It has been interesting to read the postings re: 160 meter RTTY contesting.
Thought I would add my 2-cents worth of observations:
First, I would be entirely in favor of running a separate contest for 160M
RTTY, and not adding it to any of the existing contests, as it would add a
specific disadvantage to those contesters who are really
antenna-challenged, site wise.
Those of us who are able to have anything reasonable up for a 160 antenna
would be on a somewhat level playing field if only on 160. I am fortunate to
be able to run a dipole (just barely) on my city lot, but have no
possibility of a beverage or two ! I have, however, been able to work the
west
coast and Europe on RTTY with no problems from my small station. Copying
stations on 160 or 80 meters RTTY here have not been a problem.
For those that feel there is too much of an infringement by adding some
RTTY operation on 160, I have not seen that to be any problem sharing with CW
and SSB operations. Although I don't spend much time on 160, I have
contested on both modes with reasonable success.
Anyone who feels there are no bands that are contest-free need to look at
12, 17, 30 and 60, where there are no contests ! I don't see anything
sacred about preserving 160 for CW and SSB solely.All three modes are
authorized
for the entire band in the U.S.
A short contest, i.e. 6-8 hours using a grid locator format, such as Stew
Perry or Makrothen would provide a nice level playing field and prevent some
of us old-timers from falling asleep at the keys!
Maybe we can get a sample test going, informally, sometime this season.
See you on 160 RTTY !!
73 Norm W1BYH
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