[Boatanchors] Upgrade controversy

[Bob Macklin]

All the recent changes to the licensing has done is to open up more of
75/80M to more phone operation.

>From my location I don't see any real difference. We have people that got
NOCODE TECH tickets to use the 2M FM repeaters as an alternative to
operating on 11M. And these people seem to have no interest in HF operation.

Part of the problem may be the entry cost of a HF rig these days. These
people could not build their own rigs. The simple QRP SS kits are a joke.
Besides they are CW only. A decent new RICEBOX is over $1K. A decent 2M FM
transceiver is only $200.

Another problem may be the HF antenna. Most new homes have restrictions that
prohibit HF antennas. But a 2M ground plane can be used because it can be
semi hidden.

And the younger generation does not need ham radio because the can go
anywhere, anytime on the internet.

I see more activity on the eHam and QRZ message boards that I hear on my
receivers.

Bob Macklin
K5MYJ
Seattle, Wa,
"Real Radios Glow in the Dark"

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "JACK C. SHUTT" <w9gt at verizon.net>
To: <boatanchors at mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Friday, September 12, 2008 12:19 PM
Subject: [Boatanchors] Upgrade controversy


You know, I also got my license in the "good old days" of taking the test
(including 20 WPM CW). I took the test before an FCC examiner who instilled
terror in the hearts of all willing to participate in the exam process.

I must admit that I share the disappointment that many have expressed about
the so-called "dumbing down" of the process. At the same time.....I must
state that it is not the fault of those new hams, or those recently
upgrading, that the licensing requirements have changed!!! It is certainly
the last thing that I would want to do to discourage anyone who is newly
licensed or newly acquiring a higher class license. I think we need to move
on and welcome new entrants and try to encourage them as well as educate
them by setting a good example through our operation and our willingness to
help them get started or move into new aspects amateur radio. Our beloved
hobby is going to waste away if we do not encourage more young people and
newcomers to join in the fun. If not true already, soon the number of
oldtimers becoming SKs will exceed the number of new entrants.

73, Jack, W9GT
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