Wireless Devices

PART 97—AMATEUR RADIO SERVICE

Active Regulation FCC
Technical Description

47 CFR Part 97 outlines the technical requirements for amateur radio operations, including frequency allocations, power limits, and operating modes. It specifies frequency bands by wavelength (e.g., 160 meters, 80 meters) and sets a maximum power of 1500 watts PEP for most bands. Operators must identify transmissions regularly and use the minimum necessary power. Special provisions apply for emergency communications and satellite operations (47 CFR § 97.313, § 97.207).

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Detailed Technical Description

47 CFR Part 97 provides technical standards for the Amateur Radio Service, detailing the requirements for operators, equipment, and station management to ensure non-commercial use and prevent interference. Engineers, technicians, and licensed operators should note the following:

  1. Frequency Bands and Mode Allocations (47 CFR § 97.301):
    The regulations define authorized frequency bands for amateur use, based on wavelength. Bands are designated for different modes (e.g., voice, digital, CW/Morse code) depending on the operator's license class. Band plans encourage organized use to prevent congestion and facilitate international communication.

  2. Power Limits and Transmitter Standards (47 CFR § 97.313):
    The maximum power limit for amateur stations is generally 1500 watts PEP, though some bands have lower limits to reduce interference. Operators must use the minimum power necessary to establish communication. Transmitter design and signal quality must meet specific emission standards to ensure clarity and minimize out-of-band emissions.

  3. Station Identification Procedures (47 CFR § 97.119):
    Stations must identify with their FCC-assigned call sign at the beginning, end, and at least every 10 minutes during transmission. Automated systems, such as repeaters, must follow identification requirements, using voice or Morse code formats.

  4. Emergency Communication Standards (47 CFR § 97.401):
    During emergencies, amateur operators may exceed normal power limits if required to protect life or property. Operators can use any available frequencies to establish communication with emergency authorities when traditional methods are unavailable.

  5. Amateur Satellite Operations (47 CFR § 97.207):
    The regulations allow for the use of amateur satellites (space stations) for communication. Satellites must operate within specified frequency bands and follow coordination rules to avoid interfering with other satellite services. Uplink and downlink frequency assignments are defined to ensure effective satellite communication.

  6. Technical Requirements for Equipment and Antennas (47 CFR § 97.15):
    Amateur stations must use certified equipment or properly modified commercial transmitters. Antenna structures must comply with height and location standards, and if exceeding specific heights or located near airports, may need to comply with Part 17 regulations on antenna structure registration.

  7. Interference Mitigation and Spectrum Sharing (47 CFR § 97.307):
    Operators must take steps to avoid harmful interference, especially in shared bands. Filtering, proper frequency selection, and station maintenance are key measures to minimize interference. When sharing bands with other services, operators must follow procedures for cooperative frequency use.

We provide engineering and technical support on amateur radio (ham radio) communication structures, including compliance with federal, state, and local antenna zoning regulations for the radio amateur.

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