[Elecraft] Atomic Clocks and Aluminum Siding

[Stan Rife]

	Well, there are times when you need fairly accurate time. When
tracking satellites across the sky for the digital modes, or the weather
sats. Your tracking software has to be pretty close to the correct time to
keep up with the position of the satellites. I have a controller that moves
the rotators automatically and it's really neat to sit back and watch it
work. Seeing the sat signal near a constant S-meter reading at all times
while the satellite is in view is nice when you are busy on the keyboard
transferring files or mail. 

Stan Rife
W5EWA
Houston, TX
K2 S/N 4216
 

-----Original Message-----
From: Ron D'Eau Claire
Sent: Sunday, January 09, 2005 2:34 PM
To: 'Elecraft Reflector'
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Atomic Clocks and Aluminum Siding


I thought atomic clocks were desired for their "gee whiz" interest, not
because someone usually needs to know what time it is to the nearest
millisecond. 

For logging or station activities, I've never kept time closer than the
current minute. That means my $6 Radio Shack digital clock that I chose
because it was on sale and provides a 24-hour time format is perfect. It
stays accurate to within one or two seconds a month. Setting it twice a year
against WWV at 5 or 10 MHz means the contact times in my in my station log
are always exactly right. 

And, for $6 if I ever lose it I'll not cry... Too much...

I'm serious about the value of the "gee whiz" factor as in, "Gee whiz! Look
at that!" 

After all, isn't that why we're all hams and why we build gear? Let's not
insist on diluting the sheer enjoyment of the "Gee whiz" response with petty
practicality...

Ron AC7AC