[CQ-Contest] Operating Ethics for Multi-Op contest Stations

[David Kopacz]

I think the issue with amateurs using the "SSTV frequency" for non SSTV
use is more benevolent than many believe. There isn't always an SSTV
transmission taking place. Often when a contester, DX'er or rag chewer
uses the "unoccupied frequency", a few of the SSTV operators think they
have a right to "take over" the frequency whenever they are ready to us
it.

There are plenty of "gentlemen" SSTV operators that will ask you to QSY
and relinquish the frequency but there are those that either fire up
their SSTV transmission on top of you or simply tell you to QSY because
it is "their" frequency. I think there are a number or "type A"
personalities that don't respond well when confronted in this manner,
particularly when they legitimately have first use of the unoccupied
frequency.

I realize there are those that think one should never venture near or on
the SSTV frequency unless operating SSTV, or that it's a "gentlemen's"
agreement for SSTV use only, but I disagree. No gentlemen's agreement
should be forced upon any amateur, although it is good operating
practice to respect them and particularly to relinquish a frequency when
asked to do so and given time to either finish your QSO or locate a new
clear frequency.

If I am asked to relinquish a frequency that is intended for a
particular use or schedule, I simply ask the requesting party to enable
me to finish my existing contact or find a clear frequency and then
move. I always try to be brief and not carry out the conversation for a
lengthy period as this would be inconsiderate. I have never had another
amateur make this request and not grant me ample time to finish my QSO
or more to another frequency.

I believe this is the proper way to handle these situations.

This past weekend it was brought to my attention that a 6Y1V operator
was asked to move from the SSTV frequency and refused. I asked my guest
operator and he claimed he was asked to move while operating 4Khz from
the SSTV frequency. Since I only have one side of the story and the
contest is over there is little I can do, however, I can do something in
the future.

As the owner of a multi-op contest station with a revolving guest
operator list, I have discovered that I have a higher responsibility to
lay down some ground rules for operators visiting my station. Besides
that standard rules of no eating or smoking in the shack, I am now
making a list of common courtesy "rules" such as stay at least 3Khz from
the SSTV frequency when operating in the general class portion of the 20
meter band and stay out of the CW and digital portion of the 40 meters
band.

Perhaps a list of such "rules" would be a good edition, if not already a
part of, the ethics portion of the Contest University. It certainly
couldn't hurt to have a list of "do's and don'ts" for guest operators of
multi-op stations.

David ~ KY1V



Think of it this way Hank - those folks who think they *have* to stay  
on 14230 aren't moving to other frequencies and depriving you of   
places to operate other than 14230. You're winning that one!


-73 de Mike N3LI -