Topband: Non-DX QSOs, W1AW, etc.

[Bill Tippett]

K4KYV:

 >Then where are non-DX CW QSO's supposed to take place?  I try to avoid the
DX window above 1825 unless working DX, and even 1820-25 is active with DX
when condx are good.  PSK31 and other digital modes are increasingly showing
up below 1810.  For the past several years I have tended to operate just
below the W1AW frequency. But if DX operation is starting to appear in the
vicinity of 1817.5 and we are now urged to avoid that part of the band,
where is there  left to go?  I suppose I could go above 1900 but I'd bet I
could call CQ for hours on end on CW up there without a response.

         Very little DX is normally below 1820 except VQ9LA on 1814
in the evenings and some JAs in the mornings.  Currently hearing:

1817.5  W1AW
1815.0  CW QSO
1810.0  CW CQ (weak possibly QRP on their calling frequency)
1808.5  Digital (typically one QSO here...above/below OK for CW)
1805.0  CW QSO

This is very typical of most nights.  If we cannot find a 1 kHz
slot there (excluding contests) we need better equipment.

         I also would like to commend ARRL for cleaning up
W1AW's signal.  It is outstanding now and a model we should all
strive for.  It is typically S9+30 here but I would have no
problems with working weak stations 500 Hz either side of it.
No more clicks, MCW phase noise (good riddance to the Harris rig)
or spurs.  Since the signal has been dramatically cleaned up,
I see no need for them to move from 1817.5.

                                                 73,  Bill  W4ZV