During last day of their stay in Seychelles, Fred and Maria met SARA Club members to say hello.
Read More★ REGULATIONS ★
SEYCHELLES LICENSED RADIO AMATEUR RULES AND REGULATIONS
Below are rules and regulations that have to be followed by licensed radio operator in the Seychelles. Please note lack of compliance with below rules and regulations may lead to legal consequences.
1. Latest Version of Proposed Framework to regulate amateur radio in Seychelles, document version is: "Issue 1.8 18th July 2021" and can be downloaded here:
LATEST VERSION OF RULES AND REGULATION CAN BE DOWNLOADED HERE
NOTE: If you are accessing this document directly from the SARA website the document is controlled and is therefore the latest version. Any printed or electronically distributed copy is uncontrolled and you should consult the author to ascertain if you are working with the most up to date version.
2. The Seychelles amateur radio spectrum and power plan can be downloaded from here:
http://www.ict.gov.sc/homecnt/policies.aspx
3. The IARU Region 1 band plans can be accessed here:
https://www.iaru-r1.org/on-the-air/band-plans/
^Page updated on 27th Sept 2021 by S79KW
Below are rules and regulations that have to be followed by licensed radio operator in the Seychelles. Please note lack of compliance with below rules and regulations may lead to legal consequences.
1. Latest Version of Proposed Framework to regulate amateur radio in Seychelles, document version is: "Issue 1.8 18th July 2021" and can be downloaded here:
LATEST VERSION OF RULES AND REGULATION CAN BE DOWNLOADED HERE
NOTE: If you are accessing this document directly from the SARA website the document is controlled and is therefore the latest version. Any printed or electronically distributed copy is uncontrolled and you should consult the author to ascertain if you are working with the most up to date version.
2. The Seychelles amateur radio spectrum and power plan can be downloaded from here:
http://www.ict.gov.sc/homecnt/policies.aspx
3. The IARU Region 1 band plans can be accessed here:
https://www.iaru-r1.org/on-the-air/band-plans/
^Page updated on 27th Sept 2021 by S79KW
Latest News
For the very first time S77HQ callsign has been shouted out on HF-SSB at international contest.
Read More
Fred and his company successfully guided and assisted by SARA members allowing to enjoy his holiday and hobby at once.
Read More
SARA being Member society of IARU qualifies as Headquarters of Seychelles Amateur Radio activities for international contesting
Read More
The S77SARA shack (kindly donated by SARA member Colin Bastienne) was moved into position last weekend
Read More
Seychelles Amateur Radio Association members will have opportunity to QSO with international radio stations during WARD-2021
Read More
It has been agreed that SARA will use the IARU Region 1 band plans to complement the Seychelles Amateur Radio Spectrum plan where-ever possible.
Read More
SARA has reached out from IARU Region 1 to IARU Region 3 and has established a regular link with the Brisbane Amateur Radio Club in Australia.
Read More
SARA and the Seychelles Government have recently come to an agreement that the Seychelles be adjusted to suit the full 40m Band Plan
Read More
The first batch of remotely invigilated exams commenced on 9th December 2020.
Read More
Safety Notice
Dear Members and Associates
You all need to be careful when you set-up your radio installation at your home or in the field. There are two basic areas; Electrical safety (which includes the earthing system) and RF radiation safety.
1.0 Electrical Safety
To safeguard your life and that of others you must always have your electrical installation installed by and/or checked by a qualified electrician.
You are aware from your training that you NEVER install your antenna near overhead PUC mains feed cables so that in the case of a mechanical failure your antenna or mast/tower would touch those cables.
You should also use lightning protection systems to prevent any lightning strikes travelling back to your equipment and you in the 'shack'.
2.0 RF Safety
When you transmit RF energy from an antenna you need to be aware of the required exclusion zone dimensions and the measures you need to take to prevent other people from accidentally entering that zone whilst you are transmitting and cannot see the exclusion zone. The size of the exclusion zone depends on the amount of power being transmitted, the gain of the antenna and the frequency of the RF signal. This link below takes you to a very respectable source of information which you should take time to read and those documents that it refers to within the document.
https://www.ofcom.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0028/220798/emf-licence-condition-what-you-need-to-know-amateur-radio.pdf
If you have any questions or require advice on how to best build your shack there is a lot of useful information on the RSGB site on the link below
https://rsgb.org/main/get-started-in-amateur-radio/setting-up-your-shack/safety-in-the-shack/
You all need to be careful when you set-up your radio installation at your home or in the field. There are two basic areas; Electrical safety (which includes the earthing system) and RF radiation safety.
1.0 Electrical Safety
To safeguard your life and that of others you must always have your electrical installation installed by and/or checked by a qualified electrician.
You are aware from your training that you NEVER install your antenna near overhead PUC mains feed cables so that in the case of a mechanical failure your antenna or mast/tower would touch those cables.
You should also use lightning protection systems to prevent any lightning strikes travelling back to your equipment and you in the 'shack'.
2.0 RF Safety
When you transmit RF energy from an antenna you need to be aware of the required exclusion zone dimensions and the measures you need to take to prevent other people from accidentally entering that zone whilst you are transmitting and cannot see the exclusion zone. The size of the exclusion zone depends on the amount of power being transmitted, the gain of the antenna and the frequency of the RF signal. This link below takes you to a very respectable source of information which you should take time to read and those documents that it refers to within the document.
https://www.ofcom.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0028/220798/emf-licence-condition-what-you-need-to-know-amateur-radio.pdf
If you have any questions or require advice on how to best build your shack there is a lot of useful information on the RSGB site on the link below
https://rsgb.org/main/get-started-in-amateur-radio/setting-up-your-shack/safety-in-the-shack/
TRAINING
To obtain an Amateur Radio Operators Licence that allows you to import and operate Amateur Radio equipment here in Seychelles you will need:
Below are links to an online training site that the RSGB and SARA recommends you use to help you prepare for the examination:
FOUNDATION COURSE - https://gm6dx.thinkific.com/courses/GTG-UKF
INTERMEDIATE COURSE - https://gm6dx.thinkific.com/courses/GTG-UKI
Here is a link to the RSGB site that provides more training resources FREE OF CHARGE:
RSGB TRAINING RESOURCES - https://rsgb.org/main/clubs-training/training-resources/
If you are interested and need additional information, please contact via voice or SMS the SARA Chairperson - Richard Perks (call sign: S79RP) on Mobile: 2727757 or via email on s79rp.sara@gmail.com
- To sit a local examination
- Obtain a Certificate of Proficiency that is issued by the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB)
Below are links to an online training site that the RSGB and SARA recommends you use to help you prepare for the examination:
FOUNDATION COURSE - https://gm6dx.thinkific.com/courses/GTG-UKF
INTERMEDIATE COURSE - https://gm6dx.thinkific.com/courses/GTG-UKI
Here is a link to the RSGB site that provides more training resources FREE OF CHARGE:
RSGB TRAINING RESOURCES - https://rsgb.org/main/clubs-training/training-resources/
If you are interested and need additional information, please contact via voice or SMS the SARA Chairperson - Richard Perks (call sign: S79RP) on Mobile: 2727757 or via email on s79rp.sara@gmail.com
What is Amateur Radio ?
Amateur radio, also known as ham radio, is the use of radio frequency spectrum for purposes of non-commercial exchange of messages, wireless experimentation, self-training, private recreation, radiosport, contesting, and emergency communication. The term "amateur" is used to specify "a duly authorised person interested in radioelectric practice with a purely personal aim and without pecuniary interest;"[1] (either direct monetary or other similar reward) and to differentiate it from commercial broadcasting, public safety (such as police and fire), or professional two-way radio services (such as maritime, aviation, taxis, etc.).
The amateur radio service (amateur service and amateur-satellite service) is established by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) through the Radio Regulations. National governments regulate technical and operational characteristics of transmissions and issue individual stations licenses with a unique identifying call sign, which must be used in all transmissions. Amateur operators must hold an amateur radio license which is obtained by passing a government test demonstrating adequate technical radio knowledge and legal knowledge of the host government's radio regulations.
Radio amateurs are limited to the use of small frequency bands, the amateur radio bands, allocated throughout the radio spectrum, but within these bands are allowed to transmit on any frequency using a variety of voice, text, image, and data communications modes. This enables communication across a city, region, country, continent, the world, or even into space. In many countries, amateur radio operators may also send, receive, or relay radio communications between computers or transceivers connected to secure virtual private networks on the Internet.
Amateur radio is officially represented and coordinated by the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU), which is organized in three regions and has as its members the national amateur radio societies which exist in most countries. According to an estimate made in 2011 by the American Radio Relay League, two million people throughout the world are regularly involved with amateur radio.[2] About 830,000 amateur radio stations are located in IARU Region 2 (the Americas) followed by IARU Region 3 (South and East Asia and the Pacific Ocean) with about 750,000 stations. A significantly smaller number, about 400,000, are located in IARU Region 1 (Europe, Middle East, CIS, Africa).
*Source of Information (Read More): Wikipedia
The amateur radio service (amateur service and amateur-satellite service) is established by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) through the Radio Regulations. National governments regulate technical and operational characteristics of transmissions and issue individual stations licenses with a unique identifying call sign, which must be used in all transmissions. Amateur operators must hold an amateur radio license which is obtained by passing a government test demonstrating adequate technical radio knowledge and legal knowledge of the host government's radio regulations.
Radio amateurs are limited to the use of small frequency bands, the amateur radio bands, allocated throughout the radio spectrum, but within these bands are allowed to transmit on any frequency using a variety of voice, text, image, and data communications modes. This enables communication across a city, region, country, continent, the world, or even into space. In many countries, amateur radio operators may also send, receive, or relay radio communications between computers or transceivers connected to secure virtual private networks on the Internet.
Amateur radio is officially represented and coordinated by the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU), which is organized in three regions and has as its members the national amateur radio societies which exist in most countries. According to an estimate made in 2011 by the American Radio Relay League, two million people throughout the world are regularly involved with amateur radio.[2] About 830,000 amateur radio stations are located in IARU Region 2 (the Americas) followed by IARU Region 3 (South and East Asia and the Pacific Ocean) with about 750,000 stations. A significantly smaller number, about 400,000, are located in IARU Region 1 (Europe, Middle East, CIS, Africa).
*Source of Information (Read More): Wikipedia
What Do We Do ?
What Do We Do ?
We communicate to each other and other radio amateurs all over the world using radio transceivers tuned to dedicated amateur radio frequencies. There are many types of equipment and aerials that we experiment with. We share our experiences and help each other learn more and more all the time.
How Do We Do it ?
We follow training courses that lead to an examination. If we pass, we obtain a Certificate of Proficiency that is recognized by the Seychelles Government Department of ICT who then in conjunction with the Seychelles Licensing Authority issue us with an official Seychelles S79 call sign.
We communicate to each other and other radio amateurs all over the world using radio transceivers tuned to dedicated amateur radio frequencies. There are many types of equipment and aerials that we experiment with. We share our experiences and help each other learn more and more all the time.
How Do We Do it ?
We follow training courses that lead to an examination. If we pass, we obtain a Certificate of Proficiency that is recognized by the Seychelles Government Department of ICT who then in conjunction with the Seychelles Licensing Authority issue us with an official Seychelles S79 call sign.
SARA – Vision - Mission Statements
VISION:
We will endeavor to provide:
KEY OBJECTIVES:
By:
17th May 2021 SARA Open Day
- By Monday 17th May 2021 (World Telecommunications Day and usually the start of the National ICT week) we will have as many members of SARA as possible who are currently without an Amateur Radio licence duly examined via an online examination run by the Radio Society of Great Britain. Subject to successfully passing that exam and being awarded an RSGB Certificate of Competency the candidates will be recognised by the Seychelles Government Department of Information Communications Technology (DICT) as to be fit to operate Amateur Radio equipment and be entitled to go 'on the air'. DICT will instruct the Seychelles Licencing Authority to issue operating licences accordingly.
- During the ICT week (17th to 21st May 2021) SARA will be able to demonstrate and promote what Amateur Radio has to offer, to Government Officials and members of the public.
- Following this milestone SARA will continue to grow its membership and spread out throughout the Inner and Outer Islands of Seychelles.
We will endeavor to provide:
- an online examination Centre
- a training facility
- a 'club house'
- a radio repeater network that enables low cost point of entry for newcomers to the hobby using small low cost radios to try out what its like to talk to groups of similar minded individuals using radio 'nets'.
- a SARA 'shack' where equipment can be installed and used for experimentation to show the people learning how to become amateur radio operators, the practicalities of the hobby e.g. building and tuning antennae and correct operating protocol etc.
KEY OBJECTIVES:
By:
- September 26th 2020: Commence training the membership with the aid of training manuals and online training courses.
- October 12th 2020: Online examination Centre tested and accepted by the RSGB.
- November 14th 2020: Mock examinations begin
- December 14th - 18th: Online examinations take place.
- January 2021: Certificates of Competency presented to DICT.
- February to April : Amateur Radio regulatory framework completed. Licenses issued. Radio equipment purchased and permitted to enter Seychelles using Import Permits authorized by the DICT.
17th May 2021 SARA Open Day
SARA Constitution
DOWNLOAD LINK: DOWNLOAD A COPY OF SARA CONSTITUTION
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
CONSTITUTION
Version 3.0 30_5_20
1. NAME OF THE ASSOCIATION
The Association shall bear the name SEYCHELLES AMATEUR RADIO ASSOCIATION
2. PLACE OF BUSINESS
The place of business of the Association shall be at THE RESIDENCE OF MR RICHARD JOHN PERKS
– LA MISERE, MAHE or any other place in the Seychelles which the Association may from time to time determine.
3. OBJECTIVES
Subject to the Associations Act, the quorum for an Annual General Meeting or a General Meeting shall be not less than three-fifths of the total number of Ordinary members of the registered Association. Not less than three fifths need to be present in person or by proxy. It shall be lawful for two-thirds of the number of members present in person or by proxy at such meeting to add to, alter or otherwise amend the rules of the Association.
5. DUTIES OF THE OFFICE BEARERS ON THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Chairperson
The Vice-Chairperson
8. APPEAL AGAINST REJECTION OR TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP
Voting at all AGM's or EGM's shall be by show of hands or by secret ballots as may be decided by the majority of members present
11. APPOINTMENT OF AUDITOR
The treasurer shall cause the accounts and financial records to be audited by an auditor appointed by the members of an AGM.
The audited statement of accounts shall be presented to the AGM for its approval or otherwise.
12. INSPECTION OF BOOKS
The records of the proceeding of the Management Committee (MC) and the Annual General Meetings and General Meetings, the audited accounts and record containing the names of the members shall be open to inspection by the members during such reasonable times and place which the MC may notify to the members.
13. AMENDMENT TO CONSTITUTION
A General meeting may, subject to the laws of Seychelles amend this Constitution.
14. DISSOLUTION
A General meeting may subject to the laws of Seychelles, dissolve this Association.
15. OPENING A COMMERCIAL BANK ACCOUNT
The Association will be able to open a commercial bank account.
I hereby certify that this constitution is to be a true copy of the original adopted at a duly convened meeting held on 30th May 2020.
SECRETARY ………………………………….. DATED……………………………..
NAME: Mr A Quatre
CHAIRPERSON…………………………………. DATED……………………………..
NAME: Mr R Perks
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
CONSTITUTION
Version 3.0 30_5_20
1. NAME OF THE ASSOCIATION
The Association shall bear the name SEYCHELLES AMATEUR RADIO ASSOCIATION
2. PLACE OF BUSINESS
The place of business of the Association shall be at THE RESIDENCE OF MR RICHARD JOHN PERKS
– LA MISERE, MAHE or any other place in the Seychelles which the Association may from time to time determine.
3. OBJECTIVES
- to promote, advance and represent in any way it thinks fit, Amateur Radio and the interests of Radio Amateurs,
- to protect and enhance the privileges of Radio Amateurs,
- to encourage an awareness of the value of Amateur Radio,
- to educate and encourage potential Radio Amateurs,
- to represent Radio Amateurs both nationally and internationally,
- to provide services for Radio Amateurs and those interested in Amateur Radio, and
- to do all other lawful things as are incidental or conducive to the attainment of these objectives or any of them or which may be calculated to advance directly or indirectly the interests of the Association.
Subject to the Associations Act, the quorum for an Annual General Meeting or a General Meeting shall be not less than three-fifths of the total number of Ordinary members of the registered Association. Not less than three fifths need to be present in person or by proxy. It shall be lawful for two-thirds of the number of members present in person or by proxy at such meeting to add to, alter or otherwise amend the rules of the Association.
5. DUTIES OF THE OFFICE BEARERS ON THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Chairperson
- Shall be the head of the Association responsible to ensure the proper functioning of the Association's activities and shall act on its behalf with the co-operation of the Management Committee (MC).
- Shall manage the Association's staff if any
- Shall preside over all meetings
- Shall at Annual General Meeting submit a report on the activities of the Association
- Shall have an extra vote on a decision in a case where there is a tie
- Shall sign cheques drawn on behalf of the Association along with the Treasurer or Secretary. Two of three signatories required.
The Vice-Chairperson
- Shall replace the Chairperson in his/her absence and preside over all meetings
- Shall convene all meetings of the Association and draw up the proceedings of the meeting
- Shall after confirmation, countersign the minutes along with the Chairperson
- Shall be responsible for all the correspondence. He/she shall be in charge of all secretarial duties
- Shall have custody of all records of the Association and keep a register of members
- In the absence of the Secretary, the Chairperson shall nominate a member from the Association to replace him/her during the period of his/her absence.
- Shall sign cheques drawn on behalf of the Association along with the Chairperson or Treasurer. Two of three signatories required.
- Shall give advice on financial matters to the Association
- Shall keep proper accounts and a record of all financial and related matters of the Association and shall in respect of each financial year; prepare a statement of accounts
- Shall cause the accounts to be audited by an auditor appointed under this constitution
- Shall sign cheques drawn up on behalf of the Association along with the Chairperson or Secretary. Two of three signatories required.
- The management committee must consider an application for membership at the latest at the next committee meeting held after it receives—
- the application for membership; and
- the appropriate membership fee for the application.
- The management committee must ensure that, as soon as possible after the person applies to become a member of the Association, and before the management committee considers the persons application, the person is advised—
- whether or not the Association has public liability insurance; and
- if the Association has public liability insurance—the amount of the insurance.
- The management committee must decide at the meeting whether to accept or reject the application.
- If a majority of the members of the management committee present at the meeting vote to accept the applicant as a member, the applicant must be accepted as a member.
- The secretary of the Association must, as soon as practicable after the management committee decides to accept or reject an application, give the applicant a written notice of the decision.
| (1) | A member may resign from the Association at any time by giving notice in writing to the secretary. | |
| (2) | The resignation shall take effect at— | |
| (a) | the time the notice is received by the secretary; or | |
| (b) | if a later time is stated in the notice—the later time. | |
| (3) | The management committee may terminate a membership if a member- | |
| (a) | is convicted of an indictable offence; or | |
| (b) | does not comply with any of the provisions of these rules; or | |
| (c) | has membership fees in arrears for a period of two months or more; or | |
| (d) | conducts himself in a manner considered to be injurious or prejudicial to the character or interests of the Association. | |
| (4) | Before the management committee terminates a member’s membership, the | |
| committee must give the member a full and fair opportunity to show why the | ||
| membership should not be terminated. | ||
| (5) | If, after considering all representations made by the member, the management | |
| committee decides to terminate the membership, the secretary of the committee must give the member a written notice of the decision. | ||
8. APPEAL AGAINST REJECTION OR TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP
- A person whose application for membership has been rejected, or whose membership has been terminated, may give the secretary written notice of the persons intention to appeal against the decision.
- A notice of intention to appeal must be given to the secretary within 1 month after the person receives written notice of the decision.
- If the secretary receives a notice of intention to appeal, the secretary must, within 1 month after receiving the notice, call a general meeting to decide the appeal.
- The general meeting to decide an appeal must be held within 3 months after the secretary receives the notice of intention to appeal.
- At the meeting, the applicant must be given a full and fair opportunity to show why the application should not be rejected or the membership should not be terminated.
- Also, the management committee and the members of the committee who rejected the application or terminated the membership must be given a full and fair opportunity to show why the application should be rejected or the membership should be terminated.
- An appeal must be decided by a majority vote of the members present and eligible to vote at the meeting.
- If a person whose application for membership has been rejected does not appeal against the decision within 1 month after receiving written notice of the decision, or the person appeals but the appeal is unsuccessful, the secretary must, as soon as practicable, refund the membership fee paid by the person.
Voting at all AGM's or EGM's shall be by show of hands or by secret ballots as may be decided by the majority of members present
11. APPOINTMENT OF AUDITOR
The treasurer shall cause the accounts and financial records to be audited by an auditor appointed by the members of an AGM.
The audited statement of accounts shall be presented to the AGM for its approval or otherwise.
12. INSPECTION OF BOOKS
The records of the proceeding of the Management Committee (MC) and the Annual General Meetings and General Meetings, the audited accounts and record containing the names of the members shall be open to inspection by the members during such reasonable times and place which the MC may notify to the members.
13. AMENDMENT TO CONSTITUTION
A General meeting may, subject to the laws of Seychelles amend this Constitution.
14. DISSOLUTION
A General meeting may subject to the laws of Seychelles, dissolve this Association.
15. OPENING A COMMERCIAL BANK ACCOUNT
The Association will be able to open a commercial bank account.
I hereby certify that this constitution is to be a true copy of the original adopted at a duly convened meeting held on 30th May 2020.
SECRETARY ………………………………….. DATED……………………………..
NAME: Mr A Quatre
CHAIRPERSON…………………………………. DATED……………………………..
NAME: Mr R Perks
Local Comms
Licensed radio amateurs are using different means of communication systems to communicate with each other.
Local comms means line of sight comms using Simplex or Duplex pair of frequencies, for example local VHF (144 - 146 MHz) or UHF (430 - 440 MHz) Repeater system.
There is also a way of using HF (High Frequencies) for local communications within Seychelles territory, it can be achieved by LoS Comms (Line of Sight Communications) or NVIS (Near Vertical Incident Skywave) that can cross mountains by reflecting the RF signal from the Ionospheric layer appearing in Zenith.
Please note in Seychelles we are following RSGB Guidance of Frequency use, also IARU Region 1.
^Posted by S79KW on 2nd April 2021
Local comms means line of sight comms using Simplex or Duplex pair of frequencies, for example local VHF (144 - 146 MHz) or UHF (430 - 440 MHz) Repeater system.
There is also a way of using HF (High Frequencies) for local communications within Seychelles territory, it can be achieved by LoS Comms (Line of Sight Communications) or NVIS (Near Vertical Incident Skywave) that can cross mountains by reflecting the RF signal from the Ionospheric layer appearing in Zenith.
Please note in Seychelles we are following RSGB Guidance of Frequency use, also IARU Region 1.
^Posted by S79KW on 2nd April 2021
International Comms
What is High Frequency (HF) ?
High frequency (HF) is the ITU designation[1] for the range of radio frequency electromagnetic waves (radio waves) between 3 and 30 megahertz (MHz). It is also known as the decameter band or decameter wave as its wavelengths range from one to ten decameters (ten to one hundred meters). Frequencies immediately below HF are denoted medium frequency (MF), while the next band of higher frequencies is known as the very high frequency (VHF) band. The HF band is a major part of the shortwave band of frequencies, so communication at these frequencies is often called shortwave radio. Because radio waves in this band can be reflected back to Earth by the ionosphere layer in the atmosphere – a method known as "skip" or "skywave" propagation – these frequencies are suitable for long-distance communication across intercontinental distances and for mountainous terrains which prevent line-of-sight communications.[2] The band is used by international shortwave broadcasting stations (2.31–25.82 MHz), aviation communication, government time stations, weather stations, amateur radio and citizens band services, among other uses.
*Source of Information: Wikipedia; Link to Full Article: READ MORE ABOUT HIGH FREQUENCY
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Some of the most popular High Frequency modulations used in Seychelles by Amateurs are:
Below is example of low power HF propagation map populated by online WSPR (Whisper) Server. Those plots are are a combination of TX and RX's i.e. heard and hearing , in this case produced by S79RP in the period of 12hrs on 14.095 MHz on 14th Sept 2020.
WSPR Spots can be monitored with Live Update on the WSPR website: WSPR NET MAP WEBSITE
NOTE: WSPR Signals are used for propagation and antenna measurements and are not counted to radio operator logbook.
FT8 (WSJT-X Software) - DIgital Modulation for making registered contacts
FT8 stands for "Franke-Taylor design, 8-FSK modulation" and was created by Joe Taylor, K1JT and Steve Franke, K9AN. It is described as being designed for "multi-hop Es where signals may be weak and fading, openings may be short, and you want fast completion of reliable, confirmable QSO's".
Below is shown screenshot of a Map from DXMAPS.COM showing last 30minutes of activity both Transmitting and Receiving using Digital Modulation of FT8. Power output of the station have to be within your license limits, in this case it was transmitting with 50 Watts only. Frequency is Internationally approved , below is shown 20m band (14.074 MHz) at 15:00 14th Sept 2020 operated by S79KW.
All around the world activities can be seen with firly live update, it is important to make correct Band selection in order to see desired frequency displayed on the map. To see HF, we choose LF-HF on the left side of the screen and can apply more filters depending on the use.
ONLINE PROPAGATION and FT8 NET MAP WEBSITE DXMAPS.COM
High frequency (HF) is the ITU designation[1] for the range of radio frequency electromagnetic waves (radio waves) between 3 and 30 megahertz (MHz). It is also known as the decameter band or decameter wave as its wavelengths range from one to ten decameters (ten to one hundred meters). Frequencies immediately below HF are denoted medium frequency (MF), while the next band of higher frequencies is known as the very high frequency (VHF) band. The HF band is a major part of the shortwave band of frequencies, so communication at these frequencies is often called shortwave radio. Because radio waves in this band can be reflected back to Earth by the ionosphere layer in the atmosphere – a method known as "skip" or "skywave" propagation – these frequencies are suitable for long-distance communication across intercontinental distances and for mountainous terrains which prevent line-of-sight communications.[2] The band is used by international shortwave broadcasting stations (2.31–25.82 MHz), aviation communication, government time stations, weather stations, amateur radio and citizens band services, among other uses.
*Source of Information: Wikipedia; Link to Full Article: READ MORE ABOUT HIGH FREQUENCY
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Some of the most popular High Frequency modulations used in Seychelles by Amateurs are:
- SSB: Voice Communication using Microphone
- Digital (RTTY): Digital modulation using computer connected to radio receiver or transmitter, Most Pupular ones are FT8 & WSPR
- CW: Morse Code
- WSPR (Weak Signal Propagation Reporter): Semi automated signal reporter
Below is example of low power HF propagation map populated by online WSPR (Whisper) Server. Those plots are are a combination of TX and RX's i.e. heard and hearing , in this case produced by S79RP in the period of 12hrs on 14.095 MHz on 14th Sept 2020.
WSPR Spots can be monitored with Live Update on the WSPR website: WSPR NET MAP WEBSITE
NOTE: WSPR Signals are used for propagation and antenna measurements and are not counted to radio operator logbook.
FT8 (WSJT-X Software) - DIgital Modulation for making registered contacts
FT8 stands for "Franke-Taylor design, 8-FSK modulation" and was created by Joe Taylor, K1JT and Steve Franke, K9AN. It is described as being designed for "multi-hop Es where signals may be weak and fading, openings may be short, and you want fast completion of reliable, confirmable QSO's".
Below is shown screenshot of a Map from DXMAPS.COM showing last 30minutes of activity both Transmitting and Receiving using Digital Modulation of FT8. Power output of the station have to be within your license limits, in this case it was transmitting with 50 Watts only. Frequency is Internationally approved , below is shown 20m band (14.074 MHz) at 15:00 14th Sept 2020 operated by S79KW.
All around the world activities can be seen with firly live update, it is important to make correct Band selection in order to see desired frequency displayed on the map. To see HF, we choose LF-HF on the left side of the screen and can apply more filters depending on the use.
ONLINE PROPAGATION and FT8 NET MAP WEBSITE DXMAPS.COM
Visitor Licence
VISITOR LICENCE APPLICATION MANUAL:- For any visitors wishing to operate Amateur Radios in Seychelles they have to contact the Local Regulator DICT (Department Department of Information Communications Technology - Communications Division), SLA (Seychelles Licensing Authority) and SRC (Seychelles Revenue Commission) and have all necessary paperwork in hand before arrival to the country.
TO email "DICT": communications@ict.gov.sc
CC email: "SLA" (Ms Miranda Benoiton): miranda@sla.sc
- We recommend including in your email as much information as possible about your planned trip and intended Radio Amateur Activities. It is recommended you include below information in your initial request:
"Dear DICT,
My name is xxx__xxxx and I am planning to visit Seychelles and enjoy radio amateur hobby.
I am planning to operate (please specify frequency bands) using the equipment (please specify transceiver(s) make models) from the following locations (please specify locations, i.e. Mahe, Praslin, La-Digue, outer Islands, etc).
Further details are provided below:"
PLEASE INCLUDE ALL BELOW DETAILS:
- Your contact information
A) Please include “The contact details (telephone numbers and e-mail addresses) of your location of stay in Seychelles”.
- Copy of your passport (photo page)
- Dates you will be staying in Seychelles
- Location of your accommodation(s)
- Copy of your current amateur licence
- The make and model and quantity of:
A) Amateur radios;
B) Antennas to be installed;
C) Typical setup of the antenna system to be used (please provide pictures of setup if available).
- Location(s) of operating the equipment in the Seychelles
(e.g.: At Accommodation, from the vehicle, on the move, as maritime mobile, operating from summits [SOTA], operating in the field, etc.)
- Intended use of equipment
(e.g.: International and Local communications on HF, EME, VHF/UHF Low Orbit Satellite Repeaters, Talking to Local HAMs, etc.)
2. You wait for DICT to respond, and you follow their instructions accordingly.
3. At one stage you will need to fill-up an SLA Application form (attached below link) for for your Local Licence to be issued.
NOTE: You are welcome to reach out to Local Amateurs for guidance and/or assistance with filling-up the form.
- LICENCE APPLICATION FORM (from SLA Website). \
NOTE: SLA will advise you concerning any licensing fees - if applicable.
3. Once you receive "Authorization to Import and Operate" you need to email final form to local customs to stamp your "TEMPORARY ADMISSION OF GOODS" as radios are Import Control item in Seychelles.
FORM TO DOWNLOAD: https://www.src.gov.sc/resources/Forms/2019/temporaryadmission2019.pdf
Email it to: paul.barrack@src.gov.sc
NOTE: If you fail to get this form stamped before your arrival, your radio equipment can be held at customs passenger terminal and delayed for clearing.
4. On arrival at the Seychelles airport you should declare your radio equipment to a customs officer and show copy of above form as well as Authorization Letter from DICT.
REFERENCE TO LOCAL BANDPLAN:
- AMATEUR BAND PLAN IN SEYCHELLES: Download Amateur Band Plan (DICT Website)
IF ABOVE IS ANY OF DIFFICULTY, PLEASE CONTACT US VIA CONTACT FORM OR EMAIL
^Posted By Kamil Korneluk (S79KW) on 11th Dec 2020 & Updated on 9th May 2021 by S79KW as well as 27th September 2021 (simplified version).
Radio Weather
Weather conditions here and overseas are important to the Amateur Radio community. There are two aspects that affect us;
Health & Safety
If you have antennas you need to be careful about lightning and strong winds.
RF Noise
If there is lightning in our area or the area where you are trying to communicate with, then the noise floor will be affected.
Here are links to two sites that help us understand more about lightning conditions around the world. The blitzortung network is somewhat limited in it's coverage of the Indian Ocean so it might be a good idea to open both links so you can run them in parallel to enable you to compare and get the best reports for the area you are interested in;
http://wwlln.net/ 👀
https://map.blitzortung.org/#1/24.4/8 👀
SPACE WEATHER
What is happening with the sun can have an effect on RF communications, mainly in the HF bands.
Here is a link to an interesting site that tells you all about the subject and it self has lots of interesting links to other areas you may be interested to explore;
https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/impacts/hf-radio-communications 👀
Application for Membership
PLEASE DOWNLOAD AND READ SARA CONSTITUTION BEFORE SENDING THE APPLICATION FORM LINK: DOWNLOAD A COPY OF SARA CONSTITUTION
_________________________________________________________________________________
I wish to join the Seychelles Amateur Radio Association and I undertake to abide by the Constitution of the Association and the regulations governing the operation of the Amateur Radio in Seychelles.
_________________________________________________________________________________
I wish to join the Seychelles Amateur Radio Association and I undertake to abide by the Constitution of the Association and the regulations governing the operation of the Amateur Radio in Seychelles.
Contact us
- Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles
- PO Box 609,
