[PaQSO] Networking M/M

[J. P. Fox, III (home)]

Jay,
That's pretty much how it happens. One computer assigns the numbers, and
all show the same number until one station reports in, and then they are
all updated simultaneously. *Except* if you are in the middle of entering
data.
When it comes to sequential serial numbers, the problem with M/M logging
isn't the computer speed. It's the care that the operator must take to be
accurate. Quality control. Even logging on two old 5 MHz IBM XT's with
peer-to-peer serial networking, the computers are faster than the operators.
Picture this simplest M/M scenario: There are two operators, say Abe and
Bob, each in their own world, radios on, headphones on, and they are
simultaneously working and looking only at their computer screen to give
out that all important serial number. Just as Abe and Bob give out the
number, Abe hits the 'enter' button on his keyboard, and <flash!> one
millisecond later, Bob's screen is updated just before Bob hit the 'enter'
button. Now Bob has a problem. He has spoken one number to an operator who
may have already left the frequency, and his computer now shows another
number entirely. Bob is upset. Abe is happy for the moment...   ...until it
happens to him. I hope you get to experience it. A faster computer is does
not cure this problem.
And actually, I hope all the Single Ops out there get to experience it at
least once in their lives.  Contesting M/M is FUN!!! When there is a
problem, there are many minds and hands to solve it.
It's a good thing.
73,
JP
N3GWR

ps. the solution: it is quickly learned to hit the 'enter' key before you
speak the number. It's not foolproof! It's part skill, part teamwork.



>I have a question (suggestion?) for this thread.
>
>With networking as far as it is now, it seems to me that a master logging
>program could run on the fastest PC/laptop on the network, issue serial
>numbers
>to, and log QSO data from each operating position.  The PC running as a
>server
>could also double as an op position.  I have seen (played) several games on
>line and this seems to be their modus operandi.  I think it might be
>useful in
>this scenario.  Just my $0.02 worth.
>
>Jay - AA8QQ
>