August 2003

Frequency range	Primary use	Mode	Notes
70.000 – 70.030	Beacons	FSK	1 & 5
70.030 – 70.150	2 way simplex communication	CW & SSB	1 & 2
70.150 – 70.200	Digital modes & APRS	FM	1 & 3
70.200 – 70.300	2 way simplex communication	All	1 & 4

The 70 MHz spectrum is under discussion with ICASA with regards our level of access to this band. The only restriction is that of antenna polarisation, must be horizontal to prevent interference with other users outside our borders who still retain 70 to 70,300 MHz for commercial operation. The normal regulations regarding the requirement that an amateur station does not cause unnecessary interference will be enforced. In other words LISTEN FIRST before transmitting.

Notes:

1. It is available for use but users must ensure that no interference is caused to other users, we at present only have SECONDARY STATUS, i.e. the band is shared with commercial users who have priority and we have to accept interference from primary users.

2. Operation within this part of the band shall only use CW or SSB with horizontal polarisation. The power limit is 400W pep. Amateurs should use increments of 5 kHz to allow the maximum number of users to co-exist.

3. The allocation of APRS service to this portion shall be shared with other digital modes. Channel spacing shall be 12.5 kHz. APRS service providers shall ensure that no undue interference occurs with other amateur users.

4. Within this portion the use of 12.5 kHz channel spacing is mandatory.

5. Beacons shall be limited to an EIRP of 25 W with an Omni-directional antenna horizontally polarised. Beacons shall be operated in accordance with the IARU Region 1 recommendations with regard to keying speed, shift and identification details. Applications for permanent 70 MHz beacons shall be forwarded to the SARL VHF band planner for consideration. The channel spacing for adjacent beacons shall be 2 kHz.