[Lowfer] Common Freq

[Lyle Koehler]

A few years back, I believe several California beacons carried this a step
further by time-sharing a single frequency.

In general, I like the idea of common frequencies. Grouping beacon
frequencies by region overcomes one of the main objections; which is that a
strong local beacon might block the reception of a distant beacon very close
to the same frequency.

There are still some details to work out, though. Optimum beacon spacing
depends on mode. QRSS60 signals can be separated easily when they are 0.5 Hz
apart. Jason requires something greater than 5 Hz separation; probably 10 Hz
or more would be better. WOLF and real-time CW beacons need still more
spacing, particularly since most of us don't worry about wave-shaping the
signals. Who's gonna complain about key clicks if nobody can hear you anyway
:-) But I don't think the mode/bandwidth issue is a big problem; it can be
solved with sub-bands for each region.

I don't know how to resolve the QRM issue (external; not between LowFERs).
East-coast LowFERs are plagued by foreign broadcast stations, and all of us
have to contend with various other interfering signals such as power-line
carriers that affect one region more than another. I've had many requests
for suggestions for a clear frequency on which to operate, but I still
haven't found the best place to put my own beacon! Anything we pick that is
good for one location will probably be bad for another. It will likely
require some "musical chairs" before we can settle on a good band plan.

And finally there is the requirement for frequency agility, stability and
accuracy in our equipment. To make the system really work on QRSS60, for
example, a majority of the players will need to be able to move to a
predetermined spot with 0.5 Hz or better accuracy and resolution. If the
hobby becomes too elitist, expensive and/or high tech, it will turn off a
lot of newcomers (and old-timers). Could it be that this is happening
already?

As Rye suggests, we can try something like this as a grand finale to the
current season. It should provide some interesting data to mull over during
the summer.

Lyle, K0LR