From wd5ivd@tapr.org Wed Mar 05 14:37:57 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id OAA25323; Wed, 5 Mar 1997 14:37:55 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Wed, 5 Mar 1997 14:38:07 -0600 To: "TAPR-BB list mailing", " Spread Spectrum " From: "Greg Jones, WD5IVD" Subject: FCC Releases WT Docket 97-12 http://www.tapr.org/ss and ftp://ftp.tapr.org/tapr/ss now contains a pdf version of FCC WT Docket No. 97-12. WT Docket No. 97-12 Notice of Proposed Rule Making regarding Amendment of the Amateur Service Rules to Provide For Greater Use of Spread Spectrum Communications Technologies was released March 3rd, 1997. 3/5/97 From wd5ivd@tapr.org Wed Mar 05 15:02:50 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id PAA26408; Wed, 5 Mar 1997 15:02:44 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Wed, 5 Mar 1997 15:02:58 -0600 To: " Spread Spectrum ", "TAPR-BB list mailing" From: wd5ivd@tapr.org Subject: ARLB012 FCC proposes changes in spread spectrum regs SB QST @ ARL $ARLB012 ARLB012 FCC proposes changes in spread spectrum regs ZCZC AG12 QST de W1AW ARRL Bulletin 12 ARLB012 >From ARRL Headquarters Newington CT March 5, 1997 To all radio amateurs SB QST ARL ARLB012 ARLB012 FCC proposes changes in spread spectrum regs Responding to a petition for rulemaking from the ARRL, the FCC has proposed in WT Docket 97-12 to adopt changes in its Amateur Service rules governing spread spectrum. In spread spectrum the energy of the transmitted signal is distributed among several synchronized frequencies within a band and reassembled at the receiving end. This reduces power density and duration of a transmission on a particular frequency and lets spread spectrum almost invisibly share the same spectrum with users of other, narrowband modes. Spread spectrum also provides for improved communication under poor signal-to-noise conditions and in selective fading and multipath environments, and the ability to accommodate more communication channels operating simultaneously in the same spectrum. The League's December 1995 petition asked the FCC to relax its rules to give Amateur Radio more opportunities to contribute to the development of spread spectrum techniques. Specifically, the League sought to have the FCC relax restrictions on spreading sequences and asked for greater flexibility in spreading modulation. In response, the FCC now has proposed to drop rules restricting amateur stations to transmitting only frequency-hopping and direct-sequencing spreading techniques. As requested by the League, the FCC also has proposed to require automatic power control for spread spectrum transmitters, to ensure use of the minimum power level needed to carry out communication. The FCC also went along with the League's request to permit brief test transmissions using spread spectrum and to allow international spread spectrum communications between amateurs in the US and those in countries that allow hams to use spread spectrum. The current rules allow only domestic communication. The use of spread spectrum techniques was first approved for Amateur Radio in 1985 for bands above 225 MHz and at power levels up to 100 watts, and there has been some experimental amateur operation since then. The FCC also has authorized Special Temporary Authority (STA) in some instances to allow broader SS experimentation. Since spread spectrum was introduced in the Amateur Radio service, commercial spread spectrum applications have been developed, including personal communication services, remote meter reading and position locating. But, the League had argued that rules limitations held back further spread spectrum experimentation. No changes are proposed in the frequency bands where spread spectrum is permitted. The FCC said the rule amendments would ''increase spectrum efficiency and allow amateur operators to contribute to technological advances.'' Comments on the NPRM in WT Docket 97-12 are due May 5, with reply comments due June 5. NNNN /EX From wd5ivd@tapr.org Fri Mar 14 01:38:38 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id BAA14511 for ; Fri, 14 Mar 1997 01:38:37 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Fri, 14 Mar 1997 01:38:32 -0600 To: "TAPR-BB list mailing" From: "Greg Jones, WD5IVD" Subject: Don't forget to vote for the TAPR Board! TAPR Board of Directors Elections The following four members have agreed to run for the three available positions on the board of directors. You may vote for these individuals and/or any write-in candidates using the ballot printed in the PSR or using the on-line election web page (details below). Deadline for balloting is March 30th, 1997. If you have not received a ballot by February 1st, call the office and request a ballot be sent. Board members elected will serve a three year term. The following TAPR members have been nominated for election this year to the TAPR Board of Directors. Greg Jones, WD5IVD, wd5ivd@tapr.org John Koster, W9DDD, w9ddd@tapr.org Mel Whitten, K0PFX, k0fpx@tapr.org Steve Stroh, N8GNJ, n8gnj@tapr.org ----------- This year, members of TAPR can vote either by mail in ballot or over the Internet using the world wide web. Check your PSR (now being received by many) on how to submit your vote via the web. Don't lose your PSR, because you will need information contained on your mail label. If you have problems using the web system, contact Dorothy at the office and we can look into the issue. We look forward to your comments on this new way of collecting votes in both traditional paper and newer electronic form. **** DEADLINE March 30th! **** ----- Greg Jones, WD5IVD Austin, Texas wd5ivd@tapr.org http://www.tapr.org/~wd5ivd ----- From wd5ivd@tapr.org Tue Mar 18 22:16:15 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id WAA12486; Tue, 18 Mar 1997 22:16:12 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Tue, 18 Mar 1997 22:16:49 -0600 To: "APRS SIG list mailing", "TAPR-BB list mailing" From: "Greg Jones, WD5IVD" Subject: GPS-20 Purchase Update The TAPR office expects to have the units from Garmin in shortly and as soon as they arrive the GPS-20XLS units will be shipped out. TAPR has a few units not spoken for, so call the TAPR office 817-383-0000 and talk to Dorothy to find out the story. http://www.tapr.org/gps for details. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tucson Amateur Packet Radio 8987-309 E Tanque Verde Rd #337 * Tucson, Az * 85749-9399 * 817-383-0000 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- e-mail: TAPR@TAPR.ORG ftp: ftp.tapr.org web: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- From wd5ivd@tapr.org Thu Mar 20 10:11:30 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id KAA12929; Thu, 20 Mar 1997 10:11:27 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Thu, 20 Mar 1997 10:00:50 -0600 To: "TAPR-BB list mailing", " Spread Spectrum ", " TAPR Board " From: "Greg Jones, WD5IVD" Subject: Steve Bible, N7HPR, on Ham Radio and More TAPR's very own Steve Bible, N7HPR, will be a guest on Len Winkler's Ham Radio & More Show Sunday March 30th at 2300 UTC. The topic will be the New SPREAD SPECTRUM Plan. Ham Radio & More Show information: http://www.goodnet.com/~lenwink/hrm.htm To listen to past Ham Radio & More Shows via Real Audio (Sponsored by TAPR): http://www.tapr.org/hrm The Ham Radio & More Show airs LIVE each Sunday at 6:00pm ET, (2300 utc), on: - many local commercial stations throughout the country, (See http://www.goodnet.com/~lenwink/affil~1.htm for listing) - WWCR Shortwave, 5.070 MHz, and - RealAudio at: http://www.AudioNet.com/radio/business/kbnp (Thanks KBNP) Also available tape delayed via WWCR Shortwave on Mondays, at 1000 utc on 3.210 MHz, and Sundays at 0600 utc on 5.070 MHz. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tucson Amateur Packet Radio 8987-309 E Tanque Verde Rd #337 * Tucson, Az * 85749-9399 * 817-383-0000 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- e-mail: TAPR@TAPR.ORG ftp: ftp.tapr.org web: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- From wd5ivd@tapr.org Thu Mar 20 13:53:37 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id NAA28779 for ; Thu, 20 Mar 1997 13:53:22 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Thu, 20 Mar 1997 13:50:54 -0600 To: "TAPR-BB list mailing" From: "Greg Jones, WD5IVD" Subject: 1997 ARRL/TAPR DCC Announcement Press Release. Please distribute as widely as possible. http://www.tapr.org/dcc March 15th, 1997 ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 ARRL and TAPR Digital Communications Conference October 10-12, 1997 Baltimore, Maryland (minutes from BWI airport) Web: http://www.tapr.org/dcc ----- It's that time again! Time to make your calendar and thinking about what to publish for the upcoming 16th Annual ARRL and TAPR Digital Communications Conference. 1997 marks the second year in which the ARRL Digital Communications Conference and TAPR Annual General Meeting have joined into one conference! The ARRL and TAPR Digital Communications Conference is an international forum for radio amateurs in digital communications, networking, and related technologies to meet, publish their work, and present new ideas and techniques for discussion. Presenters and attendees will have the opportunity to exchange ideas and learn about recent hardware and software advances, theories, experimental results, and practical applications. The Digital Communications Conference is not just for the digital expert, but for digitally-orientated amateurs of all levels of experience. The 1997 ARRL and TAPR Digital Communications Conference will be held October 10-12, 1997 in Baltimore, Maryland. This year's conference location is just minutes away from the BWI (Baltimore/Washington International) Airport. Not only is the Digital Communications Conference technically stimulating, it is a weekend of fun for all who have more than a casual interest in any of the ham digital communications modes. This includes APRS operators, networkers, DX-Cluster Sysops, software writers, modem designers, and digital satellite communications enthusiasts. The ARRL and TAPR Digital Communications Conference is for all levels of digital operators -- a must conference to attend to get active on a national level. Now, more than ever, amateur radio needs this great meeting of the minds, since it is important that we demonstrate a continued need for the frequency allocations we now have by pushing forward and documenting our achievements. The ARRL and TAPR Digital Communications Conference is one of the few ways to record our accomplishments and challenge each other to do more. ----- A Conference for the Beginner as well The conference is not just for the digital expert. This year's conference will again provide an entire session strand with beginning, intermediate, and advanced presentations on selected topics in digital communications. Some of the topics will include: APRS, Satellite Communications, TCP/IP, Digital Radio, Spread Spectrum and other introductory topics. Come to the conference and hear these topics presented by the experts! Don't miss this opportunity to listen and talk to others in this area. ----- Symposiums and Seminars In addition to the presentation of papers on Saturday, three symposiums/seminars will be held before and after the conference. These sessions are provided to allow those with additional time and interest to make the most of the Digital Communications Conference. For those that might have interest in just a symposium or seminar, registration for the conference is not necessary to register and attend one or more of the symposiums and seminars. This allows maximum flexibility for those that might want to participate during the Digital Communications Conference, but do not have an entire weekend to devote to the event. A full day symposium on Friday covering APRS will be conducted by Bob Bruninga, WB4APR (father of APRS) , Keith Sproul, WU2Z, Mark Sproul, KB2ICI (developers of Mac and Windows APRS), Steve Dimse, K4HG (developer of javAPRS), and other nationally known APRS leaders. Join this group for the afternoon and evening for in depth discussions and presentations on the current and future status of APRS. This is a unique opportunity to gain insight into this fast growing digital aspect of amateur operations that combines computers, packet radio, and GPS (Global Positioning System). Starting late Friday afternoon a half-day seminar entitled "RF Basics for Computer Weenies: Helping the RF-challenged get the most out of the new high-speed wireless toys". The seminar will focus on such topic as basic antenna types and their characteristics, comparison of feedlines and connector types, propagation basics (calculation of path loss, multipath effects, fresnel zones, etc), weatherproofing, lightning protection, filters, basic RF measurements, and other issues related to maintaining radio equipment on the UHF/SHF bands. This seminar will be starting late enough in the afternoon on Friday to allow those flying on that day to attend the seminar. On Sunday morning, Dewayne Hendricks, WA8DZP, Phil Karn, KA9Q, and Tom McDermott, N5EG, will conduct a seminar focusing on "Spread Spectrum system design and theory." All three presenters are well known for their work in various areas of amateur digital communications and this 5 hour seminar should be an excellent opportunity to learn about the design and theory of spread spectrum systems. This seminar is a follow up to the past two seminars of PCS technology by Dewayne with a new focus on system design. ----- 2nd Annual ARRL and TAPR DCC Student Papers Award ARRL and TAPR especially welcome papers from full time students to compete for the second annual student papers award. Two $500 travel awards may be given, one in each of the following categories: a) best technical/theory-oriented paper by a student, and b) best educational or community-oriented application paper by a student. The paper should relate directly to a wireless digital communication topic (see guidelines for more information). Papers coauthored by educators or telecommunications professionals are also eligible for this award, as long as a student is the first author. Deadline for receipt of finished student paper manuscript: June 20th, 1997. Please note that this deadline is different than the general conference submission date. For full details and paper guidelines contact TAPR or check http://www.tapr.org/dcc. ----- Call for Conference Proceeding Papers Anyone interested in digital communications is invited to submit a paper for publication in the Conference Proceedings. Presentation at the Conference is not required for publication. If you know of someone who is doing great things with digital communications, be sure to personally tell them about this! Papers are due by August 20th, 1997, and should be submitted to Maty Weinberg, ARRL, 225 Main Street, Newington, CT 06111 or via the Internet to lweinberg@arrl.org. Information on paper submission guidelines are available on-line (http://www.tapr.org/dcc). ----- Local Co-Host The 1997 ARRL and TAPR Digital Communications Conference will be co-hosted by AMRAD (Amateur Radio Research and Development Corporation). The Amateur Radio Research and Development Corporation (AMRAD) is a worldwide club of amateur radio and computer experimenters whose purpose is to develop skills and knowledge in radio and electronic technology, advocate design of experimental equipment and techniques, promote basic and applied research, organize technical forums and symposiums, collect and disseminate technical information, and provide experimental repeaters. http://www.amrad.org ----- What can you expect during the 1997 ARRL and TAPR Digital Communications Conference ? * A full day of papers, breakout sessions, and selected topics on Saturday for the beginner to the advanced amateur digital enthusiast. * Three seminars/symposiums Friday (1pm) - APRS, Conducted by: Bob Bruninga, WB4APR Keith Sproul, WU2Z Mark Sproul, KB2ICI Steve Dimse, K4HG Friday 3pm - RF Basics for Computer Weenies Sunday (8:30am) - Spread Spectrum System Design and Theory, Conducted by: Dewayne Hendricks, WA8DZP Phil Karn, KA9Q Tom McDermott, N5EG * The second annual Student paper awards. * TAPR Membership Meeting * A banquet with Special Guest Speaker (TBA) * SIGs (Special Interest Groups) on Saturday following the banquet. * Informal get-togethers throughout the weekend. * A meeting facility that is perfect for this type of meeting. * Informal engineering discussions/demonstration areas. * An event at which the most important new developments in amateur digital communications are announced. * Digital 'movers and shakers' from all over the world in attendance. ----- Conclusion If you have attended a Digital Communications Conference in the past, just remember back to how much fun it was discussing the latest developments into the wee hours! If you have never been, then make your plans now to attend and find out how much fun the Digital Communications Conference can be. There are few activities where your participation can be so much fun, and so important! Getting together with colleagues from all over the world and bringing each other up to date on your latest work. All this, and more, for an unforgettable weekend of ham radio and digital communications. Make your travel and lodging arrangements now. We hope to see you at the ARRL and TAPR Digital Communications Conference October 10-12! Full information on the conference and hotel information can be obtained by contacting Tucson Amateur Packet Radio, 8987-309 E. Tanque Verde Road #337, Tucson, AZ 85749-9399. Phone: (817) 383-0000. Fax: (817) 566-2544. Internet: tapr@tapr.org Web: www.tapr.org/dcc Sincerely, Steve Ford, WB8IMY, ARRL Conference Co-Chair Greg Jones, WD5IVD, TAPR Conference Co-Chair Paul Rinaldo, W4RI, Local Host Liaison Steve Stroh, N8GNJ, Asst Conference Manager Note: If you need handouts or flyers for meetings, contact TAPR about getting what you need! ----- Hotel Information Conference presentations, meetings, and seminars will be held at the Holiday Inn BWI Airport. DCC special rooms rate is $89 per night. When making reservations with the hotel, be sure to indicate you are attending the ARRL and TAPR DCC to get the discount. It is highly recommended that you book your room prior to arriving - a block of 75 rooms is reserved until September 9th, 1997. After the 75 rooms are booked, rooms will only be available in nearby hotels. Be sure to book your rooms early! The hotel provides transportation to and from BWI Airport, nearby Amtrak/MARC rail station, and the local Baltimore Light Rail. Please contact the hotel to arrange specific transportation needs. Holiday Inn BWI Airport (conference hotel) 890 Elkridge Landing Rd, Linthicum, MD, 21090 (410) 859-8400, Fax (410) 684-6778 ----- Registration Contact the TAPR office by Phone, Fax, or e-mail (Internet: tapr@tapr.org) to preregister or for additional meeting information. MasterCard and VISA accepted. - Preregistration (before Sept 10th) $42.00 * - Late Registration or at door $47.00 * * - Conference Registration includes: Conference Proceedings, Saturday Sessions/Meetings, and Lunch. - Saturday Evening Dinner (Limited Space) $20.00 ** ** - Dinner, Speaker: TBA, Prize Drawing --- Seminar/Symposiums Note: You do not have to be registered for the conference to attend one or more of the seminars/symposiums. Friday, 1pm - 8pm. APRS Symposium (full day) Conducted by: Bob Bruninga, WB4APR Keith Sproul, WU2Z Mark Sproul, KB2ICI Steve Dimse, K4HG - Symposium Coordinator - Registration $25.00 *** --- Friday 3pm - 7pm. RF Basics for Computer Weenies (half-day seminar) Conducted by (TBA) - Registration $20.00 *** --- Sunday 8:30am - 1:30pm Spread Spectrum System Design and Theory Conducted by: Dewayne Hendricks, WA8DZP Phil Karn, KA9Q Tom McDermott, N5EG - Registration $20.00 *** *** Cost of seminar or symposium includes the cost of handout materials. Contact TAPR to register for the DCC. Tucson Amateur Packet Radio, 8987-309 E. Tanque Verde Road #337, Tucson, AZ 85749-9399. Phone: (817) 383-0000. Fax: (817) 566-2544. Internet: tapr@tapr.org http://www.tapr.org ----- Greg Jones, WD5IVD Austin, Texas wd5ivd@tapr.org http://www.tapr.org/~wd5ivd ----- From wd5ivd@tapr.org Fri Mar 21 12:36:32 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id MAA24552 for ; Fri, 21 Mar 1997 12:36:30 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Fri, 21 Mar 1997 12:21:52 -0600 To: "TAPR-BB list mailing" From: "Greg Jones, WD5IVD" Subject: CQ VHF Magazine Request Are you doing something unique in the digital world? Something you've built or designed or done on the air? Something "cutting edge"? Digital voice or video? If so, CQ VHF magazine wants to make you famous! CQ VHF editor Rich Moseson, W2VU, says the magazine is always interested in feature articles about digital communications and all other VHF/UHF activities. If you've got something to share with a group of readers who span the spectrum from newly-licensed amateurs to old-time hams with more than 25 years' experience, Rich would like to hear from you. You may download CQ VHF's writers' guidelines from the magazine's World Wide Web site at "http://members.aol.com/cqvhf/" or contact W2VU via e-mail at "CQVHF@aol.com". If you don't have e-mail or web access, you may write to CQ VHF, 76 North Broadway, Hicksville, NY 11801 USA. ---- Posted to the TAPR-BB list on request by CQ VHF Magazine. ----- From wd5ivd@tapr.org Fri Mar 21 12:57:54 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id MAA25374; Fri, 21 Mar 1997 12:57:27 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Fri, 21 Mar 1997 12:55:31 -0600 To: "TAPR-BB list mailing", " Spread Spectrum " From: wd5ivd@tapr.org Subject: [FCCREG:587] More on the 5.8 GHz U-NII band matters Latest news as of 8AM PST, Mar. 21, 1997, on the 5725-5875 Mhz. potential reallocation and related matters -- To those of you on the Pacific Division 5725 - 5875 MHz Alert List --- As you will recall, in January 1997, the FCC issued a Report and Order on Docket 96-102 dealing with the 5.8 GHz Amateur Band and adjacent spectrum. At that time, I sent you a six part message with the details of the Report and Order from the FCC. Early in March, 1997, three Petitions for Reconsideration on Docket 96-102 were submitted to the FCC. The following is a brief description of the contents of the three petitions obtained from an article in the trade press: Manufacturers Ask for Changes in Unlicensed 'NII' Device Rules In petitions for reconsideration filed last week, Apple Computer, Inc., Hewlett-Packard Co., and the Wireless Information Networks Forum, Inc. (WINForum) urged the FCC to modify its recent order in Engineering and Technology docket 96-102 to allow more highly directional antennas and greater power levels for certain unlicensed devices. In its order, the Commission had designated 300 megahertz of spectrum in the 5 gigahertz band for unlicensed NII (national information infrastructure) devices to be used for low-power data communications. The FCC had divided the U-NII band into three segments: indoor communications, medium-range communications, and somewhat longer-range 'community networks' that would allow wireless connections to Internet service providers. The FCC has not yet authorized any U-NII equipment for sale to the public. In its petition for reconsideration, Apple asked the Commission to consider permitting the use of more highly directional antennas for U-NII devices. The agency could take up that request when it considers a similar issue for unlicensed spread-spectrum devices in another proceeding (engineering and Technology docket 96-8), Apple suggested. The "core question of whether the use of more highly directional antennas will increase, or instead reduce, objectionable interference to others sharing the 5725-5850 MHz band can best be addressed if all relevant attributes of both spread-spectrum and U-NII devices are 'on the table' at the same time," it said. The Commission also should allow the use of directional antennas for the medium-range U-NII band, Apple argued. While the 1-watt power limit for that segment is "adequate to permit the creation of longer-reach community networks," the U-NII rules allow only lower-range omnidirectional antennas in the middle segment. Such a restriction will "frustrate the ability of manufacturers and users seeking to create community networks," Apple said. It urged the FCC to increase the permissible power density in the upper and middle U-NII segments to permit U-NII links to support data rates at the T-1 level, and even faster, over distances exceeding the "several kilometers" allowed by the Commission's rules. Hewlett-Packard asked the FCC to raise the permitted power level in the lowest U-NII segment from 200 milliwatts to 1 watt. This would "promote international harmonization" of technical standards for unlicensed 5 GHz devices, permit manufacturers to design products suitable for both U.S. and European markets, and "make possible the development of more robust and longer-range U-NII devices" in this segment, Hewlett-Packard said. WINForum, a trade association representing manufacturers of unlicensed devices, commended the FCC for making U-NII products available for "multimedia systems." But it said that in a few respects, the technical regulations adopted by the Commission "may unnecessarily restrict design flexibility and ... impair the capabilities of these devices." WINForum asked the FCC (1) to permit the operation of U-NII devices across boundaries between the lower and middle-band segments, (2) to delete frequency-stability requirements, (3) to clarify U-NII signal-measurement techniques, and (4) to make a variety of other technical rule changes and clarifications. To date, I have only been able to obtain the complete text of the Apple Petition for Reconsideration: Before the FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20554 In the Matter of ) ) Amendment of the Commission's Rules to ) ET Docket No. 96-102 Provide for Operation of Unlicensed NII ) RM-8648 Devices in the 5 GHz Frequency Range ) RM-8653 PETITION FOR RECONSIDERATION Apple Computer, Inc. ("Apple") hereby respectfully requests that the Federal Communications Commission ("Commission" or "FCC") reconsider in three respects its recent Report and Order in the above-referenced proceeding.[1] First, Apple requests that the Commission expedite its consideration of whether to permit the use of more highly directional antennas for transmitters using the uppermost portion (5725-5825 MHz) of the Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure ("U-NII") band.[2] Second, Apple requests that the Commission amend the antenna directionality rules for the middle U-NII sub-band (5250-5350 MHz). Finally, Apple requests that the Commission amend the peak power spectral density ("PSD") limit for U-NII devices operating in the 5250-5350 MHz sub-band to 125mW/MHz and amend the PSD limit for U-NII devices operating in the 5725-5825 MHz sub-band to 1 Watt in 2 MHz, rather than 1 Watt in 20 MHz.[3] i. the commission should expedite its consideration of whether to permit u-nii devices operating in the 5725- 5825 mhz band to use more highly directional transmit antennas. Apple is one of the original proponents of unlicensed U- NII devices.[4] In addition to supporting generally the need for a high bandwidth unlicensed band in the 5 GHz range, Apple has been one of the principal advocates for the creation of unlicensed longer-distance "community networks." As such, Apple was pleased that the Commission has come to recognize the importance of community networks in helping to meet the communications needs of educational institutions, libraries, health care providers, and others,[5] and that the Report and Order therefore adopted power limits and other rules that will make possible at least a limited community networking function in a portion of the U-NII band.[6] In the Report and Order, the Commission recognized that it may be appropriate to further accommodate community networking by permitting U-NII devices operating in the 5725-5825 MHz band to use more highly directional antennas than are permitted under the current rules.[7] The power and antenna directionality rules adopted for U-NII devices operating in the 5725-5825 MHz band are identical to those that currently apply to spread spectrum Part 15 devices operating in the 5725-5850 MHz band.[8] In a separate proceeding, however, the Commission is considering whether to permit 5 GHz spread spectrum devices to use more highly directional transmit antennas.[9] As a result, the Commission stated in the Report and Order that, if it decides in the other proceeding to permit the use of higher gain directional transmitting antennas for spread spectrum operations, it may consider in a separate rulemaking similar action for U-NII devices operating in the 5725-5825 MHz band. Apple urges the Commission to consider in tandem, rather than seriatim, whether to increase the permitted antenna gain for both spread spectrum and U-NII systems operating in the 5725-5825 MHz band. Were the Commission to proceed as discussed in the Report and Order _ first deciding whether to increase antenna gain for spread spectrum systems, and only then deciding whether to increase antenna gain for U-NII systems _ its process would delay unnecessarily the potential introduction of beneficial longer range U-NII devices. There are compelling policy reasons why the Commission should consider simultaneously the permissible antenna gain for spread spectrum and 5725-5825 MHz U-NII devices. Indeed, Apple first noted the interplay between the spread spectrum and U-NII proceedings seven months ago when it filed comments in ET Docket No. 96-9. First, the core question of whether the use of more highly directional antennas will increase _ or instead reduce _ objectionable interference to others sharing the 5725-5850 MHz band can best be addressed if all relevant attributes of both spread spectrum and U-NII devices are "on the table" at the same time. Second, several commenters in this proceeding _ including WINForum, Microsoft, and Motorola _ already have addressed why the Commission should adopt and maintain parallel rules for spread spectrum and U- NII devices operating in the 5725-5825 MHz band. Third, the record in this proceeding already contains an extensive discussion of the need for longer distance community networks, as well as of the potential for interference between U-NII systems that employ directional antennas and other users of the 5725-5825 MHz band. As a result of the above, there is no need for the Commission to start a new proceeding or to defer, until after a decision has been issued in the spread spectrum proceeding, its consideration of whether to permit higher gain antennas for U-NII devices operating in the 5725-5825 MHz band. Either such approach would force parties to duplicate much of the record that already exists in this proceeding, thereby wasting the Commission's resources and those of the public, as well as effectively guarantee that the introduction of longer range U-NII devices would be delayed by a year or more. II. the commission also promptly should consider whether to permit the use of more highly directional transmit antennas in the 5250-5350 MHz band. The arguments supporting the use of directional transmit antennas are as applicable to the middle U-NII band (5250-5350 MHz) as they are to the upper U-NII band (5725-5825 MHz). The one watt power limit for the middle band, by itself, is adequate to permit the creation of longer-reach community networks. The current rules, however, penalize directionality beyond that of a 6 dBi (essentially omnidirectional) antenna and, as a result, will frustrate the ability of manufacturers and users seeking to create community networks within this sub-band. As Apple and others previously have discussed in this proceeding, the Commission should encourage, rather than penalize, the use of more highly directional transmit antennas. To do so, the Commission should amend the antenna directionality rules for 5250-5350 MHz U-NII devices at the same time that it amends the antenna directionality rules for 5725-5825 MHz U-NII devices and spread spectrum devices. Specifically, the Commission should replace its current rule (which requires a dB-for-dB back-off in transmit power for antennas with a directional gain of more than 6 dBi) with a rule requiring a back-off of 1 dB in power for each 3 dB of antenna gain in excess of 6 dBi. Alternately, the Commission could apply the same directionality rules to the middle U-NII band that it adopts for the upper U-NII band and for spread spectrum devices. iii. the commission should amend the psd limits applicable to the middle and upper u-nii sub-bands by basing the psd limits on a 2 mhz rather than a 20 mhz bandwidth. In the Report and Order, the Commission imposed peak PSD limits for each of the U-NII band segments. In the middle U-NII band, a limit of 12.5 mW/MHz for an antenna gain of 6 dBi was adopted; for the upper U-NII band, a limit of 50 mW/MHz for an antenna gain of 6 dBi was adopted.[10] The Commission adopted its U-NII PSD rules in large part to encourage the use of the U-NII bands for the broadband operations for which they are intended.[11] While Apple recognizes the role the U-NII band will play in making available very high speed, short range communications, the rules governing the band should not be so strict that they make it impossible for U-NII devices also to satisfy the longer distance, somewhat lower bandwidth needs of those who will rely on community networks. At this stage in the deployment of "wideband" services, an ISDN data rate (56 kbps) is a luxury for many, and a T1 (1.544 Mbps) unlicensed capability represents a major advance over the data rates that currently are available over wired networks only at very high monthly costs _ if at all _ to most individuals and organizations. Community networks must be able to provide T1 data rates over reasonable distances if they are to meet the immediate and near-term needs of many users, including rural schools, hospitals, and libraries. As a result, the Commission should amend its PSD rules so as to make it more feasible for U-NII links in the middle and upper portions of the U-NII band to support T1 and faster data rates over distances exceeding "several kilometers."[12] Power density is, of course, a major determinant of the distances that can be achieved for line-of-sight paths. Under the spread spectrum rules, designers are free to respond to market forces, making tradeoffs between distance (as represented by the signal-to-noise ratio produced as a result of a PSD) and data rate (or bandwidth). Under the U-NII rules, these tradeoffs are not permitted: distance is essentially fixed, independent of bandwidth, because manufacturers must reduce their power (and hence achievable distance) in tandem with any reduction in bandwidth. This disparity not only violates the goal of functional and technological parity for U-NII devices vis-a-vis other unlicensed devices operating in the 5 GHz range.[13] In addition _ and even more importantly _ it will make it more difficult for U-NII devices to provide the bandwidths, T1 and up, at the distances that community networks will require. Accordingly, the Commission should modify the PSD limit for U-NII devices operating in the 5725-5825 MHz band from 1 Watt in 20 MHz (50 mW/MHz) to 1 Watt in 2 MHz, or 500 mW/MHz. This change not only will ensure that U-NII devices are able to provide communications to those who are bypassed by other technologies, but also will create some degree of technological and distance-reaching parity between U-NII devices and spread spectrum devices at benchmark T1 data rates. In addition, the Commission should modify the PSD limit for U-NII devices operating in the 5250-5350 MHz band from 0.250 Watts in 20 MHz (12.5 mW/MHz) to 0.250 Watts in 2 MHz, or 125 mW/MHz. CONCLUSION For the reasons stated herein, Apple respectfully requests that the FCC promptly consider whether to permit the use of more highly directional antennas by U-NII devices operating in the middle and upper U-NII sub-bands, and amend the peak PSD limits for U-NII devices operating in these sub- bands. Respectfully submitted, APPLE COMPUTER, INC. /s/ James F. Lovette James F. Lovette Principal Scientist, Network Outreach Apple Research Laboratories Apple Computer, Inc. One Infinite Loop, MS: 301-3E Cupertino, California 95014 (408) 974-1418 jlovette@apple.com niiband- feedback@research.apple.com OF COUNSEL Henry Goldberg Mary J. Dent Goldberg, Godles, Wiener & Wright 1229 Nineteenth Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20036 (202) 429-4900 March 3, 1997 _______________________________ [1] Amendment of the Commission's Rules to Provide for Operation of Unlicensed NII Devices in the 5 GHz Frequency Range, Report and Order, ET Docket No. 96-102, FCC 97-5 (released Jan. 9, 1997). [2] On February 13, 1997, Apple submitted a letter to the Office of Engineering and Technology in which it urged the Commission not to defer its consideration of whether to permit the use of more highly directional antennas by U-NII transmitters using the 5725-5825 MHz band, but rather to consider this question as part of the instant proceeding and, at most, to request additional comment on the narrow question of whether the U-NII rules should be changed to reflect any changes in the spread spectrum rules. In order to avoid any claim that Apple's letter did not provide an adequate basis for the Commission to expedite its consideration of the use of highly directional transmit antennas by U-NII devices, and in the event that the Commission would prefer to address this issue as part of its reconsideration process rather than through a request for additional comments, Apple is including this request in its Petition for Reconsideration. [3] The Report and Order permits U-NII devices operating in the upper band to employ a peak PSD of 50 mW/MHz for an antenna gain of 6 dBi. Report and Order at 49. This corresponds to a PSD of 1 Watt in 20 MHz for an antenna gain of 6 dBi. [4] Id. at 2. [5] Id. at 18. [6] Id. at 46. [7] Id. at 47. [8] Id. at 46. While the power and directionality rules are the same for U-NII and spread spectrum systems, U-NII devices are subject to much stricter PSD limits than are spread spectrum systems operating under 47 C.F.R. 15.247. As discussed below, this limits the capabilities of U-NII devices vis-a-vis spread spectrum devices, and this disparity should be addressed by the Commission. [9] Id. at 47 (citing ET Docket No. 96-8). [10] Id. at 49. [11] Id. U-NII devices are defined as providing "wideband, high data rate" communications. 47 C.F.R. 15.403 (a). [12] See id. at 46 (stating that the power limits adopted for U-NII devices operating in the upper band will provide community networks with a typical range of several kilometers, and that longer-range communications could be possible in rural and other areas with a low interference environment). [13] Unlike U-NII devices, frequency hopping spread spectrum devices are subject to no limits on minimum bandwidth or maximum PSD; for example, a frequency hopping device that can convey T1-rate data in 1 MHz can utilize a PSD of 1 Watt/MHz (1000 mW/MHz), 13 dB greater than (or 20 times) the PSD limit for a U-NII device operating in the upper U-NII sub-band and 80 times the PSD limit for a U-NII device operating in the middle U-NII sub-band. Frequency hopping devices offering still lower data rates and bandwidths can utilize even higher PSDs. For example, to convey the rates achieved by new-generation telephone modems, 56 kbps, a frequency hopping systems could use an on-channel RF bandwidth of 100 kHz; and the PSD could then be 10 Watts/MHz. Direct sequence spread spectrum systems also have an advantage over U-NII systems in this regard: for example, a direct sequence system conveying a 2 MHz data channel with a processing gain of 10 dB can offer a signal- to-noise ratio (after de-spreading) equivalent to that provided by a signal utilizing a PSD of 500 mW/MHz, 10 dB greater than (or 10 times) the PSD limit for a U-NII device operating in the upper U-NII sub-band and 40 times the PSD limit for a U-NII device operating in the middle U-NII sub- band. This information came from Dewayne Hendricks, WA8DZP, Pacific Division Assistant Director, member of ARRL Future Systems Committee, and Chairman of TAPR Regulatory Committee. Editing and conversion of the original WP document was done by Glen Lokke, KE6NBO and relayed to me. Many thanks to Dewayne and Glen for all their work! I am continuing to try to develop machine readable versions of the other two Petitions for Reconsideration. I have been promised hard copy of all three documents from ARRL HQ. I plan to convert the hard copy of the WINForum and HP petitions to machine readable when they arrive and forward them to you. At the moment I have no idea of what the FCC will do with these petitions, nor any time schedule. It is my understanding that the ARRL plans to comment on the Apple Petition. If you would like to participate in preparing input to the ARRL Comments, please send the information to me for forwarding to ARRL HQ. In addition, you may wish to comment to the FCC directly. Please copy me on any direct comments to the FCC. I continue to hope that this bulletin, previous bulletins, the text of ET Docket 96-102 as well as all the other information will be up on the ARRL Pacific Division Home Page on WWW --- (address http://www.pdarrl.org/). That process is suffering some "growing pains", but I hope that we will work our way through them soon. See also the ARRL Home Page at http://www.arrl.org/ and select "Band Threat News". For those of you who wish to get the information concerning NII/SUPERNet Docket (ET Docket No. 96-102) directly from the FCC Web site --- Here are the URL's: Text version (without footnotes and special formatting): WordPerfect version (with footnotes and special formatting): More details will be sent to the Pacific Division 5725-5875 MHz Alert List and, hopefully, posted on the Pacific Division Home Page as soon as they are known. Any thoughts on any of this by anyone would be appreciated! Contact Brad Wyatt, K6WR, ARRL Pacific Division Director at k6wr@arrl.org or (408) 395-2501 if you can help in any way. 73, Brad Wyatt K6WR ARRL Pacific Division Director From wd5ivd@tapr.org Sat Mar 22 19:12:17 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id TAA06957; Sat, 22 Mar 1997 19:12:15 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Sat, 22 Mar 1997 19:12:54 -0600 To: "TAPR-BB list mailing", "NETSIG list mailing", " AMSAT BB Mail Group " From: "Greg Jones, WD5IVD" Subject: News on sale of AEA Product Lines Cc: " TAPR SYS " If you have not heard, it was reported on Newsline this weekend that AEA has sold its antenna product line (antennas, analyzers, and testers) to Tempo Research of Vista, California and that Mike Lamb, N7ML, will be taking a position within the new AEA division of Tempo Research. Timewave of St Paul, Minn (http://www.timewave.com/) has purchased the AEA Data Products line and some other products. Listen to: http://www.tapr.org/newsline #1023, time segment:13:25 for more details. Timewave has a web page up already covering this (http://www.timewave.com/aea.html) Here is what that pages says: March 17, 1997 Timewave is in the final stages of completing the purchase of the data hardware and software product lines of AEA (Advanced Electronic Applications, Inc.). Timewave will offer new product sales as well as warranty service, repair, and firmware upgrades for existing AEA products. It will be several weeks before any of the new products and services begin to be available. Check the Timewave Web page for further information - it will appear here first! Please help us by not calling via telephone until we have had a chance to get the new product line and services organized. Tempo Research Corp. of Vista, CA has acquired the AEA antenna analyzer and antenna product lines. Contact them at 619-599-9677. ------ ----- Greg Jones, WD5IVD Austin, Texas wd5ivd@tapr.org http://www.tapr.org/~wd5ivd ----- From wd5ivd@tapr.org Sun Mar 23 14:05:22 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id OAA05827; Sun, 23 Mar 1997 14:04:57 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Sun, 23 Mar 1997 14:05:32 -0600 To: "APRS SIG list mailing", " DSP-93 Build ", "HF SIG list mailing", "NETSIG list mailing", "BBS SIG list mailing", " TAPR/AMSAT DSP ", "TAPR-BB list mailing", TAPR Regional Freq , " tapr-tnc ", " Spread Spectrum " From: "Greg Jones, WD5IVD" Subject: TAPR Board Election -- Don't forget to vote! TAPR Board of Directors Elections --------------------------------- If you are a member of TAPR, don't forget to take the time to vote! We have four people running for three places, so it could be your vote that determines who is on the TAPR Board of Directors. Deadline for balloting is March 30th, 1997. This year, members of TAPR can vote either by mail in ballot or over the Internet using the world wide web. Check your PSR on how to submit your vote via the web. Don't lose your PSR, because you will need information contained on your mail label. If you have problems using the web system, contact Dorothy at the office and we can look into the issue. PSRs were mailed on March 5th, so all members should have them by now. If you have not received your PSR, call or send e-mail to the office and request a ballot be sent or request the necessary information to allow you to ballot using the on-line Web page. **** DEADLINE March 30th! **** ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tucson Amateur Packet Radio 8987-309 E Tanque Verde Rd #337 * Tucson, Az * 85749-9399 * 817-383-0000 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- e-mail: TAPR@TAPR.ORG ftp: ftp.tapr.org web: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- From wd5ivd@tapr.org Thu Mar 27 22:11:35 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id WAA12846; Thu, 27 Mar 1997 22:11:34 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Thu, 27 Mar 1997 22:12:24 -0600 To: "TAPR-BB list mailing" From: "Greg Jones, WD5IVD" Subject: Steve Bible, N7HPR, on Ham Radio and More Cc: " Spread Spectrum " Just as a reminder.... TAPR's very own Steve Bible, N7HPR, will be a guest on Len Winkler's Ham Radio & More Show Sunday March 30th at 2300 UTC. The topic will be the New SPREAD SPECTRUM Plan. Ham Radio & More Show information: http://www.goodnet.com/~lenwink/hrm.htm To listen to past Ham Radio & More Shows via Real Audio (Sponsored by TAPR): http://www.tapr.org/hrm The Ham Radio & More Show airs LIVE each Sunday at 6:00pm ET, (2300 utc), on: - many local commercial stations throughout the country, (See http://www.goodnet.com/~lenwink/affil~1.htm for listing) - WWCR Shortwave, 5.070 MHz, and - RealAudio at: http://www.AudioNet.com/radio/business/kbnp (Thanks KBNP) Also available tape delayed via WWCR Shortwave on Mondays, at 1000 utc on 3.210 MHz, and Sundays at 0600 utc on 5.070 MHz. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tucson Amateur Packet Radio 8987-309 E Tanque Verde Rd #337 * Tucson, Az * 85749-9399 * 817-383-0000 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- e-mail: TAPR@TAPR.ORG ftp: ftp.tapr.org web: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----- Greg Jones, WD5IVD Austin, Texas wd5ivd@tapr.org http://www.tapr.org/~wd5ivd ----- From wd5ivd@tapr.org Thu Mar 27 22:17:45 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id WAA13037; Thu, 27 Mar 1997 22:17:41 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Thu, 27 Mar 1997 22:18:33 -0600 To: "APRS SIG list mailing", "TAPR-BB list mailing" From: "Greg Jones, WD5IVD" Subject: Update on Latest TAPR GPS-20 Shippment The office has shipped over 90% of the GPS-20 that were spoken for. The rest should be shipped by the weekend. That leaves about 20+ units left at the office. Full details on the purchase and unit can be found at: http://www.tapr.org/gps Cheers - Greg ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tucson Amateur Packet Radio 8987-309 E Tanque Verde Rd #337 * Tucson, Az * 85749-9399 * 817-383-0000 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- e-mail: TAPR@TAPR.ORG ftp: ftp.tapr.org web: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- From wd5ivd@tapr.org Sun Mar 30 22:55:55 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id WAA02495; Sun, 30 Mar 1997 22:55:53 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Sun, 30 Mar 1997 22:56:57 -0600 To: "TAPR-BB list mailing", " Spread Spectrum " From: "Greg Jones, WD5IVD" Subject: Steve Bible's HRM Show on-line Cc: " TAPR Board " TAPR's very own Steve Bible, N7HPR, was a guest on Len Winkler's Ham Radio & More Show Sunday March 30th at 2300 UTC. The topic was the New SPREAD SPECTRUM Plan. If you were not able to hear the show, it is now available on-line. To listen to the show you can visit either: http://www.tapr.org/ss or http://www.tapr.org/hrm ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tucson Amateur Packet Radio 8987-309 E Tanque Verde Rd #337 * Tucson, Az * 85749-9399 * 817-383-0000 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- e-mail: TAPR@TAPR.ORG ftp: ftp.tapr.org web: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- From wd5ivd@tapr.org Mon Mar 31 13:27:16 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id NAA25074 for ; Mon, 31 Mar 1997 13:27:12 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Mon, 31 Mar 1997 13:28:25 -0600 To: "TAPR-BB list mailing" From: "Greg Jones, WD5IVD" Subject: TAPR Dayton Activities '97 TAPR Dayton Activities '97 Dayton Hamvention is May 16, 17, and 18, 1997 Full details, maps, and updates at: http://www.tapr.org/tapr/html/dayton.html ============================================================================ TAPR Schedule -------------------------------------- Friday 12noon -- Exhibit Area Opens 1:00pm -- TAPR Digital Forum Begins 7:00pm -- PacketBASH (Dinner, Prizes, SIG meetings, Banquet Speaker Tom Clark, W3IWI) -------- Saturday 8am -- Exhibit Area Opens 6pm -- Exhibit Area Closes -------- Sunday 8am -- Exhibit Area Opens 2pm -- Exhibit Area Closes ============================================================================ 1997 TAPR Digital Forum (Friday) Digital Forum will be from 1pm till 5pm. The TAPR digital forum should be a great forum this year. If you have time at Dayton -- be sure to attend the meeting! 1:00 - 1:45pm (45 min) * Introduction to Spread Spectrum Communications Steve Bible, N7HPR 1:45 - 2:00pm (15min) * Update on TAPR Greg Jones, WD5IVD and Steve Stroh, N8GNJ 2:00pm - 2:40pm (40 min) * Building TCP/IP Networks in the Amateur Radio Community John Ackermann, AG9V, Allan Finne, KB5SQK 2:40pm - 3:00pm (20 min) * Review of current SS developments Barry McLarnon, VE3JF, Dewayne Hendricks, WA8DZP 3:00 - 3:20pm (20 min) * System Design Parameters for Spread Spectrum Systems Tom McDermott, N5EG 3:20 - 3:40pm (20 min) * TBA Phil Karn, KA9Q 3:40 - 4:00pm (20 min) * TAC-2 (Totally Accurate Clock) GPS Project Tom Clark, W3IWI 4:00 - 4:20pm (20 min) * Update on Amateur DSP Activity Bob Stricklin, N5BRG, Bill Reed, WD0ETZ 4:20 - 5:00pm+ * APRS Update and TAPR APRS SIG Meeting Bob Bruninga, WB4APR and Keith Sproul, WU2Z ============================================================================ 1997 Packet Bash! The 1997 "Packet BASH" co-sponsored by TAPR and the Miami Valley FM Association, Dayton's packet radio club, will be held on Friday of the Dayton Hamvention. The event will be held at the NCR "Sugarcamp" Conference Center and will be catered. The dining room holds about 300 people! So the more the merrier! Dinner space will be limited, so make your reservation early for dinner, so that the correct number of dinners can be ordered in advanced. An event for the digitally-inclined ham, featuring: * Buffet dinner, * Nationally-known speaker Tom Clark, W3IWI, * TAPR special interest group meetings, * "Birds of a Feather" gatherings, * And lots of fun will cost $20 per person. We hope that this will provide an opportunity for packet and digital radio enthusiasts to have a great night out while at Hamvention. The schedule of events for the Packet BASH is still tentative, but will look something like this: 1900 -- Doors Open (7pm) 1930 -- Dinner (7:30pm) 2030+ - Speaker (Tom Clark, W3IWI), raffle, and SIG meetings after dinner Talk-in will be on 146.415 simplex. For more information, send email to "packbash@ag9v.ampr.org" or stop by the TAPR booth at Dayton for schedule and map. * The cost is $20.00 per person, tax and tip included. Banquet tickets can be ordered from the TAPR office. Reservations made before May 1st will have their tickets mailed to them. After May 1st, tickets purchased will be available for pickup at the TAPR booth. Walk-up to the event will be accommodated as best as possible. There is limited space (in the way of food ordered) for dinner. Amateurs who wish to hear the speaker and discussion are asked to arrive around 2030 (8:30pm). All amateurs are welcome to attend, enjoy the speaker, and participate in the meetings, although only those purchasing a dinner can eat. Maps and Directions can be found at http://www.tapr.org/tapr/html/dayton.html ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tucson Amateur Packet Radio 8987-309 E Tanque Verde Rd #337 * Tucson, Az * 85749-9399 * 817-383-0000 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- e-mail: TAPR@TAPR.ORG ftp: ftp.tapr.org web: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- From wd5ivd@tapr.org From: dvandeke@bio2.edu Mon Mar 31 21:20:23 1997 Received: from [208.134.134.40] ([208.134.134.40]) by tapr.org (8.7.5/8.7.3/1.9) with ESMTP id VAA17428 for ; Mon, 31 Mar 1997 21:20:21 -0600 (CST) Message-Id: Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Mon, 31 Mar 1997 21:20:10 -0600 To: "TAPR-BB list mailing" From: wd5ivd@tapr.org Subject: first annual Earth Day Special Event Forwarded message: From: dvandeke@bio2.edu (David P. van De Kerk, KE6GXD) To: billwa6itf@aol.com Date: 97-03-31 14:40:25 EST Come Join Us at Biosphere 2! Biosphere 2 Center is pleased to announce the first annual Earth Day Special Event, an Amateur Radio celebration honoring the Earth. On Sunday, April 20th, amateur radio operators from Arizona, students of all ages, and the general public are invited to participate as we make contact with people from around Arizona and the world, wishing all a happy Earth Day. Biosphere 2 is a unique combination of the largest functioning Earth systems model in the world linked with leading-edge technology for data collection and analysis. Biosphere 2 is a set of tools, a model, and a system for viewing the world. Biosphere 2 and the surrounding Sonoran Desert ecosystem provide the gateway to exploring both local and global environmental issues, and an ideal setting to host the first ever amateur radio event concerned with those issues. The Earth Day Special Event is being hosted on the lawn in front of the Human Habitat where the former Biospherians lived. This is also the only Free-Day of the year, so there is no charge to participate or tour the campus. Attendance for this event, which will also have key note speakers and educational activities concerning the environment, is expected to range from four to seven thousand people. Bring your family and friends. This is a unique exposure opportunity for the amateur radio world. Educational activities are being coordinated by Terry Pemberton of the Math Science Technology Project of Prescott Unified School District. Terry has been using amateur radio as a teaching resource for years and is eager to share his methods and ideas with others. The educational curriculum, developed by the Math Science Technology Project, revolves around the topics of radio wave propagation, solar flares, light transmission, and sunspot cycles. Bob O'Connell and Steve Arens, both with the Radio Society of Tucson, are coordinating the technical issues, including placement and quantity of equipment and frequency assignments. We encourage you to bring equipment and demonstrate your knowledge, but first contact either Bob or Steve. Bryan Thorpe works at the Biosphere 2 Center and is acting as liaison for all parties. He is the contact point for all questions that cannot be answered by email. This is an opportunity to share the value of amateur radio, to experience the Biosphere 2 and the beautiful Santa Catalina Mountain range, and to celebrate our Earth by communicating with both neighbors and distant friends. If you have any questions/suggestions, or would like to participate as a guest or a demonstrator, then please contact us. Clubs and school organizations are encouraged to send a representative. Also, we are especially interested in solar powered displays, but power will be available. We hope to see you! Bryan Thorpe KE6TCF Earth Day Coordinator bthorpe@bio2.edu (800) 992-4603x1 Terry Pemberton KB7TRE Education Coordinator Bob O'Connell KC5DWB Technical Coordinator reo@azstarnet.com Frequency List 2 Meters 147.140 +600 FM Voice 6 Meters 50.130 Voice 10 Meters 28.405 Novice Voice ! 15 Meters 21.138 Novice CW ! 15 Meters 15.238 General Voice 20 Meters 14.245 Voice 40 Meters 7.117.5 Novice CW ! 40 Meters 7.238 Voice