XW - Laos on 60m band by Bruce, 3W3B

Hi all,

did you worked Bruce from Laos as XW4XR during last days on 60m band and it was ATNO for you? If you missed him then next chance will be in 2 months...

As Bruce confirmed me he packed up his station 2 days ago already and he is now back in Vietnam (3W3B) which is his second home.

Bruce is planning to be back in XW several times this year so not to worry. This was 1st time XW on 60m so everything was ATNO for Bruce as well. He will concentrate on that band next trip.

The plans at the moment are for a possible return end of March...

QSL: Via LoTW or E21EIC ONLY

73 - Petr, OK1RP
.../-.-

TF - Iceland on 60m band - update by IRA

Hi all,

The Iceland Radio Amateurs (IRA) site says the regulator PFS has updated the Amateur Radio regulations

It would appear that Icelandic amateurs have gained the new WRC-15 60m 15 kHz wide allocation (5351.5-5366.5 kHz) limited to 15 watts but lost the 150 kHz wide allocation (5260-5410 kHz) which permitted 100 watts EIRP and had been available by special permit.

Download the PFS announcement from https://www.stjornartidindi.is/PdfVersions.aspx?recordId=4c471ff1-b497-433e-9295-cba56455db09

IRA site in Google English

http://tinyurl.com/IcelandIRA

73 - Petr, OK1RP
.../-.-

OK – Czech Republic 60m band permits rules for 2018

Hi all,

I am happy to say that after long discussion about the technical topics and additional work on the 60m band allocation versions, requests forms and administrative details corrections I finally finished with Czech Telecommunication Office staffs the final wording of 60m band permits and rules for 2018 in Czech Republic.

Thanks to effort and willingness of the CTU staffs we agreed on the solution which allows OK hams to use new WRC-15 band allocation as same as the old experimental 12 channels used in the past!

There are two different permits available for OK hams in 2018:

1. The Worldwide Frequency Allocation of 5351.5–5366.5 kHz operation permit is sent to OK hams based on the ordinary request sent by these applicants to CTU - on a secondary basis (D.1 rule) according WRC-15 and National frequency Table approval.

C.3 rule - The maximum power in that 15kHz range is 15W e.i.r.p (see 5.133B NFT)

D.2 rule - In between 5351.5 – 5354 kHz allocation are allowed only narrow modes (CW, RTTY, PSK, etc.) with BW max. 200Hz. Voice mode is prohibited)

D.3 rule – In between 5354 – 5366 kHz allocation are allowed all modes with BW max. 2700Hz. In case of SSB the USB is preferred.

D.4 rule – In between 5366 – 5366.5 kHz allocation are allowed only narrow modes (CW, RTTY, PSK, etc.) with BW max. 20Hz. Voice mode is prohibited.

The validity of that WRC-15 permit is 5 years.


2. The experimental 12-channels operation permit is still available for 2018 and it is sent also to OK hams based on the request for an Experimental 5MHz band permission sent by these applicants to CTU. It is also given on secondary basis (ITU-R RR Article 4.4).
          

USB Dial (kHz)	CW Dial (kHz)	Notes
5276.0	5277.5	Added to harmonize with UK bandplan
5288.5	5290.0
5298.0	5299.5	Added to harmonize with UK bandplan
5313.0	5314.5	Added to harmonize with UK bandplan
5330.5	5332.0	US
5333.0	5334.5	Added to harmonize with UK bandplan
5362.0	5363.5	Added to harmonize with UK bandplan
5366.5	5368.0	(A Former US Frequency) - remains
5371.5	5373.0	US
5395.0	5396.5	Added to harmonize with UK bandplan
5398.5	5400.0
5403.5	5405.0

The maximum power on these 12-channels is remaining same 100W e.i.r.p (C.3 rule) and also other details are remaining same for 2018 as for preview year regarding the bandwidth etc.

B.2 rule – USB and CW modes allowed

B.3 rule – 3kHz channels spacing

B.4 rule – USB: 3kHz; CW: 150Hz BW

D.2 rule – Annual experimental operation report has to be sent to CTU no later then 31.10.2018

The validity of this experimental permit is 1 year.


The most important is to understand that even although the National Frequency Table with the WRC-15 allocation is approved already in OK it does NOT means that WRC-15 band allocation on 60m is opened automatically for all OK hams!

Until the new “Decree (Regulation) on the technical and operating conditions of the amateur radio communication service” – replacing the old 156/2005Sb will be done (including the WRC-15 allocation), approved and published - the WRC-15 band allocation is accessible ONLY with WRC-15 permit issued individually based on the ordinary request sent to CTU!

This WRC-15 permission is no more special just regular but until the old regulation will be replaced it is issued by CTU based on individual request only.

The OK ham applicants can requesting the WRC-15 permit or an Experimental 12-channels permit or (and it is the goal) it is possible to requesting both permits together. In case of both permits issuing the applicants are allowed to use WRC-15 together with old 12-channels allocation. Just be careful that there are different power limits and related rules.

This article is compiled based on the agreement with CTU staffs and the rules has been validated by CTU director already.


73 – Petr, OK1RP
.../-.-

ZC4 - Cyprus on 60m band by Bob, 5B4AGN

Hi all,

Bob, 5B4AGN received permission to operate as ZC4A from Cyprus between 5351.5 - 5366.5kHz. Bob will be on the air from 25 January to 31 January. He suggest to TX on CW around 5353 listening up 2 and 5373. In case of FT8 on 5357 split.

I hope that thanks to Bob who is an excellent CW operator the ZC4 will be on the air on CW for most people instead just "chrchr" mode...


73 - Petr, OK1RP
.../-.-

V5 - Namibia on 60m band by Rudi, DK7PE

Hi all,

Rudi, DK7PE will be operating out of Omarura/Namibia trying the low bands with a focus on 160 and 60m as V5/DK7PE in between 24Jan - 30st Jan 2018.

Rudi will be using his old Icom IC-735 which was opened for 60m band operation too.

During CQWW160CW Rudi will be on the Topband...

You may QSL direct, but please don't send any IRCs for return postage. Rudi don't need a QSL, so you can use PayPal and send him the contact details. If the QSO is OK in the log, He'll send you the confirmation.

Please use: https://www.paypal.me/DK7PE

73 - Petr, OK1RP
.../-.-

The Icom IC-735 on 60m band article revisited...

Hi all,

I decided to revisiting the old article about the 60m band modification of the Icom IC-735. Thanks to Rudi, DK7PE for letting me know about the non-functional link in that article. Also I found major mistake by copycats or even original author of the mod article on internet so I decided to completely reworking it...

https://60mband.blogspot.ch/2011/01/icom-ic-735-on-60m-band.html


73 - Petr, OK1RP
.../-.-

9A - Croatia on 60 meters by Zeljko, 9A2EY

Hello,

On the Friday, 24 th November 2017 the Croatian Regulatory Authority for Network Industries (HAKOM) published  in a Official gazette (Narodne Novine) No 116/2017  changes to the rules on amateur radio communications in the Republic of Croatia.
According to this changes  Croatian radio amateurs now have access to the  WRC-15 60m amateur secondary allocation of 5351.5 – 5366.5 kHz under ITU Footnote 5.133B - i.e. with 15W EIRP.

According to the Official gazette notice, these changes come into force 8 days following its publication, so we should expect more Croatian stations after 02.12.2017.

The changes in the rules for amateur radio in the Republic of Croatia can be found on the following web address: https://narodne-novine.nn.hr/clanci/sluzbeni/2017_11_116_2690.html

I would like to express my great gratitude to HAKOM, because in the last few years they has issued a temporary one-year licenses for 60 meters to Croatian radio amateurs.

(Many thanks to Zeljko, 9A2EY for info!)

As one of Europe’s most popular beach destinations and blessed with year-round sun, Croatia’s historic towns and idyllic islands have a wealth of natural attractions to offer. From rolling vineyards to sweeping coastal cliffs, here are 10 of the most beautiful places in Croatia to add to your itinerary.

1. Dubrovnik

With its imposing sea walls overlooked by the imposing Lovrijenac fortress, mass of terracotta-colored rooftops and dramatic cliff top location, the self-proclaimed ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ is one of Croatia’s most visited destinations. For the best views, catch the cable car to the peak of nearby Mount Srd or take a scenic walk along the City Walls, then take in the highlights of Dubrovnik’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, known for its shimmering marble streets, grand baroque churches and magnificent 16th century Sponza Palace.

2. Plitvice Lakes National Park

A natural wilderness of azure lakes, tumbling waterfalls and forested mountains, the Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s most celebrated National Parks and UNESCO Natural Heritage sites. Take a hike around the 16 interconnected lakes, learn about the naturally formed travertine dams and keep your eyes peeled for brown bear and lynx prowling through the woodlands.

3. Zagorje Region

Stretching north of Zagreb to the Slovenian border, the picturesque Zagorje region is dotted with medieval castles, hilltop vineyards and thermal springs. Explore the historic town of Krapina, tour the traditional wine taverns, visit the fairy-tale Trakošćan Castle or take a hike through the scenic highlands.

4.Makarska

Half way between Dubrovnik and Split, Makarska makes a popular stop on cruises around Croatia, with its lively beaches and colorful harbor set against the craggy peak of Mount Biokovo. It might be a quieter choice than its neighbors, but there’s still plenty to do in Makarska — make the most of the family-friendly beaches, celebrate Croatia’s swashbuckling past at the Pirate Festival in nearby Omis or hop on the ferry to Brač Island.

5. Mljet National Park

One of Croatia’s southernmost islands, Mljet Island and its eponymous National Park are well worth the journey. An expanse of greenery, punctuated by glittering saltwater lakes, dense pine forests and shaded lagoons, Mljet is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. Once you’ve tackled the many hiking and biking trails, enjoy kayaking on the lake, discover the eerie Odysseus’s cave or go wreck diving off the coast.

6. Split

Another top attraction of the Dalmatian Coast, Croatia’s second-largest city is a major port and an important starting point for island-hopping cruises and day trips. The magnificent UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace is the city’s top attraction, but there are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities in Split with white water rafting, rock climbing and sailing tours all available.

7. Peljesac Peninsula

A slim headland stretching from the mainland to Korcula Island, the Pelješac peninsula is renowned as one of Croatia’s top wine tasting regions, producing acclaimed varieties like Dingac and Postup. Once you’ve explored the region’s traditional wineries, tuck into local oysters and mussels in Mali Ston, catch some waves in the windsurfing hotspot of Viganj or scale the summit of the looming Sveti Ilija Mountain.

8. Rovinj

The star attraction of the northern Istrian peninsula, the traditional fishing village of Rovinj entices a steady stream of travelers up the coast. Laid-back and effortlessly charming, Rovinj is a world away from the bustling resorts of the south, but that doesn’t mean you’ll get bored - discover the verdant islands of the Rovinj archipelago, hike through the woodlands of the Golden Cape or seek out a little known sunbathing spot along the coast.

9. Zagreb

The elegant Croatian capital often loses out to the coastal resorts, but the medieval alleyways and sprawling parklands of Zagreb are worth a detour inland. Check out the city’s top museums, take a stroll around the scenic Lenuci’s Horseshoe, ride the funicular up to the Old Town of Gornji Grad, or escape the capital for the lush highlands of the Zagorje region.

10. Kornati islands

The Adriatic coast is littered with islands, but for the best scuba diving in Croatia head to the Kornati Islands National Park, a rocky archipelago of over 140 islands, where you’ll find acres of uninhabited land, colorful reefs and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.

Miss Croatia, Barbara Filipovic

Dubrovnik’s most popular beach—which draws in so many tourists due to its proximity to the Old Town—made it onto our list thanks to its scenic views of the city’s walls, variety of water sports and beach activities, as well as the abundance of dining and drinking options. At some point, most visitors are likely to wind up at Banje Beach Restaurant, Lounge, and Club—which can get quite touristy (it even turns into a night club after dark)—but remains a consistent option for good food, tasty cocktails, and a killer view. If you’re looking for something a little more formal—or a little less crowded. head to nearby Restaurant Horizont, which turns out fresh, first-rate Croatian fare in a quaint, medieval setting.

73 - Petr, OK1RP

.../-.-