[DX] E-QSL's

Sat, 9 Feb 2002 00:24:36 -0500

I see a few basic problems with this E-QSL discussion, and I sure hope someone didn't attempt to sneak one past the DXCC desk on this, so I can't wait to see how this plays out.  Here goes:

1.  Who is validating the logs as they come in.  In other words, who makes sure P5/KU9C logs were put in by P5/KU9C, and not someone that wants a P5/KU9C QSL.

2.  Who looks at the P5/KU9C logs to MAKE SURE the logs match the request.  I'm not talking about whether a call is in the P5/KU9C logs SOMEWHERE, but that the date/time/band/mode match.  For example, I see a ton of cards where time or band or mode are not correct.  I don't issue a QSL.  What is the quality of the QSO confirmation by the person whose name was mentioned in the previous discussion.

IF the validity of the original logs are met, and then someone at e-qsl is ensuring the validity of the log match with the incoming request, then, in fact, e-qsl is acting as a QSL manager as suggested by Bill's email.  

What I find interesting, if this thread is followed, is an opportunity to now, as a QSL manager, 'charge' for QSL cards issued.  It appears as a service, I could then issue a confirmation for a set price.  Generally, as long as it wasn't too much, it appears per the DXCC rules that it would not be considered inappropriate (rule 12d).

I just, as the Olympic opening ceremony was running, ran thru my figures for the last 5 or so dxpeditions I've managed.  It appears somewhere between 50 cents and a buck a QSO would cover all expenses.  No need to dig for sponsors...no need to squeeze pennies to make it all happen.  Go work from a rare country, set up a server, link it to one of the e-commerce exchanges, and start mailing the cards.  Oh, and bureau cards.   NOT!  Have to call my letter manager and tell him he's found another use for that spot in the basement where he keeps the box that I get my cards in.

My guess is that the major flaw in this whole thing is that e-qsl isn't carrying on what I believe is the major role of the QSL manager, that being taking a log, comparing it to a request, and issuing the card IF THE TWO MATCH.  This becomes incredibly important for the rare ones.  What if I issued a QSL for BS7H without doing that.  Lots of folks would be one closer to the top!  (And I'd quickly run out of pretty cards!).

E-Qsls are an interesting concept.....but I'm not sure we're there yet.  Having been the keeper of the keys for a few of the rare ones in this great hobby, I've got this queasy feeling about this discussion.  I have no doubt the logic I apply can be replaced by a computer.....but the thought of charging for it really, in my opinion, adds a whole new twist to this hobby....one that doesn't set well with me.  I'm a FIRM believer of folks donating to the hobby.....and having just spent some time and energy pondering this issue, I'm probably going to make more noise on this in the future.  But to put a 'tax' on chasing QSL cards.   Uuugh!

73...back to my bureau cards (Yes, I do answer them.....)

Steve KU9C

--------------------------- 
Steve Wheatley KU9C 
PO Box 5953 
Parsippany NJ  07054-6953 
U.S.A. 

email:  [email protected] 
http://www.ku9c.com/