[Elecraft] New concept/tool for CW dxing

[Vic K2VCO]

G4ILO wrote:

> What this software does appear to do is to show the *calls* of every station
> operating within the passband. This means that an operator using the
> software will be able to spot someone they haven't already worked, a new
> multiplier or whatever, much quicker than they would if they had to tune
> around and listen. All that's needed - if it hasn't been thought of already
> - is an interface between this program and popular logging software to
> highlight the calls you most need to work.

There is already a similar function in most contest logging software, 
called the bandmap. The display looks the same, a bunch of calls vs. 
frequency. The software generally allows you to click on the call, which 
takes your rig to the appropriate frequency.

The difference is where the information comes from. The bandmap in 
current software is populated by dx cluster spots, received over a 
telnet connection or by a packet network. So before they appear, 
somebody has to spot them. And -- significantly -- many contests' rules 
state that use of a cluster puts the operator in an 'assisted' class.

This is a big deal. Would the rules need to call this 'assisted' as 
well? And if so, how could such a rule be enforced (there are ways to 
catch cheaters using clusters)? And how could a rule be written that 
would distinguish between software aids that do not constitute 
assistance and those that do? I doubt that it's possible.

If this really works -- and if it doesn't today, some day it will -- it 
will present a real challenge to contest sponsors. If the distinction 
between 'assisted' and 'unassisted' can't be maintained, then someone 
who does *not* use the software will be at a distinct disadvantage.

Personally, I always enter contests 'unassisted' because I like finding 
my own mults. I hope this doesn't become accepted practice.
-- 
73,
Vic, K2VCO
Fresno CA
http://www.qsl.net/k2vco