[RTTY] ARRL and band/mode awards

[Kai]

Hi Bill,
Two issues here I guess.
One is ARRL awards --- DXCC is limited to just three unique but broad modulation 
formats: CW, Phone, Digital on a plethora of combinations of bands. I think you 
have a good point about allowing any combination of any modulation format for 
DXCC. They already do that for WAS (except WAS-TPA), which does allow a 
googolplex matrix of digital modes and bands: every chirp, warble and squeak 
seems to be covered! Interestingly, there is no differentiation in either WAS or 
DXCC for individual phone modes. Go figure!

In the case of RTTY I'm thinking that you mean a VERY specific sub-set of RTTY, 
namely "amateur RTTY" defined as "45.45 baud 170 Hz shift 1-start bit 5-bit 
Baudot 1-2 stop bit RTTY". But "RTTY" in FCC regulation and ITU-R usage has a 
much broader meaning: RTTY is a transmission system that links direct 
teleprinters/teletypewriters by radio, no matter what the modulation or protocol.

Second issue is the specific detail for modes regulated by the FCC. I say let's 
simplify. Please take a look at "Schedule I, 2, and 3" in
   http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/vwapj/rbr4e.pdf/$FILE/rbr4e.pdf
to see the simplicity with which our neighbor to the north handles mode, 
bandwidth and frequency allocation for hams.
The US does the same thing for 60 m band channel transmissions. It boils down to 
"if it fits in the 2.8 kHz channel, its OK".

73,
Kai, KE4PT

On 7/28/2013 10:39 AM, Bill Turner wrote:
> I wonder why the ARRL is so determined to limit the variety of awards
> available. In this age of computers, why not make any possible combination
> of bands and modes available?
>
> If someone wants to apply for DXCC or WAS on 12 meters using only Olivia,
> why not recognize the feat?
>
> Especially with LotW, this could be done in milliseconds and would provide a
> new source of revenue for the league.
>
> 73, Bill W6WRT
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