CQ AM!

To many, Amplitude Modulation is a way of life and the voice mode that will survive time, wars and EMP. It’s the mode that can be detected and decoded by everything from the newest high-tech receivers to a crystal set. The AM community is where much of the hands-on design and home-brewing are being done today. This is not to say that AM is perfect, especially in the challenging world of HF sky-wave. Selective fading and the unfair power restrictions on Amateur AM are obstacles to be overcome. Anyone tuning across the HF bands in the AM mode has been frustrated at times to observe fairly strong carriers with a relatively feeble audio component. SSB has an advantage in talk-power, but AM’ers can close much of the talk-power gap without loosing their fidelity advantage. Processing, good antennas and efficient use of the power can make AM, Angel Music.

Clearly defined and respected AM-windows would also help make the AM experience more enjoyable. The issue of ‘windows’ for AM is still being debated. It is understandable that some AM’ers might consider these windows as virtual cages and a few SSB operators might consider AM windows an imposition. Common sense and common courtesy will always be an important element in the final plan. Any solution should consider the frequency agility and talk power of modern SSB rigs and the greater elbow room afforded by the new, expanded HF voice privileges.

Why AM? Single Side-Band is the dominant mode in the voice portion of the HF bands mainly because of talk-power and convenience. The downside is that the voice must be used as a percussion instrument in the SSB mode. In Amplitude Modulation mode the noise suppressing carrier acts as the canvas, the blank space upon which radio voices are painted. Single Side-Band is like paint sprayed into thin air. The voice-power must continue to ‘spray’ modulation power or the fleeting illusion of presence is lost. Any pause for breath invites 'doubling'. Many feel that AM is more relaxed, more natural and a better recruiting tool for new Hams. Short-wave listeners without product detectors can easily enjoy the fun!.

AM is now one of the most exciting aspects of Amateur Radio. The best part is that most modern rigs and computer-based (FlexRadios) have superb AM capabilities. Once everyone is hooked on AM, we’ll lobby for true output-power equity!

Mike Dorrough, KO6NM