Topband: (the bandplan is working) Conditions on 160m last night

[Bill Tippett]

KB8JVH wrote:
>If the DX window is now CW only, which I have no problem with, 
>shouldn't there be a DX window for SSB set-up?

        Tony, CQ's recommended DX window for BOTH the CW and 
SSB contests is 1830-35.  If USA SSB stations honored the bandplan,
1800-1843 would effectively become the SSB DX window for any DX 
stations that chose to transmit there and listen for USA above 1843.
I hasten to add that ALL 3 IARU Regional Bandplans recommend
only narrowband modes below 1840, so anyone transmitting SSB below
is technically in violation of the IARU Bandplans.  Contrary to
what some will tell you, 61% of European DXCC entities have some
access above 1850 according to the list at:

   http://www.machlink.com/~k0ckdennis/topband20010517.html

        Regarding, N4UK's comment about the ragchews above 1843,
I didn't hear many of those during the contest.  However it is always
important to make sure you are not causing interference, whether 
split or not.  I heard plenty of clear QSX frequencies above 1843,
especially above 1900 which should be relatively clear in Europe. 

                                                73,  Bill  W4ZV