[VHFcontesting] distance scoring

[Zack Widup]

I like the idea of a CWAC (contest within a contest) too. The only problem 
I foresee is getting a 6-character grid from some people.  There are 
non-contesters who get on to give out a few points or get their feet wet 
and sometimes I have had a hard time just getting their 4-character grids 
out of them.

For the CWAC, I feel the QSO point multipliers should favor the higher 
frequencies, especially since 6 meters is likely to produce distances that 
far surpass 10 GHz or even 144 MHz.

73, Zack W9SZ


On Sat, 21 Jun 2008, Ron Hooper wrote:

> Instead of inventing the wheel again we need to see how the VHF contest are
> administered in Europe using distance. I am sure a little research to find
> the right person to act as a consultant would clear up a lot of questions.
>
> With some effort, the September contest could be operated just like we do
> now but have volunteers to use distance scoring to see how it would work. I
> believe we need to see what software programs are available in Europe and if
> the program could also be used to create the required ARRL format. This is
> one way to get things rolling and not require the ARRL to change the rules.
> Working the contest would be transparent to those we work not using distance
> scoring.
>
> I have used TR contest logging software in the Stew Perry 160 meter
> challenge. The program works exactly like we have discussed. Yes, you get
> credit for working someone in your own grid. The program uses a 4 digit
> exchange just like we have now. I currently have my software set up for 6
> digits even though I only need 4. If I need to work K4XR in EM64 from EM84,
> I usually work him on a lower frequency first and turn the antenna toward
> his grid as many would do. Now the program tells me the exact heading when
> he is logged even if he does not give but 4 digits. I have preprogrammed the
> 6 digit heading to K4XR from previous contacts. I don't have to fuss with
> getting him to give me some chat on 432 to sharpen the antenna. On 432 and
> up this saves me a bunch of time. I really don't need a call sign to find
> out a heading, I can just type in the 4 or 6 digit grid and the program
> gives me the heading from my location. So if I hear a station In BK29 and
> don't know exactly where to point my antenna, I type in the grid and the
> heading pops up. I assume the 4 digit number is calculated to the center of
> each grid which is close enough on the lower VHF frequencies.
>
> Ron W4WA