Each member of the NYMAFCC accepts and agrees that every member has equal rights, and that it is a necessity that the members join together in a coordinated plan to provide the most efficient use of Part 74 frequencies.
The following guidelines relate specifically to the 2, 2.5, 7 and 13 GHz Television Pickup bands:
1. The central feature of coordination within the NYMAFCC is the concept of the "home channel" and the "channel coordinator".
2. Each user of Part 74 frequencies will be assigned one or more "home channels", on which they should plan to conduct the bulk of their operations. Should circumstances require, an user may use any channel for which they are authorized by the FCC. In every case, such use must be coordinated with the appropriate parties.
3. Each channel will have a "channel coordinator" whose responsibility it will be to know the status of their channel at all times. The coordinator can delegate coordination for specific times or events, when it would serve the convenience of those involved. For example, if one user is already working on a channel and a second user requests use of the same channel, it would be appropriate for these two users to coordinate directly with one another. Nevertheless, the designated channel coordinator retains the ultimate responsibility to ensure that their channel is used effectively and with minimal interference amongst users. In any list of assigned users, it is important to note that the order of assigned users is merely a consequence of the need to make a list. No rights are conferred by such ordering. ALL USERS HAVE AN EQUAL RIGHT TO USE THE FREQUENCIES.
4. Priority for use of Part 74 frequencies stems from the nature of the use. The FCC recognizes program relay (such as a program length remote), live remote inserts (such as news live shots), and "tape shipping" as legitimate uses with diminishing priority. Endless occupation of a channel with color bars or other static information is at the bottom of the priority list.
5. When it appears that there will be a conflict in use of a particular channel, it is up to the users to resolve the problem, either by shifting to other channels or receive sites, or if such is not available, then by time sharing. A consequence of time-sharing is that, sometimes, a user will not be able to get a shot in when they want to. They may have to wait. Or, they may have to cue their own facilities so that a channel can be re-used. This means turning remote transmitters off and then on again just moments before needed. This will cause agita for producers, but it must be done. News Directors, Desk personnel, and field crews must be made aware of this reality. There are no private channels. All channels are party lines and must be shared by reasonable people. If we can't do this ourselves, then the FCC is likely to do it for us.
6. The FCC requires full identification at the beginning and end of each transmission. Each member agrees that at the beginning and end of each transmission, color bars and identification will be shown, to include user name and unit identification.
7. Furthermore, each user is encouraged to pursue the following:
8. Each member agrees not to activate a transmitter until the receiver site has given authorization. Transmitters are not to be activated without the approval of the corresponding microwave control center.
9. Each member agrees to make every effort to prevent or reduce interference with other members.
10. Each member agrees to maintain a direct access telephone at their microwave control location and a current phone list (PANIC LIST) posted.
revised 9/21/93
Last revised on Sunday, March 12, 2000 by John Neuhaus, neuhaus@wwortv.net.