> My simple test. If you get CALLS and FREQUENCIES from something other than
> your own ears and your own turning of the knob on the radio, then it is
> assisted.
>
> Note, this opinion still allows things like waterfall displays or band
> scopes that let you "see" signals on the band, but does not identify them.
>
Then what would you say to this:
I use a waterfall display like a Skimmer, but with no code-reading
capabilities. It just takes a
"snapshot" of the band in time and frequency, showing dots and dashes. My
logging program marks the signals I have already identified (different color,
etc). I visually read the code from the
screen, or by clicking on a signal I get its audio. It's then easy to see when
a new station appears on the band and pick out their call.
Sounds like it is too much trouble to help? I bet anyone who used written dupe
sheets could learn to do it. I also bet it would help during a really slow time
during SS...and no computer reading of CW!
Skimmer is applying software to a wideband receiver. Nothing
more. In the next generation of HF transceivers, wideband receive IS going to be a standard feature.
It opens up a lot of new possibilities rather than the old "knob-driven radio"
motif. I think it is
ridiculous that the contest sponsor has a right to tell me what kind of receiver I can use! I should be
able to use the best I can find with my local antennas.
Another misconception: a local skimmer is not packet. With packet you are
getting the benefit of OTHER people's knowledge. For example, they might know
what dxpeditions are on and where they are likely to operate. A local skimmer
does not simply reproduce the spots you get from packet. It is very dependent
on local noise, antennas, etc. If you don't believe be, try running it for
yourself.
Finally, I think Skimmer will increase interest in cw contesting for new ops.
Try counting the number of check > 1985 ops in the top 100 in CW SS sometime...
Tor
N4OGW
What <blockquote _______________________________________________
CQ-Contest mailing list
CQ-Contest@contesting.com
http://lists.contesting.com/mailman/listinfo/cq-contest
|