Hmmm...try this one on for size.
If Contesting is viewed from strictly an Operator Skill standpoint:
1. Everyone registers on the Sponsor's website prior to the event with an
entry cut-off date/time. Once all the players have signed up...
2. Everyone downloads the event-specific Module (with all the player
callsigns included) that interfaces with your existing Contest software and
TXRX's. Then...
3. Everyone operates the Contest during the specified hours, OFF-LINE, and
when it's over, uploads the callsign_results.txt file to the Sponsor's
designated URL by the log submission deadline. Finally...
4. Final scores are available almost instantaneously once the log
submission deadline has passed, and auto-published on the Sponsor's
page. Since only "Operating Skill" is involved on a completely level
playing field, everyone knows exactly where everyone stands. If the score
ain't there, it boils down to the basics of practice-practice-practice
before the next event running.
The "Playing Field" is TOTALLY LEVEL...no Geography, antennas, rigs, ERP or
other excuse factors to screw with...it's all about SKILL, and the event
module operates the same for everyone based upon random algorithms.
There could be *maybe* two categories:
1. SO2R (why force skilled SO2R ops to go backwards in life?)
2. Non-SO2R
Scream if you will, but incorporating the ability to also operate the
Contest *without* any interfaced TXRX's could be a low-cost way of bringing
more young video gamer types with no bucks into the "Contesting" arena with
even a computer at a local library or school. Remember, the Contester
Population is sadly diminishing each year ;-(
In terms of an event Module, we are essentially talking about an SO2R
capable Morse Runner on STEROIDS (for CW) and use of pre-recorded
multi-voice .wav files for SSB with some extra special programming onboard.
FWIW & 73...
Rick, K6VVA * The Locust
P.S. The reason for interfaced TXRX's is so that one's investment in
equipment doesn't all go down the toity :-)
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