With the recent FCC changes to 60 meters, I'm confused about the new operating procedures. As of February 2026, we can now operate anywhere between 5351.5 and 5366.5 kHz with 9.15 watts ERP maximum, plus we still have the original four channels at 100 watts.

How do I calculate ERP vs transmitter power for my setup? My dipole isn't full-size on 60m, so does that affect my power limits? I've heard Channel 5 is used for DX - should I avoid domestic QSOs there?

Also, what's the proper way to check if a frequency is clear before transmitting, given that we're secondary users?

You must cease operation immediately if you hear any non-amateur transmission on the channel. Always listen before transmitting - if you hear another signal whether amateur or government/private station, don't transmit. For antenna efficiency: a 16-foot base-loaded vertical with 4 radials might be only 5-10% efficient, meaning you could run 90-180 watts to reach the 9.15W ERP limit.

All modes are allowed on the new 15-kHz segment subject to the 2.8-kHz bandwidth limitation. For USB operation, just tune to the channel frequency and operate, being careful not to overmodulate and create splatter outside the channel bandwidth. ERP is calculated by multiplying your transmitter PEP by the antenna gain relative to a half-wave dipole. If your antenna has less gain than a dipole, you can run more transmitter power.

Keep transmissions as short as possible with frequent breaks to listen for other signals. Split-channel operation is considered poor practice on 60 meters because it ties up two channels at once. Yes, Channel 5 has become the de facto international DX channel over the years. I use it mainly for working overseas stations and try to keep domestic ragchews on the other channels.