lawyer may argue otherwise). I think the case can be made
that the wireless Ethernet and Internet portions of the
control link(s) in this case are the equivalent of land line
based control such as dedicated telephone lines would be
(ref. 97.213(a)).
That's correct. Part 97 regulates the type and emissions of radio links,
but not the type of non-radio control. Nor do I see anything within Part 97
that addresses "positive control" of the link to ensure that the transmitter
is under continuous control.
In several non-Part 97 systems (e.g., Part 73 - Broadcasting), the FCC
generally requires a watch-dog timer device of some kind to inhibit
transmissions when the control link is lost.
It would seem reasonable, albeit not a strict FCC requirement, to utilize a
TCP/IP polling method to inhibit Part 97 transmissions. If the transceiver
receives no polling command within a pre-determined period of time, the
transmitter becomes inhibited from further transmissions until control is
re-established.
For example, let's say you initiate the "TUNE" function on your tranceiver
from your remote location and at that moment, your link to the ISP vanishes.
You now have a transmitter operating completely out of control. And
although Part 97 may not specifically address Internet-based remote control
systems, you then become under attack from other areas within Part 97.
It would certainly make sense to include a similar timing device in the Omni
VII. I presume some additional coding would be necessary, but without any
further refinement in hardware.
Paul, W9AC
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