Topband: spectrum scopes, swling and contests

[Bill Tippett]

K5OAI wrote:

Using the above setup and throwing in the MRP40 cw decoding software, I am able
to copy signals that I didn't even know were there when scanning the band by
ear. I can find them on the pan as well as the waterfall displays and then
squeeze down all the filters and copy signals using MRP40 that just sound like
noise to my ears, even though they barely show in the panfall 
display. I realize
there are many pgms that will decode cw, but MRP40 seems (imo) to be best at
weak signal decoding. Anyone have another pgm thy would recommend for this
please do so.

         Sam this is not intended to criticize anyone but simply to 
make everyone aware of contest rules regarding the use of CW 
decoders.  Using decoders like MRP40 or VE3NEA's CW Skimmer for most 
contests (including the TBDC) puts you in the Multiop category (or 
Assisted category for some contests).  See the TBDC rule 6 below:

6. Prohibited activities: Cluster spotting shall not be engaged.  Remote
    operation is permitted as long as all transmitting and receiving antennas
    used are within 100 km of each other.  Use of skimmer like devices are
    permitted for the multi-operator category only.

http://jzap.com/k7rat/stew.rules.txt

         Regarding waterfalls, I personally prefer CW Skimmer's to 
any of the many I've tried (including PowerSDR, Winrad, Spectran, DSP 
Blaster etc).  CW Skimmer also has a Blind Mode which doesn't decode 
calls so it can legally be used in Single Operator or Unassisted 
categories.  I believe it's important that we maintain the 
distinction of human-copied versus machine-copied CW, otherwise our 
contests will evolve into who has the biggest computer rather than 
who has the best ears.  I have yet to find any decoding program that 
can match the human ear for pulling weak signals out of noise in a 
contest environment.  QRSS might work better but who wants to spend 
an hour or more completing one QSO!  :-)

73 & Happy New Year!

Bill  W4ZV

P.S.  Thanks for the QSO in the Stew Perry.  I always get a thrill 
from hearing you and knowing about your QRP setup.