Industry Canada approved access by Canadian radio amateurs to the Low Frequency (LF) band 135.7 -137.8 kHz, subject to certain conditions in late 2009. This was a direct result of implementing changes from the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) 2007, which added amateur use of this spectrum on a Secondary basis. This has now been included in the newly updated RBR-4 Standards for the Operation of Stations in the Amateur Radio Service. (http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/eng/sf10650.html ) Canadian amateurs are reminded that the maximum emission bandwidth in this band is 100Hz (e.g. cw, BPSK31, BPSK63, etc.) as well as a maximum EIRP of 1 watt. These conditions are found in Footnote 5.67A: “Stations in the amateur service using frequencies in the band 135.7-137.8 kHz shall not exceed a maximum radiated power of 1 W (EIRP) and shall not cause harmful interference to stations of the radionavigation service operating in countries listed in No. 5.67. (WRC-07)”.

RAC welcomes reports of activities in this band, especially reports of DX achieved and useful operating tips. We are asking those active on this band to consider writing articles for TCA to help other amateurs get started on LF, given the large differences in LF antennas, and the need for homebrew transmitters, receivers, and/or transverters. Insights into propagation and other LF operating tips are also requested.

Thanks to Richard Ferch, VE3KI and Jim Dean, VE3IQ.

George Gosline, VE3YV
RAC International Affairs

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