[CQ-Contest] Log checking PIA

[Tom Frenaye]

Thought it might be useful to pass along some interesting information N1ND noted from the 1,965 electronic and paper logs received for the 2001 IARU HF contest so far:   

"A total of 359 different entry categories were extracted from the various log files for that contest, which necessitates re-coding and/or hand processing all of those entries. A total of 131 of the entries were even submitted without ANY entry category cited in the header, which necessitates a good amount of investigative work to try and get those logs properly identified."

So 490/1965 (24.9%) have to have special handling.   In that contest there are very few categories.   For most entrants, the choice is single operator CW, single operator SSB, single operator mixed, and multi-single.   For special stations, entry categories include HQ and AC.

I didn't ask where it appeared the errors came from.   It may be that current versions of the major logging software programs (CT NA TR WL) all make Cabrillo files with the right categories.   Many people may be using older versions, or other software, or just plug in a category they think might exist (low power or QRP come to mind).   

With the Fall contest season coming along quickly, it seemed like a good time to mention that you can help out the log checkers by using the right categories.   The easier you make it for those compiling the data and doing the checking, fewer errors will show up in the results, and more time will be available for doing the checking, write-ups and comparisons.

                -- Tom


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e-mail: frenaye at pcnet.com    YCCC --> http://www.yccc.org/
Tom Frenaye, K1KI, P O Box J, West Suffield CT 06093 Phone: 860-668-5444


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