[VHFcontesting] Calling Frequency Proposal

[aduhawk at comcast.net]

I like this idea.  I guess that I can be included in that veteran operator category.  When we're not roving I'm in an extremely limited antenna and power situation, so I call use use CW quite a bit.  I welcome the thousands whose introduction to amateur radio was brought along or brought about by the dropping of the morse code requirement. Thank you for your contributions.  And now that you're here, why not "know code?"   I struggled with CW proficiency for years and flunked the 20 wpm test three times before passing.  After that date it was as is a cloud had been lifted,and the pressure removed.  I find enjoyment of the hobby improved by having some CW proficiency. 
  
If that's not for you, so be it.  I like Jim's suggestion of operating near the calling frequency. 
  
As a rover I will often list a run frequency off the calling frequency and add that I'll only use 144.200 if I want to make a contact.  ; < ).  
  
73, Tim K0PG 

----- Original Message -----

From: "W9SNR - Jim" <w9snr at comcast.net> 
To: vhfcontesting at contesting.com 
Sent: Wednesday, September 18, 2013 7:45:16 PM 
Subject: [VHFcontesting] Calling Frequency Proposal 

IMHO, staying off the calling frequency in a contest is a non-starter.  As a 
rover with limited antennas and power, the best way to get attention is to 
call CQ on or near the calling frequency, with one twist.  I now use CW 
almost exclusively.  I notice several other veteran ops in the Midwest have 
also been doing this, some for a long time. 

I propose that CW be used for all CQ calls within +/- 5 kHz of the calling 
frequency on 2M thru 70 cm.  (I’m not including 6M because I’m not a big 6M 
operator).  This would allow many more stations to call CQ near the calling 
frequency with much less interference then we have today.  I don’t see so 
much problem with answering a strong CW CQ on SSB, so long as both operators 
"instantly" move off to another frequency. 

Those without CW capability could use 144.205 and .105 on 222 and 432 as the 
SSB "calling frequency".  Digital mode CQ's could be in the within +/- 5 kHz 
of the calling frequency if their bandwidth is comparable to, say 30 WPM CW. 

73 - Jim 
W9SNR/R 

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