[UK-CONTEST] Sweepers section power limit

[Ray James]

--- On Fri, 26/6/09, Andy Swiffin <a.l.swiffin at dundee.ac.uk> wrote:


> Is there a reason why you're not allowed to enter if you turn the wick down a bit and keep the amp at 100W?   

That could certainly be done Andy. A bit of a farse on 2m (400w) but much easier on 70cm (120w SSPA) and 23cm (150w SSPA) but why should I when I would be on to give points away and enjoy putting my station to good use?

Common sense (to me) to encourage greater interest and activity from those unable or have a desire to go out portable with a group would have been to have a Sweeper category of 3 sections. 
One with a power limit of 10w to attract foundation license holders and others who can play in a relatively level playing field together. Likewise, a 50w section to attract Intermediate license holders and others plus a 400w maximum power section for all others equipped to run between 51w and 400w.
Unfortunately, the Contest Committee appear to be completely short on idea's on how to market UK VHF+ contests to make them appealing to the masses. Even bringing in this new sweeper section they can't get it right. Why didn't they look for suggestions here for starters?      


>Or is there something that says that if you have an amp capable of doing >more than the contest permitted limit you're not allowed to enter because
> technically you could have cheated because you've got the
> capability (it does seem that we aren't trusted not to cheat
> vis-a-vis the way we aren't allowed to use on4kst)?

You're probably right Andy.
There's nothing stated but whereas the non-radio world appears to have gone over the top with political correctness, the VHF+ side of UK contesting is concerned more with the potential of cheating being a threat.
Me, I believe in proportion. I have seen little evidence of cheating but I have observed the more serious problem of falling UK participation and a lack of UK activity despite having more licensees available. That is what they should be concentrating on. For starters I would suggest a insert into Radcom containing a VHF+ contest survey for use by members and non-members. A pdf of same on the RSGB and CC websites with publicity for it on GB2RS. Prior to such a survey, CC to check with existing contesters here and personally about what they're considering putting out and ask for feedback in case questions could do with adding or tweaking.


73 Ray GM4CXM