MCLIC
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Morganville, N.J. 07751-0008
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In many parts of the country and the world where FM repeaters and simplex was being under utilized, VoIP has injected new life and caught the interest and imagination of old, new and future Amateurs alike.
Recently even the FCC's Mr. Hollingsworth pointed to Voice over Internet Protocols (VoIP) applications such as EchoLink and IRLP as an example. While some have questioned their legality--or even whether they constitute Amateur Radio--his opinion was that these were helping to rejuvenate interest in Amateur Radio and even helping to bring some people back into the hobby. For full details click here.
This highly cost effective means of linking repeater systems has not yet been directly addressed in FCC Part 97 rules. However there are many aspects of the current rules which limit how VoIP systems such as Echolink, IRLP and others may be configured and controlled.
The ARRL published an article in the February 2003 QST beginning on page 44 titled "VoIP and Amateur Radio" that details the various VoIP systems currently in use and the legalities of the subject. It can be found at: http://www.arrl.org/qst/2003/02/VoIP.pdf.
Here in New Jersey we now VoIP access on a number of repeater systems implemented in accordance with FCC Part 97.
However, we have also come across some implementations that do NOT meet FCC Part 97 rules.
Regarding any VoIP implementation below 1.25 meters, if the VoIP interface is not hung directly off a repeater controller at the VoIP server location, any form of linking using RF, MUST utilize frequencies at or above 222Mhz unless a control operator that is ALWAYS at the VoIP server is the only person to command and control the VoIP connection.
This is a true for all Simplex VoIP systems as well. You CANNOT setup a VoIP simlpex server on a 2 meter or lower frequency and leave it unattended.
You can not set up a 2 meter VoIP server using 2 meters and a 2 meter repeater and leave it unattended.
As all remote control is auxiliary control being performed, ONLY the control operator at the VoIP server can be in control unless proper auxiliary control frequencies and/or systems are in place.
For more information please refer to FCC Parts:
§97.113, §97.119, §97.201 and §97.213
MCLIC
U.S. Post Office Box 8
Morganville, N.J. 07751-0008
To send us e-mail Click Here.
You are visitor number since 10/17/02