Even though the transmitter was located on the hip belt of the operator and being operated from inside a steel shed, the signal still managed to travel more than 17km in what have to be regarded as far less than optimum conditions.

On the 16/5/99 WIA Victoria broadcast, reference was made to these devices being of "low duty cycle" and for "remote control of machinery" and therefore of little concern to amateurs. Most of the discussion still centred around the use of LIPDs as voice radios even though there have been no substantiated reports of interference from these devices to date. Meanwhile these so called "low duty cycle" devices used for the "remote control of machinery" are continuously clogging repeaters for days at a time!

Late in March a statement was released saying that "Fears that LIPDs are a threat to amateur repeaters throughout Australia do not seem to be justified, because most are located on remote hilltops, and not within smelling range of wireless headphones and other LIPDs." - the term "smelling range" was not defined, but it is obviously in excess of 17km! Its no wonder we are now having to put up with the problems these devices are producing.

And what about other bands? Recently Brad Wyatt and Ed Hare of the ARRL indicated that Australian LIPD limits on 80 metres are at least 10 TIMES HIGHER than those being considered as part of the FCC's part 15 device (probably similar to LIPD) proposals.

It is expected that the interference to VK3ROU will re-commence when the factory reopens on Monday.

Is your favorite frequency next?
 
 

Http://www.users.bigpond.net.au/vk3yng/lipd