[Elecraft] AGC

[David Gilbert]

I think that's an unwarranted generalization.   People who use automatic 
systems don't necessarily do so because they don't understand what is 
going on ... they may use them because they are faster, less prone to 
error, or free up hands/attention for other simultaneous tasks.   AGC is 
a good example of that.  If I'm operating at a high rate in a contest I 
want to use my hands for typing or tuning instead of riding the RF gain 
control.  Non-skid breaking systems on vehicles are an example of an 
automated system that WILL save your life, especially as you get older 
and slower to react.

I'm pretty old myself, and I can pretty much guarantee that the only 
thing that will change when we oldtimers are gone is that another group 
of folks will take our place to pontificate on how much better it was 
the way they used to do it.

Dave   AB7E




On 5/30/2012 1:59 PM, William Levy wrote:
> I can't speak to AGC version 4.51 but as an op of 50 plus years I find in
> difficult situations that I like better turning the AGC off and YES there
> is an OFF button and then riding the RF gain. This I learned before we had
> radios we could tweak and it still works today with software derived
> systems.
>
> As a photographer, pilot and ham with digital systems, sometimes the old
> trusty proven ways are still the best. Auto, Automatic, Automatic tuning,
> focusing, autopilot are simply generalized systems to help those without
> cosmic understanding of the verities.
>
> Beware of AUTO, manual operating and understanding of RF Gain, AGC and
> filters will often do the trick.
> Auto is for folks who don't understand manual mode.
>
> As I play with new Nikon D800's and D4's I find I don't use Auto, Matrix or
> Auto focus. In the same vane I don't find much help from AGC or Noise
> Blankers or their ilk. Manual for those of us who know systems is still the
> best. Experience counts.
>
> Auto will never pull you out of an accident, bad band conditions or a lousy
> picture. You need to know how to operate a camera, radio and plane.
>
> In a plane when things get tough the rule is fly the plane. With a camera
> put it on manual and find an exposure, with a radio turn off the darn AGC
> and ride the RF control.
>
> When we old timers are gone no one will remember and you will have to learn
> these truths for yourselves.
>
> 73, N2WL Bill
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