We seek to understand and document all radio transmissions, legal and otherwise, as part of the radio listening hobby. We do not encourage any radio operations contrary to regulations. Always consult with the appropriate authorities if you have questions concerning what is permissible in your locale.

« previous next »
Pages: [1]

Author Topic: Can somebody explain radio beacons  (Read 1732 times)

Offline Antennae

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 653
    • CA, USA
    • View Profile
Can somebody explain radio beacons
« on: November 23, 2013, 0305 UTC »
I like finding new facets in life.  And just now when perusing the radio beacons discussion I found the term "pirate beacon."  I'm in a wonderful WTH?! moment. 

What is the draw to beacons? 
Logged
California Coast
Antenna: random wire

Fansome

  • Guest
Re: Can somebody explain radio beacons
« Reply #1 on: November 23, 2013, 0420 UTC »
http://www.hfunderground.com/wiki/Beacon

A pirate beacon would be a beacon that is operated without a license from the FCC, at least in the United States. The beacon operator runs the same risk as a pirate radio operator, and they do get busted from time to time.
« Last Edit: November 23, 2013, 0424 UTC by Fansome »
Logged

Capt. Radio

  • Guest
Re: Can somebody explain radio beacons
« Reply #2 on: November 23, 2013, 1342 UTC »

A far as beacons in general...

The draw to listening for them is the challenge that they are usually low powered and some are in very remote locations.

For example, beacons in the "lowfer" range (160-190kc), must operate at only one watt in a very noisy part of the spectrum. It's an accomplishment to ever hear one.
Logged

Offline Antennae

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 653
    • CA, USA
    • View Profile
Re: Can somebody explain radio beacons
« Reply #3 on: November 23, 2013, 1746 UTC »
Thanks for your replies but it still didn't answer my question so I did an internet search.
 I just found a site that explained it.
http://mt-shortwave.blogspot.com/2009/09/chasing-pirate-beacons.html
I like how some are solar powered things and also how some give off weak signals. 
Logged
California Coast
Antenna: random wire
Pages: [1]
« previous next »
 

HFUnderground Mug
HFUnderground Mug
by MitchellTimeDesigns