• Symbol Rate Change

    From ARRL Members Only Web site@21:1/5 to All on Wed Nov 1 00:13:17 2023
    XPost: rec.radio.amateur.policy, oma.general, nebr.misc
    XPost: rec.radio.info

    As you may be aware, the ARRL has been working toward replacing the
    current symbol rate limits in the amateur radio regulations with a
    bandwidth limit. As technology has advanced it has become possible to
    increase the symbol rate of digital signals and yet stay within the
    accepted voice equivalent bandwidth. The FCC has released the proposed
    text that would include this change. The change will be considered on
    Nov. 15.

    Here is information from David Siddall, the ARRL D.C. Counsel:

    If adopted, the FCC would:

    1. Delete the HF symbol rate and in its place adopt a 2.8 kHz
    bandwidth limit
    2. Leave all other rules in place, including:
    a) the prohibition of encrypted modes and
    b) the HF sub bands designated for unattended (automatic)
    digital modes with bandwidths greater than 500 Hz
    3. Initiate a new Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in which it
    would:
    a) propose to eliminate the symbol rates applicable to the
    50-450 MHz VHF-UHF bands and seeks comment on whether to
    continue, change, or delete the signal bandwidth limits
    already applicable in those bands
    b) proposes to eliminate the symbol rate applicable to the
    2200 and 630 meter bands and seeks comment on
    what bandwidth limit, if any, should be adopted.

    Link to the draft Commission item: https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-397992A1.pdf. The proposed
    Report and Order, which relates to the HF symbol rate, is consistent
    with ARRL positions and advocacy. The ARRL also supports the proposals
    in the Further Notice.

    73, Art K0AIZ

    --------------------------------------------------------------------
    ARRL Midwest Division
    Director: Arthur I Zygielbaum, K0AIZ
    k0aiz@arrl.org --------------------------------------------------------------------

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