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eHam.net Survey
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Survey Question
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Do you feel that there are too many contests on the ham bands these days?
Posted: Oct 31, 2006
(1870 votes, 142 comments)
by VK5LA
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Survey Results
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Yes...
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51% (951)
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About right...
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23% (431)
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No...
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24% (456)
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I work the WARC Bands...
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2% (32)
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Survey Comments
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What do you win? :)
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My short answer is YES!
My more enlightened answer is complicated.
1)WHY 20M SO MUCH!! There is only 300KC's for all of ya.
2)IF YOUR CONTESTING ON 20M AND USING 1500W,
does it ever occure to you that some hams still like to ragchew!
3)If you want a contest that is not shooting fish in a barrel......try 15M. A solid 450khz, on nobody is on.
4)Does it not get boring. The QSO's content that is. YOUR 5 and 9......QRZed...contest!!
5)Those using 4 3-500z amps.....OK we all know you got a DAHL, and we all can count on you to use ALC. However have you considered a "MACH DETECTOR" MACH 1 =1500W PEP (being 30db down on IMD would be a nice abeit too late, good will gesture)
6)If the grand prize was a Harris Falcon, Drake R7A, or a never opened Collins S line,
I might be more understanding.
Posted by
WA2JJH
on January 21, 2007
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Contest
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I've heard "CQ TEST" on CW for hours on end with no gap long enough to reply in. Surely after the 100th contact you know your rig works....
What would happen if there was a major incident during a contest I ask.
Posted by
M0DCD
on January 12, 2007
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Contests
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To those who are outraged, OUTRAGED! that there is a contest every weekend, lets go look at the schedule, WA7BNM's Contest Calendar. I am sure all of you die hard ragchewers are TOTALLY inconvenienced by the likes of these contests:
NA High Speed Meteor Scatter Winter Rally
The MDXA PSK DeathMatch
The Croatian CW Contest
International Naval Contest
ARCI Holiday Spirits Homebrew Sprint-4 hours
(Yup, them homebrewers are EVERYWHERE!)
Run for the Bacon QRP Contest
(Nothing ruins a SSB QSO like a 5 watt cw signal!)
Posted by
5R8GQ
on December 18, 2006
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Recent experiences.
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I am a dedicated rag chewer. This past weekend I participated in the ARRL 10-Meter Contest. I do things like that once in awhile as a change of pace.
How did I feel about it afterwards? Well, I am happy that I helped a few folks add to their points. I did contact, if only very briefly, some contesters who were real gentlemen on the air, and that is a good feeling. Yet, rag chewing is still best for me. I got a bunch of 5-9s, quick succession contacts, and whoosh, it's gone!. It would be nice if we can live in harmony.
Posted by
AI2IA
on December 13, 2006
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contesting
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It's not for everybody, yet after nearly 50 as a ham I joined a contest club because I wanted to meet serious hams who were active, enthusiastic about the hobby, spent time and money on making their stations better, and developed skills and had operating stamina. If you ever think you know a lot about this hobby, spend some time with these guys. They will share their knowledge and help you help yourself become better in every way.
The light just went off when I see these "old" men and a few ladies act no different than my grandchildren when they are playing competitive sports or video games. It's spirit that they share.
When I was a non-contester, I resented being pushed off the bands when I was looking for a QSO. Now that I know more about it, I am convinced that radiosport is really the future of the hobby. This is what will grab the interest of the youngsters we're looking for.
Generally, contests are not all mode so operators not participating can simply shift to the opposite mode of the contest. Something for everyone?
When I was a kid and a new ham, talking to just anybody was a thrill and cowboy movies were exciting. Now even some real action movies are boring to the kids. Radio sport should be promoted with special recognition for newcomers and a new way to create flights of competition just as is done at my golf club. I was thrilled to be the best of the worst golfers. Now I want to be the worst of the best golfers....
Posted by
WN3R
on December 6, 2006
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bpl is screwing up the works
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too mutch contesting i feel
Posted by
AA3JG
on December 3, 2006
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Here is an example.
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I follow the principle that when I encounter a trouble maker on the air, I attempt to clear a possible misunderstanding twice. If the person persists, then I QSY. The record of my posts will show that I am not opposed to contesting and that I bear malice to no one. I have made my position clear to all of good will. This survey is intended for the interests of amateur radio enthusiasts, not for combat. Although I am tempted to return in kind, I will do the right thing and QSY. I leave my posts on this issue as witnesses to my integrity.
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 23, 2006
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"if you need a reminder, and by your irresponsible last post, you evidently need a reminder. "
Sorry, Raymond, I do not need a reminder. Nor is my last post "irresponsible. I know the like of your type. I have dealt with them my whole life. Your makeup is of the type of "if you do not agree with me, you are wrong". Tell me different, because, I noticed you have not written anything about the mess on 75 SSB, the horrible mess on 2 meter FM, or anything else, other than dribble about contesters. Ray, Stevie Wonder can see right thru your posts.
You still yet have told me if we were band limited, would it be fair to keep ragchewers, ect out of the "contest" portions..Why is that? All you can do is call me "irresponsible", and "of poor attitiude". Guess what, I am neither of those. I stand for something. it is something you stand against, so, in your eyes, I am "irresponsible". LMFAO...
Remind me, dear Raymond, do you treat everyone that disagrees with you, in the same matter. Or, do you not run across many folks that actually have a set of balls, and stick up for themselves??
Funny how other posters have a different set of views, and we are civil about it..but you tend to look down the end of you nose at anyone who disagrees with you. Like I said, I know your type. It's sad you can't actually carry on a civil conversation with someone that does not agree with you. I have tried to be civil, while biting my tounge almost in half. but, if you wish to remove the gloves by calling me irresponsible, because I have a different view, well, I'll happy to do that.
Posted by
KI9A
on November 23, 2006
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The Amateur's Code
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KI9A writes: "Ray, that is some really funny stuff there...So, using your thoughts, around the year 2174, the FCC might have the vile crud cleaned up on 75. Then, they can attempt to stop contesting.
....So, Ray, who exactly are you, to dictate what is right and wrong, with how we use our hobby?? "
If you think that what I wrote was funny, Albert, than you were not reading what I wrote. I am familiar with the "instant gratification types." Reform will come about. I have experience, and I know what I know. Read my biography on QRZ.com and you will see that I know my way around the bands, and that I spend a good deal of time listening. Yes, it may take quite awhile for sufficient action by the FCC. So? If you want to say that I advocate banning contesting, put that in your own mouth not mine. If you want to say that I want to dictate what is right and wrong with how you use your hobby, you are not getting those signals from my words. Read my posts. I suggest that you go back and read again, if you have ever read and thought about it, The Amateur's Code. When Paul Segal, W9EEA, wrote that back in 1928 he intended it to the guiding light of amateur radio. I certainly don't dictate, but Albert, that is the code you should operate by, if you need a reminder, and by your irresponsible last post, you evidently need a reminder.
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 23, 2006
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"It is a case that the FCC has not yet cleaned up the crud"
Ray, that is some really funny stuff there..I've been an active ham since 1978, and I'm here to tell you the vile crud is WORSE now. Not just on 75 either. Take a lsiten on 20, or even worse, 2 meter FM. I have not had a 2 meter FM rig turned on for a couple years now, because to sounds just like channel 19.
So, using your thoughts, around the year 2174, the FCC might have the vile crud cleaned up on 75. Then, they can attempt to stop contesting.
So, Ray, who exactly are you, to dictate what is right and wrong, with how we use our hobby?? As long as I stay within the limits of my extra class ticket, then you, or anyone else, has a right to dictate to me, how I should enjoy myself. Period. You might be able to dictate to your children how to run their lives, and their hobbies. But, stay out of mine. Or else, I might start a petition to do away with nets, and reagchews. Sounds about as silly as what you promote, eh?
Posted by
KI9A
on November 23, 2006
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No instant cure
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KI9A wants to know the details of how reform will come about. KI9A says that the FCC cannot clean up the mess on 75 SSB.
Reform will come about. If the details were known now, the reform would be now. Because there is no instant reform does not show that reform will not come about.
It is not that the FCC cannot clean up the crud. It is a case that the FCC has not yet cleaned up the crud. Do not assume inaction is lack of ability to enforce. As I said, all things are changing, albeit slowly, yet surely. Look at the barking at every little change taking place. No army can withstand an idea when its time has come. Overconfidence in their own wrecklessness with hasten the reform.
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 23, 2006
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"The choice is either to bring it about voluntarily with a sense of fair play for all, or wait until the ARRL, the FCC, and big insiders decide for all the rest of us. "
Amd HOW will they do this? The ARRL tried to impose a "contest-free" zone during the ARRL 10 meter contest, in the early 1990's. It didn't work. Most didn't care if they got disqualified, because a certificate didn't mean much. making contacts, and having fun did. So, it was ignored.
Look, the FCC can't even begin to clean up the vile, hatefull, putrid mess, on any evening on 75 SSB. So, them limiting contest operations is highly unlikely. Besides, how would they 1) enforce it? 2) Define it? Maybe the definition is no more than 1 QSO per hour? What?
Can't do it. Period. If you can't deal with us taking up alot of spectrum 6 times a year, then learn some CW and use it during those times..or explore the WARC bands.
I hate to burst your bubble, but it won't change.
Posted by
KI9A
on November 23, 2006
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Reform will come.
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To those who like to depict all suggestions as an extreme, your approach is transparent to all real thinkers. This little survey is only a sample. No one disputes that. Is there discontent out there about the quantity of contests and there conduct? This cannot be denied. Is this discontent sizable? Yes, it is. Nothing remains the same. Gradually situations improve, or get worse. Given the trend in contesting, eventually reform must come about. The choice is either to bring it about voluntarily with a sense of fair play for all, or wait until the ARRL, the FCC, and big insiders decide for all the rest of us. Why wait for that to happen? Probably because all the selfish little hams need external discipline imposed on them,and that is a shame.
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 23, 2006
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I voted 4 times. Three on my home network and once at work. Enjoy the turkey.
Posted by
SSBHAM69
on November 23, 2006
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As I'm getting ready to enjoy some turkey, I went thru several EHAM anti-contest survey questions, going back several years on this site. It is always alomst even split.
Again, I still saw NO answers on who would limit us.
Any ideas guys? Elvis? Santa Claus? Gestapo? Waffen SS? Easter Bunny?
ARRL cannot do it. CQ cannot do it. FCC cannot do it.
So, who will?
Yeah, good luck with this idea..
Posted by
KI9A
on November 23, 2006
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50/50
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Funny...
It looks to me as if the results so far are about 50/50.
Original Question:
Do you feel that there are too many contests on the ham bands these days?
Yes... 50% (864)
About right.... 24% (410)
No..... 24% (420)
I work the WARC Bands... 2% (31)
If you add the About right and No votes, you get a nice 50/50 split. Bearing in mind that a "NO" vote meant that the respondent feels there should be more contests, not less.
At any rate, this rant comes up after every major phone contest. Contesting has been a part of Amateur radio almost from the start, and is not going away any time soon.
My advice to the ranters: Get used to it.
73 Gary
Posted by
WG7X
on November 23, 2006
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One more thing guys, I have asked, now I pleading to get an answer about if we do agree to be band limited, are you? If we are limited to, say, 7.125-7.225, and the no contesting from 7.225-7.300, will you ragchewers, and net ops stay off of out turf??
Still...no answers, because it is an assinine idea.
Posted by
KI9A
on November 23, 2006
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AI2IA,
" Look at the red bars above. What do you have to say? "
You have to be joking?! You think a poll, where a whopping 1700 hams have answered, with 860 voting for your limits? Wow. Seeing that are 600,000 + licensed, hams in the US alone, not counting the WORLD, 863 doesn't count as a much as an single cell, on a flea, on a dogs back.
How do plan to "limit" us?????
C'mon, I'm all twisted up waiting hear this..
Posted by
KI9A
on November 23, 2006
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What boundaries
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N8KR has suggested limiting the contests to half the appropriate subband.
1. Just where in the subband do you put it then? To enable the maximum number of people to take advantage of this, it would need to right in the center of that subband, spanning the break point between Extra/Advanced and General.
2. How wide would you make it? While you might then establish some area for rag chews, the QRM in the contest sections would rise to a point as to make it nearly impossible to contest, especially if you do NOT have an amplifier.
3. How do you enforce this on foreign stations? And remember that their voice allocation spans the entire band so this would be a problem for the US.
4. What if there is a net that normally meets in the middle of your "contest" subband? Are you going to require them to move or allow them to take a chunk out of the now limited contest subband.
Any such concept requires a lot more detailed preparation before even submitting it for consideration. It's not just "let's allocate 1/2 of the subband." Or do you plan on someone else doing the detail work? If so, who?
Posted by
N8UZE
on November 23, 2006
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Contest Reform
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From all these posts and the results showing dissatisfaction with the quantity of contests on the air, it is evident that for the good of contests themselves some reform is in order. The question then remains, what kind of reform? Perhaps we could begin with elimination of digitally recorded CQs. This would increase the opportunity for the caller to listen a little longer before pressing the digital record button on his rig. Other similar handicaps should be imposed in contesting to try to bring it more in line with fair play and increased operator skills. It is not far off with the present lack of controls on contesting that robot stations can do everything in contesting without any operator participation, and what kind of contests are those? These are just mere thoughts, but clearly some reform in contesting operation is sorely needed. Look at the red bars above. What do you have to say?
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 23, 2006
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Contesters Rool!
Posted by
N4SL
on November 22, 2006
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This is funny as heck..0200z Tuesday, 3.800...some old boys fired up a net, and are flooded with heckles, and all kinds of other vile suff! HA! Looks like us contesters are not really the finks after all!
I'm about to die laughing at these guys!!
Posted by
KI9A
on November 21, 2006
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N5GLR:
"Some curious soul checked the contest calendar for next year and reported that there is a contest EVERY OTHER WEEKEND next year. One of you is mistaken ... which is it? "
OM, if you completely read my post, it said there are only about 5 or 6 contests, per year, that really take over the SSb portions of the bands. Oh yeah, there is a contest, of some sort, EVERY weekend. But, really only a half dozen that tear the bands up, because these 5 or 6 have the most participation. These being: 1) SS, 2) FD, 3) CQWW, 4) ARRL DX, 5) WPX, and, maybe NAQP. ARRLDX, CQWW, and NAQP really follow the where the DX is. Not likely to find much activity on 40/80 during the day.
GUYS! I still have not heard if you, who want limitations, would agree to limiting nets, ragchews, skeds, and dx-peditions to a certian part of the band, if we are limited...whats the matter, cat got your tounge?? ;-) Or, is it really just a stupid idea, but, a way for you to blow steam off? And also, who will limit it?? FCC? Who???
Lots of talk, no real good ideas here..'cept for John-WR8D, who is thinking about a table full of food! ( As I am)
73-Chuck
Posted by
KI9A
on November 21, 2006
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Contest Reform...
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I have to agree with all the >band operating reduction of contest operators< comments --> since the problem is the contest operator, not all, but a sizable many. As the bands have gone through a bit of resturcturing, so should the contest operating area be limited to 1/2 the band, IE: CW or SSB - half the general and advanced/extra area. The majority has made a clear statement, shure by a small margin, but still a majority.
Posted by
NK6R
on November 21, 2006
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Contests
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With the exception of the 10m contests I do most of my operation on 30m these days when it's open. EVeryweekend is another contest spred spectrum across the entire band ! WHat ever happened to listening first ! Yikes.
I used to operate 75 but I gave up. Every freq is either a net or a bunch of fellows who don't like newcomers to their QSO. Can't wait till 10-12-15m reopen so I can just rag chew with another Ham.
CU on 30m
de K2JX
Posted by
K2JX
on November 21, 2006
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Interesting
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It's amazing and interesting.
1. One person says contests should be limited to 48 hours. Guess what, all of them are limited to that or less.
2. One person says they should be limited to certain band segments. Well they are. The SSB contests are limited to the SSB segment and the CW ones are limited to the CW segment. Both are restricted from the WARC bands.
3. We only seem to get these negative comments after a SSB contest. Very seldom do we get this extreme negativism after a CW or digital contest.
One says there are contests every weekend tearing up the band and another says its only the half a dozen big ones that do. In reality, there are contests every weekend but most are virtually unnoticeable. In reality it is only the handful of big SSB contests that generate yet another round of moaning and complaining.
Posted by
N8UZE
on November 21, 2006
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Turkey note:
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Good Grief, it's tuesday already. Turkey dumplins, ham steaks with brown sugar and pineapple and cherries on top. Beans, corn, taters, stuff'n, turkey gravey on top of it all. Every kind of a dessert know to man!!! Oh yeah come on thursday morning. This is WR8D and i approved this message. I hope all who read this can enjoy this holiday as much as i plan to. Also it was typed in real redneck East Ky and Southern Wv type of speak'n. Hope ya'll understand what i'm get'n at. Happy Thanksgiving and God Bless to All!! John WR8D
Posted by
WR8D
on November 21, 2006
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Survey comments:
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There's something else that needs to be addresses. "Nets", if it's an emergency traffic net sure i'm all for it. 40m is getting to the point if you don't belong to one of these things it's sometimes hard to find a clear freq to call cq on. There are hams out there that can't go out on their own and have a decent qso with another station. All they've known is the net atmosphere it seems since they were first licensed. Sorry guys to get off topic but Chuck brought it up and i just had to speak my mind. Hi Hi, glad you had a good time Chuck, myself i heard it then turned the rigs off in the shack. I must say again though, this is amateur radio and there's something for everyone. I've never experianced anything in amateur radio to date that has such a negative effect on other users than a contest though. Hey i've worked the world all states and probably most the counties in the US. "One ragchew at a time". There's many like me that just ragchew and we're honestly not aware of your contests. If i'm with friends in qso and all hell breaks loose i don't give up my freq either. Believe me i can hold it till the cows come home too and will do just that. I never get ask if the freq is in use there's always some contester just jumping in and start calling cq contest. If he can't hear my signal believe me he's not gonna hear a contester come back to him so i honestly can't understand their type of behavior. Are most of them deaf as well as just plumb eat up with dumbass? I hate to be so blut but most of us feel this way about contests and you've all got yourselves to blame for our strong feelings on this subject. Happy Thanksgiving to all.
73 John WR8D
Posted by
WR8D
on November 21, 2006
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Contests
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My appologies to KA9NRX. It was KI9A who made those remarks. My bonehead error ... sorry.
Garry
N5GLR
Posted by
N5GLR
on November 21, 2006
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KA3NRX said ...
"There are maybe 5 or 6 weekends ( OUT OF 52!). That is not including the 261 weekdays a year there are not contests. So, maybe we take over the bands 6 days a YEAR, and ragchewers have the band nearly 360 DAYS A YEAR?"
Some curious soul checked the contest calendar for next year and reported that there is a contest EVERY OTHER WEEKEND next year. One of you is mistaken ... which is it?
Posted by
N5GLR
on November 21, 2006
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DX Cluster and Stateside Spots
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If you do not want to see spots for non-DX, set the filter for the cluster you log into correctly. It is trivial to do so. I use several different filter settings on the clusters I connect to depending on what I am doing and generally only see the spots I am interested in.
For example, if I am only interested in CW DX spots, I can set the filter to only show them. If I want only spots on WARC bands, I set it up that way. If I want only domestic spots, ie for Sweepstakes, I turn off DX spots. Simple to do.
73,
Mike
Posted by
WA3KYY
on November 21, 2006
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KA3NRX-
"Guys, it's A DX CLUSTER!!!!...not a spotting for state side contesters..."
Really...? I wonder how you figured that out? Just because it is called "DX SUMMIT"? I have news for you, the cluster was brought about by contesters, for contesters. You might not know it, but, not every spot is put on DX Summit, or DX-Central, or, even you local cluster. Many, if not most, are interlinked via telenet! So, deal with it. Also, the term "DX" stands for "distance". Not just out of country! Distance might mean East to West coast!
I'm sorry you think it is absurd. But. i think talking about useless stuff like WX, aches and pains, ect is usless. How do plan to moderate it? There are maybe 5 or 6 weekends ( OUT OF 52!). That is not including the 261 weekdays a year there are not contests. So, maybe we take over the bands 6 days a YEAR, and ragchewers have the band nearly 360 DAYS A YEAR? And you want "moderation"?? Sounds fair..yeah, right.
Still, nobody who advocates limiting contests to a portion of the band, has come forth and agreed to limit ragchews and nets to certian portion of the band. Say nets & ragchews ONLY on 7.150-7.225, and contests ONLY from 7.225-7.300? Sounds assinine, huh?
Do you guys understand the ARRL only puts on a few contests a year? CQ does a couple, and independent clubs do the rest. How do you propose limiting us? Stop buying CQ/QST? Thats silly, because, like I said, alot of clubs put these together...and forget about having the FCC limit them, they can't even keep the cussing, drooling rednecks from swearing like sailors on 75 meter SSB..
This weekend, I was 40, having fun. A guy came on, and POLITELY told me a net was starting up, and if I could move. I said no problem. I did, and a couple guys gave me QSO's, that were going to be part of the net.
You anti-contesters need to know you can't judge all but actions of few. Your Mom should have taught you that.
It would be like judging ALL hams by the pukes you hear on 75 SSB cussing...right?
I had F U N this weekend, I worked all 50 states, all with 600 watts to a G5RV. Pretty cool IMHO.
No matter if we disagree, or not. Feel free to call me during a contest. I make time to actually speak to guys just wanting to chat..again, you can't judge us all, by actions of few..
Happy Thanksgiving, both you rotten contesters, and rotten ragchewers! ;-)
73-Chuck KI9A
Posted by
KI9A
on November 20, 2006
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Too Many Contests?
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No, there aren't too many contests, only about a half dozen a year that are really major. One chap said:
>Now, stop whining, learn some CW, or get >on the WARC bands for those SIX weekends!
I totally agree. But better yet, join in. Most people who say there are to many contests have never played in one. What are you afraid of? Learing how to dig a weak signal out of the mud? REALLY learning how to use your receiver? If it's DX you're after, you can't do better than to jump feet first into a contest, and that's a fact. Remember, that DX station WANTS to work YOU!
Posted by
5R8GQ
on November 20, 2006
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Activity and contests
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.
I sit around week after week hoping for a contest as the bands are completely dead. The only way to check my radio is through a contest.
.:
Posted by
W6TH
on November 20, 2006
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Hello Dood!...
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Gary,
Yes sir you are right it's my opinion....and there is no need to get all snotty as a result, just because some of you contesters feel the need to hog the hf bands until 0300z to satisfy your massive egos....As for the DX cluster, I thought the idea behind a DX cluster was to spot DX, not state side contest qsos......Seems just a little bit strange to me..I for one could care less if WG3X is on 14.243 at 1720z...I am a little more concerned with the where abouts of 5A7A .....Sorry you disagree, that's fine, but if anyone is grumping, its your and people like you who can't see both sides of the coin regarding the issue....DX cluster = DX....Maybe you guys need to invent a separate non-DX contesting cluster of your own....Hmmmm, interesting idea!.....;-D....
Posted by
KA3NRX
on November 20, 2006
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SS RULES
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ka3nrx sez: Quote"IMO, no contest should go more than 48 houss, not start before 0000z on Fri/Sat and go beyond 0000z on Sun/Mon under any circumstances..." End quote
Dood, check the rules. SS runs for 30 hours, of which a single station/operator can only go for 24 of the 30 hours.
So whatcha grumping about?
Oh yeah... The DX cluster thing.
Sorry OM, unless YOU own the cluster your opinion is just that: an opinion only. Go start your own cluster if you want to set the rules.
BZZZT!
sri om u lose
Gary
Posted by
WG7X
on November 20, 2006
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This Weekend Sucked!
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I am sorry, usually I would say it depends on the contest, but this past weekend with that ARRL Sweepstakes contest going until 0300z Monday 11/20, I thought that was way too much....Not only were the bands hogged, but the DX Cluster was too!...Guys, it's A DX CLUSTER!!!!...not a spotting for state side contesters......Yes, if they keep the bands active, that's always a good thing, but for crying out loud, let's have a little moderation for those of us who don't contest all the time....IMO, no contest should go more than 48 houss, not start before 0000z on Fri/Sat and go beyond 0000z on Sun/Mon under any circumstances... Again, I am sorry, but that Sweepstakes thing was just to absurd for me.......
Posted by
KA3NRX
on November 20, 2006
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Thumbs up!
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Are the bands as "lit up" as they are on non-contest weekends? I haven't seen it yet. If they generate activity on the bands, I am all for 'em.
Plus they're fun! :)
Posted by
AC0DB
on November 19, 2006
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Rude & inconsiderate
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Listen any weekend and all you hear are rude and inconsiderate contesters all over the frequencies without regards to the current band plan. The number of contests must reduce and specific frequencies must be allotted to ensure all amateurs have an equal opportunity to enjoy the hobby.
Posted by
AA8X
on November 19, 2006
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forgotten weekend
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I have limited time to get on the bands but when i do have a chance it's contest weekend.Its awful,and i cant figure out why people would give up a weekend to do this continuous 59 qrz over and over,I would suggest one 24 hour period 4 times per year.I dont see any new hams getting into this facet of the hobby,maybe it will just die a slow death.
Posted by
K2VI
on November 18, 2006
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I'd like to see contests only take up a "portion" of the band(s), not the whole band(s). With about 50% surveyed saying there's too many contests... why ruin the weekends for the non-contesters? 59 001?
Posted by
KF4HR
on November 18, 2006
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contests promote wrong operating pratices
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There are far too many contests on the ham bands these days, not only that but to actually participate in a contest you have to operate beyond good pratice, for example; 1, you have to lie (ie; you're 5/9 when clearly not ALL are 5/9!)
2, the dog eat dog attitude to 'walking all over' anyone else who may have been on the frequency BEFORE the contest station!
3, a ham who works all week then cannot get on the bands at weekends for contesters!
...Those are but three reasons why we should 'contest' the contests, in my opinion they are pointless and a waste of 48 hours of a weekend! I do agree with each to their own...but until these contests are limited to a specific portion of the hf band and leave some portion for other users i shall be against them in their entirity!
Posted by
G4UNB
on November 18, 2006
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contests promote wrong operating pratices
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There are far too many contests on the ham bands these days, not only that but to actually participate in a contest you have to operate beyond good pratice, for example; 1, you have to lie (ie; you're 5/9 when clearly not ALL are 5/9!)
2, the dog eat dog attitude to 'walking all over' anyone else who may have been on the frequency BEFORE the contest station!
3, a ham who works all week then cannot get on the bands at weekends for contesters!
...Those are but three reasons why we should 'contest' the contests, in my opinion they are pointless and a waste of 48 hours of a weekend! I do agree with each to their own...but until these contests are limited to a specific portion of the hf band and leave some portion for other users i shall be against them in their entirity!
Posted by
G4UNB
on November 18, 2006
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Contests:
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Chuck, i agree about 75 and it's filth. Although there are freq's and many fine groups all up and down the band. One just needs to find them. 3875 in the evenings is one fine example. Preachers, homebrew amp builders, plumbers, doctors, a really fine gent that makes fancy microphones and is the sound man for the Eagles group, they all call this freq home at one time or another. There are bunches of good places to listen on 75 one just needs to look around for them. When it's contest time though it's all a mess. Now don't get me wrong, there's something in this hobby for all. I've worked the world one ragchew at a time though myself. I don't do the "you're 59 Wv" then qrz qrz. I take the time to actually get to know them. You'd be surprised at the dx stations that like to relax just a bit and have a little ragchew, talk about the rigs and antennas and where they and i live. Many contesters don't seem to be aware that there are hams that have gotten together and become friends and sit around and have huge round tables for years. Heck we've watched each others family grow, go to colledge, become grand parents, old friends die off. We don't put our fellowship on hold just because some only live to contest, or it's contest day. I used to have a new antenna up every weekend and lived to try it out. You hit the nail on the head though when you said both sides of it need to clean it up. Soon the bands will start to open up again guys. Think about what kind of an impression you're making on the guys and gals in another country that can hear you, that might want to come back to you. Contesters be aware, everyone does not live to yell cq test till their eyes bulge out of their sockets. Lets just all get along like we used to. Any band or mode you'll hear me in a good ragchew. Happy Thanksgiving! John
Posted by
WR8D
on November 18, 2006
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WR8D writes: "I would never bring a new ham prospect into my shack with a contest going on"
So, are you saying you would rather have a potential new ham sit down & listen to almost any 75 meter net, with all of the rednecks, biggots, racists, and all of the cussing you can hear on any given night??
Truth is, we all need to clean it up a bit!
John, have a great Thanksgiving also!
73-Chuck KI9A
Posted by
KI9A
on November 18, 2006
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contests
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I would never bring a new ham prospect into my shack with a contest going on. Shame on you guys for the way you act. The rules and all respect are thrown out the door so you can make your contact. There's something in this hobby it seems for everyone and i just stay off the air during these times when you seem hell bent of showing your lack of respect for you fellow amateur. I can hold my freq on any band though if i want to ragchew "through" you. Then though i only devolve down to your level and run the electric bill up doing it. Have a Great Thanksgiving All. --... ...-- John WR8D
Posted by
WR8D
on November 18, 2006
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"Life is too short for that crap. "
I get a kick out of these comments! I suppose life is long enough for this exchange:
"WX here is partly cloudy. Temp is 70."
"rig is Kenwood, ant is dipole up 30 feet"
"I just had another surgery on mu goiter"
Hmm, I guess if that turns your crank, so be it.
Posted by
KI9A
on November 18, 2006
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Contests...
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I work a little Field Day, but in general, I find contests completely boring and about like watching paint dry. I think they are pointless. To spend thousands of dollars on radios, amps and antennas, just to sit for hours and sound like an endless loop tape. Life is too short for that crap.
Posted by
WB4TJH
on November 17, 2006
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Contests
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Contests:- They do create activity especially during the sunspot min years also they allow amateurs running barefoot with simple antennas to work rare dx stations and are useful for those who chase awards plus trying out new antennas.
Too many contests ? look at the WA7BNM 12-Month Contest Calendar and judge for yourself but I do'nt think many affect normal amateur band useage except for a few weekends.
Posted by
4F3EW
on November 16, 2006
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deal me in
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I used to whine about contests and contesters.
So I started participating in some of them
myself.
I found they are alot of fun. And most of
the exchanges are friendly, in their own
way.
I especially like the ARRL 160m Contest.
73
Scott
Posted by
W5ESE
on November 16, 2006
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CONTESTS
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As usual a lot of these comments are made by people who don't read the question; "ARE THERE TOO MANY CONTESTS"? The answer from me is YES. I'm not against contests...there are just too many of them. If it were only the U.S. contests it would just be a pain in the neck. But when you add all the other Countries that propagate to my QTH it's just plain intolerable.
Posted by
N4VNV
on November 16, 2006
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Duuuuhhhhh
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Either make that "thirteen characters" or put it in kHz... your choice. Sri.
Posted by
N3OX
on November 15, 2006
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Where to go?
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Eleven characters, at least for the SSB contests:
14.300-14.350
Also, I bet if the average ham RX tended to have better performance, people wouldn't complain so much about the contesters. Next time you feel like you're besieged by a major contest, crank down the RF gain, maybe hit the attenuator, slap on a narrow filter and see if things get better.
Buy a contest-grade rig and you probably won't have to listen to the contest "splatter"
I won't defend rude contest behavior, which does happen, but I think the outcry against contests in some circles is more or less akin to saying "no roads should ever be closed for a marathon just because *I* will never run one" Most contesters are just doing what they like and what they've worked hard for, and I don't think that it's unreasonable that a few weekends a year will see almost all activity on some bands be contest activity.
There are a few contests which are going to shut down normal ham operations on the popular parts of popular bands, but I agree that they open up other bands that were "closed." All in all, I think it's about right.
73,
Dan
Posted by
N3OX
on November 15, 2006
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BANDS ARE NOT DEAD
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I don't think the Bands are dead. I think the fellowship and respect is. I encourage fellowship and respect. Yes fellowship and respect can be found in contests. Slow down, have respect, and man, paper doesn't mean anything compared to the difference you can make in that contact that really means something to somone. Or the person that you stopped for and let have a ragchew. Just a thought
Nick
Posted by
W9ZXT
on November 15, 2006
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Contest
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The problem is two fold as I see it.
1. Many contesters never sopr long enough to listen to a frequency to see it it is in use BEFORE screaming contest, contest.
2. Split band operations, they are transmitting on a frequency that is / was in use but can not listen to hear those using the frequency.
Problem 1. is an easy fix, if those in a contest follow FCC rules, "Don't cause interferance to other amateurs.
Problem 2. is also an easy fix, restrict split band operations, and disqualify violators.
73 Bob
Posted by
K5SET
on November 15, 2006
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"and Field Day which IS NOT A CONTEST"
And how do we know that it isn't a contest? Because QST prints scores for it, and they no longer print contest scores.
Actually, that comment of mine was a joke.
Posted by
N4SL
on November 15, 2006
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The Pie Chart
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Foregoing pointless hostility is a good thing, but what KF4EOM describes can hardly be called mutual respect. Without informing him, the contester is completely unaware of what you are doing or why you are doing it. Without his thanks and reciprocity, he is not participating in the mutuality (if you will).
Contesting belongs in ham radio beyond a doubt, but listening in on a contest does not produce effects that are anything like freedom of speech. What you hear is a very hectic, well, contest!
If you think of operation on a particular band over a weekend as a pie chart, and the green sections represent the time occupied by contesters and the yellow sections represent the time occupied by ragchewers, you get a better idea of the controversy. The pie chart is okay until one section starts to get overlapped by another section. This is what it is all about. I don't things will change much, and there is plenty of opportunity to QSY, if you are a ragchewer, even though you might not be where you want to be.
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 15, 2006
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Freedom Of Speech
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With regard to the recent poll about contesting, I decided to offer this concept for Hams to chew on. This topic, as do many others in ham radio, remind me of the freedom of speech that we enjoy in the USA.
You see, freedom of speech means that you have the right to post your opinion here without fear of retribution. I may not agree with or even like your opinion, but in order for me to enjoy my freedom of speech, I have to be willing to tolerate yours.
Ham radio is a lot like that. Every one of us like some aspects of ham radio and don’t care for others. For me, I’m a ragchewer; one of those audio guys with a $10k radio, large antenna farm and 1.5 Kilowatts of power (I love how people think just because you enhance your audio that your bandwidth can somehow expand past the radio’s capability of being 3 Khz wide but that’s another article in the making). I operate on all bands, even during contests.
When a contester shows up on a freq that I’m using and calls CQ I know that it’s not because I’m running QRP on noodles for antennas and he can’t hear me, but rather because the contester is operating the contest using a wet noodle for an antenna and he can’t hear me. I don’t get mad and start jamming; what good would that do? He obviously can’t hear me anyway!
You may chose to keep operating on that freq as long as he’s not interfering too badly with your QSO; he will eventually move on when nobody calls him back because other stations hear you on the freq. The better approach may be to take the high road and move on yourself, relinquish the freq to that station and let him work the contest. Work the WARC bands or get caught up on your needlepoint etc until the contest is over.
Do I like that contesting wipes out all other activity on HF? No. Do I respect the ability of contesters to operate contests? Yes.
Why? Because it is the only way I can be sure that I can still ragchew with my enhanced audio, big antenna and 1.5 kilowatts and not be harassed by those who don’t like what I do.
This concept, in case you missed the point, is called mutual respect.
Ken
KF4EOM
Posted by
KF4EOM
on November 15, 2006
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I really get a kick out of all of these whiny people who complain about big power stations.
As far as I am concerned, if a person is dedicated enough to spend the money and take the time to make their station to perform the way they want, then so be it! Everyone must do the best with what they have. Life is not fair! be thankful if you have a good radio, and can put up an antenna at all!
The part I do not like is be cause of this activity, I have to be a refugee to a WARC band if I want to ragchew. It even gets worse on bands like 6 meters when its open. Field day is even worse. This "anything goes" attitude is what gives contesting a bad name.
Phineas
K0KMA
Posted by
PHINEAS
on November 14, 2006
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Ahh. I see the EHAM Gestappo has deleted a few messeges here! YAVOL!
Posted by
KI9A
on November 14, 2006
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Ahh. I see the QRZ.com Gestappo has deleted a few messeges here! YAVOL!
Posted by
KI9A
on November 14, 2006
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What's a good contest to work with a new Yaesu VX-7R? I'm starting to get tired of the local repeater. Also, what is the freq of the pig farmers net? I'm not really into that but anything else beside this repeater.
Posted by
IAMAHAM
on November 13, 2006
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"and Field Day which IS NOT A CONTEST"
And how do we know that it isn't a contest? Because QST prints scores for it, and they no longer print contest scores.
Posted by
W5TD
on November 13, 2006
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Get it right, KI9A.
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In my posts on this subject I have been very careful to acknowledge the fact that contesting has a rightful place in ham radio. I have also gone out of my way to recognize that most contesters are reasonable and good mannered. Do not label me as calling calling contesters animals. I would not even call a CB user that. I don't need you offering excuses for what some contesters have done to me. Your post shows that your attitude stinks. Fortunately for most contesters, they are not judged by the likes of you. Go back and read my posts, because your last post that you call your two cents is not worth a plugged nickel.
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 12, 2006
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AI2IA says this:
"What if you already have a spot and an aggressive contester wants it? You get washed out by his directional beam and linear amplifier."
Vast majority of contesters actually do look for an open frequency. Why would they waste valuable time, missing potential QSO's by jumping right on a crowded freq??
I, and many, many other contester friends, do this..1) Listen, 2) ask if the freq is in use, 3) give a quick CQ.
Now, you have to remember, if you are using a ground mount vertical, low dipole, or any other compromise antennas, and 100 watts, the contester, with 1500w and large antenna arrays just might NOT hear you, but, you can hear him.
I've been contesting since 1979. been ragchewing, Dxing, and taken part in many nets since '78. I do almost everything this hobby has to offer. I do hear contesters crowd nets, ragchews. But, I also have been on the same freq for at least 15 30 min, and had guys fire up RIGHT on top of me, telling me I had to leave because a net was starting up. Guess what? If they are courteous, I'll leave, and normally get rewarded with QSO's from the guys, but, if they are beligerant, or cocky about it, I WON'T leave. I'll just switch over to the 2nd radio, and continue to call CQ on the 1st radio...right on the net. Again, if asked like a Gentelman, I'll move..no doubt. But, if "told" to move..forget it.
I can't count how many times I heard non-contesters jamming contesters. everything from whistles, to SSTV, to recording the guys CQ, and replaying it..<-that happened to me once, I just let the other guy play my recorded CQ, when a station answered it, I made the call...worked out nice for me! ;-)
Again, don't label all contesters as animals. You are dead wrong. I'm proof. Heck, if a guy answers me, tells me he "isn't in the contest", and just gave me a call, I take time to give him my name & QTH..only common courtesy. Having said that, tuning thru 75 meters in the evening, I listen, hear nothing, and ask is the freq is in use..MANY times I was greeted with " YES THE FREQ IS IN USE,HAS BEEN FOR 4 HOURS" or something like that. But, they were sitting there, just listening to dead air, or one of the old coots to speak.
Or, whta bout the SSTVers, or the AM guys--or better yet, the 12KC wide "hifi" SSb guys? Are we going to limit those guys to a certian part of the band??
Just my 2 cents..
73-Chuck KI9A
See you this weekend during the ARRL SS. Give me call, I'd be happy to chew the fat for minute!
Posted by
KI9A
on November 12, 2006
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AI2IA says this:
"What if you already have a spot and an aggressive contester wants it? You get washed out by his directional beam and linear amplifier."
Vast majority of contesters actually do look for an open frequency. Why would they waste valuable time, missing potential QSO's by jumping right on a crowded freq??
I, and many, many other contester friends, do this..1) Listen, 2) ask if the freq is in use, 3) give a quick CQ.
Now, you have to remember, if you are using a ground mount vertical, low dipole, or any other compromise antennas, and 100 watts, the contester, with 1500w and large antenna arrays just might NOT hear you, but, you can hear him.
I've been contesting since 1979. been ragchewing, Dxing, and taken part in many nets since '78. I do almost everything this hobby has to offer. I do hear contesters crowd nets, ragchews. But, I also have been on the same freq for at least 15 30 min, and had guys fire up RIGHT on top of me, telling me I had to leave because a net was starting up. Guess what? If they are courteous, I'll leave, and normally get rewarded with QSO's from the guys, but, if they are beligerant, or cocky about it, I WON'T leave. I'll just switch over to the 2nd radio, and continue to call CQ on the 1st radio...right on the net. Again, if asked like a Gentelman, I'll move..no doubt. But, if "told" to move..forget it.
I can't count how many times I heard non-contesters jamming contesters. everything from whistles, to SSTV, to recording the guys CQ, and replaying it..<-that happened to me once, I just let the other guy play my recorded CQ, when a station answered it, I made the call...worked out nice for me! ;-)
Again, don't label all contesters as animals. You are dead wrong. I'm proof. Heck, if a guy answers me, tells me he "isn't in the contest", and just gave me a call, I take time to give him my name & QTH..only common courtesy. Having said that, tuning thru 75 meters in the evening, I listen, hear nothing, and ask is the freq is in use..MANY times I was greeted with " YES THE FREQ IS IN USE,HAS BEEN FOR 4 HOURS" or something like that. But, they were sitting there, just listening to dead air, or one of the old coots to speak.
Or, whta bout the SSTVers, or the AM guys--or better yet, the 12KC wide "hifi" SSb guys? Are we going to limit those guys to a certian part of the band??
Just my 2 cents..
73-Chuck KI9A
See you this weekend during the ARRL SS. Give me call, I'd be happy to chew the fat for minute!
Posted by
KI9A
on November 12, 2006
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Ever get jammed?
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"There is always an open frequency somewhere...Quit complaining and find a open spot..."
What if you already have a spot and an aggressive contester wants it? You get washed out by his directional beam and linear amplifier.
Don't confuse trying to enlighten the ignorant with complaining. Moderation and good manners are every hams responsibility. Attitude is everything.
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 12, 2006
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Just About Right
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There is always an open frequency somewhere...Quit complaining and find a open spot...I worked the CQWW SSB and there were plenty of places one could go to find an open frequency, even on 20 meters...WARC bands can also be used...If one contest is an SSB contest, go practice some CW; on the other hand, if it is a CW contest, get on and practice some CW or go "ragchew" wherever you wish...It is really not that big of a deal.
Too many guys on here have too much time on their hands...
Just get on the air and don't over think it...Hope to see everyone on CQWW CW!
David, W0RER
Posted by
W0RER
on November 12, 2006
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How much is enough?
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YOU'REAHAM can't be serious about throwing money into the mix. When will folks learn that throwing money at problems only makes them worse.
Contests are part of ham life. There is no getting rid of them. Yet, one must ask the question, is there no limit to how many contests you can have on a given day and a given band?
Ragchewers ragchew among themselves. Among themselves, discourteous and aggressive ragchewers would be a contradiction in terms, again, among themselves. Contesting on the other hand encourages aggressive operating. Recognizing the rightful place of contesting is a given, but too much or too aggressive contesting hurts ham radio. Contesters have to limit themselves and make additional efforts to be nice on the radio. The only contesters who are a problem are the ones who deny this. All the rest are okay.
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 12, 2006
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Frequency Limits - I AGREE
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Yes...Frequency Segment Contest Limits, is a very WONDERFUL IDEA...Then it would TRULY BE, a CONTEST instead of a "FREE-FOR-ALL" across the bands!
Posted by
N5JFJ
on November 12, 2006
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Show me the money.
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Why don't they have cash awards for these contests? All I ever get out of them is a headache at the end. We should demand some prize money and now. Also, I think we should open the WARC bands for contests. It is obvious the rag chewers don't want to use them so let the contesters use them and we can open up the top 25Kc of each band for rag chews only. Fair is fair.
Posted by
IAMAHAM
on November 12, 2006
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Different Animals
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Ragchewers come and go on particular frequencies and are found here and there on all the bands. It is all very informal and unorganized.
Contesting, on the other hand, is a big time operation. It requires organization, management, special record keeping, and aggressive operating tactics.
When ragchewing and contesting collide, it is like the Bloods and the Crypts crashing a Wall Street groups cocktail party.
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 11, 2006
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And, AD5TD says:
"The ARRL could put an end to 80% of the bickering. Just have freq limits on contests. You MUST stay within certain freqs or the QSO doesn't count."
Again, see post below, are you willing to limit where you ragchew, chase DX, or have a net?? Most likely, you say no! So, why is it good for me, but not you?
The ARRL only sponsers a couple of contests. How about all of the others? Getting the ARRL, CQ, or any other group to limit freqs will never work. The ARRL that in the early-mid 1990's with the ten meter contest, but, found there were DX stations, that were band limited, therefore, leaving them out of the contest.
And, as far as the FCC goes, I have a license. I can operate my wireless set any where I am authorzed to.
Posted by
KI9A
on November 11, 2006
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N8XUA Says this:
"There is a good number of very rude contesters who if you try to conduct a general rag chew or try to find a contact they get very ignorant. Our group has done several HF demostrations for the Boy Scouts and had a number of occations that I had to quickly dial past someone because of their attitude."
Wow. Ever try to give a demo to a non-ham, in the evening, while tuning 75 meter SSB, during any given evening?? You will hear the most vulgar, redneck, ignortant conversations, that will make a sailor blush...and you complain about contesters?? We are guilty also, but, don't even begin to think we are the only ones that are rude!!
Hey--N8XUA--how about limiting ragchews, & nets to a certian portion of the band?? I'll stay in mine, you stay in yours..agreed?
Posted by
KI9A
on November 11, 2006
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Courtesy is whats needed
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I can accept the fact that there is a lot of contests. HOWEVER, common coutesy is what is needed by contesters. There is a good number of very rude contesters who if you try to conduct a general rag chew or try to find a contact they get very ignorant. Our group has done several HF demostrations for the Boy Scouts and had a number of occations that I had to quickly dial past someone because of their attitude. Operators need to understand that "hams" arent the only ones listening. I also think that a contest should be limited to a certian portion of the band. So when there is a contest on that the entire band isnt jammed up for that entire day or weekend.
Posted by
N8XUA
on November 11, 2006
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too many contest?
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Well as I see it all they need to do is readjust the time form start to finish for the contest. Most ragchew nets are in the morning. I love contesting don't get me wrong. I feel that contest should not run all weekend either, 12 hours is enough. This will also give me time to do my work and DX also. My two cents.
JIM
WU5E
Posted by
WU5E
on November 11, 2006
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I agree with K1OU,
How about limiting useless nets, and reagchews that mainly consist of complaining about politics, and your latest aches, apins, and minor surguries, to a certian part of the band? Sounds fair, right??
Look, this is re-hashed here every fall. Its a no win for either side.
Not counting Field Day, there are just a HANDFULL of SSB contests, that occupy large chunks of bandwidth. Off th top of my head, that would be NAQP-Jan & Aug, WPX-May, IARU-July, CQWW-Oct, ARRL SS-Nov. That is SIX weekends a year, that the SSB potions of the bands get pretty crowded. SIX OUT OF 52!
Now, stop whining, learn some CW, or get on the WARC bands for those SIX weekends!
boohoo...I want mine, but you need to be band-limited if you are a contester..YEAH RIGHT!
73-Chuck KI9A
Posted by
KI9A
on November 10, 2006
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Us vs. Them
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There seems to be a misunderstanding. In fact there *are* VHF-only and even UHF-only contests. There are contests that use only a single band (10m and 160m contests) and all other contests use only one mode (CW, Digital or Voice). There are contests that are for QRP only.
There are a LOT of contests!
However, only a handful popular enough to cause friction, where the band(s) seem to be 'taken over by unfriendlies'.
And, of course, all contesting is prohibited on the WARC bands as you all know. In fact, you know all of this but you just don't like it because you don't do it.
We do it, we are going to continue doing it and you are going to continue bitching about it. Right? Great, that's all out in the open now.
Posted by
N4SL
on November 10, 2006
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Where Contests Should Be Held
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Anyone can make contacts on 20/40/75-80. I'd like to see contests on the other bands only where there is more room to operate and more challenge leaving the "easy" highly-populated bands for ragchewing and nets.
Let's face it, many of the other bands could stand the use, fewer people would be displaced, contesters wouldn't be motivated to step on existing QSO's and the rest of us could learn from them how to make these less-populated bands work.
Want a challenge? Let's see you rack up big numbers on 6 meters!
Posted by
WD4AOG
on November 10, 2006
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Contests are FUN!
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For some of us not running 6 element monobanders on a 100 foot tower with 1.5 kilowatts, Contests are a good way to see how well your rig and antenna are getting out. Being able to make so many contacts in so little time is beneficial in gauging how well your station works to so many parts of the world.
Posted by
W8KQE
on November 9, 2006
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Contests are FUN!
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For some of us not running 6 element monobanders on a 100 foot tower with 1.5 kilowatts, Contests are a good way to see how well your rig and antenna are getting out. Being able to make so many contacts in so little time is beneficial in gauging how well your station works to so many parts of the world.
Posted by
W8KQE
on November 9, 2006
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WE ROOD!
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If contesters are such hot shot ops, why not confine the 'tests to a portion of the relevant sub-band so's we unwashed can be REALLY impressed?
Posted by
K5RIX
on November 9, 2006
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We Rool!
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Just listen to the band all day until the contest starts... a few dudes yammering, then WHAM! HAMS MAKING CONTACTS!. 2 seconds after the contest is over? a few dudes yammering.
There are no contests that use more than one mode except single band contests...and Field Day which IS NOT A CONTEST.
I can copy code near the noisefloor with a loud, clicky station pounding away on either side and I learned it all in contesting.
When the big one hits, this will probably get me all the cute women, too, I think.
Posted by
N4SL
on November 8, 2006
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We Rool!
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Just listen to the band all day until the contest starts... a few dudes yammering, then WHAM! HAMS MAKING CONTACTS!. 2 seconds after the contest is over? a few dudes yammering.
There are no contests that use more than one mode except single band contests...and Field Day which IS NOT A CONTEST.
I can copy code near the noisefloor with a loud, clicky station pounding away on either side and I learned it all in contesting.
When the big one hits, this will probably get me all the cute women, too, I think.
Posted by
N4SL
on November 8, 2006
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SHARE
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Minor nitpick:
"We all have a right to any frequency at any time;"
Should read:
"We all have the privledge to operate any frequency provided it is unocupied at the time"
Ok, I'm done now.
73
Posted by
KC8VWM
on November 8, 2006
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SHARE
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We all have a right to any frequency at any time; however, where there are nets that offer emergency services/training that have been in existence for over 50 years, what is the point of deliberated disrupting it? Propagation aside, there are few evening nets on 80 meters for instance; however, during weekends when the nets run, some of the contestors do not care. The group on 3.910 in the EVENINGS, does not care who is operating where and there is nothing we can do about it, but there are net lists and frequencies readily available. The nets do not intentionally try to go to frequencies in order to disrupt communications. If we learn to CARE, we can learn to SHARE.
Posted by
KB3KCJ
on November 8, 2006
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H -E- double hockey sticks YES!!!!
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A rag chew net takes up one frequency at one particular time. The contesters take up ALL frequencies the entire dam weekend. (Weekends being the only period when most hams have the time to rag chew.)
The problem isn't about contesting, per se. It's amount the is the HUGE NUMBER of different contests that are now taking place. There was a time when it was just the half dozen biggies sponsored by the ham magazines. Now, we have state QSO parties. That's FIFTY contests right there. FIFTY contests out of 52 weeks in a year. So now try and fit those magazine contests in those remaining two weeks, and mathematically you see theat contesting is overloaded, out of control and selfish! The we have the DX contests, and it's utter chaos on the weekend bands!
WARC bands are limited during the bottom end of the solar cycle. So not a very good option.
When they ARRL was asking for comments about the extra band space we're getting, I asked that those extra 25 and 50 kHz be NO CONTESTING ZONES!
73, Bill - WA8MEA
Posted by
WA8MEA
on November 8, 2006
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Contests...
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KC2WI says..
"All major contests should be limited to only portions of the bands."
I have a better idea. Why not limit ragchewing and nets to a certain part of the band?
Look at it that way, and it makes about as much sense.
Posted by
K1OU
on November 8, 2006
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Way too MANY
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The bad thing is teh ARRL does not care what you think... If something generates Money in the way of members and they are receiving that money.. They will not care what anyone else says until it hurts their bottom line..
73 Jerry
Posted by
N9LYA
on November 8, 2006
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Big contests bad, limit frequency range
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Amateur radio is more than contests. In fact I think contests to the exclusion of all else (as happens on some major contests) is contrary to spirit of ham radio in general.
No real information exchange takes place. All signal reports are 59; name, location, QSL info is looked up afterward instead of getting it over the air, etc.
And worst of all with the big contests, any open band betweeen constesting stations is virtually unuseable for anything else, unless maybe you and whoever you try to talk with have 1.5 KW and 5 el beams.
This is especially unfortunate during an event like JOTA when ALL stations on the air should give priority to scout communications. If we don't get the young people interested, ham radio will surely die.
All major contests should be limited to only portions of the bands.
Another good thing might be to hold them on only part of the weekend. If more time is needed, do it on a weekday. The rabid contesters can take time off if it is so important.
Posted by
KC2WI
on November 7, 2006
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Contesting
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The ARRL could put an end to 80% of the bickering. Just have freq limits on contests. You MUST stay within certain freqs or the QSO doesn't count. Sure they will still step on some folks, but at least you could find SOMEWHERE to talk besides the WARC bands. Some people still have equipment that will not operate there.
Posted by
AD5TD
on November 7, 2006
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Territory
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If eHam is any indicator, it seems people have big territorial problems on the air. *They* are on *my* frequency! It goes both ways, maybe more than just two ways! CW ops mad about RTTY, Rag-chewers mad about contesters, DXers mad about nets, nets mad about rag-chewers, narrow mode vs. wide, cw vs. ssb, ssb vs. digital voice, etc. etc. etc.
That's my biggest gripe about anything in regards to AR.. grown people who haven't learned how to share. Sometimes party A is at fault, sometimes party B, C,D,etc, but if everyone would just act civilly no one would care what mode you were using of if you were contesting, etc.
Check your ego at the door, and remember you've got a VFO, lots of filters, and the ultimate filter.. the off switch! If you don't reward the other parties bad behavior, they'll eventually stop.
Posted by
N1XBP
on November 7, 2006
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Who am I to stand in the way?
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As a ragchewer, I personally feel obligated to vacate any frequency I may be operating on just as soon as I hear one of those awesome contest stations fire up either right on top of me or within a kc... I mean, who am I to stand in the way of the all important rate? In fact, during a DX contest, I often monitor the clusters, just in case some DX decides to operate split and lists the frequency I'm on as their QRX. I immediately shut down when I see this, so as not to interfere. I mean... goodness, this fella is a contester... He might be famous some day... heck, he might even mention me in QST....
Posted by
W4RAW
on November 7, 2006
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Is it any different?
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From my observations, the percentage of contesters firing up on top of ongoing QSOs seems to be no higher than that of non-contesters firing up on top of ongoing QSOs during non-contest times. However, since the numbers of contesters increase the number of people on the band simultaneously, there will be a corresponding increase in the number of lids on the band. But the percentage doesn't seem to change.
I'm sure we've all at one time or another been in QSO and had some rag chewer fire up for his schedule as if he had a right to the frequency because he's been there 20 years. That's not any more justifiable than the contesters doing it.
We should all strive to be better operators whether it is ragchewing or contesting.
Posted by
N8UZE
on November 7, 2006
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OF's talking about the medical conditions are just as much a waste of frequency as contests. Since most contests are on weekends that leaves 5 days for everyone else to "ham it up". Quit whining and learn to live with contests !
Posted by
N9AVY
on November 6, 2006
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Contest
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Yes there are too many contest, and why do we allow the whole band to be trashed by a bunch of inconsiderate contesters who have no respect for on going QSO's? Why do we allow this? If there is not a contest we wouldn't put up with this kind of behavior. So why do we put up with it during a contest? Let's start telling our State Section Mangers what we think, and perhaps the ARRL will listen, perhaps not, but a least let them know how you feel. Let them know that we think, trashing the whole band for a contest is just not right. If they are going to have contest, let them have a portion of the band and do there thing, but trashing the whole band so us noncontesters can't operate is just not right. I also think contesters need to learn to listen before they fire up, I'm sick of them firing up on top of an on going QSO with no respect. Contesters need to learn the basic rule of radio, listen, listen and respect on going QSO's.
Posted by
N4CPM
on November 6, 2006
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Exaggeration
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This subject comes up one way or another after every major contest. There are only about half a dozen that really swamp the bands. The other contests are quite small and are hardly noticeable. So to say every weekend is wiped out with contests is simply an exaggeration.
There are many reasons to contest. I do so occasionally myself. I know up front that my chances of even coming close to winning are slim to none. So why do I do it? To see how well my set up works and to hone my skills.
For example, for a change this year I did the CW portion of the Sweepstakes this past weekend. The longish exchange in the Sweepstakes will really polish the rust of your CW skills if you spend several hours at it.
One can also learn a lot about propagation and how to use various propagation prediction tools. One also learns that such tools are NOT infallible. I worked a bunch of stations when the propagation tools said I would have no opening. But I was able to use the tool to good effect to snag Alaska and the Northern Territories during times when propagation conditions should favor my location over others.
Besides that, who is to criticize what constitues fun? Personally, I find it ridiculous that anybody plays golf. I find it even more ridiculous that some people watch it on TV.
Posted by
N8UZE
on November 6, 2006
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Too many contests?
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Yes, far too many. Every weekend from Oct through May is too many! But the Genie can not be put back in the bottle, they are here to stay. Thank God for the WARC bands.
Posted by
K1AF
on November 6, 2006
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Waaay too many!
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How someone can derive pleasure from sending their callsign and 599 for 48 hours is beyond me. I mean, even if you come in first place, you haven't won anything. Gee, a certificate saying you ignored everything else in your life for the past 2 days, family, friends, etc.
Having said all of that, I think contesters have a right to contest, but we don't need 5 or more contests every weekend. Set aside certain frequencies for contesters and quit ruining the bands for everyone else.
Posted by
WB4M
on November 6, 2006
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Contests
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What someone gets from repeating their call and cq'ing for hours and hours is beyond me. To each his own. I just wish contesters would show more consideration for those of us who dont care to. Every time theres a major contest, the bands become unusable for anything but the contesting drivel. Howabout giving the rest of us a break and limiting this contesting to the upper halves of each band so others can enjoy the radio too?
Posted by
KE4ZHN
on November 6, 2006
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Too Many Contests!
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Absolutely, there are too many contests.
Why can't these major ham organizations set
aside weekends to be clear of contests so that those of us who are not able to ham during the week can enjoy a good qso???
And please leave the WARC bands out of the
contests. It is a depressing fact of amateur radio that the only time I hear significant activity on many bands is during the contests. I have no problem with contesting except there is just WAY TOO MANY. Lets face it guys, If the ARRL isn't going to wake up to the fact, then they are really out of touch with day to day ham radio. Thank goodness there is the Digital Modes or my hamming activity would just about stop. And even the digital modes are prevented from being available at times.
Hey, we all have to get along, but why is it
so incredibly hard to have a simple ragchew these days. Too Many Contests are killing
amateur radio. Many newbies are just not interested in a 2 second contact. Needless to say, I feel very strongly about this subject. But I also feel those in a position to level the playing field are not listening.
I think there would be a lot more ragchewing activity if there weren't so many contests.
In my own personal conversations with many hams, the overwhelming consensus is there is too many contests.
The results of this E-Ham.net poll will no
doubt prove that Hams in general need a well deserved break from all the contests.
Posted by
W5NM
on November 5, 2006
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Contests and their participant might learn about the band plan. And county hunters.
I cannot imagine a larger waste of time than contesting; maybe someone can explain to me why they do it? It certainly seems an incredible bore.
Posted by
KD5PSH
on November 5, 2006
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Contests
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At the bottom of the sunspot cycle we need all the activity we can get. Keep the bands alive no matter what. Helps justify our existance a bit.
Posted by
WB9YCJ
on November 5, 2006
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One more thing....
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The real contest fans are probably too busy with the ARRL SS to take part in this survey. So it probably is weighted towards the "negatives".
Posted by
WA2DTW
on November 4, 2006
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Respect calling frequencies
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Contesting is fine. But calling frequencies (for AM, QRP, DX, etc etc) should be respected and no points should be gained for QSO's within 5 kHz of these frequencies.
And keep WARC bands and 60 meters free of contests. So that non-contesters would not be totally crowded out on so many potentially good weekends.
73
Steve
WA2DTW
Posted by
WA2DTW
on November 4, 2006
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ham radio is gone
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ham radio won't be here in the future, it is too bad is too bad america sold amateur rado of america people is just about GONE FREQS. ETC. it was fun,now just about shot in the BUTT plan and simple!!!
Posted by
AA3JG
on November 4, 2006
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Contest
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Do you feel that there are too many contests on the ham bands these days?
No, not at the present time as the bands are lacking in activity. Any band can seem dead until one dx station is heard and then come the pile up. CBer's love to work the skip, not much for rag chewing.
Every weekend would suit me fine for contesting even though I do not work contests.
After all ham radio is a hobby and isn't hobbies for kids?
Posted by
W6TH
on November 4, 2006
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We need another Major DX contest!
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While CQWW and ARRL-Int'l are always fun, I'd like to see a third major international DX event (i.e. no domestic QSOs, so WPX doesn't count <G>), perhaps sponsored by eham or QRZ.com (The "eHam-QRZ DX contest" has a nice ring to it, come to think of it!!)
I'd like this one to be sort of an iron-man competition. CW and SSB, same weekend. 48 hours. Two categories: Single operator and Multi-operator. No "short-school-bus-where-everyone-who-plays-gets-a-certificate" categories, either.
One point for same-continent, two points per QSO outside your continent, multipliers for 2-letter Maidenhead grid or other criteria TBD.
Power to be limited only by your country's legal limit, and no Low power or QRP categories. All legal station automation technologies would be allowed (ie. cluster spotting, digital voice keying/keyboard CW and any other computer aid).
AH6FC said "Though I fully understand the idea of the "super station," it sort of takes the fun out." With respect, I'm of a different mind. I believe the Big Guns need at least one more event, and at the same time draw the little guys out of the wood work for new DX entities, band- or mode-fills, etc.
AH6FC continues: "...meaning that it is very difficult to compete against these guys."
They're probably better contesters, have invested time and money to build a better station and have a skillset few casual operators have. To put it another way, I look pretty good in a blue and white jersey, but "it would be difficult to compete" if put on the offensive line of the Giants on Sunday afternoon (though if Pettigout draws another false start penalty I could hardly do much worse, :-)).
By the same token, if someone has managed to assemble a fantastic station in the perfect geographic location, and brings years of skill and experience to the chair, he/she deserves to win overall world bragging rights for a top notch performance. I'd love to see one more weekend a year where the world's best compete at the highest level, and where non-superstations can still have fun by bettering their own scores every year and filling up the log with new ones.
Posted by
W2IRT
on November 3, 2006
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RE: Speed QSO's
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Actually, the upcoming CW sweepstakes contest has a hint of what K7PEH is talking about. The exchange includes a serial no. (answers the question, "how are you doing in the contest"), year first licensed, power category of your station, ARRL section, etc.
Posted by
NI0C
on November 3, 2006
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Nice but not easy.
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K7PEH makes a good suggestion, but it would be a very difficult thing to accomplish. Many contestors simply cannot slow down their mile-a-minute, on and off again procedure. Dedicated ragchewers are disappointed when there is an abrupt cutoff to their QSO. You want the best of both worlds - a good thing, but a tough thing to do.
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 3, 2006
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Speed QSOs
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I don't do contests but I do respond to a "CQ Contest"
from time to time mostly to get a signal report from
various parts of the country. I must have a pretty good
system because I always get a 5x9 report.
But, one of the popular dating methods is the so-called
"speed dating" where you spend 10 minutes or whatever
getting to know a person. What is needed is a speed QSO
type contest or maybe I should say a speed QSO type day.
As an analogy, I figure a regular contest where you
exchange signal reports is like greeting someone with a
smile and a hello as you pass by on the street. And, a
good ragchew is like a long conversation over beer or in
front of a warm fire. But, how about a speed QSO where
you choose to limit your time so that you can make many
calls and learn a bit more about a person than typical of a
contest.
You ask, "How is this different than a normal Saturday on
the band?". Well, I have noticed that contests really bring
people out of the woods because the bands, especially 20,
are hopping and active. I would like to see the same kind
of activity but I would like to spend a few more minutes
learning of the opposite end before we move on.
Posted by
K7PEH
on November 3, 2006
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Yes, there are!
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And annnoying, too, sometimes because of the splatter created by some.
Posted by
KA2UUP
on November 3, 2006
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Big Picture
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The large CQWW contest seems to be the only one which really fills the bands.
There always seems to be enough room. I like to contest once a while as it gives me a chance to test my equipment with several countries in a very short time period.
As long as we are all courteous and respectful of each other I really see no issue with contesting.
73
VE6XL
www.ve6xl.ca
Posted by
VE6XL
on November 2, 2006
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It's a mixed bag.
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SSBHAM69 writes: "Everyone is always complaining about how ham radio is dieing. Now they are complaining that the bands are too crowded during contests. Which is it?"
It is neither.
One-agenda and gloom and doom hams complain that ham radio is on the way out. Some hams have experienced crowding during certain times and on certain bands and frequencies during contests. Most hams use their call signs when they post. Some hams make some good points, while others resort to sarcasm or silly comments. There are also a few self-hating hams and those who like to trumpet their opinions, but on the whole, there are enough good hams to make ham radio very rewarding and to make participating in eHam.net well worth the time.
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 2, 2006
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Why double posts?
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Posted by
SSBHAM69
on November 1, 2006
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Everyone is always complaining about how ham radio is dieing. Now they are complaining that the bands are too crowded during contests. Which is it?
Posted by
SSBHAM69
on November 1, 2006
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On contests
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I personally don't work contests to compete. I work contest particpants for the great DX available during contest periods. Period.
I think the number are about right.
73,
---* Ken
Posted by
WI7B
on November 1, 2006
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Let me say!!!
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Oh hell yes. 73, John WR8D
Posted by
WR8D
on November 1, 2006
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Poorly worded response choices
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The response choices provided for this simple yes/no question amount to yes, maybe, no, and a non sequitur.
I answered "no," meaning I have no problems with the number of contests, but I also feel the number of contests is "about right," and I also work the WARC bands!
Posted by
NI0C
on November 1, 2006
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To be concise
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It is not that there are too many contests. It is that there is too little courtesy.
If we can ever get that adjusted, then everything will be fine.
Posted by
AI2IA
on November 1, 2006
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Contesting
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This subject always seems to get the blood going on both sides of the issue. While I do participate in a fair number of contests, I can sympathize with some of the common complaints about what contesting does to the bands. Unfortunately, we all have a limited amount of bandspace in which to work and it is inevitable that somebody's toes will get stepped on, whether it's intentionally done or not.
Personally, I'd like to see all contests limited to just 100 watts output power and revamp the lousy exchange formats. There's no value at all in a canned 599 signal report, period. Something along the lines of a Sweepstakes-type of exchange might be appropriate but there is probably some sort of middle ground that could be agreed upon for the other major contests.
I try to make it a standard practice to avoid interfering with on-going QSOs but let's face it - we can't always hear each other despite best operating practices. And, to be honest, it's pretty common knowledge about when the major contests are occurring each year - they rarely change their dates and unless you've been hiding under a rock, it doesn't seem like a stretch to be able to anticipate the potential QRM problems associated with them and plan accordingly.
Posted by
KN7T
on November 1, 2006
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Contest Fun
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I enjoy the contests, though I don't always submit a log.
I do wonder why people put out spots on the clusters for stations working, say the Illinois QSO Party.
Posted by
NI0C
on November 1, 2006
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KC1XX
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By the way, go to DX Summit and look up 15M spots for KC1XX for the past year.You will see that on 15M, it is beyond common for them to be spotted where I stated, right on the band edge unless you are looking at your dial on your $4,000 rig and your $3,000 rig and the frequency is about 1KHz down- I know I'm going to get heat for this but I'm not the one breaking the rules- Just stating an opinion-
Posted by
N0AH
on November 1, 2006
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Band edges? What band edges?
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Ok, as I stated, I love contests and what they do for all of us regarding operating morale etc.......so here is my flame:
Certain multi-op KC1XX operators this past CQWW SSB need to realize that on phone, 21.199 is out of band-So is 21.200.
I know that some monster stations park on band edges to keep their spot etc....but if you have all of that aluminum, do you really have to pretend that you are in bandwidth to get an edge that is probably costing you points instead of getting them?
Some stations don't like going OUT OF BAND to work you- KC1XX was notable this weekend on or belew the band edges but their are others. Soo don't go getting all emotional on us.....I'm not the only one who heard you all weekend 21.199-21.200 pushing 21.200.5 once in awhile. But who knows, maybe a PIRATE was flaming you or your 15M op was looking at the wrong ITU zones? (YES, THIS IS A DISCLAIMER)
I just call them like I HEAR them and SEE them on my dial. Maybe I'm deaf? Over......
The only think I feel is disgusting about ay contest are those that can't just seem to play by the rules for 3 extra points out of 2 million. Or is more like 35,000 points.
Either way, any contacts outside the rules is CHEATING-
QRP'ers take note- QRP is not 100 watts. 1KW, etc.........Don't get me wrong, I love contesting and all the good it brings out, but there are obvious operating habits that never get corrected.
That said, I have no problems listing names- I'm no big contestor with a grudge....I'm just addressing an obvious issue that seems to stay in the closet too often and needs to be considered.
Trusting operators to play by the rules is just plain crazy. Every year for those of us who tune around and/or read scores, you know the calls and exactly what I mean.
But it is only a hobby- right?
Now, let me go back and work that rare double mult on 14.148MHz in zone 38, everyone else is and it only logs as 20M 59! Bingo! 59!!! Yippie! Now lets sked a move to 27.555MHz and count one for 10M's!! It is almost 10M short, maybe 11M, but it's a mult and it will log in as 10M 59!!!
Posted by
N0AH
on November 1, 2006
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Contests
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I enjoy the activity. Though I fully understand the idea of the "super station," it sort of takes the fun out. Meaning that it is very difficult to compete against these guys. With limited antenna I've gone through some without ever making a contact.
A QRP dx contest would be interesting.
Posted by
AH6FC
on November 1, 2006
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JOTA Drowned Out
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I participated in the Jamboree-on-the-Air on 21 October. The number of contest stations literally overwhelmed the JOTA station, many of who were operating from portable venues with less than optimum antennas and low power. Then there were the contest stations that camped out on the published JOTA frequencies. JOTA IS ONE WEEKEND A YEAR! Can't the contesters keep their bloated egos in check for an activity as important as this? You often only get one chance with these kids.!
Posted by
KG4RUL
on November 1, 2006
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Contests
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I liek what I have read here. Most people seem to have the attitude that there is plenty of space for everyone. If you chose to ragchew then go to a band that is not as crowded that weekend.
This past weekend I threw a wire out at 5' above ground and had a blast working all sorts of stations! It sharpened up my operating skills as well.
The contest brought out a bunch of stations that normally might not have been there, and if we dont use the bands we lose them. So I say anything that increases operating on the bands is a good thing!
Posted by
K9EZ
on November 1, 2006
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Contests
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During non contest times I can get a frequency anywhere, especially on cw. Contests bring people onto the bands that are otherwise underused. While I am only a participant, not trying to win, they are absolutely great for DX and sharpening of skills.
Posted by
N3EHY
on November 1, 2006
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Contesting??
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Although I did check yes to too many contests, let me qualify that statement. I do not begrudge the contestors, you can get some of the "rare" DX from these contests. I have participated in a few contests, and from time to time will give points to those who are looking, and have made a few contacts that I need. But what really frost my butt is that the contestors think that since there IS a contest on, that the frequency is theres. Stop and LISTEN, there might be a special event on (which by the way I like to work better than contests). There might also be a net, especially during hurricane season,there might be an emergency net and the contestors may or may not blow right over the net not thinking it may be a cause for concern, or there might be the ragchewer, which I also enjoy.
PLEASE, PLEASE, folks stop look and listen for your fellow hams before firing up that 2KW amp and start blowing away those running QRP,up to 200 watts. I don't have an amp in my house nor do I want one at this point in time. I enjoy QRP 1 watt up to 5 watts, on my FT817ND, or will use my KWD TS480HX up to 200 watts ( and beleive me it does every bit of 200 watts).
Just my thoughts on contesting, thanks for looking folks.
Mark AI4HO
Posted by
KI4CRA
on November 1, 2006
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Contest "OK" but still... observe Respect for Others!
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I don't have a real problem with the Contests, I did Vote that I believe there are too many, but what is so impolite at times is how non caring a few working the contest can be about observing that the frequency is in use! They seem to think that because there is a Contest going on that the Regulations don't apply and no one else exists! I mean...alright, enjoy the Contest - but please remember...RESPECT others, that are not a part of the Contests.
Posted by
N5JFJ
on November 1, 2006
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contesting
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limit rf pwr to 1 watt output if they want a real contest.
Posted by
N0EGS
on November 1, 2006
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Contests!
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I participate in a few of them. I have no problem with them either. I also know how to avoid them, if appropriate. Although the anti contest forces can't see any good in them, much valuable propagation info comes out of the big ones. But then again, my license never entitled me to even think of trying to show up on any particular frequency repeatively and use it regardless of circumstances and conditions. I used to be in the Navy and I remember that the military placed a high value on "adaptability". Contesters have absolutely as much right to use the bands as anyone else.
Posted by
WA4DOU
on October 31, 2006
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It's a big world for hams
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It's not that there are too many contests. The rub for me is the timing of the contests. Contests are a part of ham radio. I am a rag chewer, and I look forward to making new contacts, but weekends when most hams find a little more time to get on the air are filled with contests. I don't ever see a perfect solution, but it can't hurt to spread out the times and bands and frequencies for those contests. Also the contest habit tends to produce ham operators with "mile-a-minute" QSOs even when they are not in contests. These guys miss the pleasures of slowing down life and shooting the bull. If you're in the hustle and bustle all the time, it is hard to enjoy life in the slow lane.
Posted by
AI2IA
on October 31, 2006
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Too much VHF contesting?
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"Do you feel that there are too many contests on the ham bands these days?"
I am assuming the question relates to "Ham Bands" in this context meaning ALL Ham bands and ALL ham operators including those limited to using 6 meters and above too right?
The results are certainly going to be interesting.
73
Posted by
KC8VWM
on October 31, 2006
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Contest
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Most contest are not for me but, that's what is
great about ham radio...Lots of thing to do and
everyones taste is different.. Have fun with the contest folks.. I will do something else till it's over
Posted by
KB8RYA
on October 31, 2006
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QRP
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Contesting with the big guns in something like the CQWW is difficult but I had fun none the less. I ran 7 watts to a dipole in the attic with an SWR of 1:1. My best contact was ZY7C at roughly 6700 miles, I had a total of 45 contacts on 20m.
It seems that some people just don't want to listen for low power stations in the noise like myself. However after throwing /QRP in there a few times a few quieted the pileup down to pick me out which i was grateful for (HI3TEJ being just one to mention).
Posted by
KC2ORG
on October 31, 2006
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Too many
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I did not get into ham radio to make that rare contact only to hear I'm 5-9 and nothing else.
Posted by
KB4YKJ
on October 31, 2006
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Contests!
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I participate in a few of them. I have no problem with them either. I also know how to avoid them, if appropriate. Although the anti contest forces can't see any good in them, much valuable propagation info comes out of the big ones. But then again, my license never entitled me to even think of trying to show up on any particular frequency repeatively and use it regardless of circumstances and conditions. I used to be in the Navy and I remember that the military placed a high value on "adaptability". Contesters have absolutely as much right to use the bands as anyone else.
Posted by
WA4DOU
on October 31, 2006
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QRP
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Contesting with the big guns in something like the CQWW is difficult but I had fun none the less. I ran 7 watts to a dipole in the attic with an SWR of 1:1. My best contact was ZY7C at roughly 6700 miles, I had a total of 45 contacts on 20m.
It seems that some people just don't want to listen for low power stations in the noise like myself. However after throwing /QRP in there a few times a few quieted the pileup down to pick me out which i was grateful for (HI3TEJ being just one to mention).
Posted by
KC2ORG
on October 31, 2006
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Contests are fine, some op etiquette is not
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I did a couple hours on CQ WW SSB this past weekend, spent the entire time running 100W w/o the amp on 15m. THE BAND WAS FULL! A great feat in the bottom of the sunspot cycle. I listened at noon on Monday and there were 2 SSB signals to be heard. Conditions had not changed that must based on flux, A & K, but some hams were back to work and others had no motivation to get on and call CQ.
So despite some guys putting up $100K superstations I still think contesting is ok and fun, but it would be good if we could allot a few khz for the established nets especially on 20m on down that tend to get overwhelmed. Everyone needs to do a courtesy "is this frequency in use" call, which may seem too much to ask but there are valid Maritime, Midcars and other potential services nets on the air a few hours each day.
That all seems real idealistic but it would make many accept the contesters. Now let's hope things open beyond the western hemisphere this year for the Dec ARRL 10m test...
Posted by
K0VH
on October 31, 2006
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New ones?
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There aren't any major "new" contests, so what we have is what we've had for many years.
No problem for me. I either work them, or know how to avoid them, or have fun just making contacts ("giving out points").
N0AH is right, a contest opens the bands.
15m hasn't seen that kind of activity (as it did last weekend) since the last major contest.
Posted by
WB2WIK
on October 31, 2006
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Contest
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So you think the band is dead eh? O Yea of little faith- 15M always opens for CWQQ!
Posted by
N0AH
on October 31, 2006
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