Much of the equipment hams use is state-of-the-art in RF communications, with the latest in digital filtering and digital frequency stability. Where BPL and baby monitors operate unlicensed under FCC Part 15, all hams must take and successfully pass a rigorous FCC technical exam, and update their license every 10 years.

My personal bio is likely the norm for many hams. I'm in my mid 50's, have a B.S. degree from the engineering department of a large West Coast university, and have worked in many aspects of the wireline, RF and digital networking business. I hold technical certifications recognized the world over and I am currently a network engineer with one of the largest communications companies in the world, having been there for nearly 23 years.

I've been involved in ham radio for over 40 years and hold the highest class of license, Amateur Extra. Most of the hams I know who are also extremely concerned about BPL and its interference issues could run circles around me from an electrical and RF engineering perspective. So we are not just a bunch of old codgers with antiquated technology and training, but well-trained, up-to-date professionals working on bleeding-edge electronics networks and systems. In short, we know what we are talking about when it comes to commenting on the technical shortcomings of BPL.

Make no mistake about it, hams are definitely for technology, and the idea of a ubiquitous Internet available to everyone is exciting to them.

But technology simply for technology's sake doesn't make sense if it causes problems with other licensed services, and also can be interrupted so easily. The last thing the consumers want to pay for is an unreliable Internet technology; I am sure they would much rather pay for something proven and reliable. Unfortunately the current state of BPL doesn't meet that criteria.

Concluding, I'd just ask that before putting out the glowing reports about how great BPL is, you look at the facts on all sides and give those sides a fair shot at providing those facts. There are many things about BPL that people just don't understand, and I am sure the eventual BPL consumer would look back and have wished they would have only know those facts before paying for it.

Ultimately the consumers will decide if BPL is viable, not the BPL industry. Those potential consumers deserve all the facts up front, facts which a publication like yours should be providing.

As hams say when signing off at the end of a communications...73 (literally translated to "best wishes").

Bill South, BSEE, MCSE, MPC is a ham radio operator with Amateur Radio Extra Class License N3OH, living in Manassas, Virginia.