AMA News

AMA News

RC Operations on the Amateur Radio Service Six‑Meter Band (50–54 MHz)

The following information was compiled by Torrey Williams (W4UV) of the AMA Frequency Committee (AMA/ARRL Liaison) and is published in response to a request by AMA Frequency Committee Chairman George M. Myers to make it available to interested AMA members.

#### Six Meters and RC Use

Amateur radio operators have many frequency bands in which to conduct Morse code (CW), voice (AM, FM, SSB), radio teletype (RTTY) and other modes of communications. Historically, the six‑meter band (50–54 MHz) has been the primary band used for extensive RC operations. Reasons include:

• The band is four megahertz wide, providing ample frequencies for the RC activities then contemplated.
• The frequencies lie above the usual upper limit of long‑distance skip communications, so local signals are the primary potential source of interference.
• Equipment originally designed for 27 or 72 MHz was easily adapted to six‑meter use and vice versa, since much early RC development work was pioneered by amateurs using six meters.
• Efficient receiving and transmitting antennas are of convenient length.
• Use of six meters was authorized for the Technician (entry‑level) amateur license as well as for higher license grades.

Early RC sets were mostly home‑built. Amateurs typically used cheap surplus crystals on frequencies clear in their locales, producing a scattering of widely divergent frequencies. As hams began attending regional and national contests, it became clear that some order was needed for safe and efficient flight‑line operation.

#### Current Six‑Meter Frequencies

About 15 years ago the AMA selected and suggested five six‑meter RC channels:

• 53.100 MHz — black/brown
• 53.200 MHz — black/red
• 53.300 MHz — black/orange
• 53.400 MHz — black/yellow
• 53.500 MHz — black/green

These 53 MHz frequencies were chosen because amateur communicators at that time were avoiding frequencies above 53 MHz due to the likelihood that high‑power voice transmissions could cause video interference to TV Channel 2 (54–60 MHz). Since the top end of the band was largely vacant, these frequencies appeared ideal for RC use.

#### Summary and Recommendations

The AMA RC Frequency Committee believes these developments create a new set of phase‑in RC channels on six meters that afford more protection than ever, with joint organizational recognition between AMA and the ARRL. Elements of spectrum conservation are included and should benefit from narrow‑band equipment expected to be developed for use on 72/76 MHz channels. Compliance with the plan is voluntary, but hams are generally conscientious about band‑plan adherence. The Committee encourages RC set manufacturers to offer up‑to‑date equipment with these six‑meter phase‑in channels as an option.

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Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) Report Card

This issue contains an RFI Report Card for reporting problems with the new RC channels. Fill it out properly and mail it to the District Frequency Coordinator (DFC) for your district (address in your district VP’s column heading).

We are seeking two specific types of information:

1. Reports of outside interference.

• Tell us who interfered and when, where, how, and why it happened.
• Very few potential interferers have become actual interferers so far, partly because the new RC channels are not yet in full use.
• If RC manufacturers produce narrow‑band receivers in time, many potentials may never become actuals. A few old‑style receivers may have problems; we want to learn when they are affected by other services’ transmitters.

1. Reports of inter‑system interference.

• Properly adjusted RC systems should not interfere with one another during the eight‑year phase‑in period, assuming digital systems are used according to the New AMA RC Frequency Control Plan and proper RC channel control is observed at the field.
• We are seeking only verified reports where a particular make/model RC system cannot be adjusted to work within the AMA plan. Please attempt readjustment and retest before reporting a problem. If it cannot be readjusted, send full particulars (who, what, when, where, how).

NOTE: AMA will not disclose manufacturer names, model numbers, or service centers to anyone. Doing so could expose AMA to lawsuits. All DFCs are instructed to observe this restriction. If AMA observes an adverse trend with a particular product, the manufacturer will be contacted privately.

George M. Myers, Chairman, AMA Frequency Committee

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Flight Bug Excerpt — "Herds and Mavericks"

From the Flight Bug newsletter — captioned "Herds and Mavericks":

"Since we were knee high to an all‑balsa ROG we've periodically heard rumors of the impending demise of Free Flight modeling... The trouble with such predictions is that those making them are entirely ignorant of history. As such, their assumptions are based on isolated events rather than a long overview of repeated, patterned activities.

"And each time the problems have come up there have been those (i.e., 'spectators in the bleachers') who have donned their funeral clothes. But, of course, they miss the vital point. They observe an isolated area of 'activity' when it's the nature of the 'participants' they should study.

"'FFing, like mountain climbing, bronc busting, and other unique human endeavors, has always appealed to a very limited segment. It takes a special kind of cat to labor long and hard over a construction project... that can easily be destroyed or lost... through trimming errors or by the whims of elements in the Big Sky. But, it also takes a different striped cat to savor the thrill of a boomer‑borne chase... knowing that speck is up in the sky because you put it there.

"'So, be of good cheer, my children.

"Somewhere out there a solitary mountaineer licks his wounds, coils his ropes anew, and steps away from base camp. And in an isolated corral an old bronc stomper limps, for the thousandth time, up to the old snubbing post. And somewhere a FFer puts up another one... because there is always another thermal... out there... waiting... for you.'

Free flighters, stand up and take a bow. Whoever wrote the foregoing (in full) can truly be considered among the pioneers and steadfast members of our sport/hobby. Ain't it grand!"

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Executive Director's View From HQ

John Worth AMA Executive Director 1810 Samuel Morse Dr., Reston, VA 22090

Open House Dates Set

Mark your calendar for the weekend of September 24–25. AMA will officially open its Model Aviation Museum and Visitor’s Center with a gala event. Many of modeling’s best‑known names are expected to attend.

The new AMA Headquarters at Reston (National Center for Aeromodeling) is already open; the museum portion will take the summer to set up. Many models will be received over the next few months, including the Russ Barrera collection. Volunteers, headed by Hurst Bowers, and local clubs are assisting. Initially the center is not open on weekends unless volunteer staffing allows.

All this leads up to AMA’s 50th anniversary in 1986, when a major celebration is expected.

New Contest Sanction Procedure for 1984

To avoid last year’s backlog, the AMA Executive Council (April 30) approved returning to a first‑come, first‑served sanction processing procedure. A significant change: traditional meet sanction applications must be submitted six months to one year before the desired date to obtain preference and protection.

AMA Video Tapes

An arrangement is being finalized to offer AMA films for purchase on videotape (initially VHS). Titles expected: "Marvelous Miniatures," "Grand Illusions," and "Adrift on the Air" (the latter on Free Flight). Video tapes will be sold (not rented) and offered more economically than film prints. Beta availability will depend on demand.

New Insurance Plan Coming

The Executive Council approved a new optional plan. For those purchasing homeowner coverage from AMA’s company (presumably at equal or lesser cost for similar coverage), free "All‑Risk" coverage will be provided for models and model equipment — broader than current Fire, Theft, and Vandalism coverage. The existing coverage will continue for those who prefer it.

Toledo Club Donation

The Toledo Weak Signals RC Club donated proceeds from their 1983 RC Show: $1,300 split equally between the AMA Building Fund and the Glen Sig Memorial Scholarship Fund. AMA officers express appreciation.

Note: Bob Hisey (Toledo Show co‑director) suffered a heart attack on April 23. At press time updates were awaited.

Coming Events

• District I Pattern Contest — Waterford, CT, June 4–5. CD: J. Giordano (New London R/C Prop Busters).
• Special 4‑Stroke Meet — Berwick, ME, June 11–12. CD: T. Vinton (New England Sports Association). Noise level tests planned; 4‑cycle engines may help reduce noise.
• Sports Scale Contest — Hopkinton, NH, June 5. CD: S. Hecker (Concord Aero Guidance Society).
• District Pattern Contest — Bridgewater, MA, June 24–25. CD: Don Krafft (Assoc. V.P.), sponsored by South Shore R/C Club.

Apology to Jim Simonian and members of the Cape Ann R/C Club for previously calling them "North Shore R/C Club."

National Center for Aeromodelling

The Executive Council held budget meetings at the National Center. The facility is practical and attractive. A sign displayed: "East Coast Nats in '83! Westover AFB July 24–31."

R/C Transmitter Publication

A new monthly newspaper‑format publication, "R/C Transmitter" (publisher Jai Kaiser), looks promising and seeks submissions from airplane clubs and individuals. Send info to Jai Kaiser, P.O. Box 2374, Syracuse, NY 13220.

FCC Ruling and Transmitter Use

Portions of an FCC order mean that an amateur who uses six meters for RC cannot trade the transmitter box back and forth with a non‑amateur instructor. A "buddy box" may be used only if both parties hold proper amateur licenses. Clubs flying on six meters using one member’s license is contrary to FCC rules and has not been encouraged by the AMA. Family members should obtain the necessary amateur license if they wish to fly on six meters.

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District I Report

Ed Izzo District Vice‑President 483 Fiske St., Holliston, MA 01746

Associate Vice‑Presidents:

• Robert C. Shedden, 405 Main Street, Nashua, NH 03060
• Dennis Folsom, RFD 1, Gardiner, ME 04345
• Don Ancona, PO Box 182, 73 Heritage Ln., Duxbury, MA 02332
• Al Nowak, 11 Sawyer Pl., Norwalk, CT 06850
• Don Bason, 11 Pawnee Ave., Rutland, VT 05701

Frequency Coordinator: George Wilson, 318 Fisher St., Wakefield, MA 02181

Nats Update

Most activity areas for the Nats are settled except the Indoor site. Westover AFB hangar (200 ft. × 280 ft.) was inspected; ceiling clearance of about 62 ft. (57 ft. unobstructed flight circle) was measured. The base offered to secure 85 overhead lights to create a clear flight area. Col. Ayers, Base Commander at Westover, has been highly cooperative.

Monthly operational meetings will continue in preparation for the Nats.

Noise Committee Activities

Many Masters fliers find meeting FAI noise requirements difficult due to lack of knowledge. The AMA Noise Committee sent participants guidance and a tip‑speed vs. diameter/rpm graph indicating target areas to meet noise standards. The committee tested engines and props and verified results.

Two Radio Shack sound meters (No. 42‑3019) were purchased and calibrated within 0.25 dBA; clubs are encouraged to purchase such meters to monitor noise. Reducing noise is key to retaining flying sites.

District Activities

• March 27: Attended Central Mass. R/C Modelers mall show (movies, building demos, static displays).
• April 5: Attended the 495th R/C Squadron Meeting in Chelmsford; received promises of help for the Nats.

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District II Report — New Jersey & New York

John Byrne District II Vice‑President 36‑29 213 Street, Bayside, NY 11361

Associate Vice‑Presidents:

• Pete Bianchini, 235 S. Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10705
• Frank Castaldo, 27 Kearney St., Dover, NJ 07801
• Frank Dreves, 3 Willow Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055
• Ray Juschus, 7 Evergreen Ave., New Hyde Park, NY 11040
• Hank Lihle, 46 Cory Dr., Toms River, NJ 08753
• Adam Settele, 41 Perry Ave., Latham, NY 12110
• Leon Sutter, 2062 Rabbit Lane, Phoenix, NY 13135

Frequency Coordinator: George Myers, 70 Freehill Farm Rd., Hicksville, NY 11801

District Notes and Developments

• March 19: First joint meeting of the Executive Council with key AMA Headquarters staff to review the budget and long‑range fiscal projection. Discussion included potential dues increase for 1984 and membership cost concerns. Reminder: volunteering at the Nats can yield free housing and a year’s membership.
• Redistricting interest: Proposal to include Pennsylvania in District II is being supported by many Eastern Pennsylvania modelers.
• AMA Presidential Election 1983: Two candidates submitted so far — John Grigg (incumbent) and Charles (Chuck) Foreman (District IV V.P.). Nominations to AMA Officer Nomination Committee, c/o AMA HQ.

National Center for Aeromodeling

The Executive Council held budgetary meetings at the National Center; photos and observations on the facility noted. A displayed sign reminded members of the East Coast Nats at Westover AFB, July 24–31.

R/C Transmitter Publication

"R/C Transmitter" Volume 1, Number 2 was reviewed favorably; publisher Jai Kaiser invites submissions (P.O. Box 2374, Syracuse, NY 13220).

Recognitions and Nats Notes

• Thunderbolts M.A.C. (Schenectady, NY) had coverage in "R/C Transmitter."
• Congratulations to Lon Sauter (AVP, Syracuse) on being elected President of the Central New York Model Aircraft Association and for his AVP reports in Plane Prop Wash.
• Thanks to Radio Control Society of Marine Park (Brooklyn, NY) for presenting a plaque in appreciation of service to District II.
• Nats planning: Westover AFB hangar (65‑foot ceiling) secured for indoor events; many volunteers lined up for various contest operations.

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District IV Highlights (selected notes)

• Herb Stokesley appointed District IV Rep. for FAI RC Soaring Team Selection Program.
• Electric contest: Tidewater Model Soaring Society — July 4 at Fentress Naval Auxiliary Field, Norfolk, VA (Electric 2 Meter). CD: M. B. Peck, 1234 Richmond Cres., Norfolk, VA 23508.
• Mid‑Virginia R.C. Club: newsletter poetic field update; various club event notices.
• Statesville R.C. Club: participating in the Dogwood Festival, April 23.
• R.C. Modelers of Baltimore: corrected contest date is June 11 (not June 25).
• Northern VA R.C. Club: developed a laminated pre‑flight check card — contact Larry Parfett for copies.
• Several clubs and events listed (Brain Busters F.F. Club, Northern Virginia C/L Association) with contests and volunteer needs.

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District V (Midwest & Surrounding) Highlights

• Reports from local shows and contests, awards, and club activities.
• Notable: Toledo Weak Signals Conference, contest awards, and contributions.
• Youth development example: letter from 16‑year‑old Walter McIntosh (Glasgow, KY) describing his introduction to RC, mentorship he received, and encouragement for clubs to advertise and reach beginners.

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District VIII (Southwest) Highlights

• Arvada Associated Modelers mall show (Westminster Mall) displayed nearly 80 models.
• Reports on club activities, weather impacts, and new clubs forming.
• Corpus Christi R/C Club and Experimental Aircraft Association link‑up planned (July 23–24) with model and people‑carrying aircraft fly‑in.
• Recognition of the Stubblefield family for competitive control‑line achievements.
• Miscellaneous club events, photos, and anecdotes.

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District IX Report (Rocky Mountain Region)

• AVP needs and contact info; possible new AVPs for Wyoming and Nebraska areas.
• President Grigg appointed district representative to an FAI/CIAM education and information committee.
• Interim electric‑flight committee contact: Byron Blakeslee, 3134 Winnebago Drive, Sedalia, CO 80135.

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District X Report (Southwest & Pacific)

Jim Scarborough District X Vice‑President 30717 Rue Langlois, Rancho P.V., CA 90274

Associate Vice‑Presidents include contacts in Las Vegas, Walnut Creek, Orangevale, Phoenix, Tonopah, Long Beach, Maui, and Chula Vista.

Frequency Coordinator: Harold P. Jackson, 8288 Sunset Ave., Fair Oaks, CA 95628 — Phone: (916) 961‑9603

Notes

• Mall shows and public displays promoted RC and aeromodelling (Palm Springs, San Diego, Phoenix).
• Support requested for U.S. F3B Soaring Team fundraising (contact R. C. Odle, 815 Mellow Ln., Simi Valley, CA 93065).
• The AMA booth is available to clubs at no cost; contact the District VP to request it or a guest speaker.

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District XI Report (Pacific Northwest & Alaska)

Ed McCollough District XI Vice‑President 53 S.E. 61st Ave., Portland, OR 97215

Associate Vice‑Presidents and Frequency Coordinator: see District listing.

Upcoming Events and Notes

• Barnstormers Scale Contest: July 24 at Delta Park, Portland (biplane bonus, category awards).
• IMAA Big Bird Fly‑In: June 11–12 at Banks, OR (biplane and monoplane wingspan minimums).
• Northwest region contests and CLAMBAASH information (hosts and dates provided).
• Encouragement for clubs to designate a club frequency coordinator and provide contact info to district frequency personnel.
• Soaring meets and glider events listed for Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia.
• Volunteer coordination and improved inter‑club communication noted as priorities.

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Junior Flight

Ed Whitten Box 176, Wall St. Sta., New York, NY 10005

"Now It's Our Turn!"

An account by Frank Macy (Oregon City, OR) describing a great day of relaxed, unsophisticated flying with folding‑wing gliders that delighted both kids and adults. The story emphasizes intergenerational enjoyment of modeling and the timeless appeal of simple flying fun.

• Frank Macy reproduces classic Jim Walker models (folding‑wing "Sky Divers," "Ceiling Walker" helicopters, "Fireballs," "Pursuit," etc.).
• A‑J FUN PAK NO. 1 and A‑J PLAN PAKS are available; contact Frank Macy, P.O. Box 548, Oregon City, OR 97045.

New Book Notice

Bill Hannan (author of "Peanut Power") is compiling a scrapbook‑style book of earlier magazine articles and materials related to peanut scale models. Contact: Bill Hannan, Box A, Escondido, CA 92025.

The Junior Flight page invites stories of beginners’ projects and "great day" experiences to inspire leaders who work with youngsters.

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Final Notes and Closing Items

• Numerous club reports, photos, contest results, and human‑interest stories were submitted from across the AMA districts.
• Readers are encouraged to send newsletters, event results, and contact information to their district VPs to facilitate coordination and sharing of activities.
• Safe flying reminders: pre‑flight checks, noise reduction efforts, volunteer support for events, and outreach to younger prospects are recurring themes.

Safe flying and good landings to all.

Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.