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#41
Digital Voice / Yaesu FT1D/FT1XD: Tips on exte...
Last post by DU2XXR - Oct 03, 2023, 02:53 PMTL;DR Running digital/AMS and APRS at the same time takes a big chunk of battery juice.
I'm back to using my FT1XD as my primary radio. More accurately, I'm using my FT1XD and FT1D. Coming from the FT3D, I'm now beginning to appreciate the battery life of the FT3D more, because it's the thriftiest of the Yaesu digital radios, at least on paper, as we discussed here before.
I used to complain about the FT1 platform's battery life after being spoiled by my FT3D, which I used as my primary HT for over a year. But I may have spoken too soon. I was comparing the battery performance between FT1(XD) and FT3D with APRS turned on full time, as well as with digital/AMS standby in the A band.
With APRS on, I initially tried having digital/AMS turned off on the A band, and it resulted in some improvements. After all, based on specs, the FT1 consumed the most additional current when digital/AMS is turned on, at +65mA, compared with +20mA with the FT2, +6mA with the FT3, and +3mA on the FT5!
However, I realize that when both APRS (on band B) and digital/AMS are turned on in the FT1 (on band A), there was excessive consumption, and the radio became too warm even just on standby. It's not scientific (I was not able to measure current) but more of an observation. Thus, a fully-charged SBR-14Li would run out in around 8hours or even less.
I discovered that even on dual-RX and with digital/AMS turned on, battery life was significantly longer with the FT1(XD), for as long as APRS was turned off.
Having APRS probably resulted in the biggest hit on the battery, because the RX save feature was automatically rendered useless with APRS. The radio's receiver needed to always be on standby to receive APRS packets (whereas with APRS turned off, "RX save" only wakes up the receiver every XX ms and wakes up full-time when there is a signal received).
And probaly because standby was always ON when APRS is turned on, the additional load from digital standby on the DSP became an added culprit for heavy battery usage (that's the +65mA as per spec).
So my conclusion, having BOTH digtal/AMS and APRS takes a big hit on the battery. Having only one - either digital (plus dual RX on the B band) OR analog on the A band plus APRS will not be so bad.
My solution now is that I use my FT1D for voice - our Fusion repeater on the A band and our 2 meter FM on the B band or for crossbanding when I am near my home. And I use my FT1XD primarly for APRS, sometimes using the A band for analog.
By the way, I'm using the vinyl case on both radios, as some of my batteries have their tabs broken off, and the case holds them secure against the radio. It's not as good as buying new batteries, but I have a handful of SBR-14Li that still perform well except for having broken tabs.
I'm back to using my FT1XD as my primary radio. More accurately, I'm using my FT1XD and FT1D. Coming from the FT3D, I'm now beginning to appreciate the battery life of the FT3D more, because it's the thriftiest of the Yaesu digital radios, at least on paper, as we discussed here before.
I used to complain about the FT1 platform's battery life after being spoiled by my FT3D, which I used as my primary HT for over a year. But I may have spoken too soon. I was comparing the battery performance between FT1(XD) and FT3D with APRS turned on full time, as well as with digital/AMS standby in the A band.
With APRS on, I initially tried having digital/AMS turned off on the A band, and it resulted in some improvements. After all, based on specs, the FT1 consumed the most additional current when digital/AMS is turned on, at +65mA, compared with +20mA with the FT2, +6mA with the FT3, and +3mA on the FT5!
However, I realize that when both APRS (on band B) and digital/AMS are turned on in the FT1 (on band A), there was excessive consumption, and the radio became too warm even just on standby. It's not scientific (I was not able to measure current) but more of an observation. Thus, a fully-charged SBR-14Li would run out in around 8hours or even less.
I discovered that even on dual-RX and with digital/AMS turned on, battery life was significantly longer with the FT1(XD), for as long as APRS was turned off.
Having APRS probably resulted in the biggest hit on the battery, because the RX save feature was automatically rendered useless with APRS. The radio's receiver needed to always be on standby to receive APRS packets (whereas with APRS turned off, "RX save" only wakes up the receiver every XX ms and wakes up full-time when there is a signal received).
And probaly because standby was always ON when APRS is turned on, the additional load from digital standby on the DSP became an added culprit for heavy battery usage (that's the +65mA as per spec).
So my conclusion, having BOTH digtal/AMS and APRS takes a big hit on the battery. Having only one - either digital (plus dual RX on the B band) OR analog on the A band plus APRS will not be so bad.
My solution now is that I use my FT1D for voice - our Fusion repeater on the A band and our 2 meter FM on the B band or for crossbanding when I am near my home. And I use my FT1XD primarly for APRS, sometimes using the A band for analog.
By the way, I'm using the vinyl case on both radios, as some of my batteries have their tabs broken off, and the case holds them secure against the radio. It's not as good as buying new batteries, but I have a handful of SBR-14Li that still perform well except for having broken tabs.
#42
General Radio Discussions / 66th JAMBOREE-ON-THE-AIR (JOTA...
Last post by DU2XXR - Oct 02, 2023, 06:39 PMBoy Scouts of the Philippines
National Office
181 Natividad Almeda-Lopez St., Ermita, 1000 Manila
PO Box 1378, Manila CPO, Philippines E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.scouts.org.ph
Tels: (632) 528 0555* 527 8317 to 20* Telefax: (632) 528 0577
LAGING HANDA
29 September 2023
NATIONAL OFFICE MEMORANDUM
Number 64, Series of 2023
TO
: REGIONAL SCOUT DIRECTORS, COUNCIL SCOUTS EXECUTIVES and OFFICERS-IN-CHARGE
SUBJECT
: 66th JAMBOREE-ON-THE-AIR (JOTA) and 27th JAMBOREE-ON-THE-INTERNET (JOTI)
1. The 66th Jamboree-On-The-Air (JOTA) and the 27th Jamboree-On-The-Internet (JOTI) will be held on third weekend of 20-22 October 2023. Starting Saturday 00:00H until Sunday 24:00H local time. Station can choose its own operating hours, including beginning on Friday at 00:00H, based on their local telecommunications regulations and authorization.
2. The Official Amateur Radio Club of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines is DX1BSP per approved
National Executive Board Resolution No. 53-2017, Series of 2017. DX1BSP shall be responsible
for the conduct of the JOTA,
3. The theme of the event will be "Clean Energy, Better World". The Jamboree is Fun Oriented with "Jamboree on the Air" facilitated via High Frequencies (HF) and Digital Voice Radio Communication as a Unique Element of the weekend. World network of computers for youth to partake in "Jamboree on the Internet". Get your login and do this from your own home.
JAMBOREE-ON-THE-AIR:
4. Amateur Radio Operators, interested professional Scouters, Local Chief Executive Boards and Scout Leaders engage as volunteers basic only, with local amateur radio clubs within their respective areas can join.
5. Attached is the copy of the proposed program for your reference and perusal. Moreover,
below are list of digital modes the participants can join:
LOCAL/PHILIPPINES:
ANALOG:
HF: 7.090 Opening Program, DX Calling Freq
VHF: 144.180 +600 PL 162.2 - DX1BSP Repeater (DU1 Stations)
VHF: 144.180 PL 162.2 Simplex (DU1 Stations)
DIGITAL MODES
DX1BSP DMR REPEATER
DMR TG: 515032
Allstar Link: 555190
YSF: PH DX1BSP
TX: 434.100 MHz
RX: 439.100 MHz
Other Digital Modes
Echolink: DX1BSP-L
Shift: 5.0 MHz
Droidstar: M17PHP Module S
Color Code 5 Slot 1
INTERNATIONAL:
Commonly used HF frequencies for Scouting events
Bands SSB (phone)
FREQUENCIES
CW (morse)
80 m
3.690 & 3.940
3.570 MHz
40 m
7.090 & 7.190 MHz
7.030 MHz
14.290 MHz
14.060 MHz
17 m
18.140 MHz
18.080 MHz
15 m
21.360 MHz
21.140 MHz
24.960 MHz
24.910 MHz
28.390 MHz
28.180 MHz
6 m
50.160 MHz
6 m 50.160 MHz
20 m
12 m
10 m
DIGITAL MODES
Echolink: JOTA-365
DMR:
A. BrandMeister
TG 907 will be used to let Scouts make contacts worldwide List of the different lounges reserved for JOTA on the Brandmeister network TG 907 - JOTA Call, when contact is established, you will have to go to one of
the chat rooms below:
TG 9071
JOTA Room 1 TG 9072 JOTA Room 3 TG 9074
JOTA Room 2
TG 9073
JOTA Room 4
TG 9075
JOTA Room 5 TG 9076
JOTA Room 6
TG 9077
JOTA Room 7 TG 9078
JOTA Room 8
TG 90737
JOTA French JOTA German
TG 90710
TG 235907
JOTA United Kingdom, in English
TG 272907
JOTA Ireland, in English
TG 250907
ЈОТА Russia, на Русском JOTA Portugal, em Português
TG 268907
TG 222907
JOTA Italy, in Italiano
TG 204907
JOTA The Netherlands, in het Nederlands
TG 50297
JOTA Malaysia, di Malaysia JOTA Malaysia, di Malaysia
TG 50298
TG 748907
JOTA Uruguay, en Español
TG 748918
JOTA Uruguay, en Español
TG 33457
JOTA Mexico, en Español
TG 724907
JOTA Brazil, em Português JOTA Germany, auf Deutsch
TG 263907
TG 918
YOTA Call (Only for young radio amateurs) when contact is established, you will have to move to another TG chat room to release TG 918
B. FreeDMR Network Hotspot or Local Repeater: TG907 & TG9071-9078
C4FM/Fusion:
ID: IT-RADIO Scouting DTFM ID: 87202
ID: N2TPA-ND 271432
DSTAR:
REF033A-D-STAR JOTA / Radio Scouting reflector XLX005J is linked to the FreeDMR TG907
6. All stations must operate strictly in accordance with the Philippine Amateur Radio
regulations and IATF Health Standard Protocols.
JAMBOREE-ON-THE-INTERNET
7. JOTI is an annual event in which Scouts and Guides from all corners of the world connect with each other through the internet. Digital signals carry their voices, pictures and messages all around the world. Connecting virtually with young people from other countries gives a feeling of the worldwide fellowship that Scouting is.
When is it?
JOTI 2023 runs from 20 to 22 October. During this time, the internet will be buzzing with communication between Scouts and Guides from different countries.
How to take part?
To take part in Jamboree-On-The-Internet and experience the excitement of connecting virtually with peers across the globe, you only need an internet connection and a computer or smartphone.
How to proceed?
Familiarize yourself with the programme ahead of time, to see, which activities
you will find interesting. During the JOTI weekend, take part in the activities, tune in to the live shows or
meet fellow Scouts on our different channels. https://www.jotajoti.info/programme
8. Please send Post-Activity pictorial report to the National Office on or before 17 November 2023, to form part of the JOTA/JOTI - After Action Report and 2024 Annual Report at the BSP National Office - Public Relations and Communications Office thru email at [email protected] and/or at [email protected] and to dx1bsp.national.office@gmail.com.
9. For guidance and compliance
DIOSDADO M. SAN ANTONIO OIC Secretary General
(text copied using OCR)
National Office
181 Natividad Almeda-Lopez St., Ermita, 1000 Manila
PO Box 1378, Manila CPO, Philippines E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.scouts.org.ph
Tels: (632) 528 0555* 527 8317 to 20* Telefax: (632) 528 0577
LAGING HANDA
29 September 2023
NATIONAL OFFICE MEMORANDUM
Number 64, Series of 2023
TO
: REGIONAL SCOUT DIRECTORS, COUNCIL SCOUTS EXECUTIVES and OFFICERS-IN-CHARGE
SUBJECT
: 66th JAMBOREE-ON-THE-AIR (JOTA) and 27th JAMBOREE-ON-THE-INTERNET (JOTI)
1. The 66th Jamboree-On-The-Air (JOTA) and the 27th Jamboree-On-The-Internet (JOTI) will be held on third weekend of 20-22 October 2023. Starting Saturday 00:00H until Sunday 24:00H local time. Station can choose its own operating hours, including beginning on Friday at 00:00H, based on their local telecommunications regulations and authorization.
2. The Official Amateur Radio Club of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines is DX1BSP per approved
National Executive Board Resolution No. 53-2017, Series of 2017. DX1BSP shall be responsible
for the conduct of the JOTA,
3. The theme of the event will be "Clean Energy, Better World". The Jamboree is Fun Oriented with "Jamboree on the Air" facilitated via High Frequencies (HF) and Digital Voice Radio Communication as a Unique Element of the weekend. World network of computers for youth to partake in "Jamboree on the Internet". Get your login and do this from your own home.
JAMBOREE-ON-THE-AIR:
4. Amateur Radio Operators, interested professional Scouters, Local Chief Executive Boards and Scout Leaders engage as volunteers basic only, with local amateur radio clubs within their respective areas can join.
5. Attached is the copy of the proposed program for your reference and perusal. Moreover,
below are list of digital modes the participants can join:
LOCAL/PHILIPPINES:
ANALOG:
HF: 7.090 Opening Program, DX Calling Freq
VHF: 144.180 +600 PL 162.2 - DX1BSP Repeater (DU1 Stations)
VHF: 144.180 PL 162.2 Simplex (DU1 Stations)
DIGITAL MODES
DX1BSP DMR REPEATER
DMR TG: 515032
Allstar Link: 555190
YSF: PH DX1BSP
TX: 434.100 MHz
RX: 439.100 MHz
Other Digital Modes
Echolink: DX1BSP-L
Shift: 5.0 MHz
Droidstar: M17PHP Module S
Color Code 5 Slot 1
INTERNATIONAL:
Commonly used HF frequencies for Scouting events
Bands SSB (phone)
FREQUENCIES
CW (morse)
80 m
3.690 & 3.940
3.570 MHz
40 m
7.090 & 7.190 MHz
7.030 MHz
14.290 MHz
14.060 MHz
17 m
18.140 MHz
18.080 MHz
15 m
21.360 MHz
21.140 MHz
24.960 MHz
24.910 MHz
28.390 MHz
28.180 MHz
6 m
50.160 MHz
6 m 50.160 MHz
20 m
12 m
10 m
DIGITAL MODES
Echolink: JOTA-365
DMR:
A. BrandMeister
TG 907 will be used to let Scouts make contacts worldwide List of the different lounges reserved for JOTA on the Brandmeister network TG 907 - JOTA Call, when contact is established, you will have to go to one of
the chat rooms below:
TG 9071
JOTA Room 1 TG 9072 JOTA Room 3 TG 9074
JOTA Room 2
TG 9073
JOTA Room 4
TG 9075
JOTA Room 5 TG 9076
JOTA Room 6
TG 9077
JOTA Room 7 TG 9078
JOTA Room 8
TG 90737
JOTA French JOTA German
TG 90710
TG 235907
JOTA United Kingdom, in English
TG 272907
JOTA Ireland, in English
TG 250907
ЈОТА Russia, на Русском JOTA Portugal, em Português
TG 268907
TG 222907
JOTA Italy, in Italiano
TG 204907
JOTA The Netherlands, in het Nederlands
TG 50297
JOTA Malaysia, di Malaysia JOTA Malaysia, di Malaysia
TG 50298
TG 748907
JOTA Uruguay, en Español
TG 748918
JOTA Uruguay, en Español
TG 33457
JOTA Mexico, en Español
TG 724907
JOTA Brazil, em Português JOTA Germany, auf Deutsch
TG 263907
TG 918
YOTA Call (Only for young radio amateurs) when contact is established, you will have to move to another TG chat room to release TG 918
B. FreeDMR Network Hotspot or Local Repeater: TG907 & TG9071-9078
C4FM/Fusion:
ID: IT-RADIO Scouting DTFM ID: 87202
ID: N2TPA-ND 271432
DSTAR:
REF033A-D-STAR JOTA / Radio Scouting reflector XLX005J is linked to the FreeDMR TG907
6. All stations must operate strictly in accordance with the Philippine Amateur Radio
regulations and IATF Health Standard Protocols.
JAMBOREE-ON-THE-INTERNET
7. JOTI is an annual event in which Scouts and Guides from all corners of the world connect with each other through the internet. Digital signals carry their voices, pictures and messages all around the world. Connecting virtually with young people from other countries gives a feeling of the worldwide fellowship that Scouting is.
When is it?
JOTI 2023 runs from 20 to 22 October. During this time, the internet will be buzzing with communication between Scouts and Guides from different countries.
How to take part?
To take part in Jamboree-On-The-Internet and experience the excitement of connecting virtually with peers across the globe, you only need an internet connection and a computer or smartphone.
How to proceed?
Familiarize yourself with the programme ahead of time, to see, which activities
you will find interesting. During the JOTI weekend, take part in the activities, tune in to the live shows or
meet fellow Scouts on our different channels. https://www.jotajoti.info/programme
8. Please send Post-Activity pictorial report to the National Office on or before 17 November 2023, to form part of the JOTA/JOTI - After Action Report and 2024 Annual Report at the BSP National Office - Public Relations and Communications Office thru email at [email protected] and/or at [email protected] and to dx1bsp.national.office@gmail.com.
9. For guidance and compliance
DIOSDADO M. SAN ANTONIO OIC Secretary General
(text copied using OCR)
#43
Digital Voice / Re: Yaesu FT70D speaker replac...
Last post by DU2XXR - Oct 01, 2023, 11:31 PMSuccessful speaker replacement. After my first attempt at disassembly to see if a bad speaker is really the culprit (e.g., whether it could be repaired with contact cleaning or realignment), it now only took me less than 10 minutes to disassemble, replace the speaker, and reassemble the radio. Speaker itself cost 500 pesos from the local yaesu distributor, or an equivalent of US$8.80.
#44
Digital Voice / Re: YSF hotspots/nodes/repeate...
Last post by DU2XXR - Sep 26, 2023, 05:43 PMAs an example, these are the stanzas we're using for the DX1ARM YSF:
DG-ID 1 directs to the parrot/echo so we can test our audio quality or at least determine if coverage is good when there's no one else to talk to.
My purpose here is so that the YSF reflector can run alongside our WIRES-X room as a backup, without the two looping. The WIRES-X node uses a different DG-ID from the YSF node. The reason for the short hangtimes is so that traffic to WIRES-X no longer get re-routed back to RF via the YSF.
Essentially, this renders our YSF node a receive-only node from RF, until the time I manually activate the link full-time.
That can also be achieved by using a static DGIDgateway link, which can perhaps be done by something like this:
The Local ports are arbitrary and are mostly meant to prevent collisions and perhaps can be used if there is linking to/from other services needed. In the above stanzas, the DX1ARM YSF connection is "Static" meaning it will continue receiving traffic from the network even after the hangtime, until the time that a different YSF is selected via DG-ID or an empty DG-ID is selected.
The routing is done via the "Name" item. DGIDgateway uses the equivalent reflector from the Hosts.txt file and routes the traffic accordingly. Similarly, for any traffic received from the network, DGIDgateway tries to match the name with the stanza identifying the DG-ID and sets the DG-ID being transmitted by MMDVM locally to that ID. This is useful for routing and linking purposes, if so desired.
The discussions also point to other options, such as YSF2DMR, YSF2NXDN, IMRS, but I have not had the time to explore those.
Code Select
[DGId=1]
Type=YSF
Static=0
Name=Parrot
Local=42023
RFHangTime=10
NetHangTime=10
Debug=0
[DGId=8]
Type=YSF
Static=0
Name=DX1ARM
Local=42022
RFHangTime=1
NetHangTime=1
Debug=0
DG-ID 1 directs to the parrot/echo so we can test our audio quality or at least determine if coverage is good when there's no one else to talk to.
My purpose here is so that the YSF reflector can run alongside our WIRES-X room as a backup, without the two looping. The WIRES-X node uses a different DG-ID from the YSF node. The reason for the short hangtimes is so that traffic to WIRES-X no longer get re-routed back to RF via the YSF.
Essentially, this renders our YSF node a receive-only node from RF, until the time I manually activate the link full-time.
That can also be achieved by using a static DGIDgateway link, which can perhaps be done by something like this:
Code Select
[DGId=1]
Type=YSF
Static=0
Name=Parrot
Local=42023
RFHangTime=10
NetHangTime=10
Debug=0
[DGId=9]
Type=YSF
Static=1
Name=DX1ARM
Local=42022
RFHangTime=15
NetHangTime=15
Debug=0 The Local ports are arbitrary and are mostly meant to prevent collisions and perhaps can be used if there is linking to/from other services needed. In the above stanzas, the DX1ARM YSF connection is "Static" meaning it will continue receiving traffic from the network even after the hangtime, until the time that a different YSF is selected via DG-ID or an empty DG-ID is selected.
The routing is done via the "Name" item. DGIDgateway uses the equivalent reflector from the Hosts.txt file and routes the traffic accordingly. Similarly, for any traffic received from the network, DGIDgateway tries to match the name with the stanza identifying the DG-ID and sets the DG-ID being transmitted by MMDVM locally to that ID. This is useful for routing and linking purposes, if so desired.
The discussions also point to other options, such as YSF2DMR, YSF2NXDN, IMRS, but I have not had the time to explore those.
#45
General Radio Discussions / Re: Amnesty for November 2023
Last post by DU2XXR - Sep 26, 2023, 09:41 AMSorry for errors. The above text was OCR'd by Google Lens.
#46
General Radio Discussions / GENERAL AMNESTY FOR UNREGISTER...
Last post by DU2XXR - Sep 26, 2023, 02:34 AMREPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION NTC Building, BIR Road, East Triangle, Diliman, Quezon City
Email: [email protected] website: www.ntc.gov.ph
MEMORANDUM ORDER No. 014-09-2023
SUBJECT: GUIDELINES IN THE GRANTING OF GENERAL AMNESTY FOR UNREGISTERED RADIO EQUIPMENT
In the interest of the service and pursuant to this Commission's thrust to abate the proliferation of unregistered radio equipment; recognizing the importance of amateur radio equipment, unlicensed as they are at the moment, in times of calamities such as post-typhoon or post- calamity communications when fixed communications infrastructure are down; and in order to afford the owners/possessors/users thereof an opportunity to comply with existing rules and regulations, the Commission hereby issues the guidelines for the registration of unregistered radio equipment under the radio services mentioned hereof.
1. This Order shall apply only to:
a. Land Mobile Radio Service (Civic Action Groups/Private Radio
Networks to include privately owned and government owned stations
excluding Broadcast and Telecommunications)
b. Amateur Radio Services
2. The subsequent licensing of all radio equipment to be registered under and pursuant to this Order shall be in accordance with existing rules and regulations and the usual licensing procedures.
3.
Registration Period:
November 03 to 29, 2023
Registration Fees:
All NTC Regional Offices
TYPE OF EQUIPMENT
FEES
a. VHF and UHF Radio Equipment
PHP 300.00
PHP 500.00
PHP 500.00
• Portable • Mobile/Base
b. HF Radio Equipment
• Low Power (below 50 watts)
⚫ Medium Power (50-500 watts) ⚫ High Power (above 500 watts)
PHP 500.00 PHP 500.00
a. VHF/UHF Repeater
PHP 500.00
5. Operation of amateur radio equipment shall be authorized only within the amateur radio frequency channel/bands. However, radio equipment with expanded frequency band may be registered and licensed not beyond December 31, 2023. After this period, no amateur radio operator certificate/station license shall be renewed without radio equipment having been replaced and fixed to a non-expandable radio equipment.
6. Expired Radio Station License (RSL) for more than five (5) years issued to Civic Action Groups/Private Radio Networks to include privately owned and government owned stations, Amateur Radio Operator Certificate/Station License (ROC/RSL) shall be allowed to renew without penalties. However, an applicant shall pay arrears equivalent to license fee for every year a fraction of a year that the license has expired.
7.
Radio equipment which are not type-approved/accepted for commercial band and are being used in Civic Action Groups/Private Radio Networks to include privately owned and government owned stations, are hereby allowed to be registered and be issued a Radio Station License but not beyond June 30, 2024. After this period, no radio station license shall be renewed without this radio equipment having been replaced to a commercially type-approved/accepted unit
8. Registrants and/or applicants shall only be accepted in all NTC Regional Offices or during their Mobile Licensing Activities.
9. The registration of the above radio equipment shall not be construed as an authority to construct and/or operate the same without the corresponding permit/license. Any violation pertaining to the use of such registered equipment including its use by persons other than the registrant shall be ground for appropriate administrative sanctions and/or fines and penalties as may be imposed by this Commission.
10.
All the radio equipment registered under this Memorandum Order shall be at the
accountability of the registrant. 11. All licenses which have been revoked by the final decision of the Commission are
excluded from the amnesty program. 12. The Commission reserves the right to reject the registration of any radio equipment if
and warranted under the circumstances in the interest of the public.
13. No succeeding General Amnesty or any amnesty shall be granted by this Commission within the next five (5) years from November 30, 2023.
14. This Order supersedes other Memoranda and Orders inconsistent herewith.
Issued this 22 day of September 2023 at Quezon City, Philippines.
ELLA BLANCA B LOPEZ Commissioner
ALVIN BERNARD N. BLANCO Deputy Commissione
JON PAULOV SALVAHAN Deputy Commissioner
NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION NTC Building, BIR Road, East Triangle, Diliman, Quezon City
Email: [email protected] website: www.ntc.gov.ph
MEMORANDUM ORDER No. 014-09-2023
SUBJECT: GUIDELINES IN THE GRANTING OF GENERAL AMNESTY FOR UNREGISTERED RADIO EQUIPMENT
In the interest of the service and pursuant to this Commission's thrust to abate the proliferation of unregistered radio equipment; recognizing the importance of amateur radio equipment, unlicensed as they are at the moment, in times of calamities such as post-typhoon or post- calamity communications when fixed communications infrastructure are down; and in order to afford the owners/possessors/users thereof an opportunity to comply with existing rules and regulations, the Commission hereby issues the guidelines for the registration of unregistered radio equipment under the radio services mentioned hereof.
1. This Order shall apply only to:
a. Land Mobile Radio Service (Civic Action Groups/Private Radio
Networks to include privately owned and government owned stations
excluding Broadcast and Telecommunications)
b. Amateur Radio Services
2. The subsequent licensing of all radio equipment to be registered under and pursuant to this Order shall be in accordance with existing rules and regulations and the usual licensing procedures.
3.
Registration Period:
November 03 to 29, 2023
Registration Fees:
All NTC Regional Offices
TYPE OF EQUIPMENT
FEES
a. VHF and UHF Radio Equipment
PHP 300.00
PHP 500.00
PHP 500.00
• Portable • Mobile/Base
b. HF Radio Equipment
• Low Power (below 50 watts)
⚫ Medium Power (50-500 watts) ⚫ High Power (above 500 watts)
PHP 500.00 PHP 500.00
a. VHF/UHF Repeater
PHP 500.00
5. Operation of amateur radio equipment shall be authorized only within the amateur radio frequency channel/bands. However, radio equipment with expanded frequency band may be registered and licensed not beyond December 31, 2023. After this period, no amateur radio operator certificate/station license shall be renewed without radio equipment having been replaced and fixed to a non-expandable radio equipment.
6. Expired Radio Station License (RSL) for more than five (5) years issued to Civic Action Groups/Private Radio Networks to include privately owned and government owned stations, Amateur Radio Operator Certificate/Station License (ROC/RSL) shall be allowed to renew without penalties. However, an applicant shall pay arrears equivalent to license fee for every year a fraction of a year that the license has expired.
7.
Radio equipment which are not type-approved/accepted for commercial band and are being used in Civic Action Groups/Private Radio Networks to include privately owned and government owned stations, are hereby allowed to be registered and be issued a Radio Station License but not beyond June 30, 2024. After this period, no radio station license shall be renewed without this radio equipment having been replaced to a commercially type-approved/accepted unit
8. Registrants and/or applicants shall only be accepted in all NTC Regional Offices or during their Mobile Licensing Activities.
9. The registration of the above radio equipment shall not be construed as an authority to construct and/or operate the same without the corresponding permit/license. Any violation pertaining to the use of such registered equipment including its use by persons other than the registrant shall be ground for appropriate administrative sanctions and/or fines and penalties as may be imposed by this Commission.
10.
All the radio equipment registered under this Memorandum Order shall be at the
accountability of the registrant. 11. All licenses which have been revoked by the final decision of the Commission are
excluded from the amnesty program. 12. The Commission reserves the right to reject the registration of any radio equipment if
and warranted under the circumstances in the interest of the public.
13. No succeeding General Amnesty or any amnesty shall be granted by this Commission within the next five (5) years from November 30, 2023.
14. This Order supersedes other Memoranda and Orders inconsistent herewith.
Issued this 22 day of September 2023 at Quezon City, Philippines.
ELLA BLANCA B LOPEZ Commissioner
ALVIN BERNARD N. BLANCO Deputy Commissione
JON PAULOV SALVAHAN Deputy Commissioner
#47
Digital Voice / YSF hotspots/nodes/repeaters: ...
Last post by DU2XXR - Sep 25, 2023, 01:15 PMOne lesser-documented feature in Pi-Star is the DgIdGatway, which lets users route their transmissions to their desired YSF reflectors (or YSF2DMR talkgrups, FCS reflectors, or other gateways like parrot, local, etc).
Some steps in enabling it:
1. Access your Pi-Star terminal via shell.
2. Make sure your filesystem is writeable:
3. Edit /etc/dgidgateway using your favorite text editor. Need to be superuser.
4. Add lines as necessary. You may refer to examples found on the DgIdGateway github on how to set up your targets: https://github.com/g4klx/YSFClients/blob/master/DGIdGateway/DGIdGateway.ini
There are also some discussions here: https://groups.io/g/OpenDV/topic/dg_id_gateway/76993305
You will need to establish whether your targets are static (Static=1) or dynamic (Static=0). If static, that means you will be primarily connected to that reflector or link after the transmission. Hangtimes can be defined.
5. Enable the dgidgateway service.
You can then start or restart the service.
You might need to restart your hotspot, either through the web interface or just by rebooting.
6. You can then change the transmit DG-ID on your radio to direct the traffic to its intended link. For example, a DG-ID of 08 might direct you to the DX1ARM 78427 YSF room, while a DG-ID of 09 can direct you elsewhere. DG-ID 01 might be defined as a parrot reflector for checking your audio. If you use YSF2DMR, you can also direct your traffic to your defined TG.
Changing DG-IDs is much simpler than doing DTMF or connecting to the "WIRES-X" interface for changing rooms.
Some steps in enabling it:
1. Access your Pi-Star terminal via shell.
2. Make sure your filesystem is writeable:
Code Select
rpi-rw3. Edit /etc/dgidgateway using your favorite text editor. Need to be superuser.
Code Select
sudo nano /etc/dgidgateway4. Add lines as necessary. You may refer to examples found on the DgIdGateway github on how to set up your targets: https://github.com/g4klx/YSFClients/blob/master/DGIdGateway/DGIdGateway.ini
There are also some discussions here: https://groups.io/g/OpenDV/topic/dg_id_gateway/76993305
You will need to establish whether your targets are static (Static=1) or dynamic (Static=0). If static, that means you will be primarily connected to that reflector or link after the transmission. Hangtimes can be defined.
5. Enable the dgidgateway service.
Code Select
sudo systemctl enable dgidgatewayYou can then start or restart the service.
Code Select
sudo systemctl start dgidgatewayYou might need to restart your hotspot, either through the web interface or just by rebooting.
Code Select
sudo reboot6. You can then change the transmit DG-ID on your radio to direct the traffic to its intended link. For example, a DG-ID of 08 might direct you to the DX1ARM 78427 YSF room, while a DG-ID of 09 can direct you elsewhere. DG-ID 01 might be defined as a parrot reflector for checking your audio. If you use YSF2DMR, you can also direct your traffic to your defined TG.
Changing DG-IDs is much simpler than doing DTMF or connecting to the "WIRES-X" interface for changing rooms.
#48
HF and Propagation / Mocking FT8
Last post by DU2XXR - Sep 19, 2023, 01:29 PMFrom https://www.facebook.com/groups/12699105116/permalink/10168096481800117/?ref=share&mibextid=NOb6eG
Mocking FT8
A few years ago, Joe Taylor, K1JT, a Nobel prize physicist, had created a new digital mode. The co-assistant in the project was Franke, K9AN so the mode is officially known as "Franke-Taylor design, 8-FSK modulation, FT8".
In essence, the FT8 enables decoding of signals 10dB below what we perceive, by ear, as a noise floor.
A revolutionary development which made a huge impact on amateur radio, worldwide.
What Joe and Steve did was simply amazing: they've literally given 10dB to every amateur in the world, free of charge. Think of it this way: you wake up in the morning to find that your vertical antenna is gone, and instead, you see a 20m tower with a 3 element yagi. And not just any yagi - but a yagi that works on any band from 160m to gigahertz.
Practically, FT8 allowed an average amateur running the most basic setup - a 100W into wire - to make two way contacts he could previously only dream of.
Yet instead of sending K1JT a 'thank you' letter, a note expressing amazement and gratitude, some amateurs - to this day! - find a great deal of amusement mocking not just the FT8 mode, but operators who use it on the band.
In their view, there are two major 'problems' with FT8: the operation could be automated, so a less scrupulous amateur could simply let the computer do all the work. "You go to bed, and in the morning, there are 100DXCC in the log, thank you very much". The second complaint is that FT8 contacts are just too easy to make, therefore, FT8 is nothing but a vending machine that spits out DXCC awards.
Yes, it is true that cheats will cheat, no matter what. There is no sport or hobby without cheaters, and FT8 is no different - people do cheat. But that itself has nothing to do with FT8. Using remote receivers on SSB or CW in order to hear signals that otherwise are too weak to hear, or a practice of "working DX" on behalf of a friend, has been around for decades.
The second claim is simply ridiculous: anyone can work their first dozen countries with literally one watt and piece of wire. With 100 Watts and a simple vertical, working 200 countries is still relatively easy and could be achieved in a year - or less. But pass 200 and things are starting to get very difficult. And to work all 340 it would take a couple of decades - or more - even for an operator running kilowatts into directional antennas.
Those who are loudest mocking FT8 are actually those who have never achieved much in DXCC chasing. People who were never serious about the hobby, those who have no clue how difficult it is to work a rare DX.
FT8 is not easy. Definitely not in an urban environment where local noise is painfully high, where putting up an antenna is prohibited by council or local strata. For those who are forced to live on tiny blocks, or in a strata unit or retirement home, to them, FT8 is the only way to enjoy our hobby. We must respect that.
As they say, cynicism is the lowest form of entertainment. Making fun of amateurs who understand and enjoy FT8 is the lowest form of 'social media' engagement. Next time you see a meme like the one above, pause for a second, before hitting the like button.
Our goal should be inclusiveness - encouraging amateurs to engage in any form of communication that suits their needs, their technical and educational level, using whatever equipment they have at their disposal. To respect those who are serious chasers equally as those who simply turn the radio on to say 'hello' to an old friend down the road.
Thank you Joe.
Nick VK9DX
Mocking FT8
A few years ago, Joe Taylor, K1JT, a Nobel prize physicist, had created a new digital mode. The co-assistant in the project was Franke, K9AN so the mode is officially known as "Franke-Taylor design, 8-FSK modulation, FT8".
In essence, the FT8 enables decoding of signals 10dB below what we perceive, by ear, as a noise floor.
A revolutionary development which made a huge impact on amateur radio, worldwide.
What Joe and Steve did was simply amazing: they've literally given 10dB to every amateur in the world, free of charge. Think of it this way: you wake up in the morning to find that your vertical antenna is gone, and instead, you see a 20m tower with a 3 element yagi. And not just any yagi - but a yagi that works on any band from 160m to gigahertz.
Practically, FT8 allowed an average amateur running the most basic setup - a 100W into wire - to make two way contacts he could previously only dream of.
Yet instead of sending K1JT a 'thank you' letter, a note expressing amazement and gratitude, some amateurs - to this day! - find a great deal of amusement mocking not just the FT8 mode, but operators who use it on the band.
In their view, there are two major 'problems' with FT8: the operation could be automated, so a less scrupulous amateur could simply let the computer do all the work. "You go to bed, and in the morning, there are 100DXCC in the log, thank you very much". The second complaint is that FT8 contacts are just too easy to make, therefore, FT8 is nothing but a vending machine that spits out DXCC awards.
Yes, it is true that cheats will cheat, no matter what. There is no sport or hobby without cheaters, and FT8 is no different - people do cheat. But that itself has nothing to do with FT8. Using remote receivers on SSB or CW in order to hear signals that otherwise are too weak to hear, or a practice of "working DX" on behalf of a friend, has been around for decades.
The second claim is simply ridiculous: anyone can work their first dozen countries with literally one watt and piece of wire. With 100 Watts and a simple vertical, working 200 countries is still relatively easy and could be achieved in a year - or less. But pass 200 and things are starting to get very difficult. And to work all 340 it would take a couple of decades - or more - even for an operator running kilowatts into directional antennas.
Those who are loudest mocking FT8 are actually those who have never achieved much in DXCC chasing. People who were never serious about the hobby, those who have no clue how difficult it is to work a rare DX.
FT8 is not easy. Definitely not in an urban environment where local noise is painfully high, where putting up an antenna is prohibited by council or local strata. For those who are forced to live on tiny blocks, or in a strata unit or retirement home, to them, FT8 is the only way to enjoy our hobby. We must respect that.
As they say, cynicism is the lowest form of entertainment. Making fun of amateurs who understand and enjoy FT8 is the lowest form of 'social media' engagement. Next time you see a meme like the one above, pause for a second, before hitting the like button.
Our goal should be inclusiveness - encouraging amateurs to engage in any form of communication that suits their needs, their technical and educational level, using whatever equipment they have at their disposal. To respect those who are serious chasers equally as those who simply turn the radio on to say 'hello' to an old friend down the road.
Thank you Joe.
Nick VK9DX
#49
General Discussions (Off-Topic) / America Gave Up on the Best Ho...
Last post by DU2XXR - Sep 16, 2023, 02:57 PMQuotePhones used to belong to a household; now they're personal property. A shared line was irritating when it was the only option: Teenagers (or modem-connected computers) might tie up the phone for ages, a few handsets scattered throughout the house limited privacy on the phone, and anyone could fill your home with telephone bells at any time, day or night. But in exchange, your house got a common line in and out. In a small but important way, it emphasized the household as a unit, one with common interests, a hub through which contact with its members could be made.
https://12ft.io/proxy?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theatlantic.com%2Ftechnology%2Farchive%2F2023%2F09%2Flandlines-comeback-home-phones%2F675280%2F&fbclid=IwAR2ojth5sA4Qlzm4nXS1SG5kuxP9_U4TRuPPXJGmndU6ShTZ4H5R5xiE82Q
#50
APRS, Winlink & Packet Radio / New LoRa world record: 1336 km...
Last post by DU2XXR - Sep 16, 2023, 09:57 AMQuoteThe long term LoRaWAN® distance world record of 832 km / 517 mi has been broken. The new record now stands at 1336 km / 830 miles.
After 3 years, the new world record was set by installing LoRaWAN trackers on a fishing boat Estrela de Sesimbra and on its buoys on the Sesimbra coast, Portugal. The tracker was able to make contact with a gateway in the Canarian Islands. Three messages have been received by the "cablpa-pitilleros" gateway connected to The Things Stack Community Edition.
https://www.thethingsnetwork.org/article/new-lora-world-record-1336-km-830-mi
https://hackaday.com/2023/09/15/new-lora-distance-record-830-miles/