[PaQSO] More Points for CW

[Don Reamer]

I suppose that I, and a couple of others, have a rather unique perspective
on making changes to the point structure and any other rule changes in the
PA Party since I write one of the programs that some of you use for computer
logging.  While a change in the number of points for CW contacts wouldn't be
a big inconvenience for me, it might be for other software authors.

I recall that some of the commercial contest software didn't support the PA
Party, or at least not score it correctly, because of the half point for
160/80 CW.  Many of them have since modified their code but it took quite a
while before this was done.  A change in the point calculation might make
these programs, at the least, inaccurate for a year or longer depending on
the authors priorities for updating this contest with respect to the other
major contests.  Worst case might be, with constant rule changes year after
year, that a particular program would cease its support for the PAQP
altogether.

I enjoy reading the debates with respect to making changes to the PA Party.
I think it's great to be able to air the ideas and opinions of the
participants on such a large scale on a reflector like this.  I'm sure that
these suggestions will ultimately keep this contest fresh and up-to-date
with the changing face of Ham radio.  However, any change to the workings of
the contest produce a ripple effect in areas that you might not consider
immediately.  Changes should be carefully considered before being
implemented.

Fifteen days and counting.........
73
Don - KA3JWE

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