Jim and others who wonder about evidence that the rules are
dysfunctional (defering to our tech editor W5WVO :^)=)
Consider the following:
1. Several rules in VHF contesting are not rigorous, they rely on
intent and interpretation that the sponsoring organization is
unwilling to engage. The rule "encouraging" rovers to work as many
stations as possible is one of these as is the suggestion that the
rigs used be capable of communication over paths greater than a km.
2. There are some rules in place that discourage participation rather
than encourage it. Rules limiting log submissions to one per
individual which are absent on HF are one of these rules as is the
limited classes.
3. The VHF/UHF contest rule making, developing, and enforcing
functions are spread out over 5 entities, none of which feel they have
any real authority in the process.
4. HF contesting is growing, but VHF contesting has stagnated.
5. Every ARRL VHF/UHF contest has essentially the same rules. They
have been reduced to the set that is likely to cause significant
complaints.
6. Although the contest exchange is a grid square and multipliers are
grid squares, awards are still made at the section and division level.
Awards should be made at the grid level to make things consistent.
7. Despite the proliferation of categories in VHF contesting,
participation has not significantly increased with this proliferation.
8. Despite the proliferation of DC to Daylight rigs among the general
population, participation in VHF contests has stagnated in the same
period.
9. VHF/UHF rule making has not kept up with technological innovation.
It is much easier to get on UHF and microwave bands now than it was 25
years ago, yet the QSO point advantage for the higher bands, initially
instituted to encourage activity there, has remained the same.
10. VHF awards are not closely tied to contest participation as they
are on HF because the VUCC awards are not part of LOTW. And it appears
they will not be made part of it in the future.
There are probably others. - Duffey
--
KK6MC
James Duffey
Cedar Crest NM
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