Hi Phil,

The FCC ULS system will have some history but it is limited. Give it a try by using their search by call feature at:

http://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsApp/UlsSearch/searchLicense.jsp

QRZ also has their 1993 searchable database on line at:

http://www.qrz.com/search1993.html

Other sources are old call books. If you are looking for a specific call, perhaps posting it here would net some research by others.

Have fun.

- Glenn W9IQ

Generally speaking, the variac approach is to allow the filter capacitors to "form", it has little to do with the finals. Aged electrolytic capacitors can self destruct when the current flowing through them is not initially limited through the use of the variac. The forming process ensures a proper layer of oxide forms or is "reformed".

The military discovered and managed this issue by requiring a formal "forming" process prescribed by applying a current controlled source to stored capacitors.

You may find the following link helpful:

www.repairfaq.org/sam/captest.htm

- Glenn W9IQ

Bob,

I agree with you, the ID is for use by the FCC. Our posts must have crossed in the ether. See mine just prior to yours.

John,

Another point to consider is that even in the heyday of CW, probably the minority of amateur licensees were capable of copying CW at 20 WPM – the maximum automated CW ID speed. The minimum hurdle was 5 WPM and the minority could meet the lofty requirement for Extra. This would suggest that the issue of the usability of the automated CW ID has always been dubious from the majority of the amateurs’ perspective.

- Glenn W9IQ

John,

Considering that the FCC allows a CW ID for nearly all other classes of radio services where the users are very unlikely to know anything about Morse code, I infer that the primary reason for regulatory ID requirements is for the benefit of the FCC, not the communicators or casual observers. As amateur radio operators we take an interest in the call signs but we are relatively unique in that regard.

I don’t see the FCC eliminating the option of identifying with Morse code anytime soon. I do, however, wish that the FCC would harmonize the ID requirements across all services. Then commercial gear that is placed into amateur service, such as repeaters, would not need to be modified to meet the unique ID timing requirements of the amateur service.

- Glenn W9IQ

Hi Brian,

A quick check of your FRN shows you already have the GMRS license. I hope the radio works out for you.

- Glenn W9IQ

Hi Brian,

Another approach would be to check with Kenwood or your FCC field office to see if the Kenwood TK-805D is GMRS certified. While the GMRS community could be turning a blind eye, you might be pleasantly surprised.

If it is GMRS certified and you can add amateur frequencies to the programming without otherwise modifying the radio, I am not aware of anything that would prohibit the dual use you are seeking. Just don't forget to obtain your GMRS license!

Have fun,

- Glenn W9IQ

There are radios that can be dual or multi certified to include GRMS but not with Amateur or MARS service. Programmable radios are allowed with restrictions.

Here is the wording from CFR 47 95.665(a and b):

(a)...no transmitter will be certificated for use in the GMRS if it is equipped with a frequency capability not listed in § 95.621, unless such transmitter is also certificated for use in another radio service for which the frequency is authorized and for which certification is also required.

(Transmitters with frequency capability for the Amateur Radio Services and Military Affiliate Radio System will not be certificated.)

(b) All frequency determining circuitry (including crystals) and programming controls in each CB transmitter and in each GMRS transmitter must be internal to the transmitter and must not be accessible from the exterior of the transmitter operating panel or from the exterior of the transmitter enclosure.


As a fall back, an Amateur transceiver that is "opened up" would be allowed on GRMS but only under the emergency provisions of the amateur regulations, not for general use. These are clearly very restrictive provisions and may not fit your intended purpose.

- Glenn W9IQ

I came across my Commercial license with ship radar endorsement a year ago while cleaning and got to thinking about associating with my FRN. I couldn't find the CM number through any FCC search tool.

I emailed the FCC and referenced my CM PG number asking what I should do. I never got a reply but a few weeks later, my CM license showed up when searching the ULS system. I then associated it with my FRN. Problem solved.

Good luck.