[Skimmertalk] Category Definitions

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Ted writes: 

> But, instead of defining the categories in terms of what 
> hardware/software is or is not allowed, can the categories be 
> defined completely by what functions the operator is 
> allowed/not allowed to perform along with what information 
> and from which sources he is allowed to use?

The problem with defining categories based on what functions 
an operator is required to perform is that enters into the 
are of operating technique and strategy.  Taken to the limit 
for purposes of example, rules concerning operating technique 
could specify particular phonetics or require operation of 
the paddles with only the right hand.  

Where the contest "objective" is typically "to make contact 
with as many stations as possible" using a particular mode, 
limitations on the way the signal is generated or received 
are significantly outside the scope of contest rules unless 
we're talking about something like a "boat anchor" contest 
or straight key night. 

Pete expanded: 

> I'm a little concerned that by trying to ban specific 
> technologies, including ones that are attractive to the 
> current crop of non-CW licensees, we run the risk of being 
> seen as Luddite OFs.  On the other hand, so long as there's 
> room for both sailboats and motorboats in our ocean, y'all 
> come! 

Amateur radio does not care how a particular signal is 
generated or received.  A SSB signal is the same whether 
it is generated by phasing method, filter method or DSP, 
a RTTY signal is the same whether it is generated using 
FSK or AFSK.  A CW QSO is the same whether one operator 
copies CW by ear, by touch or by sight.  

So long as the on the air transmission (which is the core 
of amateur radio) is the same, why should contest sponsors 
have any concern how that transmission is generated or 
received?  Would you propose separate classes for analog 
vs. DSP transceivers and why would it matter?  

Other than a prejudice against CW decoders and those who use 
them, why should those who use cw decoders (or any other 
technology) be treated differently than any other operator?  
The question is not one of motorboat vs. sailboat ... it is 
the manufacturer of the motor used. e.g., Mercury vs. Evinrude, 
Ford vs. Toyota or Elecraft vs. Icom. 

If you want a contest of CW copying by ear, enter a high 
speed telegraphy competition - not a QSO making competition. 


73, 

   ... Joe, W4TV