On the CWops mailing list, we’ve been talking about the use of special event callsigns. One fellow noted:
Operators using US 1×1 calls are required to identify with their own call periodically … every hour I think.
I honestly didn’t know this, so just to be sure, I looked it up. Here’s the rule:
Section 97.119 (d). When transmitting in conjunction with an event of special significance, a station may substitute for its assigned call sign a special event call sign as shown for that station for that period of time on the common data base coordinated, maintained and disseminated by the special event call sign data base coordinators. Additionally, the station must transmit its assigned call sign at least once per hour during such transmissions.
You learn something new every day….
To be completely honest, I haven’t complied with the rule. Last summer, for example, I used W8L when I operated from the Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse. Anyone know the statute of limitations on violating a Part 97 rule?