---
id: ham
title: FAQs - HAM
sidebar_label: Amateur Radio (HAM)
---

## Overview

Meshtastic can be used by both unlicensed people and licensed HAM operators. 

### What is the benefit of using a HAM license with Meshtastic?

If you use your HAM radio license with Meshtastic, consider both the privileges and restrictions:

#### Privileges
- Increased Transmit Power
	- Up to 1500W transmit power! [FCC Part 97.313](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-97/subpart-D/section-97.313)
- Higher Gain Antennas

#### Restrictions
- Plain-Text Only
	- On amateur radio bands, encryption is illegal. [FCC Part 97.113.C](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-97/subpart-B/section-97.113)
- Lack of Privacy
	- As a HAM operator, it is a requirement that you identify yourself by your call sign periodically when transmitting. Your call sign will be publicly transmitted at least once every 10 minutes at minimum. [FCC Part 97.119.A](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-97/subpart-B/section-97.119)


### How do I set my HAM call sign?

Please see instructions for [Enabling HAM License from the Python CLI](/docs/software/python/python-uses#ham-radio-support)