[UK-CONTEST] Re UKAC

[Rob Harrison]

Hi,

Richard is correct about the poll and times. Although judging by the 
correspondence on here another poll is necessary covering other aspects as 
well. However if that does come about, you've got to ask the questions we 
need to answer, not the ones you think we need to answer.

Points arising from all previous posts, plus observations:-

1) Use of cluster and 'KST chat: Should be prohibited specifically in UKAC, 
or, anyone using these aids either passively or actively, goes into AX 
automatically. The possible exceptions are above 1296.

2) Portables: Needs a separate section. The original concept was ok, but the 
higher numbers warrant it now. In September 144 UKAC AR there were 9 
portables in the top 20 stations. the top 3 all portables, as you'd expect.

3) Clubs: Limit the max number of stations to 3 per team, multiple teams 
(A,B,C etc) per club is ok.

4) Times: The current times are the best compromise at present. The idea of 
any 2 hours in say 4 is interesting, but may lead to lack of contacts at 
some times, due to non-overlapping periods being chosen.

5)Sections: If you enter one particular section, you have to stay in that 
section all year. Reason, due to the way the points are awarded, it can skew 
the results.

6)Entries: There needs to be a minimum number of monthly sessions completed 
to qualify for a position in the final table. Stations who enter a few 
sessions can, in theory, come above those who support all or most sessions.

7)General:

a) Is it acceptable to call "CQ contest" on 144.370 the MS calling 
frequency? Do all entrants know the band plan for 2Metres and where they 
should and shouldn't be operating?

b) The current glut of IO83 activity seems to be having a detrimental effect 
on the ability of some better equipped stations to work longer distances, as 
G8ONK (I can't find you in the scores either?) and GW8ASD have said. I find 
it difficult to work more than the odd station in IO83, and that is usually 
near the end of the contest, but can work IO64,74,85 most of the time. I'm 
assuming the "wall of sound" is from many smaller stations, I don't hear, 
masking the path.

c) Prior notification of operation: Clarification of whether it is within 
the rules to announce operation prior to the contest, via email list, 
forums, chat, etc . Specifically giving out locator and possible operating 
frequencies. This no different from announcing on 'KST or Cluster during the 
contest. In some respects it's worse, as the cluster is open to all. 
Contesting is about skill, knowledge and accuracy, not about arranging 
skeds, during or prior to the contest.

d) "Is the frequency occupied?". Me:"Yes". Other station:"I can't hear 
anyone". Me:" There's a weak GM on here".  Other station:"I can't hear him". 
Me"I can and would like to work him". Coming to a frequency near you.

I'll leave it there, and await the responses.:0)

73,

Bob G8HGN



---- Original Message ----- 
From: "Richard G4HGI" <g4hgi at yahoo.com>
To: "Tim Hague" <m0afj at yahoo.co.uk>; <uk-contest at contesting.com>
Sent: Tuesday, September 11, 2012 9:22 AM
Subject: Re: [UK-CONTEST] Re UKAC


Hi all

If my memory serves me right wasnt there a poll about this a few years ago ? 
the timing was kept at 2000 to allow the portable chaps get in from work, 
washed , brushed up, out and set up ready to go as 1900 was considered tooo 
early ??
Its alright for us shack lubbers I guess especially in the winter months. 
:-)

With regard to KST - I never use it - my own view is that 23 cms as a band 
has changed tremendously over the past 5 years - in terms of commercial 
available kit , antennas etc - and look at the increase in activity because 
of it. I'm sure the increase is not due to the fact KST can be used.

There have been occassions when i've been "stood up" what do I mean by that 
?? well my qrp 3 watts ( about 1.5 at the feed) takes some hearing .. half 
way through a qso..the guy i was calling got a meep meep and left me high 
and dry ! a few more overs and we would have completed..his meep meep 
partner didnt make it either so we lost on both counts !

I'm in the camp of making contests more challenging rather than making them 
easier.

Best 73's to all

Richard G4HGI




________________________________
 From: Tim Hague <m0afj at yahoo.co.uk>
To: "uk-contest at contesting.com" <uk-contest at contesting.com>
Sent: Tuesday, 11 September 2012, 7:35
Subject: [UK-CONTEST] Re UKAC

Sorry, I do to agree with any proposed changes, the timing is about right, 
even from a relatively poor location on the edge of the Milton Keynes bowl I 
can still make contacts up to 1030, re Internet access which I assume means 
KST, well it's only used on 23 and for that band it's invaluable for making 
the longer contacts via AS, mind you my best DX QSO on 23 is always made 
without assistance.
Without the use of KST I would never make myself heard in the LP section.

Best regards, Tim Hague, M0AFJ
Sent on my iPad

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