Interference

Radio waves do not interfere in space. Two radio waves can pass through one another without effect. Interference only occurs when they both reach the same receiver on the same band with sufficient power for the unintended one to disrupt the intended one. The higher the frequency, the more bound the path of the waves can be. Low frequency waves like FM will spread everywhere, they should only be used when that is the goal — to go everywhere. High frequency waves can have directional transmitters and receivers that will only interfere when two transmitters are along the line the directional receiving antenna (or in particular dish) is aimed — or over a wider swath when the application demands less directionality in the antenna. And again, only if the unwanted transmission has enough power to interfere with the desired signals, since they should be using a noise tolerant system.

Low frequencies should be used only for rural applications, where you need to go long distances to mobile devices.

Alas, the news for hams is not good under my regime. Hams would have to stop using bands the way they do, and experiment with new technologies to be unselfish. But in fact that’s what being a ham is all about, after the initial learning phase. It’s not about using ancient technology, it’s no longer about code, and if you want to socialize with remote people, there are far better and less selfish ways to do that now.

Though on the other hand, there really is so much spectrum out there, if we opened it all up, that there should be enough for people to “play” and experiment and engage in activities that would be selfish if there were other people with a better use for the spectrum. But if there aren’t, then hams could feel free. No need for a licence, actually.

Reply

Please enter Brad's last name above. Case doesn't matter
The content of this field is kept private and will not be shown publicly.
  • Allowed HTML tags: <a> <em> <strong> <cite> <code> <ul> <ol> <li> <dl> <dt> <dd>
  • Web page addresses and e-mail addresses turn into links automatically.
  • Lines and paragraphs break automatically.

More information about formatting options