Question
How long must an operator wait after filing a notification with the Utilities Technology Council (UTC) before operating on the 2200-meter or 630-meter band?
Answer Options
- A) Operators must not operate until approval is received
- B) Operators may operate after 30 days, providing they have not been told that their station is within 1 kilometer of PLC systems using those frequencies
- C) Operators may not operate until a test signal has been transmitted in coordination with the local power company
- D) Operations may commence immediately, and may continue unless interference is reported by the UTC
Correct Answer: B
Explanation
Operation on the 2200-meter and 630-meter bands requires pre-notification to the Utilities Technology Council (UTC) because these frequencies are shared with Power Line Carrier (PLC) systems used by utilities. This is a coordination measure to prevent interference with critical infrastructure. The notification provides the UTC with the station’s call sign and location coordinates.
The rule does not require an explicit ‘approval’ to begin operations. Instead, it enforces a quiet period: after filing the notice, the amateur operator must wait 30 days before commencing operation. If, during that 30 days, the UTC informs the amateur that their station is within a 1 km separation distance of a PLC system, the amateur must take steps to coordinate their operation to prevent interference. If the amateur receives no notification within 30 days, they may begin operation under the general power limits.
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