[CQ-Contest] SS Packet Posts

[J. Edward (Ed) Muns]

> Above all...PLEASE...INCLUDE THE MULT ID WITH EVERY PACKET 
> POST. {Emphasis Added/CAPS}

Depends on what the goals are of the Packet watcher.  It's a waste of time
and energy for both the spotter and also the majority of those receiving the
spots.  Furthermore, it is irrelevant information.

Assuming most operators are trying to maximize their score, then if they
integrate Packet with their logging software adequately, they should have a
Band Map or other window that shows only stations not already in their log.
After the first few hours of rate-fest at the beginning of SS (during which
they should be ignoring Packet), this window can be kept worked out for the
rest of the contest.  That still leaves plenty of time for S&P and running.
If SO2R, the window can be kept worked out without affecting run rate.
Accordingly, if you do keep this window worked out, then seeing the section
on Packet beforehand is irrelevant.  Any new mults in the spots will wind up
in the log without the distraction of even thinking about it.

There are undoubtedly a few operators who are not pursuing a score at all
but only want to work a Sweep.  That is the only useful excuse I can think
of for taking time to add the section to the spot and for anyone else to
distract themselves from operating in order to read all the spots for
section information.  If that's your goal, then worry about adding the
section information.

73,
Ed - W0YK