[RTTY] I just have to ask

[J. Edward (Ed) Muns]

> Would using the beacon system to check propagation put you into the
> assisted category?

No, because listening to the Beacon System or WWV solar conditions is not
directly finding potential QSOs for you.

(Let's not start another heated thread about the Assisted vs. Non-Assisted
categories, hi!)

> I am all for the beacon network.  What I don't like is the apparent
> feeling
> of ownership of the frequencies by the beacon operators.  If someone can
> point me to the exact waivers and rulings by the FCC giving anyone
> exclusive
> right to the beacon frequencies I would appreciate it.

The Beacon System doesn't own the frequencies they occupy (all the time).
OTOH, many of us greatly appreciate their presence and make use of the
propagation information provided.  If the beacon service weren't seen as
broadly valuable, it would probably be QRM'd more.  My hope is that we work
together to keep the Beacon frequencies clear because we choose to do so.

Ed - W0YK