[DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] (mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]) **It's Tax Time! Get tips, forms, and advice on AOL Money Finance. (http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf000301) Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
No difference. Everything, whether field checked or HQ checked or partial LOTW or full LOTW, gets processed along with all other submissions received at the same time. Now there is one trick to get you in sooner - it eliminates a mail delay.submit a partial LOTW submission. The minute you push the button on LOTW submit, you are in the queue with all the other paperwork(field checked) or HQ submitted (with card checking) or LOTW submits..they all get processed in order received. Don Ac7zg _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 8:08 AM To: dx-chat@njdxa.org Subject: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] _ It's Tax Time! Get http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf000301 tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
There is little difference in processing time when submitting via a DXCC field checker. In fact, it may take a little longer via a checker if the field checker doesn't submit the application quickly. At HQ, there is virtually no difference. The application goes into the queue along with all others, so is subject to the same backlog. Field-checked apps are more quickly entered into the system, but you wouldn't notice that difference. The cause of the current huge backlog is that management has not provided for (nearly) enough manpower to do the job. The current backlog appears to over 14 weeks. This delay is IN HOUSE. When you include the time it takes to process mail in and out of HQ, plus the time it takes for the post between you or the checker and HQ and back, it is more like 17 weeks. It's a shame. 73, Wayne, N7NG Jackson Hole, Wyoming _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 9:08 AM To: dx-chat@njdxa.org Subject: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] _ It's Tax Time! Get http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf000301 tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
Best advantage is you will not lose your cards in the mail and you save the postage fees. Bill W4WX - Original Message - From: wmills To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; dx-chat@njdxa.org Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 12:02 PM Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers There is little difference in processing time when submitting via a DXCC field checker. In fact, it may take a little longer via a checker if the field checker doesn't submit the application quickly. At HQ, there is virtually no difference. The application goes into the queue along with all others, so is subject to the same backlog. Field-checked apps are more quickly entered into the system, but you wouldn't notice that difference. The cause of the current huge backlog is that management has not provided for (nearly) enough manpower to do the job. The current backlog appears to over 14 weeks. This delay is IN HOUSE. When you include the time it takes to process mail in and out of HQ, plus the time it takes for the post between you or the checker and HQ and back, it is more like 17 weeks. It's a shame. 73, Wayne, N7NG Jackson Hole, Wyoming -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 9:08 AM To: dx-chat@njdxa.org Subject: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- It's Tax Time! Get tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
Only in terms of saving in mailing the cards and getting them back. Once the app is processed by the field checker, it still goes thri the process First in first out So even if the chceker mails them in the next day, if the process time is 6 weeks. Steve KF2TI NNJ DXCC Field Checker On 16 Mar 2008 at 11:08, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify thisby personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] It's Tax Time! Get tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
Don: That is not quite true. My last submittal was what they call a Hybrid submittal consisting of a few LOTW credits added to the main part of the submittal which is 92 QSO's that were field checked. My field checked paperwork was mailed within a couple of days of when they were field checked and when I applied for the partial LOTW credits, and I sit in the same queue that everyone else is in. That submittal was logged in on Dec 27, 2007 and is still waiting to be processed. Per their website, they are now processing applications that were logged in during the week of Dec 7, 2007 so I still have about 3 weeks to go. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message -- From: Don [EMAIL PROTECTED] No difference. Everything, whether field checked or HQ checked or partial LOTW or full LOTW, gets processed along with all other submissions received at the same time. Now there is one trick to get you in sooner it eliminates a mail delay submit a partial LOTW submission. The minute you push the button on LOTW submit, you are in the queue with all the other paperwork(field checked) or HQ submitted (with card checking) or LOTW submits .they all get processed in order received. Don Ac7zg From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 8:08 AM To: dx-chat@njdxa.org Subject: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] It's Tax Time! Get tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
David: You would think so. Given the large backlog lately, I made a very friendly suggestion to Bill Moore that they sort the submittals into 2 piles (Field Checked and Physical Cards), and have the bulk of their effort directed at Physical Card submittals. My belief was that the time required to unbundle a wad of cards, sort them into groups, physically review each card, enter the credit info, and then put that cards back into a bundle and send them on back to the sender requires quite a bit more time than entering the credit info from a field card check list. Even with a smaller effort, I would think that field checked card submittals would move along very quickly, and the backlog reduced more quickly. My suggestion was ignored. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] It's Tax Time! Get tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
If you submit a LoTW-only application, it will likely be processed immediately. When you submit a LoTW application that indicates that cards or a field check will also be submitted, the LoTW app will NOT be marked ready. Rather, it will remain in the computer until the system is queried. When the paper app marked I have submitted an application via Logbook of the World (check box) is subsequently received, DXCC Branch personnel will look in the LoTW computer for the corresponding app and match them up. THEN they go into the queue. This could be done differently in order to give an advantage to LoTW users, but to my knowledge, it is not. Some small apps are done out of order, however. There is no firm rule in these cases. 73, Wayne, N7NG Jackson Hole, Wyoming _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 10:28 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: DX Chat Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers Don: That is not quite true. My last submittal was what they call a Hybrid submittal consisting of a few LOTW credits added to the main part of the submittal which is 92 QSO's that were field checked. My field checked paperwork was mailed within a couple of days of when they were field checked and when I applied for the partial LOTW credits, and I sit in the same queue that everyone else is in. That submittal was logged in on Dec 27, 2007 and is still waiting to be processed. Per their website, they are now processing applications that were logged in during the week of Dec 7, 2007 so I still have about 3 weeks to go. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message -- From: Don [EMAIL PROTECTED] No difference. Everything, whether field checked or HQ checked or partial LOTW or full LOTW, gets processed along with all other submissions received at the same time. Now there is one trick to get you in sooner - it eliminates a mail delay.submit a partial LOTW submission. The minute you push the button on LOTW submit, you are in the queue with all the other paperwork(field checked) or HQ submitted (with card checking) or LOTW submits..they all get processed in order received. Don Ac7zg _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 8:08 AM To: dx-chat@njdxa.org Subject: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] _ It's Tax Time! Get http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf000301 tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
The fastest way of all is to bring them to the ARRL HQ. in person wait while the cards are checked ( if I remember right there is an extra small fee ). Once a year I call the day before so they expect me then do a LoTW submission fill in the # of paper cards I'll be bringing. Then the application is held waiting for the cards to arrive, I operate W1AW for a couple of hours to kill the time then take my cards home with me. The application still goes into the queue but just pending approval. 73, Tom, KE1JF Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
Some of the grumbling has apparently worked its way upstream. I understand that a couple of more employees have now been assigned to checking cards at HQ. It will still take them a long time to work their way out of the hole. I made the LOTW portion of a dual application on March 6th. Without the additional help, probably will not hear back until June. We will see. John AE5B Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
One aspect of the problem hasn't been discussed before that I know of. A lot of the aps are people who were at the Top of the Honor Roll who are simply submitting an ap to cover a new entity that came along (FJ, etc.) and they want to get back on top. These aps are 1 or 2 cards at the most. Once a person reaches that pinnacle, I think it is fair that they get special consideration in how fast their ap is processed. I wouldn't mind being passed in the queue for this type of situation. That position of recognition is an honored position in our DXCC program and warrants special consideration. No, I am not at the Top of the Honor Roll. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message -- From: J Dyer [EMAIL PROTECTED] Some of the grumbling has apparently worked its way upstream. I understand that a couple of more employees have now been assigned to checking cards at HQ. It will still take them a long time to work their way out of the hole. I made the LOTW portion of a dual application on March 6th. Without the additional help, probably will not hear back until June. We will see. John AE5B Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
Please reread carefully All I said is that the queue date is from LOTW submission, not the date from field checking. My example - I submitted 11/29/2007 via LOTW but I didn't even get the cards to my checker until 12/29 (we meet every month at WVDXC). My date at HQ was 11/29/2007, not the week after hybrid field checking which would have been a 1/5 or whatever. So, LOTW DOES give you the advantage - LOTW first then field check. _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 9:28 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: DX Chat Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers Don: That is not quite true. My last submittal was what they call a Hybrid submittal consisting of a few LOTW credits added to the main part of the submittal which is 92 QSO's that were field checked. My field checked paperwork was mailed within a couple of days of when they were field checked and when I applied for the partial LOTW credits, and I sit in the same queue that everyone else is in. That submittal was logged in on Dec 27, 2007 and is still waiting to be processed. Per their website, they are now processing applications that were logged in during the week of Dec 7, 2007 so I still have about 3 weeks to go. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message -- From: Don [EMAIL PROTECTED] No difference. Everything, whether field checked or HQ checked or partial LOTW or full LOTW, gets processed along with all other submissions received at the same time. Now there is one trick to get you in sooner - it eliminates a mail delay.submit a partial LOTW submission. The minute you push the button on LOTW submit, you are in the queue with all the other paperwork(field checked) or HQ submitted (with card checking) or LOTW submits..they all get processed in order received. Don Ac7zg _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 8:08 AM To: dx-chat@njdxa.org Subject: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] _ It's Tax Time! Get http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf000301 tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
And your submittal date should be the LOTW submission date, not the date the application was received from the field, checker..this is what I have already stated. You can't have waited until after field checking to do the LOTW - there is a box on the form that must be checked for hybrid submission with LOTW _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 9:28 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: DX Chat Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers Don: That is not quite true. My last submittal was what they call a Hybrid submittal consisting of a few LOTW credits added to the main part of the submittal which is 92 QSO's that were field checked. My field checked paperwork was mailed within a couple of days of when they were field checked and when I applied for the partial LOTW credits, and I sit in the same queue that everyone else is in. That submittal was logged in on Dec 27, 2007 and is still waiting to be processed. Per their website, they are now processing applications that were logged in during the week of Dec 7, 2007 so I still have about 3 weeks to go. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message -- From: Don [EMAIL PROTECTED] No difference. Everything, whether field checked or HQ checked or partial LOTW or full LOTW, gets processed along with all other submissions received at the same time. Now there is one trick to get you in sooner - it eliminates a mail delay.submit a partial LOTW submission. The minute you push the button on LOTW submit, you are in the queue with all the other paperwork(field checked) or HQ submitted (with card checking) or LOTW submits..they all get processed in order received. Don Ac7zg _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 8:08 AM To: dx-chat@njdxa.org Subject: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] _ It's Tax Time! Get http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf000301 tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
So you suggest those that get field checked go to the head of the line? And the HQ-checked get put off until later? That line's pretty deep. To do so means that the HQ-checked submission would somehow get less priority. This seems to put those submitters who don't have access to a field checker at a strong disadvantage. Maybe someday the field checked backlog would drop to zero and HQ submissions would get their day? And if you're not arguing this, then we must presume that the submissions get checked on the basis of when-logged-in to DXCC whether field checked or HQ-checked. So your suggestion would somehow force, on a weekly basis, having the field-checked submissions processed first during their week and the HQ-check last? How does this help the huge backlog? Doesn't seem well thought out. Frankly John, the problem is with the lack of adequate staffing to handle the backlog. _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 9:49 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: DX Chat Subject: Re: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers David: You would think so. Given the large backlog lately, I made a very friendly suggestion to Bill Moore that they sort the submittals into 2 piles (Field Checked and Physical Cards), and have the bulk of their effort directed at Physical Card submittals. My belief was that the time required to unbundle a wad of cards, sort them into groups, physically review each card, enter the credit info, and then put that cards back into a bundle and send them on back to the sender requires quite a bit more time than entering the credit info from a field card check list. Even with a smaller effort, I would think that field checked card submittals would move along very quickly, and the backlog reduced more quickly. My suggestion was ignored. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] _ It's Tax Time! Get http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf000301 tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
And one clarification - this was my bad. I arrived at the field checking time on 11/29 inadvertently missing two QSLs needed for the DXCC 80 certificate. I had to put off field checking to the next month's wvdxc meeting. _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Don Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 10:50 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: 'DX Chat' Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers Please reread carefully All I said is that the queue date is from LOTW submission, not the date from field checking. My example - I submitted 11/29/2007 via LOTW but I didn't even get the cards to my checker until 12/29 (we meet every month at WVDXC). My date at HQ was 11/29/2007, not the week after hybrid field checking which would have been a 1/5 or whatever. So, LOTW DOES give you the advantage - LOTW first then field check. _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 9:28 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: DX Chat Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers Don: That is not quite true. My last submittal was what they call a Hybrid submittal consisting of a few LOTW credits added to the main part of the submittal which is 92 QSO's that were field checked. My field checked paperwork was mailed within a couple of days of when they were field checked and when I applied for the partial LOTW credits, and I sit in the same queue that everyone else is in. That submittal was logged in on Dec 27, 2007 and is still waiting to be processed. Per their website, they are now processing applications that were logged in during the week of Dec 7, 2007 so I still have about 3 weeks to go. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message -- From: Don [EMAIL PROTECTED] No difference. Everything, whether field checked or HQ checked or partial LOTW or full LOTW, gets processed along with all other submissions received at the same time. Now there is one trick to get you in sooner - it eliminates a mail delay.submit a partial LOTW submission. The minute you push the button on LOTW submit, you are in the queue with all the other paperwork(field checked) or HQ submitted (with card checking) or LOTW submits..they all get processed in order received. Don Ac7zg _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 8:08 AM To: dx-chat@njdxa.org Subject: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] _ It's Tax Time! Get http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf000301 tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
It makes business sense to charge apps individually. Two apps, two charges. As long as apps are charged individually, the parts of a hybrid app, LoTW and paper, must be combined before the app can be processed. Otherwise, two charges will result. The LoTW part isn't going to be processed separately. When the paper app part of a hybrid is received it could be put in the queue for a date that represents the date that the LoTW part of the app was received. That would essentially save the mailing time. At one point, we were giving full priority (front of the queue) for the use of LoTW, even in a hybrid. What we found, however, is that some folks would save up some LoTW Qs and submit ONE along with a large number of paper cards (or field-checked credits). Ah! The law of unintended consequences. It was abused, it wasn't fair, so we stopped doing it. Putting the paper app in the queue according to the receipt date of a LoTW app won't save much time, though. When the full turn-around time is 17 weeks, it's only a small percentage of the total time. Wayne, N7NG Jackson Hole, Wyoming _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Don Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 11:54 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: 'DX Chat' Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers And your submittal date should be the LOTW submission date, not the date the application was received from the field, checker..this is what I have already stated. You can't have waited until after field checking to do the LOTW - there is a box on the form that must be checked for hybrid submission with LOTW _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 9:28 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: DX Chat Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers Don: That is not quite true. My last submittal was what they call a Hybrid submittal consisting of a few LOTW credits added to the main part of the submittal which is 92 QSO's that were field checked. My field checked paperwork was mailed within a couple of days of when they were field checked and when I applied for the partial LOTW credits, and I sit in the same queue that everyone else is in. That submittal was logged in on Dec 27, 2007 and is still waiting to be processed. Per their website, they are now processing applications that were logged in during the week of Dec 7, 2007 so I still have about 3 weeks to go. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message -- From: Don [EMAIL PROTECTED] No difference. Everything, whether field checked or HQ checked or partial LOTW or full LOTW, gets processed along with all other submissions received at the same time. Now there is one trick to get you in sooner - it eliminates a mail delay.submit a partial LOTW submission. The minute you push the button on LOTW submit, you are in the queue with all the other paperwork(field checked) or HQ submitted (with card checking) or LOTW submits..they all get processed in order received. Don Ac7zg _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 8:08 AM To: dx-chat@njdxa.org Subject: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] _ It's Tax Time! Get http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf000301 tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
[DX-CHAT] Re:Card Checkers,etc
It might be interesting if the staff at HQ could determine what portion of the workload is attributable to multiple band country applications,as opposed to entity/mode requests.Perhaps it is time to consider placing the Challenge and related listings in a separate grouping,perhaps even with their own field checkers and the like.Alternatively,adopt more of an honor system,negating the need for sending in yet another pile of QSL cards.Just a thought. Robert McNeill W4MBD Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
One of the could be developments associated with LoTW that could be done to speed DXCC processing is for applicants to enter their apps on a DXCC/LoTW Website. Once the applicant has entered the data, it is checked against the cards by a checker, and the checker approves the application. Since the app is now already in electronic from, processing it is just as easy as is processing basic LoTW apps now. A couple of clicks, and it's done. This could reduce much of the manpower now required to enter data. From a business point of view it makes perfect sense. However, HQ doesn't think this way, hence the 17 week turn-around. This process has been waiting for development for several years. All of the elements to accomplish this are in place. It had been on the COO's plan each year. Nothing yet. 73, Wayne, N7NG Jackson Hole, Wyoming _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Don Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 12:11 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: 'DX Chat' Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers So you suggest those that get field checked go to the head of the line? And the HQ-checked get put off until later? That line's pretty deep. To do so means that the HQ-checked submission would somehow get less priority. This seems to put those submitters who don't have access to a field checker at a strong disadvantage. Maybe someday the field checked backlog would drop to zero and HQ submissions would get their day? And if you're not arguing this, then we must presume that the submissions get checked on the basis of when-logged-in to DXCC whether field checked or HQ-checked. So your suggestion would somehow force, on a weekly basis, having the field-checked submissions processed first during their week and the HQ-check last? How does this help the huge backlog? Doesn't seem well thought out. Frankly John, the problem is with the lack of adequate staffing to handle the backlog. _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 9:49 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: DX Chat Subject: Re: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers David: You would think so. Given the large backlog lately, I made a very friendly suggestion to Bill Moore that they sort the submittals into 2 piles (Field Checked and Physical Cards), and have the bulk of their effort directed at Physical Card submittals. My belief was that the time required to unbundle a wad of cards, sort them into groups, physically review each card, enter the credit info, and then put that cards back into a bundle and send them on back to the sender requires quite a bit more time than entering the credit info from a field card check list. Even with a smaller effort, I would think that field checked card submittals would move along very quickly, and the backlog reduced more quickly. My suggestion was ignored. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] _ It's Tax Time! Get http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf000301 tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
When I got my app ready in December, I downloaded my received QSL's database into Excel, sorted out the cards I was going to use, and then printed a nice looking listing to make it easier for the card checker. (And then had to go find the cards in the bins, of course!) All K3AIR had to do was compare the physical cards to my list. (And those of you who've seen my handwriting know why I HAD to do it this way! g) But, if you stop and think about it, to take that physical printout, mail it to the League, and then have someone by hand re-enter all the information... that's all extra work that need not be done. How much easier faster it would have been to enter my cards onto a website -- or upload from a database or spreadsheet or ADIF or other standard format into that website -- get a printout with a Serial or ID number, and then have the card checker submit back to HQ just that ID number. (Although there would have to be a way to also tell them if a cards was rejected, or if a card submitted was a substitute for the one on the page, but that's very do-able). And once the list is confirmed, having a DXCC record electronically updated and such, and appropriate paperwork and certificates printed, and so forth, only takes a few minutes. There's no practical reason why this can't be done, save cost. And if the issue is finding a programmer or a small group of programmers to set it up, I'm sure that if asked, there'd be no shortage of volunteers. Starting with me. But someone up at Hq has to be willing to get this moving. 73 -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of wmills Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 2:29 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: 'DX Chat' Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers One of the could be developments associated with LoTW that could be done to speed DXCC processing is for applicants to enter their apps on a DXCC/LoTW Website. Once the applicant has entered the data, it is checked against the cards by a checker, and the checker approves the application. Since the app is now already in electronic from, processing it is just as easy as is processing basic LoTW apps now. A couple of clicks, and it's done. This could reduce much of the manpower now required to enter data. From a business point of view it makes perfect sense. However, HQ doesn't think this way, hence the 17 week turn-around. This process has been waiting for development for several years. All of the elements to accomplish this are in place. It had been on the COO's plan each year. Nothing yet. 73, Wayne, N7NG Jackson Hole, Wyoming -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Don Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 12:11 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: 'DX Chat' Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers So you suggest those that get field checked go to the head of the line? And the HQ-checked get put off until later? That line's pretty deep. To do so means that the HQ-checked submission would somehow get less priority. This seems to put those submitters who don' t have access to a field checker at a strong disadvantage. Maybe someday the field checked backlog would drop to zero and HQ submissions would get their day? And if you're not arguing this, then we must presume that the submissions get checked on the basis of when-logged-in to DXCC whether field checked or HQ-checked. So your suggestion would somehow force, on a weekly basis, having the field-checked submissions processed first during their week and the HQ-check last? How does this help the huge backlog? Doesn't seem well thought out. Frankly John, the problem is with the lack of adequate staffing to handle the backlog. -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 9:49 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: DX Chat Subject: Re: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers David: You would think so. Given the large backlog lately, I made a very friendly suggestion to Bill Moore that they sort the submittals into 2 piles (Field Checked and Physical Cards), and have the bulk of their effort directed at Physical Card submittals. My belief was that the time required to unbundle a wad of cards, sort them into groups, physically review each card, enter the credit info, and then put that cards back into a bundle and send them on back to the sender requires quite a bit more time than entering the credit info from a field card check list. Even with a smaller effort, I would think that field checked card submittals would move along very quickly, and the backlog reduced more quickly. My suggestion was ignored. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message
RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
Wayne That makes good sense - saves someone at HQ entering text for all the cards. And for those submitting cards-only for HQ, why not allow them to send a CD/DVD with the same data. Your checkers would only have to verify it was correct. No different actually from the comparison they make now to paper loggings - except someone does not have to type it in at HQ. _ From: wmills [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 11:29 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: 'DX Chat' Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers One of the could be developments associated with LoTW that could be done to speed DXCC processing is for applicants to enter their apps on a DXCC/LoTW Website. Once the applicant has entered the data, it is checked against the cards by a checker, and the checker approves the application. Since the app is now already in electronic from, processing it is just as easy as is processing basic LoTW apps now. A couple of clicks, and it's done. This could reduce much of the manpower now required to enter data. From a business point of view it makes perfect sense. However, HQ doesn't think this way, hence the 17 week turn-around. This process has been waiting for development for several years. All of the elements to accomplish this are in place. It had been on the COO's plan each year. Nothing yet. 73, Wayne, N7NG Jackson Hole, Wyoming _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Don Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 12:11 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: 'DX Chat' Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers So you suggest those that get field checked go to the head of the line? And the HQ-checked get put off until later? That line's pretty deep. To do so means that the HQ-checked submission would somehow get less priority. This seems to put those submitters who don't have access to a field checker at a strong disadvantage. Maybe someday the field checked backlog would drop to zero and HQ submissions would get their day? And if you're not arguing this, then we must presume that the submissions get checked on the basis of when-logged-in to DXCC whether field checked or HQ-checked. So your suggestion would somehow force, on a weekly basis, having the field-checked submissions processed first during their week and the HQ-check last? How does this help the huge backlog? Doesn't seem well thought out. Frankly John, the problem is with the lack of adequate staffing to handle the backlog. _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 9:49 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: DX Chat Subject: Re: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers David: You would think so. Given the large backlog lately, I made a very friendly suggestion to Bill Moore that they sort the submittals into 2 piles (Field Checked and Physical Cards), and have the bulk of their effort directed at Physical Card submittals. My belief was that the time required to unbundle a wad of cards, sort them into groups, physically review each card, enter the credit info, and then put that cards back into a bundle and send them on back to the sender requires quite a bit more time than entering the credit info from a field card check list. Even with a smaller effort, I would think that field checked card submittals would move along very quickly, and the backlog reduced more quickly. My suggestion was ignored. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] _ It's Tax Time! Get http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf000301 tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers
The word we've seen as checkers is that there are changes coming. Gerry VE6LB/VA6XDX DXCC Field Checker-Southern Alberta VE/VA6 QSL Bureau Team (403) 251-0384 [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.qsl.net/ve6lb/ - Original Message - From: Don To: 'wmills' ; [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: 'DX Chat' Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 2:02 PM Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers Wayne That makes good sense - saves someone at HQ entering text for all the cards. And for those submitting cards-only for HQ, why not allow them to send a CD/DVD with the same data. Your checkers would only have to verify it was correct. No different actually from the comparison they make now to paper loggings - except someone does not have to type it in at HQ. -- From: wmills [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 11:29 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: 'DX Chat' Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers One of the could be developments associated with LoTW that could be done to speed DXCC processing is for applicants to enter their apps on a DXCC/LoTW Website. Once the applicant has entered the data, it is checked against the cards by a checker, and the checker approves the application. Since the app is now already in electronic from, processing it is just as easy as is processing basic LoTW apps now. A couple of clicks, and it's done. This could reduce much of the manpower now required to enter data. From a business point of view it makes perfect sense. However, HQ doesn't think this way, hence the 17 week turn-around. This process has been waiting for development for several years. All of the elements to accomplish this are in place. It had been on the COO's plan each year. Nothing yet. 73, Wayne, N7NG Jackson Hole, Wyoming -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Don Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 12:11 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: 'DX Chat' Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers So you suggest those that get field checked go to the head of the line? And the HQ-checked get put off until later? That line's pretty deep. To do so means that the HQ-checked submission would somehow get less priority. This seems to put those submitters who don't have access to a field checker at a strong disadvantage. Maybe someday the field checked backlog would drop to zero and HQ submissions would get their day? And if you're not arguing this, then we must presume that the submissions get checked on the basis of when-logged-in to DXCC whether field checked or HQ-checked. So your suggestion would somehow force, on a weekly basis, having the field-checked submissions processed first during their week and the HQ-check last? How does this help the huge backlog? Doesn't seem well thought out. Frankly John, the problem is with the lack of adequate staffing to handle the backlog. -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 9:49 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: DX Chat Subject: Re: [DX-CHAT] Re: Card Checkers David: You would think so. Given the large backlog lately, I made a very friendly suggestion to Bill Moore that they sort the submittals into 2 piles (Field Checked and Physical Cards), and have the bulk of their effort directed at Physical Card submittals. My belief was that the time required to unbundle a wad of cards, sort them into groups, physically review each card, enter the credit info, and then put that cards back into a bundle and send them on back to the sender requires quite a bit more time than entering the credit info from a field card check list. Even with a smaller effort, I would think that field checked card submittals would move along very quickly, and the backlog reduced more quickly. My suggestion was ignored. John Owens - N7TK -- Original message -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] One would think that submitting your QSL's through a field checker would give a faster turn-around. Can anyone verify this by personal experience? Dave Miller W1GDQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] It's Tax Time! Get tips, forms and advice on AOL Money Finance. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
[DX-CHAT] Directional CQs
Many recent DXpeditions have, in my opinion, over-studied the data to serve under served areas, have propagation charts, and be extra aware of their important position as the only (last?) hams to be at that locale. One effect is the extensive use of DIRECTIONAL CQs... usually only EU or only NA. A clue There are FOUR (five, really) other continents--not just countries-- NOT INCLUDED in those directional calls. And, if one calls out of turn from one of those other CONTINENTS, one is shunned or chastened or, worse, put secretly on a banned-for-QSL-card list. Hey, can we not just fix this situation? 73 from Un-called South East Asia. Charles Harpole HS0ZCW [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Directional CQs
At 10:52 PM 3/16/2008, Charles Harpole wrote: Many recent DXpeditions have, in my opinion, over-studied the data to serve under served areas, have propagation charts, and be extra aware of their important position as the only (last?) hams to be at that locale. One effect is the extensive use of DIRECTIONAL CQs... usually only EU or only NA. This is one of my biggest gripes in DXing (well, that and by the numbers). Human nature says that whenever you exclude a group of people for whatever good reason you have, the excluded will generally take offense and resentment will start to form, regardless whether this is rational or not. As such, there really is only one solution to this problem, and that's to open it up to everyone, everywhere for as long as possible (though I do think looking for the hardest parts of the world from where the DX is operating on the low bands, at the grey-line, is excellent operating practice). What this means, on the other hand, is the DX station needs to be skilled enough to handle the onslaught of callers from everywhere and have equipment and abilities to work the pileup down efficiently. The other problem with directional calls is CW - It's very difficult on CW to convey a sense of where you want to hear from. It's easy to send USA or NA, but that leaves out Central and South America - would the DX want those too? Or does he really JUST want the US/Canada? Ditto for calling for JA, but leaving out the rest of Asia, VK and ZL, or EU but not Africa, the middle-East or western Asia, etc. It's easier on SSB and RTTY, but still, the longer it takes to say WHO/WHERE you're listening for, the bigger and more unruly the pileup will get. It's easier for the pileup and the operator to send XX1XXX QRZ UP than XX1XXX QRZ EU AFRICA AND MIDDLE EAST ONLY or whatever. Sure, the wall will become louder on and near your QSX, but just work the loudest ones. Eventually you'll either get tired and go for an 807, or you'll run out of 59++ signals and you'll get to dig deeper to the ones who are only 59, then the 57s, then the 55s, etc...at least till you get spotted and get another round of 20-overs calling you again. If you have a rock-solid wall of noise with nothing leaping out at you, expand your QSX range to 5 or 7 kHz on SSB. Maybe even 10 if it's unusually bad. Work the edges, pick off the big guns. Eventually, you'll settle down to a single QSX with luck, pick 'em off with little effort. I sure can't speak for HS-land, but when I was on C6 I found that to be the easiest way to make Q's...take all callers. Though I DID take EU only for a couple of hours one night as I wanted to boost my country count a little. Regards, Peter, W2IRT Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Directional CQs
I would say that at the moment, NA and EU contain the largest concentrations of active DX'ers. And when considering that the last two Pacific DXpeditions -- specifically, VP6DX Ducie and TX5C Clipperton -- basically had to shoot OVER NA to get to EU, AF AS... directional CQ's become a little more understandable. Is it entirely, 100% fair? No. But what is? There are many other factors involved than the ones Charles cites. TX5C, for one, stated that there would be a concentration on EU because of demand. I'm sure I'm not the only DX'er who sat in front of the radio, early to late evenings, hearing TX5C booming 599+40 on 80 40 meter CW, but unable to call because of those two simple letters, EU. But, so what? The bottom line is, as always, that the DXpedition fronts the funds, does the dirty work, arranges the shipping and transportation -- in short, takes the risks -- and as such, determines who how where they will call. That's the way the game is played. To be honest, I'm not going to sit here and gripe about the TX5C gang. Sure, I'd love to have worked them on more than one band, but I'm happy that I finally got them late Friday night on 30 -- and I almost missed that chance, too (no, the dog didn't eat my coax -- again. But I did have to take the wife in to the ER due to bronchitis; if they'd had to admit her, instead of sending her home to recover...). In many ways, this DXpedition was snake-bit, especially weather wise. To do as well as they did, with the weather-related delays and disasters they had to deal with, is commendable to them. To second guess their (or anyone else's) decisions on who to work and such is very close to being uncalled for. And frankly, I think if there were some penalties for the chronic morons who constantly call out of turn, on top of other people, on top of the DX, and call call call... a few of them might learn. Not many, but a few. And it's the chronic morons we have to worry about, along with the UP police and the like... not those who inadvertently make a mistake or give in to a moment's frustration. I've never heard of anyone guilty of a momentary lapse being put on a secret naughty list... though I wish a few of the chronics might make them! 73 -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Charles Harpole Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 10:53 PM To: dx-chat@njdxa.org Subject: [DX-CHAT] Directional CQs Many recent DXpeditions have, in my opinion, over-studied the data to serve under served areas, have propagation charts, and be extra aware of their important position as the only (last?) hams to be at that locale. One effect is the extensive use of DIRECTIONAL CQs... usually only EU or only NA. A clue There are FOUR (five, really) other continents--not just countries-- NOT INCLUDED in those directional calls. And, if one calls out of turn from one of those other CONTINENTS, one is shunned or chastened or, worse, put secretly on a banned-for-QSL-card list. Hey, can we not just fix this situation? 73 from Un-called South East Asia. Charles Harpole HS0ZCW [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Directional CQs
One thing I noted that at least one or two of the VP6DX team did was to mix in the directional calls. For example, on 30 meters, at the time I worked them, the op did about 5 minutes of UP EU, about the same just UP, then the same UP NA, then UP only again... with an occasional SA mixed in there. I think that was a good compromise. Gave each area a few minutes while propagation was open, and a general non-specific call so that other areas that had propagation at the time weren't excluded. And the intervals were short enough to down play the chance that propagation would fade out before someone got their shot for the night. Also, while I agree with Pete that the DX station needs to be skilled to be able to pull some of this off... well, let's face it, not everyone is. Like many skills, it's one that can and must be honed. So, that means that when the inexperienced op tries it, we must be patient (or learn patience) and give them a chance to hone those skills. Otherwise, you have situations like so much of the armchair quarterbacking that got thrown at many members of the TI9KK operation. If the inexperienced ops never have the chance to learn, then what are you going to do when experienced ops aren't available? 73 -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Peter Dougherty Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 11:21 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; dx-chat@njdxa.org Subject: Re: [DX-CHAT] Directional CQs At 10:52 PM 3/16/2008, Charles Harpole wrote: Many recent DXpeditions have, in my opinion, over-studied the data to serve under served areas, have propagation charts, and be extra aware of their important position as the only (last?) hams to be at that locale. One effect is the extensive use of DIRECTIONAL CQs... usually only EU or only NA. This is one of my biggest gripes in DXing (well, that and by the numbers). Human nature says that whenever you exclude a group of people for whatever good reason you have, the excluded will generally take offense and resentment will start to form, regardless whether this is rational or not. As such, there really is only one solution to this problem, and that's to open it up to everyone, everywhere for as long as possible (though I do think looking for the hardest parts of the world from where the DX is operating on the low bands, at the grey-line, is excellent operating practice). What this means, on the other hand, is the DX station needs to be skilled enough to handle the onslaught of callers from everywhere and have equipment and abilities to work the pileup down efficiently. The other problem with directional calls is CW - It's very difficult on CW to convey a sense of where you want to hear from. It's easy to send USA or NA, but that leaves out Central and South America - would the DX want those too? Or does he really JUST want the US/Canada? Ditto for calling for JA, but leaving out the rest of Asia, VK and ZL, or EU but not Africa, the middle-East or western Asia, etc. It's easier on SSB and RTTY, but still, the longer it takes to say WHO/WHERE you're listening for, the bigger and more unruly the pileup will get. It's easier for the pileup and the operator to send XX1XXX QRZ UP than XX1XXX QRZ EU AFRICA AND MIDDLE EAST ONLY or whatever. Sure, the wall will become louder on and near your QSX, but just work the loudest ones. Eventually you'll either get tired and go for an 807, or you'll run out of 59++ signals and you'll get to dig deeper to the ones who are only 59, then the 57s, then the 55s, etc...at least till you get spotted and get another round of 20-overs calling you again. If you have a rock-solid wall of noise with nothing leaping out at you, expand your QSX range to 5 or 7 kHz on SSB. Maybe even 10 if it's unusually bad. Work the edges, pick off the big guns. Eventually, you'll settle down to a single QSX with luck, pick 'em off with little effort. I sure can't speak for HS-land, but when I was on C6 I found that to be the easiest way to make Q's...take all callers. Though I DID take EU only for a couple of hours one night as I wanted to boost my country count a little. Regards, Peter, W2IRT Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
