Bob Bruninga wrote:
Using paging devices on Amateur Radio is perfectly legal like any other radio. It all boils down to use. If you use it for setting up a one-way systemm for a pizza delivery service, it is clearly illegal. If you use it as part of your overall local communications network of amateur radio volunters it is just one more tool in the tool box.
Bob:
We had this discussion a while back on APRSSIG (I know, I started it!) Unfortunately, the way Part 97 currently reads is that most pager transmissions to an individual are illegal under ยง97.111(b), as it is a "one way" transmission that, in most cases, would not qualify under the "legal" list.
You just have to ignore the curmudgeons who have nothing better to do than nit-picking ways to prevent other hams from developing useful applications of technology. A pager is simply the text-to-user device integrated into the normal local 2-way amateur radio communications system.
I hardly consider myself a curmudgeon. I'd *love* to set up a local pager network in the way you describe. The issue is that, according to Part 97, it can't be used beyond QSTs, telemetry, or "necessary" emergency communications. Could I get away with setting up such a system? Likely. Do I foot to stand on when my local OO comes knocking? Not so much.
An amateur satellite would make a great downlink to these pagers. Again, the goal should simply be, any message, any time, anywhere using any device to any user by callsign alone.
This would be great. Can someone please seek a clarification or modification of the rules from the FCC to allow this?
~Ben