Operating Frequencies and Technical Information

The Pacific Seafarers' Net operates on a carefully selected frequency that provides reliable coverage across vast Pacific Ocean distances. Understanding the technical aspects of our operations helps participants optimize their equipment and achieve successful communications during daily net sessions.

Primary Operating Frequency

The PacSeaNet operates exclusively on 14300 kHz USB (Upper Sideband) in the 20-meter amateur radio band. This frequency was selected based on several important factors:

• Propagation Characteristics: 14300 kHz provides excellent skip propagation across Pacific distances during our operating time (0300 UTC)
• Band Allocation: Located in the phone portion of 20 meters, permitting voice communications
• International Use: Available to amateur operators in most countries worldwide
• Minimal Interference: Relatively clear channel for maritime operations
• Proven Reliability: Decades of successful maritime net operations on this frequency

According to the ARRL band plan recommendations, this portion of 20 meters is designated for general phone operations and is well-suited for organized nets.

Propagation Patterns

The 20-meter band exhibits propagation characteristics that make it ideal for Pacific maritime communications at 0300 UTC:

Skip Distance: The ionospheric skip on 20 meters typically ranges from 500 to 2000 miles, perfect for reaching vessels scattered across ocean passages.

Time of Day: At 0300 UTC, propagation conditions favor long-distance communication across the Pacific basin. This timing catches favorable ionospheric conditions for both eastern and western Pacific regions.

Seasonal Variations: Propagation on 20 meters varies with seasons and solar activity. The PacSeaNet operates year-round, adapting to these variations. During periods of poor propagation, relay stations assist with communication.

Solar Cycle Effects: Twenty meters is relatively resilient across the solar cycle, maintaining usable propagation during both solar maximum and minimum periods, though characteristics change.

Equipment Recommendations

To participate effectively in the PacSeaNet, vessels and land stations should have appropriate equipment:

For Maritime Mobile Stations

Transceiver: Marine SSB radio or amateur HF transceiver with 100+ watts output power. Popular choices include Icom M802, Icom IC-7300, Yaesu FT-891, and similar units capable of 14 MHz operation.

Antenna: Proper antenna installation is crucial aboard vessels. Options include:

• Backstay antenna with appropriate tuner
• Insulated forestay antenna
• Whip antenna with ground plane
• Automatic antenna tuner for flexibility

Grounding: Effective RF grounding aboard boats is essential. Copper grounding straps to keel, seawater ground plates, or counterpoise systems improve both transmission and reception.

Power: Adequate ship's power (12 or 24 VDC) to operate radio at full power for extended periods. Consider battery capacity for passage-making.

For Land-Based Stations

Transceiver: HF amateur radio transceiver with SSB capability on 20 meters. Modern radios like Icom IC-7300, Yaesu FT-991A, or Kenwood TS-590 are excellent choices.

Antenna: Effective 20-meter antenna is crucial for net control and relay operations:

• Horizontal dipole at reasonable height (30+ feet preferred)
• Vertical antenna with good ground system
• Beam antenna (directional) for enhanced performance
• Multi-band antenna covering 20 meters

Location: Quiet RF environment free from power line noise and electronic interference improves weak signal reception.

Audio Quality Considerations

Clear audio is essential for effective communication, especially when copying position reports with critical numbers:

• Use quality microphone with proper frequency response
• Adjust microphone gain to avoid over-modulation
• Speak clearly and at moderate pace
• Monitor your own audio quality with station audio feedback
• Minimize background noise during transmission

Alternative Frequencies

While 14300 kHz is our primary frequency, there are circumstances where alternative frequencies may be used:

Propagation Failures: If 14300 kHz is unusable due to propagation conditions, the net may announce a temporary move to an alternative frequency in a different band (typically 40 meters or 17 meters).

Interference: Severe interference on 14300 kHz may necessitate a temporary frequency change during a net session.

Regional Nets: Some regional sub-nets may operate on different frequencies to accommodate local propagation conditions.

Alternative frequency selections are always announced during net operations, and all participants should be prepared to QSY (change frequency) if needed.

License Requirements

To operate on 14300 kHz, you must hold an appropriate amateur radio license:

• United States: Technician class with HF privileges, General, or Extra class license
• International: License class permitting HF SSB phone operations on 14 MHz band
• Maritime Mobile: Appropriate amateur license from your country of license, operating under maritime mobile regulations

Maritime mobile operations fall under International Telecommunication Union regulations allowing amateur operators to operate from vessels at sea while maintaining their home country license.

Radio Regulations and Procedures

All PacSeaNet operations comply with amateur radio regulations:

• Proper station identification with call signs
• No business or commercial communications
• No music or entertainment broadcasting
• Emergency traffic receives absolute priority
• International amateur radio rules respected

Optimizing Your Station

To maximize your success checking into the PacSeaNet:

Test Before Departure: If you're a maritime mobile, thoroughly test your installation before departing on a passage. Make practice contacts on 20 meters to verify your signal quality.

Antenna Maintenance: Regularly inspect antenna connections, insulators, and tuners. Corrosion and salt spray can degrade performance aboard vessels.

Propagation Tools: Familiarize yourself with propagation prediction tools and understand when 20 meters is likely to be open to your target areas.

Listen First: Before transmitting, listen to ensure the frequency is clear and the net is ready for your check-in.

Technical Support

If you're experiencing technical difficulties or need advice on equipment and installation, the PacSeaNet community includes experienced radio operators and marine electronics specialists. Don't hesitate to ask for guidance during net operations or through our contact channels.