[CQ-Contest] How close is too close?

[Bill Tippett]

N1UR wrote:

 > So what is the opinion from the group?  With the great rated receivers out
there, how close can someone get on CW and not really bother your run?  For
me its 350hz.  Inside that and it causes problems.  If I hear 2 guys 700 -
900hz apart, I am slipping in between.

         You're making the assumption that your transmit signal is as
clean as the guys you're working between  And your MP transceiver is
one of the worst for transmitted clicks unless it's been modified.

         I also think some are intentionally turning up the clicks just to
prevent folks like you from getting too close.  In rigs with adjustable
menus, this can be achieved by turning the CW rise/fall settings to the
minimum.  Kudos to Elecraft for NOT even making this possible in the K3.

         With clean TX signals and good receivers, I'd say your assumption
above is good.  But just because you don't hear anything with 350-450 Hz
spacing doesn't mean that YOUR clicks and phase noise are not going to
bother the guys next to you.

                                         73,  Bill  W4ZV