FPV Video Low Band Is Illegal

[@UAVfutures]

much respect josh b. I for one GREATLY appreciate you making this video, even if it is unpopular and some pilots wont like it. I thank you for looking out for us and the hobby. Happy and safe flying. PS congrats on the 30k subs.

[@trfpvVT]

In 99$ kwad build you use this reciever UAVfutures

[@ziggyzbeak]

a receiver doe's not transmit

[@imemyself2820]

Of course we like it. We are all adults here and know about consequences.

[@gregoetker1389]

I bought the VTX03 because the $99 build video, that video should be updated with a warning note. Now it's not illegal to own the VTX03 in the US, you just can't use those channels in the US.

[@treyh267]

The weather channel just said their expecting 70mph quadcopters coming from the north

[@wheelezerides2558]

More climate change!

[@gtifury310]

lmao

[@Abdulrahman-tc6vq]

lmao

[@kawsper]

"Get off my frequency!" - Joshua Bardwell

[@StacemanFPV]

LOL

[@StacemanFPV]

He should a re-enactment of Kramer on Seinfeld with the "Serenity now" stuff :D

[@TransAm2k4]

Thanks for clarifying the difference between being illegal but within typical operating parameter and being illegal in a way that would bring a lot more heat to the hobby.

[@Jim_Mundy]

Great video. I'm a newbie to FPV, a ham, and also work in the RF space for a portion of my job. Frequency coordination and playing by the rules - well it's kind of baked in my DNA. Thanks for all your great content and support and education of the FPV industry. Oh, and congrats for growing you following to be able to go full time FPV.

[@KiranTomlinsonMusic]

Fantastic video. It was so hard for me to find out exactly what the legal issues with FPV flying when I was getting into the hobby. Also, it's very important to not only understand the law, but understand why it exists. This video did a great job of explaining exactly that. We need more informational videos like this, and we need more FPVers who understand the law and its purpose. I learned something today!

[@theibault]

Don't feel silly. All it takes is one bad incident and our hobby that we love can be in real jeopardy. We all need to share some level of responsibility in being good ambassadors for FPV because the government never does things in these situations on an individual level (they will if the transgression is big enough) but rather uses laws as a blanket to cover the whole group with regulation. Now I'm off to dive the air traffic control tower at the airport over groups of children (won't someone please think of the children!!!) starting my dive at 1500 feet for the most epic of epic footage while flying in the L band without a spotter. That last sentence is a joke for those who don't understand humor or sarcasm. ;)

[@senseisecurityschool9337]

That's absolutely right. We all have Remote ID on the way *because* a few people were irresponsible. I flew RC planes and helicopters for decades with almost no regulation because almost all flyers pretty much followed AMA guidelines- we were safe an responsible. If you aren't following common sense rules, Remote ID is your fault.

[@MessingWithCode]

@@senseisecurityschool9337 i agree , that's why now we are all having to deal with this Remote ID stuff

[@ezukvtymane0076]

Then problem is the goverment, not some people with hobbies, you know. Becose punishing people for things, that they MAYBE can do - it's a antiutopia show, nothing more. Let's ban kitchen knifes, let's ban hammers, let's ban nails, rope, let's ban welding machines scissors - that's all dangerous to. Everything is dangerous, and some bunch of f***** p***** telling what to do or not just becose they "suspicious". That's not how things should be done. People should be punished only for real deal, when they realy did something, that sure will bring disaster. But when some peoples flying around in a field - that's just ....

[@GatAppTechnologies]

I literally just ordered that VTX yesterday. Will make sure I stay in a legal band.

[@neilorourke3257]

Good info. Now... about a tiny whoop slamming into a woman's butt whilst building-diving: tell us this story!

[@twinturbostang]

HAM band is 5650 MHz to 5925 MHz. So Raceband is still legal. ISM band is narrower apparently. But in the U.S. you need to have a HAM license anyway to operate anywhere within 5650 to 5925.

[@planesandbikes7353]

Yes! This is the more accurate post. Folks should also be aware of E band issues too though. This has frequencies 5645 and 5945 - both of these freqs are ILLEGAL, not in HAM bands at all. E band is commonly found on a majority of 5.8 vtx too.

[@JoshuaBardwell]

You're right. I was apparently wrong when I said we were operating on ISM. I really thought we were.

[@xephonism]

@twinturbostang This is correct, not many people care to understand the fcc restrictions on radio and assume everything is free game. It says right in your vtx manual on most models that a level 1 ham licence is required to operate on many frequencies, punishable by fine.

[@Deploracle]

So true. Folks, just go get your Technician class ham ticket for goodness sake. Everything you learn is directly applicable to this hobby. A license allows you to experiment on 5.8GHz, antennas, transmitters, with a maximum PEP of 5W. The test is so easy my ex-gf passed it first try and she doesn't know where oil goes in a car engine. A dollar a year … ain't no thang.

[@georgejorgenson7347]

This is correct afaik.

[@TheMikolasZuza]

I've stopped counting how many times I've seen these huge circles in meteo-radar. I love to look at it, it's really the best way to tell if it's gonna rain in next few hours, but there's always someone messing up with it. And no, the meteorologist can't move to other band, the wavelength needs to correspond to physical dimension of water drops in clouds. So please, as Joshua says, do not use frequencies outside of the allowed range. Btw even when you are within the allowed range, where I live (Europe, Czech rep) it's illegal to use anything above 25mW outside, so you should really check your local policy on this. (this is the most extreme case I've seen, not an fpv pilot: www.zive.cz/GetThumbNail.aspx?id_file=970315582&width=480&height=331&q=100 )

[@CZDrMike]

Mikolas 3D Printing nazdar 😂 jsem na přesně na 5.8 na 200mW, lítám na poli daleko od něčeho co bych mohl rušit. elektronika je moje hlavní hobby a budoucí práce a moc dobře si uvědomuji, že používání moc vysokých výkonů a jiných frekvenci je big deal...

[@TheMikolasZuza]

Tech 25mW mi u nas prijde trochu brutus no, 200mW je takovej standard a na poli daleko od zastavby bych cekal ze i 600mW nebude nic rusit. Na druhou stranu pokud clovek nelita v lese, tak i tech 25mW ma docela slusnej dosah.

[@CZDrMike]

Mikolas 3D Printing jo to určitě, když lítám s QX90 která má to camera/25mW VTX combo tak se dostanu na 200m bez žádného rušení ale jakmile zaletim za hlavu trochu za kupec do remizku tak to už skoro nejde. zvažuji koupit 600mW na další 5" build protože se ty věci hýbou dost rychle a těch 200mW na me 250 někdy nedostacuje 😃

[@TheMikolasZuza]

Ono je to hrozně dvousecny. Tech 600mW umi byt zase v nekterych situacich mnohem horsi, kvuli tomu jak se ten vyzarenej signal vsude odrazi. Ideal jsou ty (bohuzel drahy) prepinatelny vtx, kde si proste podle lokace naklikas 25/200/600 :)

[@CZDrMike]

Mikolas 3D Printing jo, musíš si uvědomit kde lítáš nejvíc, koupil jsem dražší prepinatelne VTX 25/200mW protože jsem si říkal že bych to mohl přepnout kdyby byly problémy... nikdy jsem ho na 25 neměl, protože jak jsem říkal, někdy ani to nestačí. ale určitě když lítáš ještě s někým nebo někde v hale tak není dobré prazit naplno 600.

[@ReadyMadeRC]

We are really glad this is being brought up, but unfortunately it is our opinion that there is some incorrect information here. You are totally correct that L-band is totally illegal for import or use in the US. Where our opinion differs is related to ISM band use. Our opinion based on a significant amount of research is that, to legally import and use ISM band equipment, the equipment has to be tested and certified to meet certain requirements. None of the equipment has had that done, therefore it cannot be operated under the ISM rules. As long as they are locked to only transmit within the correct bands (inside 5650-5925 MHz), the equipment CAN be marketed and sold to those operating the equipment under amateur radio rules. This means the operators should have a technician's class amateur radio license. This also means that equipment that operates outside of these rules cannot be imported and sold legally (previous precedence with FCC action on some FPV vendors a few years ago). Unfortunately, the flood of totally illegal equipment could cause the FCC to reverse their previous direction and decide that the equipment can't be imported and marketed at all if it isn't certified either as ISM or Part 15 compliant equipment. That's not good for any of us who want this hobby to last for years and year. The equipment that we've seen available CANNOT, however, be operated under Part 15 or ISM rules.

[@Badblueshy]

Thank you ReadyMade! I just saw your comment after posting mine. You are 100% correct. I'll post below the actual passage and verse from part 15 that backs up your comment because Bardwell will probably read and respond to your comment. (By the way I buy most of my FPV stuff from you guys - keep on rocking!) §15.201 Equipment authorization requirement. (a) Intentional radiators operated as carrier current systems, devices operated under the provisions of §§15.211, 15.213, and 15.221, and devices operating below 490 kHz in which all emissions are at least 40 dB below the limits in §15.209 shall be verified pursuant to the procedures in Subpart J of part 2 of this chapter prior to marketing. (b) Except as otherwise exempted in paragraph (c) of this section and in §15.23 of this part, all intentional radiators operating under the provisions of this part shall be certificated by the Commission pursuant to the procedures in subpart J of part 2 of this chapter prior to marketing.

[@PatriotPaulUSA]

I bought all my long range 433Mhz and 1258Mhz equipment and much more from Ready made Rc they are the best! Too bad its all illegal now and I quit flying almost a year and a half ago and building and buying RC stuff. Sad what it has done to our hobby and nations economy. I am just praying John Taylor wins against the FAA -www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?2576814-Support-John-A-Taylor-s-Lawsuit-against-the-FAA-s-Registration-Rule/page2

[@ReadyMadeRC]

The AMA's opinion (and ours) is that you can totally fly with that equipment as long as you are following the AMA guidelines. From the FCC's side of things, if you have an amateur radio license you should be able to operate it like any of the other equipment we're talking about here. We've never shipped transmitters that are illegal to use under the amateur rules in the US.

[@PatriotPaulUSA]

No, I didn't mean to imply that Ready Made sold me anything illegal at the time. Unfortunately, so much of what I built is no longer flyable. No more FPV, Nothing beyond the line of site, and 6ft wingspan planes are not meant for flying around a park, to me. I guess I could go take my test, and pay my tax ,and register on the national database ,like a good little minion. I ,like many, choose not to comply at this point. Its just to big of a mess. and its a giant government overreach IMHO. I am all about safety and there isn't one hint of it in the 7 minute registration/tax

[@JoshuaBardwell]

One thing that I apparently got wrong is that we are not operating under the ISM rules but under the Ham band rules.

[@scottcline7706]

Thanks Joshua. I have a HAM license and I stick to the IMS frequencies, but I was doing it without knowing so. Now I know. You've taught me something today.

[@negligentfpv77]

Thank you for keeping me informed. I've been flying for 4 months now, only learned what i needed to learn to fly. Solder wires here, don't power a VTX without an antenna, simple stuff. only what i needed to know to get flying. most people are probably like me. it was only a month ago that i started looking into all of the technical information on quads, EMFs, ESC protocols, Disk Loading Theory, choosing the right batteries, all the good stuff. thank you for teaching me, no one asked you to put this info out there, but it's what we need to hear.

[@patrickbedroske9392]

Eachine should list these as "race only" or "not FCC compliant"

[@James-sf1ci]

lol. Banggood/Eachine doesn't give a damn about anything except your $.

[@mrlazda]

@James Thomas You are wrong, they only do not care about FCC rules (which only apply to US and no where in rest of world) and they are global sellers (and it is important obligation to take care that what it import is according to local regulations). For example in my country upper limit is not 5.875 GHz but 7.125 GHz (with some constraints) or on other side first Spectrum radios was totally illegal (now they fix that) due output power (FCC limit output power to average 100mW ERP and in Europe (CEPT) it is limited to 100mW ERP pick power, and Spectrum had transmitting pick power of near 1W ERP but average was less then 100mW ERP which is legal according FCC rules but not to CEPT). Bigger problem are prominent KZbinrs (and rf experts according to their words) who are advocates of of regulatory compliance and still make videos about modification of RC transmitters (for example changing antenna with higher gain one) which make them illegal (for people who do not know maximum output power of transmitter is given as ERP (effective radiated power) which include antenna gain) without any warning about legality of changes they advise.

[@Wind1000100]

Yeah, that would be nice. I have no reason to even consider using these bands, but the VTX03 is a good micro VTX to run in normal bands.

[@davidringler7131]

JOSH, THANK YOU FOR THE INFO!. I LOVE THIS HOBBY AND I DO NOT WANT TO HAVE ANY PART OF IT RUINED BECAUSE I WAS DOING ILLEGAL CRAP, HELL I HAVE CANCER AND THEY REALLY CANT HURT ME ANYMORE BUT I LOVE THIS HOBBY AND IT TAKES MY MIND AWAY FROM THE WORLD FOR A LITTLE WHILE AND I LEARN STUFF AND I WOULD HATE FOR THIS TO ALL GO AWAY! THERE HASNT EVER BEEN A SINGLE PERSON WHO STARTED TALKING TO ME WHILE OUT FLYING THAT LOOKED THROUGH MY FPV GEAR THAT DIDNT LOVE IT AND DOES BRING ALOT OF JOY!

[@anonimus9921]

thanks for holding us down, safety should be every pilots primary concern.

[@M390VI]

Thank you for making this video, I didn't realize some channels were off limits. Thankfully none of the ones I use are outside of what is allowed.

[@droneee3478]

I agree 100% with you Joshua. I am a licensed general class ham active on UHF - HF and I believe any serious drone pilot should at least get a Tech license. The knowledge you gain is completely relevant to FPV-RC flying and the cost is minimal, 30-40 dollars for the book and FCC test. If we FPV pilots stay responsible, educated and licensed then there will be no need for laws to restrict or stop our hobby. As you stated Joshua I fear the day when uneducated, reckless FPV Pilots cause a public incident that ruins it for all us responsible pilots out there. Great work and thank for sharing this information. Awesome channel

[@roflbotfpv9168]

I must know more about the butt whoop.

[@GiffysChannel]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/nouwqn2EfNp-iK8

[@ChristopherNovaSmith]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWXWZH-mjq6DppY

[@MAYHEMinTheMidwest]

Wow am I glad I found this! Browsing through your vids I thought this looked particularity interesting so I watched. The next day the VTX I ordered came in the mail. I ordered it for the power flexibility (.01Mw-600 Mw) and of course it's got 72 channels. If I hadn't stumbled on this I'd have had no idea. Thank you Joshua!

[@nimbuslayer5142]

Great PSA Josh! Nothing like taking some personal responsibility instead of hiding behind ignorance. Job very well done. ROTOR ON Sir!

[@MArgusChopinGyver]

I'm using tx03 from Eachine too (that aio camera support 72ch). but not using the low band... hopefully everybody that watching this take a responsible action to not using that band and screw this beautiful hobby

[@bwxmoto]

I just got two more TX03s in the mail and also will not be using these bands. There's no need to really.

[@notimeformorons5505]

The hobby is already screwed to a certain degree through the inappropriate use (by a small minority ) of drones such as the DJI Phantom and others like it. At least using an illigal frequency in this band has not got the potential to maim or kill. Saying that I do not endorse using an illigal frequency, just pointing out the obvious !

[@RandomChaos851]

Yes! As soon as I saw this "low band" being talked about I thought "Great, here we go, FCC is going to crack down on video transmitters". the 1300mhz video range is already making the news for allowing pilots to use lower frequencies that are illegal to use.

[@oBseSsIoNPC]

Right on, I am glad you are a professional around RF, giving your input on this. It means a lot and more "educating" is required when it comes to these things. The technology has become so common and readily available, that people think they can do what they want, without ever reading into legalities and possible repercussions, that result from their negligence. I just wish there was more input from the manufacturers as well. Thank you!

[@IzakGt]

Glad you brought this up. I was unaware about the 'L-band' and will make sure I do my due diligence. I recently got an Aomway and will have to check to make sure those bands aren't there and if they are I'll gladly stay off them! Thanks for the informative video.

[@SweetThangMedia]

I am an RF professional also, and I approve this message! :-)

[@ravendarkcloud]

Thank you for making this vid. Some people don't think of what can happen. All it takes is one person to use some product from overseas that interrupts a crucial frequency that puts people at risk to cost the entire fpv hobby it's rights.

[@Its_Mee_Bee]

Thanks Joshua! I was looking at that Vtx primarily as a cheap, switching Vtx for my Wizard, and I had no idea it had alternate bands available. Keep up the good work

[@floorpizza8074]

As a new guy to this hobby (and an owner of two Eachine VTX-03's), I'm very glad I watched this video. Thanks, Joshua... My family will be keeping it legal.

[@ndcapper]

These are very valid points. and I was not aware what the band was actually used for. HAM users are already complaining about FPV on 1.3 band in the US. That's minor compared to the real issue that could occur if low band starts interfering with real commercial operations.

[@johncgibson4720]

Love your videos, even though I don't do FPV. The makeshift radios whizzing around scares me, even though we can't hear EM wave sound. I can feel the whizzing just by looking at the antenna/impedance circuits from the old days of training of making 12GHz product prototypes.

[@AndrewSouthworth]

Glad you brought this up! I bought one of these Eachine VTX's that has these illegal bands as an option. Luckily I didn't use them, but I could have without even knowing! I just pushed buttons on it randomly assuming that all the bands on it were allowed.

[@danielfensom1022]

Thanks for the information Joshua, as always a clear and authoritative explanation of the subject. I am in the UK and I presume most of what you explain applies here too. Keep up your great KZbin posts!

[@WX4CB]

Great video, as a fellow ham operator, pilot and rf professional, it incenses me when you sit there and tell people they can't use that particular band and well.. you get the rest of it.

[@amscriven]

Good video man. I have this but have not used it. I just got it when it was 10$ for a mini build you in the future. Good reminders!! Cause I already forgot that it had all these channels and whatnot. Keep stuff coming like this more often!

[@aussiesmulticopteradventures]

Nicely put Josh. If everyone abides by the rules, we won't end up like Canada at the moment, where it seems to be illegal to fly anywhere.

[@rotovicious1156]

I respect your passion as a former 31r multichannel systems switching operator, us army. More still as a fairly new fpv quad enthusiasts.

[@JoshuaBardwell]

People who have worked in radio don't need explanation as to why this is a big deal. Radio is so damn useful, and it only takes one jackass to ruin it. Nobody who really respects radio wants to be that jackass.

[@rotovicious1156]

Joshua Bardwell never that brother. Climbing; "shimming" up a 15m mast to change popularity in a hostile or even private environment. In my experience way to often a bad out post "operator" will make work difficult sometimes in miles each direction. I agree with you here, there is so much unseen wave lengths; and they need to stay that way.

[@chrismichael3486]

Right on Joshua. I'm glad someone is finally speaking up. I keep seeing YT personalities acting Iresponsible and not being proper role models for us noobs. I always felt they were going to ruin it for everyone eventually.

[@LovesGames113]

thank you telling me what frequencies to avoid now i don't have to worry about the fcc license.

[@JoshuaBardwell]

The FCC still expects you to have a ham license for what it's worth.

[@KC-su9nb]

Joshua you make a great point. Time and time again things are illegal but not enforced much, because it isn't a problem. When it becomes a problem people notice, people complain, people call law enforcement and we get new laws and restrictions. I'm 53 years old and have seen that bad behavior hurts more than just the idiot being bad.

[@drivemecrazyk8897]

thanks josh! i just received my eachine camera today. i had no idea about the bands, i will not be using anything except the legal bands, also due to the fact i l live and fly close to an airport. i only fly at the local school football field because jets fly extremely low over my area...i love this hobby and want to see it thrive. i hope this issue can be sorted out and not ban any imports.

[@1grizzlyrizzo]

Thanks for the info, the club I fly with is growing and from time to time we get guys powering up whilst peeps are in flight, blocking channels and causing brown trousers. This is why I refuse to take auto level off of my setup option list, it gives me that few seconds needed to go from acro hit the gas rip off my headset and recover my quad. I would also advice having the vtx on a plug or switch and not hardwired, this is great to allow you to disable your vtx do some line of sight and prep for your next flight. Many thanks Josh.

[@ShizzelBodizel]

but officer.. Josh Bardwell said I could do it

[@evhexrc1765]

Thanks. I will tell my FPV friend about this video. IDK if what he does is illegal,(probably not; he's very responsible to my knowledge.) but he does have a HAM licsence. Thanks for telling me about this low band and guiding me.

[@QuadView]

Thank you Granpa. Please continue keeping the sport healthy and strong.

[@ShaneWymore]

On board JB, appreciate the heads up

[@mrmcgowan2]

Another 802.11 guy here, and I applaud you for trying to keep the air clean for the users DFS or or otherwise. Listen to em kids, stay off the L-Band lawn :)

[@sailorjohn2224]

What I haven't seen on the post is the 1000's of ham operators who can act as representatives of the FCC and make a game of tracking down illegal transmissions, they got their license ( some when it was very hard to obtain) and now it is much easier so get your license. Every thing I got from Banggood was shipped on 5945 --just outside the legal ham band.

[@alvaromartins3216]

Fortunately we have Joshua that actually knows what he is talking about and does his research before advising someone. As a science loving guy it really bugs me to see people that should know better just spiting out whatever they think it will be the next big hype, without having any kind of understanding or doing any kind of basic research on the subject. Thanks again Joshua for keeping this hobby a place where we know and understand the stuff we're dealing with.

[@MrFlamethrower32]

so many little things to know in this hobby...I JUST WANT TO FLY GOD DAMN IT

[@JSKCKNIT]

Thank you for this very informative video. I'm just getting started in FPV and the last thing I want to be doing is breaking laws. Thanks again.

[@TrumperVex]

Late to the party (two years late!), but one question: Who might low band interfere with? How might that band be "protected" or legislation changed due to an unlicensed operator there? I have an FCC General class license and an Amateur license. In my ham radio days, there were always people operating illegally with too much power for the band (common), wrong bands, interfering with others, etc. I mean like constantly. A trucker or someone would put a 50w amp / xmtr on an FRS radio or something, but it was rare to hear about a fine/bust. Back when I started flying RC, I was a pretty decent pilot and would occasionally go to a club field or licensed area with others. *Twice* I was clipped to my frequency on a board and had my plane suddenly nose dive to the ground. Someone obviously turned on a transmitter while I was flying and intentionally or not, totaled my plane. I never went back. Gist: there are always going to be people doing unauthorized stuff and breaking the (constantly changing) rules. Some new FCC/FAA law? Ha. I've already had rangers and police approach me when flying and tell me it is "illegal" to fly around a park or certain area. I show my various licenses, explain that it is NOT illegal to fly there, and always get some kind of vague "complaint was issued" response and asked to never fly there because it is "illegal." I suppose this vid on "out of band" might be apropos in congested urban areas, but not too concerned anywhere else. And in those large urban areas, there are always gonna be jerks and newbs and just plain don't care types doing "illegal" things. They ain't gonna be watching this video either....

[@Andrew-ui5qn]

thanks for this. love learning through your channel. I am new to this all but have to start somewhere. your word is good old man

[@LarryJenkins]

I had bought this to use on one of my cheap quads without realizing that it had the extra bands. The good thing about it is I do not have anything to receive that signal so it's useless to me. I am glad that you made this video because I was totally ignorant to the fact of the low bands. The only thing I knew in the beginning was why doesn't my goggles have these extra bands, lol. At least I can use it responsibly now!

[@benzodronic]

You're right. All these things in the twilight zone between legal and illegal , the stuff people don't really care about and just look the other way for is -I think- already not good for the image of the hobby and adding this might be the last drop that will stop "them" looking the other way.

[@danhbentsen]

Almost the same in Norway. We can use the 5725-5875 MHz area witout a license, only with 25 mW.

[@mdergance3]

Did some reading on weather station radar systems. It's hard to imagine that 0.025W of power would provide any detectable level of interference with a 250,000W radar station (most upward of 1MW ERP). Granted radar works on measuring reflections but I'd be confident those reflected signals are well above 25mW. Completely agree on the topic of the tragedy of commons and see much heavier restrictions on drone flying in general in the years to come.

[@JoshuaBardwell]

+Mike Dergance I think you're wrong about the strength of the measured reflections. A 25 mW transmission from a wifi radio can be received at -90 dBm, which is 0.0000000001 Watts.

[@Badblueshy]

1:50 "That's why we can operate our VTxs in this range without getting a license..." That's ONLY true if the device is marked as Part 15 compliant. You are NOT allowed to operate a non part 15 compliant device in the ISM band without a license. §15.201 Equipment authorization requirement. (a) Intentional radiators operated as carrier current systems, devices operated under the provisions of §§15.211, 15.213, and 15.221, and devices operating below 490 kHz in which all emissions are at least 40 dB below the limits in §15.209 shall be verified pursuant to the procedures in Subpart J of part 2 of this chapter prior to marketing. (b) Except as otherwise exempted in paragraph (c) of this section and in §15.23 of this part, all intentional radiators operating under the provisions of this part shall be certificated by the Commission pursuant to the procedures in subpart J of part 2 of this chapter prior to marketing.

[@JoshuaBardwell]

+Badblueshy sorry for the confusion. I meant a license for the transmitter. Not the operator.

[@gfchri5915]

@@JoshuaBardwell Transmitters are not licensed, operators are.

[@tomwolinski]

oh noes, not the weather radar, my precious weather radar. never considered diving a building on low-band while wearing a hoody but it sounds like much fun

[@error-un3fo]

I just brought a 72CH transmitter, i never knew it was illegal. Thanks for the info grandpa bardwell :D

[@danskifpv]

Hey Joshua, I don't knownhowni missed this video but it popped up today. As we all know you are an RF Professional and obviously it shows in your content. I found this video particularly compelling and full of useful information. Will you be doing more videos like this or better still a pure RF primer maybe? Thanks for all of the time and effort I know you must put in for each and every video.

[@jbonez0]

Once again, Thanks Josh, You mentioned your in the RF profession, what would you recommend for a frequency analyzer (better than the little scanner on the LaForge module)? I would like to paint a picture of what is being used where I fly. I think this as a practice could help in the responsibility aspect as well as get me on the cleanest bands and frequencies. Cheers.

[@jeffvenable3845]

Im an old guy too Joshua...lol. We all need to hear it....because at some point we all become the protectors of the common good. And thats because at some point we all get older. :)

[@MikeQuercia]

I have been following you're channel for awhile now, joshua. I have to say I have learned more from you than everything else ive watched on youtube combined. Great Great stuff. Did you see that the new wizard x220S comes with a vtx that will output on this low band spectrum? Im curious how you feel about this. Espicially because of this video and the legalities you bring up. Also, do you plan on reviewing the Wizard X220s. Thanks again for the great videos.

[@JoshuaBardwell]

I think most of what I have to say is in the video. It's unfortunate that vendors are selling this gear, but the good news is that we as pilots can still choose to comply with the regulations.

[@manuelpellizzari8540]

Hi, in many countries, using more than 25mW is illegal. Using 600mW vtx is not uncommon though so I guess fpv pilots got unfortunately used to not caring about this regulation. So you can't blame eachine or whichever e-shop : there will be conditions or places when what they sell can be used. You just shouldn't switch to band L or 200mW, but the day you are indoor, or in a country that allows it, you have the possibility.

[@MrJob91]

very nice and interesting video! makes me motivated to get into the legal part even more! RC model reviews should do a vid on all the illegal oldschool radio bands and how big of a deal if was! amazing!

[@WayneEarls]

You come off kinda snobbish in your videos, but it's because you are passionate about the hobby and you know the rules and laws. I've been a Ham since 1996 KB9NMZ,, but hardly ever used it for anything. I'm so glad there's another hobby for hams. I also wish everyone would jump the right hoops. It makes it better for all of us and honesty, it gives them useful info and education they don't even realize would help. Like basic electronics knowledge.. Thanks for all the informative videos for the noobs like me.

[@captainbill1721]

Thanks for the info... I was wondering what would be the best Band and Channel to use for FPV by myself. I am doing video work with an iFlight mostly indoors. Thanks ⚓

[@MCsCreations]

JB, there's a new version of that VTX, called VTX03S. It doesn't have the illegal channels and have smart audio. Still tiny. 😊

[@fpvlive]

Hi Joshua, first of all; thanks a lot for posting a variety of usefull content. This was very interesting to watch because I think a lot of people are not aware what happens when they basically turn on a transmitter no matter on what frequency. I hope you can answer a question. Currently I'm transmitting on band E channel 3. But I noticed when I aim fore a gate between a lorry and a lamp post my screen is turning completely black. I'm using a Immersion RC 200mw transmitter and the quanum cyclops V2 pro goggles with 5dbi rhcp clover leaf antenna's. Is there any chance when switching to another frequency in order to get a better signal penetration ? ( for the record only within the allowed 5ghz frequency range ). Thanks in advance.

[@JoshuaBardwell]

Probably you are experiencing multipath cancellation. If so, changing frequency might have a small effect.

[@fpvlive]

Joshua Bardwell thanks but what would be a solution than ?

[@maplechill75]

I am totally with you here. The last thing we as a community need is people ignoring the law. It will only lead to greater restrictions

[@derdrolftesinn]

Thank you for that Video! The Theme is much wider than Frequencys... also those max. Power and fly everywhere Guys dont think about responsibility for the whole Hobby. As you said, the Hammer will fall to all of us...

[@snoopyfpv8549]

Stay legal! Get your ham radio license, it's easy. it only takes about 30 days with a few hours of study each night. The study course / practice exams have a lots of great information that we all should know. If you are serious about this hobby, get your license and have no worries.

[@EdRickerVlogs]

Old comment, new reply...wanted to state that I just got my Technician license after only 2 evenings of heavy study and 2 refresher nights where I reread the question pool. I was able to pass multiple sample tests online after the first evening of study. Got 100% right on the test this evening. Way easier than you're making it sound, but I agree with the rest of your comment!

[@simonbe]

Hi Josh, I totally get your point. One other topic I wonder about is, what you think about signal strength. In germany we have a very silly restriction to use only 25mW. As a professional, would you say operating at 200 or 600 mW would hurt anybody?

[@JoshuaBardwell]

+Simon Bethke it all depends on how much interference the people are willing to tolerate. Higher output has a larger interference radius.

[@MatthewSmith-ku2lf]

Thanks Josh, I was this close to start using it just because I have the ability. Thanks for the video. I had no clue.

[@xtkfpv5306]

I don't know about you guys but my goggle module only recieves 40 channels so unless I got another module for my fatsharks I would not be able to tune my goggles to these lower frequencies anyway. Just an FYI, TBS does have a safety interlock on the race band ch 1 and 2 and 7, if you don't have a ham license entered into your VTX, eg (KB0URE) is mine, you can not go above 25mw on certain channels. It is easy to defeat as you could put any value in there, but this interlock but it does exist.

[@danieljones2435]

How dare you protect these lying weatherman😀...lmao. I will follow these recommendations. I do think its a little overly grandpa. But hey, someone's got to do it. I always learn something with your videos Josh. Thanks!

[@allrcreviews7681]

@Joshua Bardwell thank you for this video, it is an important topic. Skimming the comments, it's sort of funny to see all the 'screw the man!' mentalities, shocking actually. To those who say it is overreaching and 'im not hurting anyone', here's my example of exactly why you should play by the rules: Suppose the situation were reversed, and instead of your FPV link, we were talking about your 2.4GHz control TX link. Suppose there were some other hobby like ours, using similar types or radios, and they had off-market TX's that stomped all over our 2.4GHz links. "meh, we're not hurting anyone" they would say. But when your race quad falls out of the sky or hard-right's in to a TREE, you would be upset that they are not following the rules! In that scenario, WE are the weather station/Radio telescope/etc (taking interference) and THEY are YOU! Many of you are too young or too new to the hobby to remember the nightmares of the old 72MHz transmitters/receivers with set channels via crystals. Remember the days of dual conversion receivers?! We respected "dont turn on your TX" rules, and the like, because we had all at one time or another had our R/C plane sent in to a flat spin because a newbie at the flying field turned on his radio without checking in on the frequency chalkboard. [/soapBox] Have fun, and just play by the rules. They're there for a reason.

[@PatriotPaulUSA]

True its just the new rules adopted are overly oppressive for no reason. Outlawing lots of things that had been going on for many years.Such as long distance ,flying beyond line of sight and FPV . I have no problem with using the proper radio frequencies. 433UHF and 1.2 worked fine.

[@hectyre]

I'm interested in hearing more about tiny whoops getting run into butts. I have one of those eachine vtxs on the way. I didn't even notice it did 72 channels.

[@graywoulf]

I have never seen any antennas on your house or on your property so I didn't know you were a ham operator too. Looked you up by the way. Tech class eh? I'll stick to general class myself. 73 to you!

[@jester3265]

Thanks for pointing this out Josh, it's people selling and illegally using these frequencies that can damage our hobby. We're not exactly popular with Joe public as it stands, this could give the powers that be exactly what they need to stamp on all of us, not just the few that abuse. Respect.

[@xephonism]

I'm pretty sure there are many marketed vtx's that run a lot of illegal bands. Many vtx manuals will state somewhere that some frequencies require a level 1 ham licence to operate those channels. Not many people who fly fpv actually care to learn about radio in its entirety to know what you can and cannot do without a license and just assume they are allowed to do it. I would encourage anyone to just get a level one ham license if you can. Its possibly one of the cheapest and easiest tests you could ever take (they literally give you all of the question pools online). Also if you have a licence you can run on whatever you want within reason.

[@j.finesseflights1403]

I concur, I come from a motocross background and while I'm talking apples to oranges, it goes without saying tread lightly and don't trespass on others property!! So I get what you are saying, these bands are tempting, but don't fuck it up for everyone else, PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!! THanks Joshua!!

[@SpoonFPV]

So glad you made this video

[@noladroneworxllc3115]

I'm just thankful that you give me the information to make my own decisions. I choose to be responsible for the greater good of drones.

[@blackmennewstyle]

Thanks for this video Joshua :) Honestly, probably 70% of my video TX are still using 32 channels and don't even have raceband lol On the other hand, i'm not even sure that our FPV goggles are compatible with these low bands :/

[@DrunkAncestor]

When I heard about "low" band I was expecting something awesome like 694 - 820Mhz :)

[@Swallabat]

I like your attitude! I don't care for asking permission and paying fees to do my thing, never have, but I don't want to do any actual harm either. I never did ham radio, because frankly I don't really find I like the attitude of the people who do that here in the UK as a rule, but your attitude, I have time for... Thanks for the "heads up" it's ueful information presented in a good and pleasant way..

[@bulldogg7000]

I think anyone serious about FPV and RC in general in the US should just take the time to study for the ~35 question ARRL/HAM Tech exam. You WILL learn something. Pay the $15 and take the exam, get your HAM license. If you can do pretty basic math and learn some regulation trivia, you can get it - you will then also be more aware of your RF environment and therefore be a better RF citizen.

[@RhinoDan]

Don't feel sorry, this is important message. Because this can affect the whole hobby as a whole.

[@jacquesborgaily1290]

What about users of 1.3ghz frequency for video fatshark sells receivers for 1.3ghz and transmitters are being sold at drone matters, is this legal in the U.S.

[@JoshuaBardwell]

+B-360 FPV yes, 1.3 GHz can be legal in the US. 1258 and 1280 mHz only.

[@MadMarcWinnipeg]

wow ! I would have guessed that your a teacher or professor. You have got some serious skills brotha. Thank you for the info. I have an AIO tx03 and I had no idea about that.👍😊

[@rambozo_fpv176]

Does anyone know anything about the Diatone band? 5362, 5399, 5436, 5473, 5510, 5547, 5584 and 5621? There isn't even a receiver for these, is there?

[@FarmerFpv]

I hope people take this video seriously. It's sad that these companies are selling vtx's with low bands like that. sharing this video.

[@wyvern4588]

I agree, I don't use Illegal bands simply because I don't know what I may be screwing up if I do. I take a little card with allowed channels with me when I go to the field, so far I'm the only one in my area flying here, so I set everything on one legal band and use only 25mw-200mw. We don't need to give the FCC any reason to stop us from having fun.

[@hamadmusabeh]

Thx for the info , i hope a lower cost digital vtx becomes accessible to everyone , to solve these issues.

[@JoshuaBardwell]

That would be amazing.

[@dmarko326]

What is forgotten here is that a weather monitoring station probably has 100x more power on that given lower frequency than the everyday fpv er. And they are probably more active longer. so wouldn't it stand to reason that the fpv er is more likely to be swamped out?

[@michaeltube8389]

Thanks for speaking out and being the voice of reason Josh. Unfortunately i think you're preaching to the quire since in my experience irresponsible people tend to be selfish and inconsiderate. Not all of them since many might just be ignorant of what they are actually doing. I really hope we don't see a tragedy of the commons but if we do, it's good to know that connex has a digital replacement.

[@TheRCAddict]

Education is key. As long as people are making educated decisions, your job is done.