Topband: Re: Signal on 1952.250

[Bill Tippett]

K4KYV:
>There used to be about a half-dozen of these signals on the top half
>of the band...

        Most radiolocation services are now at VHF/UHF.  GPS is also
expected to eventually replace radiolocation for new applications.

        In a March 1995 report on spectrum trends, NTIA said about 
radiolocation usage: 

"There are a large number of assignments in the 1705-1800 and 
1900-2000 kHz bands, and operations can be expected at least for the next 
five years. Many of the systems currently operating in the 1705-1800 and 
1900-2000 kHz bands will most likely continue to operate over the next five 
years. However, long-range spectrum requirements for the radiolocation 
service in the 1705-1800, 1900-2000, and 3230-3400 kHz band are expected to 
decrease over the next five years as activities are shifted to GPS. The 
requirements beyond five years are unclear, but nevertheless, are expected 
to decrease even more because of the increased use of GPS."

        There is no history of any interference complaints in FCC 
Enforcement Logs and Letters from July 19, 1999 to the present date.
My guess is that this is because the few beacons that remain are 
primarily used for location during daylight hours when there is little 
chance for interference from amateurs.  FCC logs may be viewed at:

                http://www.arrl.org/news/enforcement_logs/

                                                73,  Bill  W4ZV

P.S.  Let's hope all those drift net buoy beacons meet the same fate!