At 07:28 AM 9/23/2009, you wrote: >http://www.scout.org/jota > >Maybe reflectors to make initial contact and then move off for >source routed contacts ? One contact will block a reflector until >the contact is completed where source routing will open things up >for more contacts.
We had this problem in the early days of IRLP, so I'll pass on a few comments. As you say, reflectors tend to get clogged, if stations attempt to put the kids on there, but they are excellent places for two JOTA stations to make initial contact, before going direct to each other. However, I did find a problem in that many JOTA stations seem to be operated by relatively inexperienced hams, who only come out to play for JOTA and other Scouting events. It was common to have IRLP stations where the operator didn't know how to disconnect and go direct. D-STAR, with its choices of DPlus linking and callsign routing is going to totally bamboozle these operators. Unfortunately, I can't see an easy solution. If we get to know some of these operators before hand, we can play Elmer, but that opportunity rarely presents itself. >Also it is easy to set up a database on this yahoo group >http://group.yahoo.com/group/dstar_digital to list participating >gateways. Then print the list and add that along with link / unlink >to your UR list and let her rip... > >Sure a lot easier than stringing up and antenna and running HF and >much better quality comms to boot. > >Of course a reflector is needed for initial contacts - maybe >something in the UK ? Well, I'm happy to offer REF023 A to the Australian Scouting community, and overseas stations who want to make contact Down Under. Anyone else is also welcome to use it, but the RTT will be longer for you guys outside of Oz. ;) Unfortunately, I think I'm out of town on an emergency comms exercise that weekend, so won't be able to babysit the reflector if there's any problems (not that I expect any, it has been running well). I definitely won't be able to be MC/NCS, like I did several years ago on IRLP. 73 de VK3JED / VK3IRL http://vkradio.com
