[PaQSO] Digital Modes

[Michael Coslo]

On Dec 6, 2005, at 2:01 PM, Jim wrote:

> 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?
>

	As a point of historical interest, the party has underwent changes  
just about forever. I put together a presentation about the history  
of the party for presentation to interested persons, and was  
surprised at just how much tweaking went on, as indicated by my  
research.



> 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.
>

	Yes. You can work them both.


> 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.

I find both PSK31 and RTTY to be legitimate modes. Really, we just  
want to make QSO's, exchange cards, and have a good time on the air,  
too. 8^)

	It is also important to point out that the PAQSO Party encourages  
CW. That is why we give CW contacts more points. We *want* people to  
use the mode and continue using the mode.

	It is in that spirit that we add modes to the contest. We want to  
encourage people to use the digital modes and to enjoy them.

	The digital modes are not likely to affect top scores. Certainly  
PSK31 is not a mode to run at a high rate.




>
> 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.


	There just isn't enough help available to run a second contest. Most  
volunteers burn out after a couple years now.


> 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.)

	4  of them.


> 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?

We never know until we try, do we? But I have heard plenty of  
complaints about working the bands dry by Sunday, and getting bored.  
Maybe we can alleviate the boredom.


>
> 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.

	Not a problem. I do read all the posts, and want to get feedback.  
I'm a firm believer in the law of unintended consequences.

	If I were to hazard a guess, this might be an incentive for some  
multi-multi stations.  Get a few newbies on the air, maybe spark some  
interest in getting their ticket or upgrading. Yes, those interested  
will probably be Hams with a computer orientation, but that is  
perfectly okay. Being a Ham with a computer orientation myself, I  
have no issues with that.


> 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.
>

	That is actually a different subject, but no, there are no other  
changes coming down the pike that will affect scoring. There may be  
some clarifications, and info added for the new modes, but no other  
scoring issues.

	Thanks for the feedback, Jim.


	- 73 de Mike KB3EIA -