Xref: utzoo sci.electronics:6514 rec.ham-radio:11238
Path: utzoo!attcan!uunet!cs.utexas.edu!husc6!ogccse!verdix!sequent!mntgfx!mbutts
From: mbutts@mntgfx.mentor.com (Mike Butts)
Newsgroups: sci.electronics,rec.ham-radio
Subject: Re: ATV (amateur television)
Message-ID: <1989Jun7.103650.2946@mntgfx.mentor.com>
Date: 7 Jun 89 17:36:48 GMT
References: <190700041@trsvax>
Organization: Mentor Graphics Corporation, Beaverton Oregon
Lines: 38

From article <190700041@trsvax>, by bb@trsvax.UUCP:
> I might mention that the primary reason I am looking into this is the hopes
> of putting a camera in a remote control airplane.  There are other potential
> uses if that is not successful but that is my goal.  I have found several
> dealers who deal in security cameras that sell B&W cameras that measure
> as small as 2x2x3 inches for about $600.  The problem is getting the 
> transmitter.  I want to do this all legally, so I am curious is it illegal
> to sell TV RF transmitters even to licensed ameteurs?   

Excellent!  That's an old fantasy of mine, and I'm glad there is someone
with the RC airplane experience to try it!  Ultimately we might imagine
being able to pan and zoom the camera and sending altitude, attitude and
airspeed telemetry down to a computer for a completely virtual flying
experience!  Do keep us posted on how it goes.

It is perfectly legal for anyone to buy or sell amateur radio equipment.
It's just very illegal for a non-licensed person to use it.  However, many
manufacturers and dealers will only sell to hams who show their license
or who can be found in the callbook, just to cut out the pirates.
Not because of any law, that's their private choice.  That practice is
a bit controversial in some circles, because people studying for their
ham ticket often would like to buy the gear first to have a receiver
to listen to code on.  (Please, net, let's not start that discussion again.)

I saw a nice commercial ATV rig at a hamfest last weekend, being shown by 
the manufacturer, AEA.  It is around 6" by 8" by 2".  Another company,
I believe the name is Arcadia, sells boxes and also printed circuit modules 
that may be easier to install in the aircraft.  They advertise in QST.

Also, many cities have ATV clubs that might be able to help you out.
Try calling your local radio store or asking around.

Best of luck with your excellent project.
-- 
Michael Butts, Research Engineer       KC7IT           503-626-1302
Mentor Graphics Corp., 8500 SW Creekside Place, Beaverton, OR 97005
...!{sequent,tessi,apollo}!mntgfx!mbutts  OR  mbutts@pdx.MENTOR.COM
Opinions are my own, not necessarily those of Mentor Graphics Corp.