24-03-2017, 07:56 PM
I have always supported the idea that Foundation licence :-
1/. allowed more power, i.e. 50 watts maximum
2/. allowed digital modes
We need to get the clued up younger people in, and they want/need the digital modes, but don't want the extra effort of a standard or advanced call, which puts them off. If they get put off, they just use both AR bands and bands that none of us should be on.
Power always has been an issue to F calls, with many Standard or Advanced operators telling them to crank it right up. 50 watts would let them get a signal out as they are still learning.
These 2 items would still give them enough incentive to upgrade later to get all the 'good stuff' we full calls have.
Don't forget there are plenty of F calls that simply enjoy our hobby and have no need or desire to upgrade, and I dare say none of those people would probably use the digital modes if given to them anyway.
1/. allowed more power, i.e. 50 watts maximum
2/. allowed digital modes
We need to get the clued up younger people in, and they want/need the digital modes, but don't want the extra effort of a standard or advanced call, which puts them off. If they get put off, they just use both AR bands and bands that none of us should be on.
Power always has been an issue to F calls, with many Standard or Advanced operators telling them to crank it right up. 50 watts would let them get a signal out as they are still learning.
These 2 items would still give them enough incentive to upgrade later to get all the 'good stuff' we full calls have.
Don't forget there are plenty of F calls that simply enjoy our hobby and have no need or desire to upgrade, and I dare say none of those people would probably use the digital modes if given to them anyway.