the KWM-1 in his C-118.

With the advent of closer tolerances, the URG-I/URG-II series was developed by Collins. Airborne use had primarily the ARC-58 and/or 618T series. KWT-6/GRC-86 was ground station use. All of these radios were 1 Khz dial increments. Commericial airborne used either the 618T or the newer 718U-X series. Again all were 1Khz increments. To this day, the SAC HFSSB Network stations are all on .00 frequencies.

What FQN fails to realize that frequencies are assigned and it is a whole bumch easier to dial in the frequency, much as you now do with the keypads on Icoms or Kenwoods or Yaesu's. As has been said, set a frequency into memory and it becomes a memory channel.

Big deal....you don't like "channels" go somewhere else.

As someone, like a lot of you, who has spent time in the military, I find FQN's cheap shot bothersome.

Bill, W0LPQ

[K3TJ]

Bill, Don't forget the wonderful KWM-2A amd 30L-1 :-) #but thats not what the thread is about.

FQN took a shot that simply reminds me of a line in the movie, Spaced Invaders. The little girl looked up and said "They're not dangerous..... just stupid". But thats not what the thread is about, either.

As a military op, I admit, we use designated frequencies that some would call "channels". If you ever have to call an air strike, you want that plane on frequency designator x, NOT plus or minus 5 Khz. Just like hams, we are frequency agile but we are all on the right frequency. #Same with the amateur 5 mhz frequencies. If you call that a "channel" so be it.

Enough said,

Respectfully, Ed k3tj

[W5EN]

Quote[/b] (K2WH @ Dec. 21 2005,08:08)]The rig is very happy on 60 meters. #I currently have 7 countries confirmed and all 50 states using a dipole up about 80 feet. #I'm also using a 5kw amplifier with soft tubes so the output is about 50 watts. #Also perfect for the band.

This band has wonderful DX capabilities day or night.

K2WH
Did I see this right, a 5 KW amplifier, with soft tubes that now gives you 50 watts??? You are not serious, right?? Does that make it an "active" pad??

[ei3io]

Hi You may be interested to see the following footnote from the Bangladesh national allocation table:

BGD4 Additional Allocation: In Bangladesh the band 5250 - 5310 kHz is allocated nationally to the amateur service on a secondary basis for propagation experiments. Stations of the amateur service in Bangladesh shall operate under the conditions of No.4.4 of the ITU Radio Regulations. Such stations shall not cause harmful interference to stations of other administrations operating in accordance with Article 5 of the ITU Radio Regulations.

73s Dave EI3IO

[KQ6XA]

Quote[/b] (ei3io @ Dec. 22 2005,02:17)]
BGD4 Additional Allocation: In Bangladesh the band 5250 - 5310 kHz is allocated nationally to the amateur service on a secondary basis for propagation experiments.
73s Dave EI3IO
Hi Dave,
Thank you for the information about the Bangladesh 5MHz amateur band. I have not been to Bangladesh since working there 26 years ago as a communications consultant with World Bank. I couldn't find any hams there at that time! The electric power in Dacca was quite undependable then, and scarce everywhere else. I still "fondly remember" making our way with a trunkful of radio gear by land rover, boat, and through the water hyacinth-choked backwaters of the Ganges in a dugout canoe to Srinagar.

Perhaps there are a few more hams there now to take advantage of such a good 5MHz band. I see the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission has a new program to put telephone in every village by 2006... and all kinds of internet services in other places. How the world has changed!

Here is the document with the Bangladesh amateur listing in it:
Bangladesh Frequency Allocations (http://www.btrc.org.bd/final-nfap-v3-1.pdf)
http://www.btrc.org.bd/final-nfap-v3-1.pdf

Bonnie KQ6XA

[k2gw]

Quote[/b] (N0FQN @ Dec. 20 2005,19:05)]I guess the military NEED there radios "channelized". Makes it easier for the simple minded. Must prove too difficult if it had a VFO.
I suspect you didn't serve in the military. #A VFO would be "difficult" but not because of operator skill levels.

Usually the military has the need to talk to a specific person immediately, so having predesignated frequencies (or channels, if you will) for different purposes and units is an absolute necessary. #

I don't think I'd want to randomly tune up and down a band of frequencies calling CQ and hoping to find an artillery unit when I need a fire support mission right now!

73

Gary, K2GW

[K3TJ]

Gary, k2gw

I can see it now...... cq firebase lima.....

Geez "LT" they should be somewhere on this band...

cq firebase lima...

Amen, Brother.

Respectfully, Ed k3tj

[W0LPQ]

2GW, that is what I said on page 3 of this tirade..! Sheesh.

Ed, TJ: Yep M-2/2A and 30L were around in a few spots that I can think of.

Griswold, LeMay started this with the KWS-1 and eventually the KWM-1 in the C-118. That lead to the development of "cough ... cough" channelized radios. For the uninitiated, channelized radios are those who tune in 1Khz steps ... like Collins and many others now days for airborne use. Our Collins HF-9000 (Fiber Optic Controlled system) was one of the first that would allow 100 hz steps. The companion ARC-190/HF-190 was the same.

Cheap shot by someone who has no idea what military HF operations are like.

Bill, W0LPQ

[wn9ddv]

I just got my RagChewer's certificate from SPAR for a QSO on 60 meters with k8FM that lasted an hour!!!! We rag chewed and had no interference and no one wanting to use the channel. Richard wn9ddv http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[WA5BEN]

Quote[/b] (W0LPQ @ Dec. 22 2005,19:13)]2GW, that is what I said on page 3 of this tirade..! Sheesh.

Ed, TJ: Yep M-2/2A and 30L were around in a few spots that I can think of.

Griswold, LeMay started this with the KWS-1 and eventually the KWM-1 in the C-118. That lead to the development of "cough ... cough" channelized radios. For the uninitiated, channelized radios are those who tune in 1Khz steps ... like Collins and many others now days for airborne use. Our Collins HF-9000 (Fiber Optic Controlled system) was one of the first that would allow 100 hz steps. The companion ARC-190/HF-190 was the same.

Cheap shot by someone who has no idea what military HF operations are like.

Bill, W0LPQ
I have worked with the Special Forces manpack radio that goes 2 MHz to 80 MHz. It allows selection by memory or direct entry, and can go on ALL frequencies -- including amateur. It does SSB, CW, FSK, FM, and fast frequency hopping. On FM, it is compatible with the PRC-77. It is compatible with COMSEC on VHF, and can use the standard military tactical analog scrambler on other modes.

One heck of a manpack radio! All of the Special Forces are trained in the use of this radio, and it does take some knowledge to get everything right.

Now, there are also some short-range spread-spectrum radios for close tactical team communications

Regarding "Channelized Operation":

The nets on 7213, 7285, 7290, etc. are "channelized" operations, if you want to be picky. If you don't want to be on an "assigned frequency", don't operate 5 MHz -- or any of the various nets on 75, 40, 20, or 15 meters. And don't get on a repeater, or on 146.52 simplex. And don't answer that guy calling CQ, because he is on a frequency that you have to match -- so it's a "channel". Gee, I guess you just can't operate, because EVERY frequency is a "channel".

Who gives a rip whether a station is using a VFO, a 1 KHz tuning step, or a "rock"?

[K4SFC]

Since the majority of stations with amplifiers on HF, are too dumb to space themselves 3.0 kc's (khz-whatever) apart. I pray that ALL frequencies will be channelized someday. And if you quit radio because of it, I won't miss you. 7.258 Mid-Cars, 7.255 East-Cars & 7.251 South-Cars are constantly QRM-d. And they have been providing worthwhile service for many, many years. Yet you jerks with amps get one kc away and "let the QRM Roll"! When people got too dumb to cross the street, government painted cross-walks and give tickets if you don't use them. Personally I love the 60M set up. Now I'm not bothered by the people that can't count to three. BUT THEY ARE SMART ENOUGH TO GET A AMATEUR LICENSE UNDER THE NEW SYSTEM.

[K1MVP]

Quote[/b] (K4SFC @ Dec. 28 2005,09:32)]Since the majority of stations with amplifiers on HF, are too dumb to space themselves 3.0 kc's (khz-whatever) apart. I pray that ALL frequencies will be channelized someday. And if you quit radio because of it, I won't miss you. 7.258 Mid-Cars, 7.255 East-Cars & 7.251 South-Cars are constantly QRM-d. And they have been providing worthwhile service for many, many years. Yet you jerks with amps get one kc away and "let the QRM Roll"! When people got too dumb to cross the street, government painted cross-walks and give tickets if you don't use them. Personally I love the 60M set up. Now I'm not bothered by the people that can't count to three. BUT THEY ARE SMART ENOUGH TO GET A AMATEUR LICENSE UNDER THE NEW SYSTEM.
As far as Mid cars, East cars, and South cars providing
a worthwhile "service",--that might have been true at
one time, BUT whether they do nowaday`s is another matter,IMO.
As far as people who can`t count to three being "smart
enough" to get a ham ticket,--don`t worry,--with the
"new" requirements being proposed, that scenario is
right around the corner.
# # # # # # # # # # # # # # 73, K1MVP

[ke6i]

Quote[/b] ]nce the majority of stations with amplifiers on HF, are too dumb to space themselves 3.0 kc's (khz-whatever) apart. I pray that ALL frequencies will be channelized someday.

Imo, more than often this is due to people not being able to hear because of noise. In Berkeley here in the SF Bay area I have high noise levels, and sometimes, well, if I don't hear anything I just call CQ. Cities are just getting noisier, and in the future you're going to have more and more people who can't hear anything aside from loud stations.

Aside from this, haven't hams been fighting wars over nets forever? Seems to be there are guys who sit where a net is going to be, and they say the nets are jamming them, and then the nets say the guys plopping down on their frequency are jamming the nets. The 'ham radio turf war' is part of the hobby I guess.

[N2MMM]

Quote[/b] (N0FQN @ Dec. 20 2005,19:05)]I guess the military NEED there radios "channelized". Makes it easier for the simple minded. Must prove too difficult if it had a VFO.
I think that your post is born of ignorance. I never served in the military but the fact is that those who need to communicate WITHOUT FAIL. need a system they can turn on and talk into the mike and get what they need to accomplish the mission. In many cases establishing communications QUICKLY is a matter of LIFE AND DEATH. Channelization and ALE take the sport out of radio but at the same time make radio a nation saving tool for our military. As for 5 Mhz, I'd rather have channels than no priviledges there at all. Oh, and BTW, I'm no Bush supporter either and I think you should retract your sinple minded post. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

[wa8mea]

Now....when is MFJ going to come out with a single band "Adventure Radio" just for the 60 meter band??? This is a great opportunity for some small U.S. business like MFJ, Ten-Tec or Elecraft to come up with a "single bander" for those of us who don't yet have access to 60 meters.

73, Bill - WA8MEA
http://HamRadioFun.com

[ke4sky]

The 60 Meters EmCOm Yahoo discussion group is for amateur radio and other users interested in the shared allocations of the 60 meter or 5 MHz band. The group encourages discussion in the potential of this band for supporting of emergency communications in the upper sideband phone, channelized mode, as well as its use for mobile and portable operations.

Amateurs in the Eastern USA are invited to check into the Mid-Atlantic Emergency Net, held once monthly on the FIRST WEDNESDAY of every month at 2000 hours, Eastern Time on 5330.5 USB as the primary working frequency and 5346.5 USB as the alternate if the primary is busy or noisy. #Net time is limited to 30 minutes and is intended primarily to check coverage, exchange signal reports, informal comments and technical information. #

For more information visit #http://groups.yahoo.com/group/60Meters_EmCom/

[WA4RYW]

Quote[/b] (kb7uxe @ Dec. 19 2005,19:31)]isn't that #incorrect :
Quote[/b] ]3) USA: Only USB voice with 2.8kHz bandwidth is authorized in USA for all General class or higher licensees, using the equivalent of 50 Watts into a dipole

I thought it was 50watts ERP.. 50 watts into a dipole would be too much as a dipole is 2.1db gain ( not computing coax loss ) ...

Prolly just me thinking too much.. #I need a rest now...
I believe the rule was referenced to dBd, not dBi. So 50 watts ERP would be the same as 50 watts into a dipole.

[VQ9LA]

Quote[/b] (N0FQN @ Dec. 20 2005,19:05)]I guess the military NEED there radios "channelized". Makes it easier for the simple minded. Must prove too difficult if it had a VFO.
Navy taught me to proofread a message before being sent.
I guess the military Need there Radios???
Do you mean?
I guess the Military Need their Radios???

This retired simple-minded Squid pick up your simple
Mistake.

Put your Favorite net in your HF radio's memory and use
It makes your radio Channelized.
Would love to see some poor GI have to Tune 20 Receivers with a VFO that would sure be a waste
Of time. The Harris R-2368/URR receiver has both a VFO and Memories. Most Operators prefer using the Channelized Memories to QSY the Radio.
Enjoy 60mtrs it is more HF Radio spectrum than you
had 5 years ago.
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
Hope to hear all the DXers on 160mtr CW 73 from Chagos
Larry

[wg0w]

Many thanks for this info. I've been inactive for several
years, so this is a new 'band' for me to get familiar with.
When and if I get the rig(s) unpacked, I wonder if any
will let me set these freq's in without modification. It
will be interesting to find out. Best wishes, Joe

[G0DJA]

For anyone interested in propogation on 5MHz, the UK has three beacons on 5.290 MHz. These transmit, in turn, on the hour, quarter past, half past and quarter to the hour.

The callsigns, in order of transmission, are GB3RAL (Rutherford-Appleton Laboratory in Oxford), GB3WES in Cumbria (North West England) and GB3ORK in the Orkney Iles (North Scotland).

Each transmits its callsign, followed by 9 steps of -6dBW per step. This is repeated and a 0.5mS pulse sequence at a prf of 40Hz is sent at the end of the transmission. This last transmission is similar to that used by ionosonds and is being used by some Amateurs to plot ionospheric heights of reflections.

There are more details, and a program for automatically monitoring the beacons, at RSGB Spectrum Forum (http://www.rsgb-spectrumforum.org.uk/5mhz%20beacons.htm)

If you want to see online results of monitoring these beacons, go to the G4IRX (http://g4irx.nowindows.net/fivemegs/comparison.php) website.

de Dave (G0DJA)

[K4JF]

Actually, a "channel" is a specific operating frequency assigned by the regulating agency (FCC in the U.S.). The only amateur band fitting that definition is 5 Mhz. Period. Repeater frequencies are not channels. They are specified by hams for hams, and are referenced by frequency, not "channel numbers". They may be "channelized", that is, fitting a pattern, but they are not channels. (You'll never hear: "Is your repeater on channel 3 or 12?")

[KD8CDP]

Sounds cool can't wait to have the privlages to work those (channels http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif ) Almost have the code learned. Kc0ofz, how do you like the FT847? I love my FT857!
73 for now
Kd8cdp-gordo