CONCORD MODEL FLYING CLUB

2.4 GHz at your club field. BMFA

OFCOM have issued the necessary permissions and changes to Government legislation which allow the sale and use of approved equipment transmitting on the 2.4 GHz band at 100mw maximum radiating power in December 2006. Equipment on this band is already selling in large numbers and will soon start to appear at the club field or flying event. At this early stage only one manufacturer is offering equipment on this frequency, however indications are that more will take advantage of this new technology in the near future. Below are a few points for your guidance on operation and integration within your normal flying activities, however always remember the final decision on any matter relating to the safety of a flight rests with the pilot.

• 2.4 GHz is a world-wide band that has many applications and users.
• The sets currently available are of the “spread spectrum” variety and hence need no frequency control.
• It can be used to control any type of model either ground based, water or airborne (within the constraints of the law of course).
• Current sets have the facility to reduce power in order to perform a range check, use this facility in line with the manufacturers instructions.
• It is suggested that clubs utilising the “peg on” method of frequency control have a separate 2.4 GHz section for members to place a named peg.
• Club rules governing the number of models airborne at any one time should still reflect the needs and circumstances of the particular flying site.
• 2.4 GHz transmitter aerials should display a black ribbon.
• There is no evidence to suggest that 2.4 GHz transmitters will interfere with users of 35 MHz.
• The use of this band combined with spread spectrum technology will eventually help to alleviate the risk of lone flyers interfering with nearby club operations.
• This technology has been in regular use in other countries for over a year with few reported problems.
• Follow manufacturers instructions and guidance on installation into your airframe.
• At events operating transmitter control 2.4 GHz transmitters should be booked in and accounted for as normal, however there is no requirement to check frequency and the decision on when the pilot flies rests with the CD or Flight Line Director.
• Follow guidance provided by the manufacturer of your specific set on it’s operation.
• The effectiveness and safety of any equipment still relies on care and vigilance of the user.

After Market Plug-in Modules 2.4GHz- Advice on the use of after-market plug-in modules.

The BMFA has sought advice from Ofcom, regarding the use of after-market plug-in modules, their statement is as follows. “Ofcom have advised that replacement modules need to be individually compliant and correctly CE marked. Additionally, the manufacturer or person who first places the module on the market in the EU, is responsible for ensuring the compliance of the overall unit (transmitter plus module).

If you are considering using such a module, you should ensure the manufacturer of the module certifies that when the module is fitted, the complete transmitter unit is compliant with current regulations”. Only if you receive such confirmation can you be certain that the equipment will be legal to use.

Manny Williamson
Development Officer, BMFA

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Neither the editor nor committee members of the Concord MFC can be held responsible for the accuracy of articles, contained in this publication or for any consequences resulting from such articles. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the editor, or the committee.