Question
What must the control operator of a repeater operating in the 70-centimeter band do if a radiolocation system experiences interference from that repeater?
Answer Options
- A) Reduce the repeater antenna HAAT (Height Above Average Terrain)
- B) File an FAA NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) with the repeater system’s ERP, call sign, and six-character grid locator
- C) Cease operation or make changes to the repeater that mitigate the interference
- D) All these choices are correct
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
The 70-centimeter band (420-450 MHz) is shared with the Federal Government’s radiolocation service, which is a primary user of the spectrum in this range. Because amateur radio is secondary to the primary radiolocation service, FCC rules mandate that amateur stations operating in this band must accept any interference from the radiolocation service and must not cause interference to it.
If a radiolocation system reports interference from an amateur repeater operating on the 70-cm band, the amateur station’s control operator has a clear and immediate responsibility. They must cease operation immediately or take all necessary steps to eliminate the interference to the radiolocation system. This is a non-negotiable requirement that underscores the secondary status of amateur radio in this shared band.
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