[AMRadio] AM contacts

[Jack Schmidling]

Todd, KA1KAQ wrote:

> The 'clump' factor puzzles me, too. Sure would be nice to have 3-4
> QSOs going on around the band, not just 4-5 kcs away (if at all).

I have taken upon myself the task of de-clumping, first in time and 
second in frequency.

I started the Noontime forum on 85 to heat up the either at a time when 
the band is completely dead. So far in 3 weeks, we have had about 45 
stations check in and express appreciation for waking them up.

In the freq domain, whenever I hear a clump on 85 I move down as far as 
necessary to find a clear spot and call CQ as long as my vocal chords 
hold out.  So far no takers.

I think people are taking the AM window too literally.  If we think of 
it as first choice instead of the only place AM is allowed, I think we 
would all benefit.

The window idea as a calling freq is great idea but it is presumed that 
folks move off calling freqs once contact has been made.  At least 
that's the way it worked when I was in the Coast Guard and in my later 
yachting life.

Having said all that, I propose we start our own "clump" of the amradio 
gang.

How bout we all clump up at 9:30 CST and listen, call CQ or whatever it 
takes to start a new clump.  If 85 is busy, slide down to the nearest 
hole.  My experience is that 3865 is frequently clear (and it has a 5 in 
it). Perhaps we should just go to 3865 and declare it our clumping place.

I will be there tonight.

73 till then

Jack K9ACT

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