[GreenKeys] RTTY shift(s) etc.

[telegrapher@att.net]

Seems to me that back in the 70's it was proposed to the FCC that we be allowed to use 85 cycle shift.  I don't remember what the reply was but it amounted to, more or less that it wouldn't gain us anything so "NO" was the answer.

Today we have PSK31 and i suspect others tht don't even come close to 85 cycles.  

On a related subject:

Why not continue with the 170 cycle stuff to maintain that we're actually using boatanchor machines and equipment.  I don't propose that everyone go in and modify their Ranger etc etc VFO's for 170 shift.  I'd suspect that the majority of us will be using solid state gear which will make it very easy to maintain frequency stability.  I used the Drake T-4XB/R-4B combination for years on rtty.  Placing a fan over the PA cage definately helped maintain final tube life.  It appeared to remain quite steady.  Don't recall anyone commenting on it drifting around. And i ran it most of the time at 75-100 watts output. I used it for years with an ST-6 using AFSK.  So long as the output of the TU isn't excessive, i think 20mv is adequate, there shouldn't be a problem with overdriving the transmitter. This is something that each of you would have to determine.  

Once you tune in a signal for reception and are copying it right side up, its a simple matter to zero the transmitter and as long as your on the same sideband, shouldn't have any problem.  Course with the newer transceivers, your gonna be limited mostly to 25 watts and the terrible thought that you wouldn't have to zero beat the other station.  Comes naturally so long as you leave your RIT alone!

Lots more can and should be added to this dialog.  Its really fun to pound the old greenies.  Bet your typing speed drops way down from the computer keyboard.

Larry
W0OGH