[CQ-Contest] WW Digi thoughts

[Randy Thompson]

A few notes for those who might be trying the WW Digit contest for the first time this weekend.  (See https://ww-digi.com/index.htm)



WW Digi only needs grid square.  So set your FT software accordingly.  But, be prepared to use manual messages to complete a QSO when you run into someone who is set up for signal report only or signal report + grid.



In an effort to help separate the contest activity from the crowds on the standard FT channels, there are suggested frequency ranges in the rules.  For example, 20m FT8 is recommended as 14090-14100.  The idea is that you go to 14090, 14092, 14094, etc.  You can assume that anyone you find there is likely in the contest and things should flow smoothly.  If one channel gets busy, move up to the next one.



That said, it is not prohibited to make QSOs on the standard FT4 and FT8 frequencies. It is worth keeping an eye on these, but you may find so much activity and QRM that it becomes difficult to make contacts.  Don't get locked in to only checking the standard frequencies and becoming frustrated.



Example: Last year it was much easier to work Europe on 80m by moving to a less crowded channel rather than battling it out on a busy one.


The contest includes 160-10m.  You may not expect much on 160 at the end of August, but you would be surprised at what is possible.  It's worth checking for the mults if nothing else.


Stations are worked once per band.  FT4 is faster - when signals are good and QRM is low.  If the band is open, FT4 is the way to go.  But, you may see enough repeats that it flips and you may be better off to do FT8.  It's called using good judgement!



WW Digi uses distance based scoring with multipliers being grid fields.  It definitely pays to try to work stations that are far away.



Give the contest a try.  Digi contesting is different, but can provide some fun hours of DXing and learning.



Have fun!



Randy K5ZD