OK, I'll bite.
What is "passive assistance"? Is that just the assisted class in HF
contesting that allows you to monitor a cluster but no self spotting?
73,
Tom K6EU
On 2/15/2011 11:47 AM, Les Rayburn wrote:
> The February 2011 issue of CQ Magazine includes contest results for last
> year's "CQ WW VHF" contest, and an explanation of their decision to allow
> "passive assistance" starting with the 2011 event. Complete details of the
> rules change are promised in the June Issue.
>
> This change better reflects the normal modes of operation on VHF, and
> recognizes the inherent differences between VHF and HF contesting. The
> articles specifically cites that "VHF usually demands antennas with narrow
> beamwidths which must be pointed directionally to make the contact. This
> capability is enhanced by utilizing information posted on the cluster with
> logging programs that simply allow a mouse click to find the contact".
>
> As usual, CQ Magazine seems to lead the way with common sense solutions to
> VHF Contesting issues without the baggage of HF contesting bias, or a world
> view that seems to think that VHF operation around the world is exactly the
> same as it is in the Northeastern part of the United States.
>
> For most of us in the rest of the country, the combination of weak signals
> and highly directional antennas simply means that stations spend a lot of
> time, like ships, "passing in the night" without either station being aware
> that the other is even on during the contest period. This means fewer
> contacts and a lot less fun.
>
> I'd love to see the ARRL take a more enlightened viewpoint in regards to
> assistance in VHF Contests, allowing for passive assistance. I suspect it
> would make little or no difference as to who wins or loses the events (and
> most of us casual contesters are not that concerned about winning anyway)
> and would put a lot more new ones in the log. For many VHF Men, that's the
> whole point of contest operation. It's basically an oversized "activity
> night" for bands that are normally very quiet.
>
> The topic ends by saying, "We think this will not only keep the CQ WW VHF
> Contest up-to-date with present technology, but will also put more QSOs in
> your log. That has to be a good thing. We hope you approve."
>
> I can only speak for myself, CQ Magazine, but this is one VHF Contester who
> certainly does! BRAVO!
>
> 73,
>
>
> Les Rayburn, N1LF
> EM63nf
> 121 Mayfair Park
> Maylene, AL 35114
>
> 6M VUCC #1712
> Grid Bandit #222
> Life Member Central States VHF Society
>
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>
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