In this article, ARRL Objects to Limits on Licensee Access to BPL Interference Resolution Site, the ARRL objects to the use of zip codes as the sole search criteria for locating BPL installations for possible interference. The BPL database is located at BPL Database.
Why not test drive it for yourself? The zip code for Manassas, Virginia, government offices is 20110. Manassas is the poster child site for BPL. Try running a search on 20110 at the BPL database.
I don't really have to tell you the result, do I?
There are no BPL operations in your area. If you believe that you have received this message in error, please contact the United Power Line Council and provide written details concerning the nature of the interference and your licensed operations, including the location (complete address and coordinates), frequency(ies) of operation, the type of operation (mobile or fixed) and a brief description of the interference. Note that the FCC rules define harmful interference as:
Any emission, radiation or induction that endanger the functioning of a radio navigation service or of other safety services or seriously degrades, obstructs or repeatedly interrupts a radiocommunications service operating in accordance with this chapter
The BPL industry has no intention whatsoever of complying with the rules, and the FCC doesn't give a damn if they do or not.
I will happily admit I am wrong when the FCC acts on the Manassas interference complaints. Of course, they have done NOTHING in two years, so I feel pretty safe.
The standard response to an interference complaint letter to the FCC OET is a form letter replying that they have forwarded your complaint to the BPL operator, even if your letter states clearly that you have tried resolving the complaint with the operator without success. And that is the total extent of the FCC "action". This has been documented by the ARRL in the Manassas case.
Am I wrong? Make me wrong, FCC. DO YOUR DAMN JOBS!
Posted in BPL by WA5ICA at October 17, 2005 09:21 PM