QSO EFFICIENCY

ARRL Contest Rate Sheet for May 16, 2007
Edited by Ward Silver N0AX

Mark KO1U wrote to discuss sending his call extra times when operating QRP. It is suggested that he only send it extra times when the responding station gets the call wrong or asks for a repeat. For example,

N0AX: CQ Contest from N0AX

KO1U: KO1U

N0AX: KM1U you are 59 WA

KO1U: KO1U

N0AX: KO1U you are 59 WA

KO1U: Roger, you are 59 MA

N0AX: Thank you, QRZ Contest from N0AX

That keeps the amount of excess information to a minimum so that the rate for both stations is maximized.

Don't send your exchange back before the other station gets the call correct because sending your exchange is a tacit acknowledgement that no correction is needed.

And speaking of excess information, there is no need to add "/QRP" to your call sign in a contest, unless QRP stations count extra, and rarely even then. Adding the extra characters just makes it harder to copy your call correctly.

HOW BIG IS THAT SIGNAL, REALLY?

We all know that S-meters vary in sensitivity from rig to rig, but how much do they vary, really? Greg W8WWV decided he would find out! He measured the S-meter sensitivities and calibrations of eight different radios and posted the results for us to enjoy and ponder: Greg W8WWV results

In case you're interested, the IARU recommendation is also online IARU recommendations.

CARE FOR AN AMUSING PROJECT?

Take a look at the Strange Antenna Challenge, sponsored by Erik N0EW and Dwayne WB5PLJ. I'm sure the creative minds of my readers will find this amusing and stimulating.

NEW HF OPERATORS - THINGS TO DO

ARRL Contest Rate Sheet for April 04, 2007
Edited by Ward Silver N0AX

Mark KD4D points to an excellent introductory-level Contesting FAQ just right for newcomers to HF contesting. http://www.qsl.net/zs1an/contesting_faq.html

Mark N7MQ recommends the introduction to contesting by Mark ON4WW - click on Operating Guide on first page of site. http://www.on4ww.be/OperatingPracticeEnglish.html. This should also point out just how "world-wide" the HF contesting community can be!

LOOK UP ELECTRONIC PARTS DATA

Jim N5SPE reminded me of this very useful Web site to look up data on electronic parts. Just type in your 'part number' and hit the Search button. Put that URL in your browser's Favorites list to save the day!

TREES — Although counterintuitive, it is true that a tree gets taller by growing at its top, not by extending its trunk along its length. I.e. branches do not move farther apart as the tree grows. In addition, a tree grows thicker as it grows taller. Eventually anything attached to the trunk will eventually wind up inside the trunk. Many species of conifers will "bury" nails, fencing, forest service telephone wires, etc. within just a few years.

Food for thought as we eye those leafy antenna supports in our back yards. (Thanks, Don N8DE and Brent K7MEI)

QRP CONTESTING enthusiasts will be pleased to learn that there is a contest calendar just for them. Ken N2CQ publishes a QRP-specific calendar on the .American QRP Club Website.

SCARBOROUGH REEF PHOTOS..

Bob K1VV exclaims WOW !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Take a look at these!!!
.