There have been a lot of comments on this topic and I won't belabor the point (at least not too much), but remember that amateur radio is about experimentation and communication. To me, D-Star, Dongle, DVAP, etc. is the epitome of our hobby. Back when ham radio was only CW operation did they ask the question whether voice communication was really ham radio? I doubt it because new modes and methods of operation came from the spirit of the hobby - to experiment and communicate. Each new mode and method of communication was embraced by the worldwide ham community as a new way to enjoy and meet the challenges of the hobby. The use of the Dongle and DVAP is exciting as it opens an entire new way to experiment and communicate. So, enjoy the hobby and don't stop looking for *new* ways to enjoy it in the future. I wonder what we will be having this debate about in 10 years?
Jim's comments were right on point and I completely agree with them. Oh, and to answer the poll question whether it is a QSO, I guess we need to define that term. In the strictest sense, a QSO is a communication between two amateur stations, so I guess a Dongle contact would fall within that definition. Will it win you any of the operating awards? Probably not, but if that is the motivation for the poll, some enterprising ham needs to create a D-Star/Dongle/DVAP award program and sponsor an annual contest! How about DDXCC (Dongle DX Century Club)? 73, Bill AB4BJ
