[DX-CHAT] Re: What ever happened to FR5DX?
On Dec 2, 2011, at 6:21 PM, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: I worked FR5DX, and, prior to that, FR0FLO a total of four times between 1983 and 1994. Like Les, I worked FR0FLO many times in the early 1980's. No matter if it was IRCs or $$$, mailing via France and multiple mailings, I received QSLs for only one of nine QSOs spread across what looks to be four major contests and a couple non-contest QSOs. So far as I am concerned he was a problem. Agreed! ... Joe, W4TV Did you ever try bribery? - not money, but information difficult to obtain in Reunion. Way back in the good old days, I needed FR0FLO to confirm Zone 39 on 40/75 SSB. With my QSL, I airmailed Herik the latest Yaesu, ICOM, and Kenwood HF catalogs. His QSL came back to me airmail direct in 10 days, with a nice letter of thanks. John, NT5C. --- To unsubscribe or subscribe to this list. Please send a message to imail...@njdxa.org In the message body put either unsubscribe dx-chat or subscribe dx-chat This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org ---
[DX-CHAT] MP4KAC
Thanks everyone for all the MP4KAC input! John W5RQ and myself were trying to track down a pen pal from the 1951-era of our youth, and we had reason to think it might be MP4KAC. It wasn't. The gentleman we're looking for is Doug Taylor. Perhaps his callsign was VT1AC (Kuwait being administered from India) even before the MP4 British military prefixes in the Persian Gulf came along? John, NT5C. --- To unsubscribe or subscribe to this list. Please send a message to imail...@njdxa.org In the message body put either unsubscribe dx-chat or subscribe dx-chat This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org ---
[DX-CHAT] Looking Back : VT1
By the way, in answer to my question yesterday, VT1 was the first post-WWII prefix for Kuwait. The Brits initially administered Kuwait from India, so they assigned it a prefix out of the Indian block. Shortly thereafter, it was transferred to British military government, and got a prefix in the MP4 block which they used throughout the Persian Gulf, specifically MP4K. (For example, MP4B = Bahrain, MP4Q = Qatar, etc, except that the troops moved around, so MP4 soon became a jumbled mess!). Finally, when Kuwait gained its independence, it became the 9K we know today. 73, John, NT5C. --- To unsubscribe or subscribe to this list. Please send a message to imail...@njdxa.org In the message body put either unsubscribe dx-chat or subscribe dx-chat This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org ---
[DX-CHAT] Re: Looking back at your first logs
On Aug 13, 2011, at 11:18 AM, jbrook...@carolina.rr.com wrote: For whatever reason I looked back at my first log last night. I was WN4PXP. And what do I find ? An entry on August 3 1964 at 3:36 pm (before I understood GMT.) 3:36 3:40 August 3 21.104 KP6AZ Jim Palmyra 579 339. A few years later I worked a few more KP6's. At the time I had no idea that he was some what rare DX. You might want to check back 50 years ago you may have worked a good one without knowing it. 73 Jim WA4PXP Jim, I have kept all my amateur SWL logs starting back in Dec 1947, almost 64years ago, when I was growing up in post-WW II England and was ISWL G-6161. One of the most active stations I kept hearing was VT1AB. I wonder how many people can tell us what DXCC country that was, and why he had that prefix? 73, John, NT5C. --- To unsubscribe or subscribe to this list. Please send a message to imail...@njdxa.org In the message body put either unsubscribe dx-chat or subscribe dx-chat This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org ---
[DX-CHAT] Re: DXpedition calling practices
On Jul 26, 2011, at 4:30 PM, Zack W9SZ wrote: There have been operations especially from the Pacific that completely ignored propagation. They'd have paths to USA and JA at the same time on the low bands. ,, they would continue to work almost exclusively JA's during the time they had prop to USA. That got a lot of people upset! Oh how true Zack. I've been stewing about the following worst case example ever since it happened. But I'll try to be forgiving, and assume that the operator was totally inexperienced, and lacked any knowledge of propagation. However, I wish the DXpedition leaders had recognized that, and had provided him with some guidance! It was the most recent BS7H operation, at dawn W5 local time. Propagation was superb on 40M right at our sunrise, and BS7H was booming in, a genuine 59 on 40SSB into Austin. The Chinese op worked JAs nonstop for about two hours straight through NA sunrise. I don't think I have ever been so frustrated in my DXing career. 73, John, NT5C. --- To unsubscribe or subscribe to this list. Please send a message to imail...@njdxa.org In the message body put either unsubscribe dx-chat or subscribe dx-chat This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org ---
[DX-CHAT] Re: Long Path DXCC?
On Jul 10, 2011, at 12:05 PM, Don K1VSK wrote: For all those looking for a challenges to DX these days, I thought I'd ask if I am the only one who tried Long Path DXCC? It was more difficult that i had thought but turns out the simple concept of setting this goal made DX'ing a lot more interesting after having worked everything the normal way. No Don, you're not the only one who has tried it, except that my self- imposed challenge is a bit more specialized than yours. For the 25 years that I have been a serious DXer, I have chased - and kept a separate log for - long path DX on 10M SSB. In the peaks of sunspot cycles 22, 23 (and 24 just starting) I have accumulated 21 CQ Zones and 53 DXCC Entities, which include some of the most exciting QSOs I've ever made. Wonderful memories. Here in Texas we are at the optimum USA location for this mode : We're at the western end of the 10M LP just after dawn our time (JA, BY, VR2, VK, etc., even a KH6!), and at the eastern end of 10M LP around midnight Texas time (C Asia, Europe, Middle East, ZS6, etc). Things are very slow getting going in cycle 24. So far, just one or two BY7s and VR2s right after dawn. But I agree there's something special about LP DX on any band. My most memorable group of LP QSOs ever : four of them with Sabu VU2ELJ, on 75M SSB long path using my winter Beverage to the SSW, in Dec '00/ Jan '01. Totally noise-free copy about 53/54. 73, John, NT5C. --- To unsubscribe or subscribe to this list. Please send a message to imail...@njdxa.org In the message body put either unsubscribe dx-chat or subscribe dx-chat This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org ---
[DX-CHAT] Re: IRCs agn...
I continue to be amazed at the effort which some DXers make trying to understand and use IRCs. I would never even contemplate buying or using one. Just the good old green stamps for me. Every once in a while I re-stock with $2 bills from my bank (plus some extra $1s for DL). Seem to work perfectly everywhere, including places where they are said to be illegal. Those folks don't hoard them, they just recirculate them for their own QSLing. Has anyone ever heard of a DXer being jailed for receiving $2 in a QSL ? And my return ratio for cards which I really need is 100%. And then of course there's LoTW. Same goes for mint postage stamps. How do you keep track of the weekly increases in postage rates ? 73, John, NT5C. --- To unsubscribe or subscribe to this list. Please send a message to imail...@njdxa.org In the message body put either unsubscribe dx-chat or subscribe dx-chat This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org ---
[DX-CHAT] Re: Tristan da Cunha
On Aug 30, 2009, at 2:00 PM, Jack K4WSB wrote: Nice article in the Parade magazine today www.parade.com/tristan Dawn Repetto in the first picture is the XYL of their most active ham, Andy ZD9BV. Perhaps one of the later pics is Andy? - I don't know. John, NT5C. --- To unsubscribe or subscribe to this list. Please send a message to imail...@njdxa.org In the message body put either unsubscribe dx-chat or subscribe dx-chat This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org ---
[DX-CHAT] Re: 7O1YGF
On Aug 13, 2009, at 12:02 PM, Zack Widup W9SZ wrote: My understanding was that they had some documentation but it was thought that their license or OK to operate was issued by a regional authority - sort of like the state of Illinois issuing me a license instead of the FCC. That was more-or-less my understanding too Zack. Their operation was approved (in writing ?) by the office in Aden, but was subsequently disavowed by the head office in the capital Sana'a. Not wanting to burn its bridges for future amateur radio activities, ARRL/DXCC reluctantly supported Sana'a. However, I think there have been cases where ARRL accepted less than a national license - What about the scouts in 3V8 ? Perhaps one day Bill will feel free to tell us if we have that right. 7O1A, the operation by Franz DJ9ZB and Zorro, is the one that frustrates me. So far as I know, there is no geographic issue - they were there. But what sort of approval did they have? It's the only 7O I have worked on 40M SSB, and there doesn't seem to be any move toward it counting. John, NT5C. --- To unsubscribe or subscribe to this list. Please send a message to imail...@njdxa.org In the message body put either unsubscribe dx-chat or subscribe dx-chat This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org ---
[DX-CHAT] The Original Ponzi Scheme
I learned something fascinating from the New York Times on-line today. Before he developed the financial fraud which made his name infamous, Charles Ponzi tried to make a bundle by speculating in the predecessors of IRCs : Born in Italy in 1882, he arrived in 1903 and made his way to Montreal, where he served three years for check forgery. He eventually returned to Boston and devised a novel scheme to build a financial empire based on prepaid coupons that nations issued for postal replies. By buying the coupons at a fixed rate, he could exploit international currency fluctuations by redeeming them at a higher price. But after offering depositors high interest rates, Ponzi never really dealt in postal coupons, which turned out to be too unwieldy for large-scale speculation I knew there had to be SOME use for them! John, NT5C. --- To unsubscribe or subscribe to this list. Please send a message to imail...@njdxa.org In the message body put either unsubscribe dx-chat or subscribe dx-chat This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org ---
[DX-CHAT] Reunion Island, and all that.
France is divided into about 100 Departments (the first two digits of that 5 digit number). All French overseas territories, such as Reunion Island, are included in that system. By directing your QSL to France, it will get expeditiously to Paris, then be treated as French INTERNAL mail for the final rapid hop to Reunion (there's at least one daily nonstop from CDG). The penalty for messing with French internal mail is Madame La Guillotine. So, the correct way to conclude the address is : 97xxx Reunion, FRANCE. On the other hand, if you address it something like Reunion Island, Indian Ocean, it will vanish into never-never land, and not be seen again. 73, John, NT5C. --- To unsubscribe or subscribe to this list. Please send a message to [EMAIL PROTECTED] In the message body put either unsubscribe dx-chat or subscribe dx-chat This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org ---
[DX-CHAT] Re: Are CW ops getting older?
On Jun 30, 2008, , David G3XYP wrote: I recently made a few QSO's during the All Asia CW test, the exchange in the AA Test is RS(T) and Age for OM's. Having checked my contacts I found the average age was 49.1!! I wonder if anyone else checked their contacts this way. It will be interesting to do the same thing with the SSB test coming up ( I think) in September. David, The same question was asked recently on the Contest Reflector. My observation - certainly in our Contest/DX club CTDXCC - is that serious contesting has become a hobby for upper-middle-aged folks (40-60?) who for the first time in their lives have some serious available time and disposable income. Of course we want young people too, but they tend to be short on those two items. And as for OFs like me - we're past the complexity and stress of modern contesting! So I think that looking at the number of young people in contesting is misleading. In general, it's not a young person's game. But as that generation matures, they'll get the time, money and renewed interest which will make them the heart of the contesting business 20 years from now. 73, John, NT5C. --- To unsubscribe or subscribe to this list. Please send a message to [EMAIL PROTECTED] In the message body put either unsubscribe dx-chat or subscribe dx-chat This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org ---
[DX-CHAT] Re: Kosova
On Mar 22, 2008, at 9:05 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: China, Russia, ARRL against. Free world in favor. Whose the patsies guys. David W1GDQ David, That really is an unfair slap at ARRL, which is neither FOR nor AGAINST Kosova. Very wisely, ARRL set up specific non-amateur criteria which must be met by any new DXCC Entity, so that the decision is not reached by somebody's personal or political opinion (which someone else disagrees with, etc, etc). If you think those criteria are wrong, tell your ARRL Director. In the meantime ARRL is - correctly - on hold. CQ is a separate commercial organization, and can do whatever it wants for scoring in the contests which it owns. 73, John, NT5C. 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: SWL QSLing
On Mar 17, 2008, at 4:20 PM, Elmar NL13289 wroteHow many of you do reply on a QSL card from a SWL? Every now and then, discussions are started on this reflector about good and bad manners when operating. Pile-ups are a great example of mis behaviour by quite a few hams. Those "amateurs" need to start over again and do a few years of SWL-ing. Give it a try to log about 6 stations in a row (with complete RS(T)-reports) for a station not working split in a pile-up. Thats what I allways try to do. But it can be hard sometimes because of the manners of stations trying to contact the calling station. 73s, Elmar NL13289Elmar,I was an amateur-band SWL for 39 years before getting my license, so I always reply to valid SWL cards. But I get some which are not valid : For example, with my transmitter off I spot some DX on the cluster, and an SWL assumes that I worked it, and sends a QSL card! - or I work someone on 40M and I get cards for 10/15/20/40.I gave up on QSLing when I was an SWL. The return ratio was too depressingly low. Instead I tape recorded the rare ones, and I'm glad now that I did that - some interesting memories from 1948 onwards.73, John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chatTo post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.orgThis is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
[DX-CHAT] Evils of SSB
Begin forwarded message:From: Skip Cameron [EMAIL PROTECTED]Date: March 14, 2008 9:22:14 AM CDTTo: John Warren NT5C [EMAIL PROTECTED]Subject: [Fwd: Evils of SSB] From: Skip Cameron [EMAIL PROTECTED]Date: March 14, 2008 8:14:17 AM CDTSubject: Evils of SSBI knew there was a reason that I liked CW! Looked this up and assume it's Super Smash Brothers, a Sony wii video game that has violence and especially gun violence, and in one sequence uses the Church of England's Manchester Cathedral as a field hospital to tend to the human casualties of the war with aliens. The sign is actually a fabrication from http://www.churchsigngenerator.com/index_3.php Skip W5GAI Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chatTo post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.orgThis is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
[DX-CHAT] OX3KQ e-mail Address
I've been trying to e-mail Jesper, OX3KQ. The address I found for him doesn't work : [EMAIL PROTECTED] Does anyone have an address that does work (or might work)? Please reply privately. Thanks in advance, John, NT5C. 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: Making a List Checking It Twice...
Ron W3WN wrote: Only question is... which set of cards to send? ... would you send in for a single mode (which one?) or a single band (which one?)? Ron, Unless you want to spend your whole life on the radio (and we both know people who do), you need first to pick a limited set of objectives which are of real interest to you, and in which you want to excel. IMHO, it's more satisfying to be an expert in a few DXCCs (and WAZs) than an also-ran in many. So back in 1987 I picked three: 'Phone, 40M and 80M. I further limited 40M and 80M to 'Phone only, although ARRL doesn't recognize mode restrictions for single band DXCCs. But I know who my 'Phone-only competitors are in those DXCC and WAZ lists, hi! Your choice of 3 DXCCs (say) would undoubtedly be different to mine of course. As a bonus, that will keep your cost down too. If you don't set clear objectives early on, you'll scatter your DXing efforts too broadly and will regret that later when your primary interests become more apparent. For me, intensive effort toward a modest number of key objectives is more satisfying than the scatter-shot approach. Others may disagree, and will undoubtedly tell us! Seasons Greetings and Merry Christmas to all, John, NT5C. 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: CQ Magazine Editorial
I haven't gotten my CQ for December and lots of the guys don't take it. Would you mind giving us all a summary and your thoughts on both sides of the discussion? That's a tough assignment Bryan. It's a complicated subject, and it took W2VU a full page of fine print to present the arguments. What I'm most worried about is the plan to establish segments for automatically controlled wide-bandwidth (2700Hz) digital stations on all HF bands except 160M and 30M. These robot station segments are typically right at the low (DX) end of the U.S. 'phone bands. Currently data transmission is not permitted there. We have enough trouble trying to find tiny gaps to work 40M SSB DX now, with digital QRM everywhere. ARRL wants to make it even worse, by edict. They are entitled to their view, but their tactics are sneaky. Allegedly IARU Region II has ALREADY adopted the plan, to take effect Jan 1 2008. At this stage it's voluntary for the national governing bodies (e.g.the FCC), but next the pressure will build. BTW, surely anyone who is serious about DXing/contesting MUST subscribe to CQ Magazine ? How can anyone participate without it? 73, John, NT5C. 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] CQ Magazine Editorial
Interesting editorial by Rich W2VU on P8 of December CQ Magazine. Topic is Regulation-by-Bandwidth, and the (alleged) way the ARRL Board is using IARU Region II to make a fast end run around U.S. amateurs and the FCC after their first approach drew little support. I find Rich's argument persuasive. Any thoughts, comments - or rebuttal ? John, NT5C. 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] Culture Change on DX Cluster?
I think I detect the start of a culture change on the DX cluster. You may not care about it, or - more likely - you'll deplore it, but I think it's happening anyway, and probably can't be reversed. It's self-spotting. In most contests it's illegal, but not at other times, and for many less experienced, and often less powerful DX stations, especially outside North America, putting one's own callsign on the cluster is becoming a definite aid to CQing on the bands. Under certain circumstances, I don't look at it quite as negatively as some purists. It's useful for priming the pump for unusual openings, when you alert people to turn their beams to unconventional directions. For example, 10M long path when (if?) the sunspots come back, or 10M side-scatter in the summer. What say you? John, NT5C. 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: FR5DX QSLs
Let me attempt the lonely and dangerous task of defending Herik FR5DX/FR0FLO! Back around 1990 I had just started chasing low-band SSB DX. I worked Herik as FR0FLO on both 40SSB and 75SSB, and obviously needed his card for both new band-countries and band-zones. Knowing his reputation, I decided to bribe him - but not with money. I had heard him say he was looking for a new rig, so I airmailed with my QSL the latest Kenwood, ICOM and Yaesu HF brochures, plus return cost in FF to simplify his life. Cards came back airmail with a very nice letter in 10 days. QSLers need to be innovative. (My best was a complaint to an operator's mother - it worked). John, NT5C. 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: FR5DX QSLs
Ron KA2BZS wrote: It's a sad commentary to say one has to Bribe to get a qsl.. This op used to rack up big scores in contests with hoards calling for the new country, band, or whatever with little or NO chance of ever receiving a card in return for their qsl. Many sent direct with proper postage/IRC/ If an operator is in a rare or semi-rare country and cannot qsl responsibly, they should seek a manager who can fulfill these duties. Direct qsls should be a priority. I will not work any station in contests who will or has not returned my qsl. Just one ops opinion. 73/DX Ron I have a slightly different view Ron. DXing is just one big game, and the rare stations who are in demand set the QSL rules. If you want to play (you don't have to), then you play by their rules. Personally, I enjoy the game, and get a lot of satisfaction wheedling a QSL by one means or another from every low-band zone or country I work. I have 100% band-zones/countries confirmed from 40M/75M SSB QSOs over 6 months old. That's close to 680 cards. I'm totally baffled by people who willingly drop $3000 on a beautiful new rig, and then complain bitterly about having to spend a little effort and/or $2 to get a QSL back proving their accomplishments. I now spend almost as much time and effort on QSLing as I do on DXing. I'm ready to go to great lengths - all the usual tricks, plus FedEx with prepaid return, foreign couriers, donations (for the QSL, NOT the QSO!), and - as I said previously - complaining to the operator's mother. It's all part of the fun, and after umpteen years I still love to see those airmail envelopes arrive in my mailbox! Just my 2c worth, John, NT5C. 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: E7
Lou KE1F wrote: I just worked E7/DK6XZ, what country is he from? New prefix being phased in to replace T9. 73, John, NT5C 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: Real DX
John AE5B wrote: Fifty years ago this week, a fourteen year old shortwave listener tuned his ancient Hallicrafters S40B to 20.005 Megacycles and was able to hear a weak, scratchy beeb-beeb-bee from Sputnik I. What is DX? To a 14 year old kid that was REAL DX. To those of you that have been around awhile...hasn't it been fun? Indeed it has. At the same time, a brand new immigrant, living in the United States for three weeks, did the same thing with a Hallicrafters SX-100, on which he had spent virtually all his first paycheck. About a week earlier he had hand carried all 45 lbs of it from downtown Boston on the MTA to Everett, and then to his attic apartment in Malden, MA. But I'll never forget my XYL, and our landlord and landlady sitting there with me listening to those beeps. 73, John, NT5C. 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] ZD9BCB
Does anyone have an e-mail address for Brian, ZD9BCB ? I'm familiar with his operation at the upper end of 20M SSB around 1700Z, but that's not a good place to discuss a possible low-band sked. But I suspect any internet link on Gough Island is probably via Inmarsat, so very expensive for any personal business. TIA, John, NT5C. 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: BS7H
Larry K4WLS wrote: If you wanted a Give Away Extra, now you got it !!! ENJOY all the Lids, CB'ers, and QRM you invited in !! I got BS-7H back in '95 with a H.B. Vertical and 90W. Just for fun, bet I can do it again. Larry, There's no reason to believe that the BS7H QRM is due to the newcomers into our hobby. Doubt that most of them know who BS7H is! Much more likely to come from frustrated, impatient 20wpm OTs who are near the top of Honor Roll. John, NT5C. 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] The ARRL
I really don't understand the anti-ARRL attitude which is quite common in the DXing and contesting community. And it can be quite bitter, as we've just seen in the 7O1YGF discussion on another reflector. Now I'll agree that the ARRL is not perfect, in fact far from it. Many years ago, I decided not to become a life-member, because I disagreed strongly with one of their key positions. I played along each year, ready to jump ship if necessary. Fortunately they came to their senses and corrected that position. I would have saved a lot of money if I had become a life-member way back! My point is that ARRL CHANGED, because the consensus of its members changed. The ARRL is not them, it's us! If you don't like the positions taken by your board member, tell him or her, and be prepared to stand for election next time to see if your views get accepted. But despite its imperfections, ARRL represents amateur radio worldwide (not just in the USA) better than any other organization, including IARU. A particular point of criticism seems to be the DXCC branch, and the way it deals with DXpeditions and potential new DXCC Entities. As a member of the DX Advisory Committee, I'd agree that some of the executive decisions appear on occasion to be arbitrary (7O1YGF, BS7H, etc). But for better or worse there are some key threads which explain most of them: Take the long-term view; Support governments and national amateur radio organizations; And above all try not to risk the integrity of the #1 award in ham radio (memories of Romeo still hurt!). So, when you bash ARRL and especially DXCC, expect me to tune out folks. 73, John, NT5C. 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] More on Kosovo
The compromise independence-lite solution between Serbia and Kosovo, which will be proposed by the UN tomorrow, supposedly includes a UN seat for Kosovo. If that is the case, and the proposal is accepted by both parties, Kosovo would in due course become a new DXCC Entity. John, NT5C. 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] ZS8MI
Mark K2AU wrote: A friend on mine worked ZS8MI back in April, 2004. He is having a problem getting a QSL. Does anyone have any information that might be helpful in getting this card? Perhaps via Chris ZS6EZ. He seems to know most of the guys who go to ZS8. I'd suggest an e-mail to Chris first, to check possibilities. See QRZ.COM GL! John, NT5C. 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] After-effects
Gerry VE6LB wrote: I've been active since 1956 and don't recall where Canada ever prevented US sub band expansion. I don't believe we had the ability to do that then or now. Prevented, as used by Jim N4JA, may be just a slight over-statement. I would substitute lobbied strongly and successfully against. There's no question that one key reason the Lower 48 states have been deprived of 'Phone privileges below 7100 KHz was successful lobbying against that by the regular Canadian invited Observers at ARRL Board meetings. The Board in turn, mostly CW enthusiasts, had no problem persuading a neutral FCC to make it a formal rule. John, NT5C. 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] Yaesu FT-2000
Has anyone had a chance yet to get some serious use of the new Yaesu FT-2000, especially with one or more MTU preselectors installed? For me, the key question with any new rig is whether the receiver performance is SIGNIFICANTLY better than its predecessor, or its competitors. A new rig will always have new features, which typically make working difficult ones easier, but I'd like to hear whether the FT-2000 plus MTU is noticeably better receiving than the FT-1000MP (for example). We shouldn't assume that improved receiver performance comes automatically along with all the extra features. For example, although the FT-1000MP is my primary workhorse rig, I have always been disappointed that its raw sensitivity on a totally quiet band (10M long path for example) is not as good as my old Kenwood TS-940S, which will be back on live standby when the sunspots eventually return. TIA, John, NT5C. 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] Why the new DXCC rule
Ron W3WN wrote: The unintentional side effect was the creation of several new entities by creation of an IARU society -- Ducie for one comes to mind, which followed from the creation of the Pitcairn Is IARU society. Consider that at least one of these IARU groups was created solely to in turn create a DXCC entity, and appear to otherwise be inactive groups (if not total shams). So I for one was not upset when the rule in question was removed. I suggested turning Andy ZD9BV, the only active ham on Tristan da Cunah, into an IARU Society. That would have made Tristan a Parent entity, and allowed Gough Is - plenty far enough away - to become a new one. Oh well. Just in case anyone thinks about it, it doesn't seem to work under the new rule, because I discovered that neither Tristan nor Gough have independent administrations. Both are governed via St Helena ZD7. 73, John, NT5C. 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] Kosovo
Tom N4TJ wrote: It has just been reported in the media that reps of Kosovo met with Serbian officials today for the first time and FORMALLY MADE NOTICE OF A PLAN TO DECLARE INDEPENDENCE. Yes but Apparently the Serbs replied Like !BBC News doesn't think independence is imminent (see article referred to). Maybe 1 year ?? John, NT5C 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] 30 Meter SSB QSO
Mike W2LO wrote: .but are there any administrations worldwide that permit SSB on 30? Absolutely. Many I believe. Our FCC is in the minority of communications authorities which legally control where amateurs can transmit each mode. In many countries it's a matter of custom and self-policing. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think SSB is legal in the UK on 30M for example. John, NT5C. 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] Why use IRCs?
Barry W2UP wrote: Just wondering why anyone in the US still uses IRCs. In most countries, a greenstamp covers it. Secondary market IRCs are ~$1.30 and they expire and can't be recirculated forever like the old ones. Countries where postage is more than $1 typically require more than 1 IRC for airmail return to NA. I agree with Barry, except that the unless you're SURE one greenstamp is enough, two is really the standard these days. In fact, Germany was up to $2.25 last time I checked. And trying to send appropriate mint stamps is equally risky - rates increase regularly. I know U.S. dollars are illegal in a few places, but a lot of recipients don't cash them anyway - they use them in their own QSLing. John, NT5C. 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] QSLing JT1CO
Title: Re: QSLing JT1CO Ed K2MP wrote: Two major QSL lookup sights, one sez ...Mongolia... other sez ... Mongolia via Japan Any experience on what works ? Tnx Strongly recommend Mongolia, via Japan. Otherwise standard USPO routing is via Russia, where it will disappear. 73 and GL, John, NT5C.
Re: [DX-CHAT] G4ZU
Bill W5EC wrote: Sorry to hear of the passing of Dick Bird, G4ZU. My first decent beam, around 1963, was a homemade G4ZU Minibeam I made from aluminum pieces salvaged from a government scrap yard. I used it for at least 10 years. It was great! He will be missed. Wow! Does this bring back memories! Dicky Bird, G4ZU, was THE big gun in my hometown of Croydon, Surrey, while I was a high school kid and SWL growing up there. I will never forget his superb aristocratic voice perfectly enunciating George Four Zanzibar United. All that an SWL had to do was to stay on his frequency, and reel in the rare ones. Surprisingly I never met him. As a senior manager in UK Post Office engineering, he was much too far above my humble station for that! Initially I was surprised that he left Britain to retire in southwestern France as F6IDC, but as by chance my career made me very familiar with that country, I knew exactly why he chose that beautiful, warm part of Europe. John, NT5C. 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] FCC proposes to drop morse code requirement......
Ernie VK3FM wrote: To all my 'W' friends who believe this latest FCC proposal is 'the end of civilisation as we know it', 'the last roll of the dice', 'the final straw', etc, can I suggest you grit your teeth , think FORWARD, and enjoy the hobby you so obviously love, and EMAIL ME directly in twelve months if you can identify a SINGLE difference to your hobby as a result of this determination (assuming that it does, indeed, go through in due course). Australia dropped morse completely some time ago as a licence requirement, and let me tell you, folks, that it made not a JOT of practical difference to the hobby in VK. CW is alive and well. Exactly! Ernie has it 100% right, and so does the FCC. This is a HOBBY - Do what you ENJOY! If that is 35wpm CW contesting, good luck to you. Nobody is trying to stop you, and you'll certainly have my support re dedicated band segments, etc. But don't demand that I learn an art form in which I have no interest. Perhaps if I hadn't been force-fed 20wpm, I would have learned code at my own pace, and enjoyed it too. We'll never know. And by the way, the fact that I've never owned a key and wouldn't know how to use one, doesn't make me a worse (or better) Extra Class amateur than any code enthusiast. It's how proudly, effectively and courteously you use your amateur license AFTER you've got it that distinguishes you from a CBer. 73, John, NT5C. 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] Best Antenna - Surrounded area-?
Title: Re: Best Antenna - Surrounded area-? Sara VU3RSB wrote: My name is OM Sara, VU3RSB from India. Member of recent VU4/Tsunami operations in Andaman Islands. After the expedition curious about DxingUnfortunately recently city developments took my place in bad shape and things are changed too quick. I may not get the station at all but the other station will hear us very strong... So our Noise level increased very highand unable to make good dxing... Example yesterday on 40 M .. US Station can able to hear but i am not able to hear Can any one help me with good antenna design... Suggestion if u dont mine please. Sara, On the low bands (40/80/160), receiving is almost always a bigger problem than getting your signal out. That's especially true if you have strong local noise. Your situation is very common these days. Unfortunately, the best solutions - Yagis and/or Beverage receiving antennas - both require lots of space, something which doesn't exist in most city locations. You should probably look at loop receiving antennas, which don't take up much area. I'm not an expert on those, so hopefully other people on this Reflector will give you more information. But your signal was 55 into Texas on 40M SSB long-path yesterday, so you have half the problem solved. Don't give up! 73, John, NT5C.
[DX-CHAT] Cluster Self-spotting
There's been a lot of analysis on the Contest Reflector about self-spotting (or friend-spotting, or club-spotting, or whatever). I'm not going to get into that argument, but I'd like to broaden the question outside contests. Is self-spotting ALWAYS bad? My personal view: Usually yes. But not always. I think it can be a good way to prime the pump for unusual propagation paths. If I'm on a band where 100% of the operators are using the conventional paths, and I happen to know, or think, that an unexpected path might be open, my first step is to call CQ that way. But suppose my weaker CQ is being buried by all the normal operations? Then I will occasionally spot myself as calling Eur LP for example, just to see if we can get something started. Sort of the modern equivalent of W2** Testing Propagation I suppose, hi!! I found self-spotting particularly useful around the sunspot peak on 10M, to get things started on long and scatter paths which most people weren't looking for. Other opinions? John, NT5C. 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] No EU pilot for KH8SI ?
Ron WN3VAW wrote: I wouldn't hold my breath on this one (unless Swain's is on a separate tectonic plate from Tutula and they're drifting apart from each other real quick), but WFWL. Here's the direct quote from K1ZZ's White Paper on behalf of the ARRL: Contacts with KH8SI operating from Swain's Island will count for American Samoa for DXCC purposes and for OC-200 for the RSGB's Islands on the Air (IOTA) program. I'd say that's pretty definitive. WF and don't even bother to WL. John, NT5C. 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] The Two BS7H operations
I believed they approved the 95 operation. Rod WC7N Yep. '94 was not accepted, '95 was approved. I don't recall what changed. Still the same little piece of very damp rock! John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Query abt DX splits
Charly K4VUD wrote: A question for all What does the DX community think about a rare DX station transmitting Phone outside the American Phone sub-band and listening up into the American sub-band ? Standard Operating Procedure on 40M SSB. Advantages: 1. Forces some freq. police and jammers to xmit illegally out of their assigned band in order to xmit on the DX frequency. The big advantage, especially on 40M SSB, is that most would-be jammers can't find the DX frequency. But if eventually they do, they transmit SSB without signing, or RTTY, or tones, or.. The other advantage is that the U.S. DXer doesn't have to listen to all the bitching and moaning on his transmit frequency. And when the infuriated pig-farmers track down your L/L number and call, make sure the XYL answers - BEFORE the pig-farmers unleash their obscenities. Otherwise the XYL gets very disturbed, and causes local QRM. 73, John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Query abt DX splits
Peter W2IRT wrote: The *really* interesting thing is what's going to happen on 40 metres in a few years from now. Will there be a common SSB DX frequency on 40 when everybody outside region 2 gets 7100 to 7200? The broadcasters are leaving in 2009, and a few countries have the new 100 kHz already (the UK gets it Nov. 1st). Since we still can't use 7100 to 7150 for SSB (I hope this changes, frankly), it looks as if everything's going to be compressed into the top 50 kHz of 40M. ARRL is asking FCC to give the Lower 48 'phone rights down to 7125, so the overlap with Europe would become 75KHz. That's the good news. The bad news is that there are a lot of entrenched nets between 7150-7200, and a lot of people (including some in ARRL) who don't consider 40M SSB as a DX band. Unless ARRL proposes most or all of 7125-7200 as a Gentleman's Agreement DX segment, like 3790-3800, there will be horrendous fights when the Europeans get going there. In fact, unless we get a significant DX Window there, I think the present situation working split is much better. John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] The French
Steve N4JQQ wrote: I agree, in spite of the fact that the French did everything in their power to hinder the invasion and anything else the British and the US came up with. Interesting that they haven't changed a bit. Steve, That is a spectacular inaccuracy. How well do you know the French? Through my career and for other reasons I happen to know France and its people quite well, and they are some of the best. Have you ever read or heard anything about the French Resistance, and its contributions to D-Day? I knew some of those folks personally, and they were as brave as any American, Brit or Canadian. I think you owe them a public apology - but I don't expect to see one. 73, John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] OH2AQ?
Steve K8WK wrote: Anybody else having trouble accessing oh2aq web spots URL today? Yes. But try the Japanese equivalent at http://www.dxscape.com/ 73, John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] 3C0V OFF TIMES
Tom N4KG wrote: According to the Spot Database on DX Summit, there are NO spots for 3C0V on the following dates and times. Basically, they seem to all be asleep between 0030 - 0100 and 0600 - 0700Z which will limit low band openings to the central and western USA. Hopefully they will provide some late night activity for the Low Banders as the high band demand begins to drop off :-) I read somewhere that the local power was off during those hours. If that's true, it's a bit surprising that they didn't take a generator with them to permit low-band operation to most of USA. John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] What is DX?
Steve N3SL wrote: My basic difficulty is with the concept of an unattainable goal - and I don't mean unattainable only by me. I'm to the point of needing only VU4, and there's nothing to suggest there's a snowball's chance for that to be active. I must respectfully disagree with that thinking. VU4 will become active. I have no idea when or how, but it will, just like XY and ZA. It may take 5 years, 10 years, or more - but it will. That's what makes DXCC so great. Eventually you'll succeed at what you thought was IMPOSSIBLE. That's a real high! Early in my HF career (late-80s I think), I struggled to complete a QSO with VK0HI on Heard Is. I could never quite pull out my report, and had to give up. It wasn't too many more years during that pre-P5 era before VK0(H) was the only one I needed for Top of Honor Roll. But I had to wait about 10 more years before VK0IR went there. Top of Honor Roll at last, right? No way! Two years before the VK0IR DXpedition, P5 was added to the list, and that one was REALLY impossible. It finally took me about 13 years from missing VK0HI until I worked Ed P5/4L4FN to make Top of Honor Roll, but boy were those 13 years fun. Relax Steve! 73, and GL with VU4, John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
[DX-CHAT] 40M Expansion
I'll bet I'm not the only person thinking about how best to use the 40M changes that will occur six years from now. Here's a suggestion to get the ball rolling - but no doubt there are angles I haven't thought of. 40M is a wonderful DX band, with outstanding propagation matched only by 20M, and not even by that band at the bottom of the sunspot cycle. But SSB DXers and contesters have always been hamstrung by the FCC keeping USA Lower 48 above 7150, and ITU keeping Region 1 below 7100. So we have to work split, irritating all the U.S.local ragchewers - especially during contests. (My XYL is tired of answering ill-tempered L/L calls). The least efficiently used portion of the Region 2 amateur band is 7100-7150, largely because of the high BC occupancy. It's also way under-utilized by Novice and Tech-Plus licensees, and those folks can now easily upgrade to 5wpm General and use the 7025+ segment. In preparation for 2009, I suggest the ARRL petitions the FCC to assign 7100-7150 to the Stateside end of intercontinental SSB QSOs. Not much would happen initially due to the BC QRM, but as that slowly goes away, and all those Novices and Tech-Plus of past years graduate to General, we could move down from among the ragchewers above 7150 and have some clearer space, even though still operating split. But in 2009 the rest of the world gets spectrum rights up to 7200, and at last we would have a true worldwide SSB DX window, 7100-7150, with no more split, and negligible QRM from other modes and local operations! If you don't like that, how would you use the 2009 changes to arrange a 40M SSB DX/contest window? John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Deleted vs Expunged
Dean K7NO wrote: When I started DXing- (here comes the when I was a kid, I had to walk 10 miles through 10 feet of snow to go to school. Nostalgia BS)- no one was even close to top 'o the roll. Now, it can be accomplished in a few years. Heck, there were countries on the list that we were NOT ALLOWED to contact, e.g. U* and BY. What a challenge. Now, shack-on-a-belt types can link through some group of capital letter technoconcept and get DXCC from his bedroom while recovering from the flu, send in the log via e-mail and have the Plaque in less than a week! I think I will learn to crochet. Wanna doily? Don't have to leave ham radio Dean. Plenty of other DX challenges if Top of DXCC Honor Roll is too easy for you now. How about 5BWAZ on SSB? Or WAZ on 160M? Just pick your flavor and make it as tough as you want. 73, John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] E44/4Z5MK and TX0AT
Jack K4WSB wrote: Surprise, surprise, surprise! # 329 in the bag! Or is it? No chatter this morning on the validity of this operation. Anyone on the reflector have some insider information. No insider information Jack, but I'd be very surprised if the E44 counted. He stated on the air that he had no license from the PLA, and was operating under Israeli authority (presumably military). Anyone heard anything on the last Chesterfield operation? Awfully quiet on this one! I seem to recall that TX0AT submitted something to DXCC, but the material was illegible, so a re-submission has been requested. I'm sure I'll be corrected if I've got that wrong. 73, John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Sunrise/Sunset Times
Charlie W0YG wrote: One neat program that I am looking for was a sunrise/sunset table for anywhere in the world, any day/month of the year. I'm sure that's on-line somewhere, and also accessible via DX cluster, but I use a treasured, dog-eared copy of The ARRL Operating Manual, 3rd edition (1987?). It gives the data at 2-week intervals. Easy to interpolate to get it closer, either by date or geographically. It's just about the most valuable tool I know for low-band DXing. Don't think later editions kept it though? Too bad. 73, John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Be Careful What You Wish For
James N6DHZ wrote: Everyone keeps saying these operations/operators are illegal. If the licensing authority of the host country does not deem it illegal then it would seem to be that the operation is legal. I belive this was the case in Chesterfield... Several of the earlier posts, a week or two ago suggested that these combined operations be denied DXCC acceptance. I can't see this being done if the host country does not consider the operations illegal. But most of the stations they worked WERE illegal James, because the situation which is alleged to exist in New Caledonia certainly does not exist in most other countries. And don't kid yourself - They knew that! This would be the same as the DXCC Desk not accepting split 40m contacts since it is illegal for US amateurs to operate phone at below 7.150Mhz. Are the South American stations working below 7.100Mhz Illegal because they would be if they were located in the US? Not so. This is not an accurate analogy. In the case of 40M split, BOTH stations are operating 100% legally. That's rarely if ever true in freebanding. What I can't understand is why any licensed amateur would WANT to operate freeband? Perhaps some of the Chesterfield or Sable Island crew can explain? 73, John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
[DX-CHAT] CB and Freebanding
There's an important distinction between CB and Freebanding. In the USA, and many other countries, there is a 100% legal Citizens Band. The frequencies, power limit, etc., are all defined, and although not everyone stays within those limits, many do. Numerous hams, including some quite well-known DXers and contesters got started in CB. Hams tend to poke fun at chicken banders, but that's a LEGAL activity. Freebanding on the other hand is rarely 100% legal, is at least undefined, and is most often ILLEGAL in one way or another. They typically operate between 10M and CB, on frequencies that are allegedly accepted by some countries, but are surely not by most, and they QSO with people who are also operating illegally. In some cases their actual presence in a rare place is illegal (e.g. KP5), but they take pride in beating the law! Again, my question is what happens to freebanding when 10/11M go dead in a few years? Will they show up somewhere else? John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
[DX-CHAT] Freebanding: KP5
Another illegal freeband DXpedition was to KP5 Desecheo Island. They were part of the Sugar-Delta Group (whatever that means), with the callsign 299SD0. Their website http://www.sugardelta.com/299sd0/index.htm blatantly points out how the location was hidden from the authorities, and how they successfully avoided being caught! I wonder what these people will do as the sunspot cycle goes down and 11M dies? John, NT5C. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
