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Category: Spectrum

Region 1 General Conference to be in two parts
· Spectrum · Sylvain, F4GKR

In the light of the COVID-19 problems, the IARU Region 1 Executive Committee has consulted with those Member Societies planning to attend the 2020 General Conference. As a result the clear majority support an EC proposal to split the Conference into two parts, the first part on the scheduled dates by virtual means and the second part in-person on a date to be determined in 2021. The 11 – 15 October 2020 event will consider much of the “business as usual” elements of a General Conference in Committees C2, C3, C4, C5 and C7.

Amateur radio is an exciting activity, offering great opportunities to those who get involved. But IARU and its member societies face some very significant challenges for the future to ensure that in-flow into amateur radio is further stimulated and that Member Societies and IARU continue to be seen as relevant and supportive by new entrants. The 2021 part of the Conference will, therefore, be primarily devoted to an exploration of these issues and mapping a way ahead. It will be run in “workshop” format with active participation from all Member Societies present, hopefully including large numbers of “tomorrow’s” radio amateurs.

The deadline for papers for the virtual conference in October remains at 10thJuly 2020. Because of continuing uncertainties around COVID-19, the EC will review the likely date for the 2021 in-person Conference later this year. The deadline for contributions to the 2021 event will be set when the date for that part of the Conference is decided and will be 10 weeks prior to the event. This will also be the deadline for nominations to the Executive Committee for 2021 – 23. 

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CEPT discusses amateur radio matters
· Spectrum · Sylvain, F4GKR

The Frequency Management Working Group (WGFM) of CEPT, holding its 96thmeeting virtually in week beginning 8th June, dealt with several amateur radio matters. IARU was represented by Spectrum & Liaison Committee Chairman Dave Court, EI3IO, and Region 1 President Don Beattie, G3BJ.

The European Common Allocation Table (ECA) has been reviewed, resulting in a revised version for consultation with stakeholders. IARU was able to amend the 241 – 250 GHz band entry to correct some errors. The state of the band 50 – 52 MHz band in CEPT countries was also updated to take account of WRC-19 decisions.

Last year Ukraine requested that it be included in CEPT ECC Recommendation T/R 61 – 02 which is the recommendation which defines the Harmonised Amateur Radio Examination Certificate (HAREC). This was agreed.

Romania had contacted the FMWG Chairman concerning the possibility of introducing electronic licensing for amateur radio operators. This has been passed to CEPT’s Radio Amateur Forum Group (RAFG) for further discussion and possible action. 

The meeting also discussed the way ahead on developing a regulatory framework for WPT and agreed that WGSE should continue to study the full range of WPT applications and emissions and that no regulatory steps would be taken until that work is complete.

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IARU paper submitted to CISPR on increasing noise from digital devices
· Spectrum · Sylvain, F4GKR

IARU EMC specialists Tore Worren LA9QL and Martin Sach G8KDF have submitted a paper to CISPR concerning the increasing impact of multiple digital devices on the noise levels in the radio spectrum. The paper was considered at the CISPR Steering Committee in late May, and adopted for circulation to CISPR National Committee for comment as a Committee Draft, with a view to it becoming a CISPR Report. IARU hopes that the result of this will be amendments to the way in which standards are developed, to recognise the need to properly consider the cumulative impact of multiple devices.

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Another COVID-19 initiative
· Spectrum · Hans, PB2T

The Finnish Amateur Radio League (SRAL) cordially invites radio amateurs around the world you to join them in a global special event featuring their STAYHOME campaign and its radio actvity that will be held on 6 – 7 June 2020.

The United Nations Amateur Club 4U1UN, as well as its sister stations 4U1GSC (operated as 4U9STAYHOME) and 4U1A (operated as 4U2STAYHOME) will participate and look forward to making contact with many stations during this special event. Details can be found at https://​www​.qrz​.com/db​/OH2STAYHOME

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