--- Art <ky1k@pivot.net> wrote:
> I've thought about tracking rovers for some time.
> However, it seems
> marginally practical as rovers change plans, trucks
> break down etc. So,
> they can't always show up on schedule. Once there,
> you can't be certain you
> will find them on the published frequency....in
> general, it's not
> productive to search for a particular rover because
> the plans/schedules do
> change, even after the contest starts.
A great around solution that is completely within the
spirit and intent of the rules is to use gear that has
spectrum display capability. For 2M for example simply
set it up to watch a continuous span of frequencies
from 144.150 - 144.250 or so (.100 to .300 would be
even better). That way whenever the rovers are present
you will quickly know because as you are working Q's
elsewhere on the band you will simply see the activity
"spikes" appear on the rover's previously announced
frequencies. Additionally if you're not "seeing" the
rovers themselves you will see spikes from the others
who may already be working them.
Ideally having a second spectrum display capable RX on
a omni antenna will minimize the problems with highly
direction antennas. Such spectrum display capability
is also a great tool for finding the random stations
that pop up just briefly on the bands as well, so it
isn't just for tracking rovers. It also provides a
tool for everyone to use to help minimize crowding of
the calling frequencies.
> Of course, using the internet to coordinate/announce
> rovers being available
> in real time would be an awesome boost for us and
> for them. Unfortunately,
> the ARRL forbids solicitation for contacts via
> non-amatuer means. So, use
> of packetclusters is illegal and realtime internet
> chat pages are out too
> (packetclusters are illegal because they are
> networked and all have
> non-amateur links to other nodes).
I like the idea of applying lots of technology
(especially computer) to my station's design for VHF
contesting, my main criterion however is that it be
wholly contained within the confines of my own
shack/antenna system. In other words no outside data
connections of any kind such as the Internet or DX
packet clusters.
Duane
N9DG
EN53bj
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