[VHFcontesting] Getting beginners interested in VHF Contesting

[Sebastian]

The subject says it all.  

QSO exchanges on the -FM- satellites are similar to contest contacts, which makes them an excellent introduction, or a continual exercise of many contest skills.

73 de W4AS

On Mar 8, 2010, at 4:54 PM, David Pruett wrote:

> John,
> 
> Your points about satellite operation are good ones, but this is a 
> reflector about VHF/UHF Contesting, not general VHF/UHF operating.
> 
> I think contest operation on satellites (other than Field Day) is 
> discouraged due to current drain issues for the bird.
> 
> Dave/K8CC
> 
> John Geiger wrote:
>> I have this antenna up now.  I went into it knowing it would be a bit of a compromise but it was the best fit for the size and layout of the station when I put it up.  It is also nice for the 857/706/FT100 crowd because it uses a single feedline which fits with the signal SO239 those rigs use for 2m/70cm.  Overall, I have been pleased with its performance given its size.  I have worked 350 miles on UHF with it on tropo, and made a few 800 mile plus QSOs on 2m during an Es opening.
>> 
>> It is currently getting a pretty good workout on the satellites, and I think that is an area to also point beginners in VHF/UHF comms to keep up their interest.  Yes, 2m and 70cm SSB/CW terresterial is a blast and there is nothing like a good band opening to really get you going, but those don't happen all of the time.  The satellites give you a chance to use your 2m/70cm equipment on a daily basis, chase new grids squares and go for your VUCC.  Plus it is "predictable propagation."  You know when the "band is going to be open" by using the satellite tracking software.
>> 
>> I know this is a thread about getting new people into VHF contesting but I think that also directing them to the satellite operation potential of their SSB/CW gear may help to increase their interesting and keep them going between contests and band openings.
>> 
>> 73s John AA5JG