[PaQSO] Digital Modes

[Jim]

I have a few comments and concerns about the digital
issue.

The concept of records really won't matter, since each
time you tweak a rule, it may impact scores.  Like
adding aluminum bats to baseball.  Homeruns anyone?

I also wonder if you can work a station on both RTTY
and PSK31 on the same band, or is it only one digital
contact permitted.

I agree with N3RN, that if all digital is going to be
two points, then all CW should be three points.  Many
CW people do not copy with computers(or send with
them), so CW is definitely harder.  There are also a
lot less people there than on phone.

I have the concern that we may be headed towards an
email/computer contest.  We already have people
sending and copying CW with computers, computer
logging, voicekeyers, packet spotting, now we have
digital.  Is there any challenge anymore?  Maybe we
can setup the stations to run themselves, then we can
come back to check the scores?  Progress is good, but
this is still radio, remember.  

QSO contests are pretty much the only ones left, which
allow a pile of modes at once.  Look at the ARRL
events.  There are phone contests, CW contests, RTTY
contests, etc.  They are always on separate weekends. 
When you allow a bunch of modes all at once, you run
the risk of separating the contesters.  What I mean is
that there will now be 3 or 4 different
modes(depending upon whether PSK and RTTY are the same
or separate.)  That means if someone is on one mode,
they are not someplace else.  You rob Peter to pay
Paul, in other words.  Will there be a net gain, or
will digital only make up for points you will lose
elsewhere?  Will you come out ahead or lose?

This will add another layer of complexity.  The bonus
station will now need to get digital equipment, as
well as others who wish to be competitive.  Ask now,
Christmas is coming!

I am mainly trying to bring up a few points for
discussion.  This is obviously a big deal, so it
should be discussed by all participants.  Also, is
this the only rule change anticipated, or is this a
sign that others may come down the pipeline?  Best to
give the software authors ample time to prepare.

Jim
N3PBH  





		
__________________________________________ 
Yahoo! DSL – Something to write home about. 
Just $16.99/mo. or less. 
dsl.yahoo.com