Topband: How do we get more people on Topband?

[wa5pok at peoplepc.com]

> Top Band DXing requires real estate.  

NO! I am one of those that operates on the Top Band from a 
postage-stamp-sized lot in suburban Houston. I have netted 140 
countries with 600 watts output and the K9AY loop is only 2 meters 
from one leg of an elevated radial. It is tough but then I do enjoy the 
challenge.

It is not necessary to have the real estate to have fun, I have had a 
blast getting 9 band DXCC from a 90' X 60' lot with a minimal station. 
Shoot, I made contacts around NA from an apartment. Neighbours 
said electronics were doing mighty weird things (If they only knew!). 

Then there was some ham that reported to have DXCC on the top 
band mobile! 

There are tricks to minimizing city noise ... use the DSP, low noise 
antennas and noise cancelling antenna systems. It's work but very 
rewarding. My backyard during the winter is not habital by man nor 
beast due to the wires around there. 

Go for it, maximize your operating skills and push the available 
technology as best you can but most importantly it is a hobby and 
have fun with it at the level you chose. 

My rant es 73! Mike WA5POK