[Skimmertalk] Skimmer in SSCW - my lessons learned

[Mack]

Pete and list,

I too operated Unlimited in the contest. I was able to snag 71 sections in 80 contacts in 6 hours. I was very limited on time this weekend and decided to use Skimmer to try and optimize my efficiency.

My configuration: Flex 5000A, Intel Core Duo Computer 2.4 GHz, 2 GB Ram, N3FJP Contest Software, VE7CC Spotting Cluster, Skimmer, WinTelnetX to aggregate the spots from Skimmer and VE7CC to N3FJP. Keying done from N3FJP and a paddle connected to the radio. 

Keying and operation was instantaneous with no noticeable lag. CPU usage averaged 25% with peaks at 30%. Zero software or hardware glitches encountered. 

Lessons learned for me: I own WriteLog but frankly haven't taken the time to figure out its complexity. N3FJP is so simple for me since I'm a casual contester. WriteLog would have given me the opportunity to see dupes in Skimmer and be more tightly integrated. I'll try using WriteLog for the upcoming CQ WW CW contest. N3FJP did pick up all the spots from both programs but only "highlighted" the sections needed on spots coming from VE7CC where the section was called out in the spot. This worked beautifully as I was able to quickly see a needed section and work it as soon as it was spotted. 

In summary, for me the weak link was my logging program. I'll report again after the next contest on my experience with WriteLog. It would also be great to have Skimmer take advance of the full 192 kHz bandpass of the Flex 5000A. 

73,

Mack
WB4MAK