SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hame-control-link-failure

A remotely controlled station loses its control link. How long may it keep transmitting?

3 minutes, enforced by built-in station provisions.

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  1. No more than 3 minutes ✔
  2. No more than 30 seconds
  3. No more than 10 minutes

Why: Rule 97.213(b) requires provisions built into the station that limit transmission to no more than 3 minutes if the control link malfunctions. That keeps an unattended station from staying on the air with nobody in charge.

Huh, didn't know that: Rule 97.213(d) also requires a copy of the station license and contact details for the licensee and a control operator posted at the station.

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My wife said that if I transmit one more time, she's going to leave me... Over.
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References

Answer: No more than 3 minutes. Rule 97.213(b) requires provisions built into the station that limit transmission to no more than 3 minutes if the control link malfunctions. That keeps an unattended station from staying on the air with nobody in charge.

  1. 47 CFR 97.213 Telecommand of an amateur station (Cornell LII mirror of eCFR) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/47/97.213
    no more than 3 minutes in the event of malfunction in the control link
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. 47 CFR 97.213 Telecommand of an amateur station (Cornell LII mirror of eCFR) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/47/97.213
    the station licensee and at least one designated control operator
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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