The "gentlemen" element of topband mostly resides in the OT's who have chased
the elusive DX for decades. There are a few principals I learned that help make
it more sane than the other bands:
- If you call a station and there is no one else or few calling and he doesn't
hear you after several calls, you probably won't work him unless conditions
change. If you continue to call, doing so while the station is in a fade is
really stupid; wait for the peaks and then call.
- QSB is your worst enemy. Marginal signals are the rule, not the
exception. Your fellow hams may call a station only to find the QSB dropped the
readability to zero. Give him a chance to complete the contact even though you
may also need it for a new one.
- West coast folks have it hard working EU, when they are calling, give them a
chance. Likewise, East coaster have it tough going to Asia/pacific, if they are
calling , give them a break too.
- Working new ones in a contest is the most difficult time to try. Focus on
the week prior to the contest when many of the new one's are testing their
stations and the days immediately after the contest before they head for home.
Doing so will avoid becoming a party to the contest mayhem!
- Contests are often dominated by competitive types; many who are not a
part of the topband OT's crowd, thus are not likely to adhere to gentlemen's
protocols. Be patient, the contest will be over soon!
Can you add to the list?
Greg â??W7MY
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