I've got to go back and reread Part 97, but if I remember correctly, all non-amateur-related commercial activity is prohibited. The example used in a test-prep session some years ago, while being extreme, was that it was prohibited for a spouse to ask you (over the radio, and assuming that you were both properly licensed, of course) to stop by the local market and buy milk and bread on the way home. Buying and selling amateur equipment across the radio was permitted. (Could be considered a "Double Standard", I know.....)
If this is still the case, any complaints could get very ugly, if the complainant chose to push the issue. Second issue, and one I've brought up with the ARRL's Working Group for this - there's a WHOLE lot of local governmental, business and residential networking going on now. While amateurs are always looking to expand their operating modes and the services they can provide their communities, they are also always looking to protect and advance their standing and reputation in the community. Yes, as amateurs, we have primary and/or secondary user privileges in the 802.11b frequency band, and non-licensed 802.11b users have to put up with any interference we might cause. But, does it do our standing in the community any good if we interrupt all the other users out there? Something to think about. David - KD4TJF >>> [EMAIL PROTECTED] 04/03/03 09:19AM >>> On Thu, 3 Apr 2003, Chris wrote: > Operation under part 97 seems like a dream come true for Free community > wireless networks. If operating under part 97 all users of the network will need an amateur radio license. > But Norm's eBay insight throws a serious wrench in the machine.... how on > earth could I keep people from using the connection for commercial purposes? You could order items for yourself. Remember the example of using an autopatch to order pizza, you receive no financial benefit. Using ebay would be fine except that SSL encryption would not be allowed. As you mention there is no security. > Block secure webpage requests (httpS://, port 443)... because any decent > e-commerce site (including ebay) uses SSL encrypted pages and forms to > protect credit card numbers and passwords. > Down side... users cant check hotmail and other web based email securely. This would limit is usefulness. BTW: we have at least one user on the list that receives their mail via Packet Radio. Frank, KG6JVE -- ---------------------------------------------------------------- Pasadena Networks, LLC. http://pasadena.net 626-676-4761 Wireless equipment, support and solutions. http://www.pasadena.net/shop/
