[PPRAANet] Re: Thursday Night Net

[Dennis Major - NØABC]

If I might throw my 2¢ out there.....

I recall when I first read Ken's email on January 29, I also was initially 
rather surprised that he specified 146.520 as the frequency to switch to at 
the end of the majority/regular part of the net (on the repeater). 
Especially considering that the net was held on .580 when it was still 
simplex. However, after re-reading his email and considering the context, it 
actually made sense to me to use the "National Simplex Calling Frequency" 
(NSCF) (as the ARRL Repeater Directory describes it). From reading Ken's 
email again, it sounded as though Ken only intended to be on the calling 
frequency for a few minutes, and then only to establish contact with as many 
of those QSYing as possible. I presumed that if there was a need to continue 
beyond a few minutes, he would likely have everyone QSY again, especially as 
he stated he was to be NCS on that Thursday.

Again, it is my belief that this limited (short period) use of the National 
Simplex Calling Frequency is quite legitimate. As Ken indicated, it was to 
emulate the loss of the repeater. As Ken probably does not have control 
capability of the repeater, he could not disable the input of the repeater, 
so attempting to use the output frequency would probably give terrible 
results - all it would require is one person not hearing another on simplex, 
to transmit on the input frequency and have the repeater blank out the 
simplex stations. So, it makes sense for the NCS to call those moving from 
the repeater net using the call frequency essentially as it was intended, so 
long as the NCS moves the group to another frequency if it appears that 
there will be any extended discussion.

Of course, if the NCS is not adhering to using the calling frequency as 
briefly as possible, then certainly any participant or non-participant can 
and should call it to his/her attention.

Another reason for using the NCSF in this situation is that it is the only 
simplex frequency called out in the band plan - again, as a CALLING 
frequency - so most hams are likely to have that one programmed into their 
radios. At least more so than any other simplex frequency.

It's probably a good thing to have this discussion, as it illuminates some 
of the finer points of a small but important aspect of our common hobby. 
Unfortunately, the discussion was starting to sound almost "heated"? - maybe 
I should say it had a slightly elevated temperature tone?  :)

I think really we're all on the same page. Well, at least in the same 
book/volume!


Reminder: VE session tomorrow morning, 9AM, CTU. Anyone for upgrading?

Dennis
N0ABC