I was browsing around and stumbled across another part 15 website. I went to join the forums and got unusual response. Referencing people from other part 15 sites, basically think they know everything. I have a background in Broadcast radio as a career before automation and consolidation became to rule. And this person does also as well. Long story short this person refused to allow me join and stated was only allowing bonifide educational institutions to join. I followed up to the response to which I never have heard any response to.
Without mentioning names I think I know the forum you are talking about. The one where you need a paid monthly subscription to join? I'm surprised you got any communication with them as if you don't have an approved email address(can't be Google, Yahoo, etc) you cannot join or even contact anyone. It's like an exclusive club and you have to be evaluated and approved and if you do get to join you are on "trial" for a period and cancelled if you don't "measure up"
Unlike them this forum is open to anyone no matter where you live, what your email address is, and this forum recognizes that legal operation also includes and welcomes members outside the USA that may have different rules in their country. Wonder what "bonafide educational institutions" means.
Also when I look up the spelling of the word Bonafide and write it like that the red line still is there! Not surprised, I write my name and the red line is there!
You're not missing much.
For all the posturing that the hobbyblaster website is "A Cut Above", it seems odd that the webmaster there does not operate a part 15 station of his own. I get the feeling they are secretly vigilantes who are out to 'catch' or 'report' so-called pirates. I can't prove it, but I have heard talk.
@carl-blare I don't think the owner of this forum operates a part 15 station either.
There's a difference between owning a Forum, running a Forum, administering a Forum and finally, commenting within a Forum.
The owner/operator of this Forum knows what he doesn't know, and has obtained people to help who do know something about the subject material.
The biggest difference within this Forum is that these latter individuals providing assistance, myself included, also know what they don't know. I like to think that that leads to open minded and critical discussion, and adds value overall.
The ones involved with the other Forum think they know everything, sometimes condescending to let lesser mortals in on their thoughts. It builds up their egos and may make them feel better, but does little to help the activity of Part 15 broadcasting. And in some cases, such as continuously expounding on pirate broadcasting, it actually damages. A great deal, in fact.