. > Note that appart from just the maximum bandwidth there still may be
> > restrictions on the actual modes. And there is a restriction on the
> > contents of the data transmitted, which much be compatible with the
> > amateur charter. (and the data may not be transmitted encripted, except
> > with publicly decodeable algorithms)
>
> That's outrageous! Why such harsh restrictions?

It's a freedom you agree to give up in exchange for a st of freedoms
that many commercial operators would give much for.

A radio amateur has great ability to muck other people's systems up if
not careful enough.
In exchange for the ability to do all sorts of risky (to others
rights) arcane things without any checking or oversight etc you give
them the ability to tell who you are asap so they cam come knocking if
you stray too far unawares. A good protection.

Honoured more by formal observation than strict compliance. eg some
modes are not clear or decipherable without a priori knowledge of
them. With such the operator may sen and ID in 'clear' every say 30
minutes or so or whatever the requirement is. Or not.

In quite a few countries CB radio is banned and in others the power
restrictions are ludicrous. Radio amateurs are given immense freedom
and power.

The men in the black helicopters do not NEED your address to find you,
it just puts makes them in a better mood when they arrive :-).



                  Russell
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