MM23016

4 OPERATING RULES AND REGULATIONS

Two-way FM radio systems must be operated in accordance with the rules and regulations of the local,
regional, or national government.
In the United States, the M7200 mobile radio must be operated in accordance with the rules and
regulations of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). As an operator of two-way radio
equipment, you must be thoroughly familiar with the rules that apply to your particular type of radio
operation. Following these rules helps eliminate confusion, assures the most efficient use of the existing
radio channels, and results in a smoothly functioning radio network.
When using your two-way radio, remember these rules:
• It is a violation of FCC rules to interrupt any distress or emergency message. As your radio operates
in much the same way as a telephone “party line,” always listen to make sure that the channel is clear
before transmitting. Emergency calls have priority over all other messages. If so meone is sending an
emergency message – such as reporting a fire or asking for help in an accident – KEEP OFF THE
AIR!
• The use of profane or obscene language is prohibited by Federal law.
• It is against the law to send false call letters or false distress or emergency messages. The FCC
requires that you keep conversations brief and confine them to business. To save time, use coded
messages whenever possible.
• Using your radio to send personal messages (except in an emergency) is a violation of FCC rules.
You may send only those messages that are essential for the operation of your business.
• It is against Federal law to repeat or otherwise make known anything you overhear on your radio.
Conversations between others sharing your channel must be regarded as confidential.
• The FCC requires that you identify yourself at certain specific times by means of your call letters.
Refer to the rules that apply to your particular type of operation for the proper procedure.
• No changes or adjustments shall be made to the equipment except by an authorized or certified
electronics technician.
Under U.S. law, operation of an unlicensed radio transmitter within the jurisdiction of
the United States may be punishable by a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment for up to
two (2) years, or both.

4.1 OPERATING TIPS

The following conditions tend to reduce the effective range of two-way radios and should be avoided
whenever possible:
• Operating the radio in areas of low terrain, or while under power lines or bridges.
• Obstructions such as mountains and buildings.
• In areas where transmission or reception is poor, some improvement can be obtained by moving a few
yards in another direction or moving to a higher elevation.
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