Heard Island Expedition 1997 (Planning Documents)
Peter Casier ON6TT
Some Famous Quotes:
"Here we are gathered, all of us, some of the world's best operators ready to embark on a long adventure. Each of us with our strong points and weaker points, each of us with our expectations, each of us with our own ideas of how to do things. Now is the time to set all of our individualisms aside, and to work as a team to our common goal. Air an event that will long be remembered for its quality."
WØRLX - co-teamleader AH1A expedition, Waikiki Beach, Hawaii, 1993
"Tomorrow we sail. Today is a day to decide. Each one of you must decide for himself, for the last time, if he is up to the task, the task to work in this team, operating from the most wanted country in the world, from the most isolated place and from the harshest living conditions on the face of the earth. This manual describes how it is going to be done. This operating manual sums up the rules by which we are going to achieve our goals. If you decide you can not live and operate according to these rules, then you decide to leave the team. Right here and now."
KØIR - teamleader 3YØPI expedition, Port Stanley, Falklands, 1994
"Let's kick some ass!"
WA2FIJ - teamleader FOØCI - Clipperton Island, 1992
Over the past two years, we have planned this expedition to one of the most wanted countries in the world. We have gathered the biggest and by far the best, most experienced expedition team ever. We have now embarked on the most expensive and best prepared amateur radio trip, but also one of the most spoken off, and the most visible. But whatever our potential, experience, financial capacity or preparedness, we can still fail as no team has failed before. But we can also succeed as no team has succeeded before.
Now, my friends, has come the time to prove what we are really worth. And the only way we are going to be valued on is how we perform on the air. Each of us has contributed a great deal to this expedition. We have all invested a great deal of our own money, our time and efforts in this project. Each of us should have an equal share of joy during this expedition.
This manual is the guideline for all on how to perform well on the air and how each can have an equal share of the radio joy. For some of us, most things will sound obvious, for others some of it might be new material. This manual contains more than guidelines, they are rules, they are laws. Each of us will work as a team member, by these rules. And together, we will what we really are: the world's best. Ladies and gentlemen, fasten your seat belts, here's VKØIR!
In order of importance:
1.1. Have fun and provide fun:
Each operator in the team should get his equal share in the joy. And each of us will work as a service to the ham community. There will be no ego tripping, no preaching, no bitching to the audience nor to each other.
1.2. Provide as many hams as possible with a new country
We will always air as many stations as possible to concentrate on the main open bands, so we can get as many different calls as possible in our log.
1.3. Evenly spread our attention over the different continents' audience
Some continents will be easier to work than others. Europe and Japan will be relative easy. South and North America will be more difficult. During the openings to the latter, we will give priority to them. On an activity sheet in the kitchen tent, we will log which continents we worked during our shift, and regularly revise which continents we will have to give more attention.
1.4. Evenly spread the modes
We will equally divide our attention between CW and SSB, on all bands. RTTY will only be run on the main open bands to each continent. The activity sheet will log which modes we have run on which band and to which country.
1.5. Provide as many band-countries as possible
We will only start operating when the whole camp is set up, and when all bands are installed. From the first moment on, we will, while the main band stations work the main flow, look for openings on the 'edge' bands. From the first day on, we will work on top band and on the high edge bands. On the activity sheet, we will turf the contacts on each band, and keep track of when the different bands open up to the different regions.
1.6. Provide as many band/mode countries as possible
We will do an effort to work CW and SSB on as many bands as possible (except 160/30 SSB-hi). The activity sheet will help us in this goal.
1.7. Make as many QSOs as possible
A good and consequent rate, full time manned operating positions, adequate operations, will all contribute to a good number of QSOs. The goal is set to 100,000 QSOs
Know your audience! Here are some basic statistics on the spread of the world's ham communities. This will help us in allocating our time to the different continents, and help us dividing our time between the different regions or call areas in each continent.
Note that this is not the only determining factor: US West coast might be much more difficult to work than East coast, so more time will be needed for the West.
By continent: Asia: 49%, North America: 26%, Europe: 18% (North: 11, South: 7), South America: 5%, Pacific: 1%, Africa: 1%
By US call areas: 1: 6%, 2: 9%, 3: 6%, 4: 19%, 5: 11%, 6: 15%, 7: 10%, 8: 9%, 9: 8%, 0: 8%
By US Coast: Eastcoast (1-2-3-4-8): 49%, Midwest (9-0-5): 26%, Westcoast (6-7): 25%
In Japan: 1: 33%, 2: 11%, 3: 13%, 4: 7%, 5: 3%, 6: 9%, 7: 9%, 8: 8%, 9: 3%, 0: 5%Note that the Asia figures might contain a lot of VHF-only licenses, but it gives you an indication.
Now what do all of these people want? (the most important first)
a. Log us at least once (our goals 1, 2, 3 & 7)
b. Be sure that they were logged correctly (make sure they know without a doubt that they are in the log!)
c. Log us once in every mode (our goal 4)
d. Log us on as many bands as possible (our goal 5)
e. Log us on as many band/modes as possible (our goal 6)
3.1 Predictions
See appendix. These predictions are calculated based on the characteristics of the antennas we have (gain and angle) and our output power.
3.2 Propagation indicators:
Our own logs will be one of the main indicators of propagation. From the logs, we will turf our main openings (including: time, band, mode, continent/part of continent) we worked on the activity sheet. This activity sheet will be one of our main tools. In the appendix, you find a schematic overview. The same will appear on a large sheet of paper, showing what we worked, how (mode) and when.
Underneath the first part, there will be a matrix, band/continent. And we turf (in the number of pileups) we worked to each continent, on each band, on each mode (see appendix)
As such, it will also be an indicator for the future days on what and when we can work: at the beginning of a shift, we will see at the glance of an eye what bands will probably be open, and what mode should be emphasized.
Our pilots will give us the solar figures and predictions once per day. These will be displayed in the kitchen tent.
See the list in the appendix. We will set up a spare station to look for rare openings. This station should check the beacons regularly. If no listening station is available, the running stations on the highest and the lowest bands, should check regularly for openings on the next lower and higher band.
we will have two beacons of our own: the NCDXF beacon (phase III, see appendix) and the edge band beacon (10 and 160).
We will switch on the NCDXF beacon as soon as we can (soon after landing), way before we actually operate. Our audience will monitor them, and give feedback to the pilots on when and how they heard them. This will already be a main indicator of propagation flows before we get on the air. The NCDXF beacon will also continue to run into the operation, as long as it does not interfere with the operation itself.
The edge band beacon will run on 10 during the day (only if the NCDXF beacon is not active), and 160 during the night, at full power. We will ask real time feedback from our audience to break in when they hear those beacons. This will avoid us wasting time calling CQ on a dead band hoping for an opening. If we have spare operator power to keep an eye on 160 during the night, we will switch off the beacon, but we should remember that often it does not mean there is no propagation because we hear no traffic. So we need to generate traffic to generate activity.
The pilots will inform us of the feedback from our audience. This will be beacon information, feedback on our signal strengths etc.. but also possible openings to look out for, things to try etc.. atop of the routine feedback (such as 'op on 80 last night went too fast' or 'loads of QRM on running frequency during 12m opening last night')
Note: most of the equipment is on loan from sponsors. Handle it with care. Some of the keyers, paddles, mics, etc.. will be personal property. Do not use it before asking. Avoid doing major adjustments to equipment (especially personal equipment). If you come to an operating station and someone's personal keyer etc.. is still plugged in, set it aside carefully!
4.1 Operating positions:
The main source of information is the site manual by Bob, KK6EK. Basically, there will be two radio tents, each with two high power operating positions. Then there is the 'storage' tent, which will shelter the beacons, a fifth high power station and a spare station. The VHF position and the satellite telephone will also be in the same 'storage' shelter.
4.2 Layout and equipment of each station
Each high power station will consist of:
4.3 Antennas
We have a vast antenna park, the setup of which will be explained in the 'Antenna manual' by KØIR.
Basically we have as main antennas:
All yagis will be lined up facing NW/SE, spread as much as possible. The low band antennas will be placed as close as possible to the water, also spread as much as possible.
Because of our limited resources, we will need to share the antennas between the different operating positions. Some planning (through the operating schedule) will be needed to keep things running, though the operators should show enough flexibility to share these resources.
There are a few facts we should remember:
4.4 Amplifiers
'We need to be big', Martti says. We have five Alpha 91Bs, one for each high power station. Run power whenever possible, enough power to keep a good control over the pileup, and to keep a good rate going. Do not run the amplifiers to maximum power needlessly. More power is more strain on the generators, and more potential interference. If you need it, use it.
Make sure the amplifiers are correctly tuned. Take your time to tune. If you can not tune it well (Alphas are tricky beasts), ask assistance. The simplest way to tune an amp is to set your radio to 20W, preset your amp to factory settings, tune for maximum power. Increase the input power, while tuning the amp for maximum power, until you input and output maximum power. Decrease the output power by decreasing the input power.
Basic rule: keep an eye on the Ip (Plate current). High plate current gives guaranteed interstation interference!
Note that according to VK regulations, we can only run 400W.
4.5 Band pass filters
Each tent has a set of single band filters. We will have one backup set. They are symmetrical (no in, no out). They can only take 150W (100W continuous) in, so they go between the radio and the amp. If, for any reason, we would have a radio which gives 200W, certainly reduce the input power. Be careful to switch filters, as you switch bands. Unless there is a good reason not to, always use a bandpass filter. You might not gain much in reception, but your neighbor might!
Keep all bandpass filters with the station. There is nothing as frustrating as scouting for a certain filter, if you want to do a quick band switch.
4.6 Computers and CT
Most of the information on the computers, you will find in the part by N6EK, the computer and network czar. Nevertheless, there are a couple of rules/tips:
4.7 Generators
Each operating position of the radio tents will be wired to its own 5 KVA generator. The 'shelter', kitchen and sleeping tent will be wired to the 7 KVA generator.
For more specialized information on the generators, I refer to the generator manual by W8FMG.
5.1 Specialties of each team members
Each of us has his own specialties. Specialties he is born with or has acquired during previous experiences (this starts to sound like a psychology course for first graders hi hi, but seriously:) It is a strong team that can make ultimate use of the strong points of its individual members. In our expedition, there are many ways to manifest one's strong points: in organization, in mechanics, electricity, problem solving, survival techniques, marine knowledge, radio etc. etc.. This will be the same in the operating part of our operation. Some of us are CW specialists, others love RTTY pileups, while others are keen on SSB piles. We have some high rate specialists, who get a kick out of chasing the speed counters up, who might get frustrated at the low rates that go with edge band operations, while others do not want the high rates, but would rather dig into the noise. Some of us speak several European languages, while others only speak English, and fortunately, we also have a Japanese national with us. Each of us understands his own language and culture better than others....
On another level, there will be some of us for whom expeditioning is a way of living, who live on pileups for breakfast, can run 40 wpm pileups while making jokes to the one next to them. Others are far less routined, and will want to come to the same level of those lifelong expeditioners.
And... we have people in their twenties, joining team with fifty-ers...
How to melt all of these qualities, differences, experiences into a well-oiled operational machine, that will be a challenge. And all the czars will take up their part of the challenge, but I feel double responsibility, as radio is finally what we came to do on Heard, and expectations are high.
Let me raise a warning finger to you on the following:
5.2 Operating time schedules and operating shifts
Starting note: whatever operating schedule, we put in, it is second priority to survival. If the circumstances dictate it, operations might be suspended, or reduced, to be determined by one of the two expedition leaders, Bob or me. Let us hope this will not be needed often!
Second note: whatever schedule we put up, it will never please all of us. Each of us will have to compromise. Though I have the responsibility for the radio operations, I will base the scheduling on your input.
Third note: In a DXpedition, you can run in fixed schedules, or you can leave it up to the operators to discuss it amongst themselves. I have been on expedition where one or the other is used. Both run well, if the people comply to the rules, and are considerate. For VKØIR, we have chosen to run in fixed schedules, while giving the flexibility to shift amongst yourselves, within your operating shift. As such, everyone in one operating shift will be more seen as one operating team, rather than five individual operating positions.
Everyone's operating shift(s) will be one of 6 hours, or two of 3 hours (as you prefer) per 24 hours. The scheduling will be done by me, and will be flexible enough to coop with some of your personal preferences. The shifts will shift within the day, so no-one will be forced to run the same pileup to the same continent every day. Also, we will be flexible enough to allow someone for 'a day off' e.g.
The only one falling out of the HF operating schedule will be Arie, PA3DUU, whose operating schedule will be dictated by the opening times of the satellite. This means we have 19 ops to shift in 24 hours.
For each operating shift, and every operating position, I will assign an operator to do a specific task: be it work EU on 20-15 CW, or JA on 40 SSB, NA on 20 RTTY or look for edge openings etc.. These schedules will be made up every evening and will be displayed in the kitchen shelter. Input for each day's schedule will be taken from you, the propagation, and the pilots.
Each operator will in principle work from his operating position alone, though someone might ask if he can listen in on the second headset. Again it is for the main operator to decide if that is OK. He is the master of his 'position'.
There is a sixth operating position (the spare barefoot station) free for anyone who has spare time.. It has no logging computer and should be used for monitoring only. Operating the spare station in itself has no priority. The rest of the work has...
5.3 Owning operating positions
The 'main' operators will 'own' the operating position. The main operators might each ask someone else to take over their shift, or part of it (feeling tired, or willing to help other tasks etc..). I strongly encourage the main operators to rotate operating positions amongst themselves: ask another 'main' operator in the same shift, to swap places (e.g. someone running the main pileups for 3 hours might ask a swap with someone on the edge bands, so they can take it a bit easier, etc....). Or an active operator might want to ask a 'free' operator to take his place for 30 minutes so he can take a break. Rotating with the operating team will give everyone a chance to operate the main pileups, or the easier pileups, or different modes (if that is what your preference goes to).
Whatever rotation is taking place, the main operators (per operating position, as assigned by the schedule) are responsible to what happens during their shift, with his station. Each main operator 'owns' that operating position, and is responsible for it, during his shift.
5.4 Operator comfort
It is important that everyone can get the most from his operating shift, and can completely concentrate on his task. This means that he should not interrupt his pileup to refill the generators, prepare food, get drinks etc..
The 'slave' duty people therefore should take care of 'running the camp' and to serve the others. This includes:
The slave duty will be further outlined in the manual by Bob, KK6EK. I hope that everyone will take as much honor in his slave shift, as in the operating schedule!
5.5 Conflicts
We should not make ourselves any illusions: there will be conflicts. Minor ones only, I hope. How to go about it? If it is a conflict between people, try to solve it between yourselves. If it can not be solved between yourselves, or the problem is not related to 'humans', go to the designated Czar in whose area, there are problems or potential problems. If he can not solve it to the satisfaction of the 'complainer', he can go to one of the two expedition leaders. If they can not solve it, KØIR, assisted by Wes, W8FMG will function as consolidators/referees etc....
In the radio-operations, we will follow the same way: you have a problem with a certain person's operating style or behavior, settle it with him. If that can not be done, or it has nothing to do with anyone else, come to me. If we can not find a solution, Bob will come in. If still, we can not solve the problem, Ralph and Wes will jump in.
Do know that many people are 'sensitive' when it comes to operating styles, or personal criticism. Go easy with others. Remember: in operating, there is not much black or white, right or wrong. Often, the color is gray, or the matter is 'somewhere in the middle'.
Although there will be some conflicts, I hope that they will remain minor. I have been on expeditions where not a bad word was said, and everyone enjoyed himself. I have heard of others, where people were ready to shoot each other. With the system of 'counseling', we will not come to that.
Express your conflicts! Do not let them sizzle until you explode, or until we are back on the ship. But let's not exaggerate! The working environment will be very stressful, and with 20 people, there will be plenty of alternate ways that everyone sees to every single situation.
Although we will run the operation democratic, there is a hierarchy of authority. As the radio operations czar, I have the authority to put someone in a schedule, or to take him out. And I will exercise this authority. Nothing personal, but the team performance and satisfaction has priority.
5.6 Preparation and training sessions
Prepare yourself to operate from Heard! It will be a condition sine qua non that you know CT very well. If you do not know CT, you will not operate, simple as that. Though we will have some training sessions on the ship, this will be only to brief you on the specific features which we will use in the multi-op network we have. We will NOT train you on how to log stations, change bands, correct calls, etc..
Also try to familiarize yourself with the FT1000MP, FT900 and Alpha 91 before the trip. We will have some training sessions on these rigs while on the ship.
The most important part of your personal preparation will have to do with your physical condition. As mentioned in the medical plan, you need to get your body into shape for a lot of very heavy physical work, long shifts, and a lot of stress.
6.0 Callsigns
The only callsigns that will be used are the group callsigns:
Reunion
TOØR
/MM
FOØR/MM
Kerguelen
TXØK
Crozet
TXØC
Heard
VKØIR
6.1 Managing public relations
Our public should have confidence in our operation. This confidence can be won by running the pileups in a professional way. Note that the pileup's behavior mirrors that of the DXpeditioner who runs the show. Some of us might also adapt the 'conversational style' of operating, see below, as a way to manage the public, all while keeping up the rate.
6.2 The DXpedition frequencies
(see the appendix)
We will stick to the announced frequencies as much as possible nevertheless, small deviations might be needed, as e.g. the announced frequency is busy or filled with QRM.
Make sure that once you start calling on a new band, the frequency is clear, and that you have a reasonable clear RX window.
6.3 Dividing and spreading our audience
- The pileups are going to be big. Therefore we will have to spread the audience, be it by using split frequency, splitting them up by working by numbers, by continents or by continent zones.
Remember: you are in control of the pileup and you are responsible for its behavior.
One of the basic rules is that you absolutely stick to the split, be it frequency, zone, number or continent, There are no exceptions. Once you start accepting exceptions, there is often no stopping of the undisciplined callers in the pileups. If, on the contrary, they feel that you stick to your rules, discipline will be good.
Whatever split you make by working by numbers or continent zones, work until you end the split sequence. Never stop in the middle of a sequence, e.g. work 1-2-3-4 and stop the pileup at 5. The crowd is not likely to forgive you for that.
Follow propagation: use bigger splits in big peak openings (if needed), but use small splits in low propagation.
Follow propagation: do not try to run USA West Coast when there is no propagation to the West Coast.
Follow the population (see appendix), if e.g. you run USA by call areas, make sure that you work at least twice as many QSOs from the 4 and 6 district than for the others
Make very clear as what you are doing, in SSB, even in a conversational way: 'The pileup is getting too dense, I have to split you guys up and work by numbers. I am going to work numbers 1 to 0, 20 callers for each area'. And 'That was it for 4's, now switching to 5's'. Also: 'WØRLX, tu, Zeros?'
6.3.1 Use of split frequencies
Our absolute max split frequencies are 25 on SSB and 15 on CW. And that is the absolute maximum, reduce it as much as possible, without going too dense and as such decreasing your speed.
When listening within the split window, you scan the split frequency - following a tuning pattern, by preference while starting at the bottom, slowly working your way up. And then back from the bottom. This will have the experienced DXers following you. This predictability will increase the chance of the experienced audience to work you quickly.
Never have the pileup spill over the limits of the your preset window, therefore never work anybody outside of the split window.
Spread the pileup. Often, the pileup concentrates at the bottom and top. Work the top and bottom faster, and spend more time in the middle. In SSB, do not hesitate to say: 'there is nobody on 14207'. Good listeners will quickly catch on.
A usual tactic for fast pileups is to work a station, on a certain frequency, work the others tail ending on that same frequency, until the pileup is becoming too dense on that frequency, then spin the VFO higher or lower, within the split window, following your pre-set pattern.
Avoid spilling the pileup over ongoing SSB QSOs in your split window. Say rather: 'listening 5 to 15 up, avoid 14205'. If you work guys on top of existing QSOs, the rag chewers will get mad and might start to jam you. Of course, this is mainly for SSB! In CW, determine your split mainly by where you are listening
It is important that the pileup hears you. Jammers and policemen on your frequency will decrease your rate, and will make it difficult to keep the discipline AND will make it difficult for those you DO work, to hear confirmation of their call. A very good habit is to check your TX frequency from time to time. If you hear people calling on the wrong VFO, tell them 'xxØyy, I am working split'. NEVER work people on your TX frequency when working split. Do not forget to switch back to split mode after you checked your TX frequency (right, laugh,... hi)
How do you notice there is QRM on your TX frequency while running the piles, and without actually checking your TX frequency: there are several indicators, such as your speed going down, people asking for a repeat, people not coming right back to you after you call them, loosing the discipline (like people keep on calling when you call a certain station). Do not hesitate to ask if your frequency is clear.
The FT1000MP have two RX VFOs. It is NOT a good habit to listen with one VFO in your split window, and with another one on your TX frequency (just to check it remains free). Unavoidably, you will start working people who are calling on your TX frequency, without you realizing that you do so. In a minimum of time, you will create a mess on your TX frequency.
When starting a pileup, start with a small split, and eventually increase the split size.
While working on edge bands, or while working with weak signals, ALWAYS work split, just 5 up will make life for all much easier. Never think of working simplex on 80/160. Pileups will get out of hand before you know it, and it will take ages before you get it back under control, by making it known that 'now' you work split frequency.
6.3.2 Splitting up by continent
There are three continents in our book: Asia/Pacific, Europe/Africa/Middle East, and the Americas.
This will be very important, as propagation will differ to each continent. Splitting by continent ('SSB: Asia/Pacific 5-10 up'), will ensure that you get the maximum out of every continent, and that every continent gets its chance.
Know what you are doing: by default, work the continent with the peak propagation. If openings to a rare continent happen during peaks to another continent, make sure the latter understands that you try to work some rare opening to the first and that they have to standby. This is very tricky, as often ops in the peak will hear you with 9+ sigs, while you work some other continent.
Stick to the continent you are working. No exceptions. If you hear too many callers from another continent, this means that something goes wrong: your TX is jammed, or the non-targeted continent is not pleased. Figure out why.
It is good from time to time to listen out for rare DX stations outside of the continent you are working. A YB or DU can be worked in the Asia pileup, but might be covered by JA's. In phone, do not hesitate to ask for any Asian stations outside of JA.
Also do not forget some rather large populations within the continent you work. E.g. make sure VK/ZL can get through when working Asia/Pacific...
6.3.3. Splitting up by continent zones
This might only be needed for EU and NA. This is mainly usable in SSB
EU there are two zones: North/Central Europe down to G-DL-HB9-F and South EU (mainly EA, I, ex-YU, SV). It might be needed to ask for North/Central EU only, as sometimes (due to the difference in propagation) South EU totally covers the rest of EU. (This was often the case on AH1A). Make sure that the southerners stand by if needed.
NA has 3 zones: East Coast: areas 1-2-3-4-8, including VE9's, Midwest: 9-0-5, West-Coast: 6-7, including KL7 and KH6.
Make sure that the pileup understands which area you work, and what is contained in that area.
While working with NA areas, people might sign portable. If not, ask them what area they are in. If not in the specified area, they do not go in the log. No exceptions. No mercy, or the pileup will grow out of hand. Make sure though, you remain calm and courteous. 'Sorry, working Eastcoast only now' is better then 'Why the hell are you calling me, you know I am working Eastcoast only? Buy a receiver'.
6.3.4. Splitting up by numbers
Tricky tricky, very tricky.
Before you start working by numbers assess the following:
Never go for more than 20-25 per number (or about 5-6 minutes per number), making sure you work more for the densely populated areas (USA 4-6). Limit the time you spend on each number! Always count that you will spend (time per number) x 10 = total time needed to finish the list... Will there still be propagation?
Once going by numbers, stick by numbers. Announce the change of numbers in advance: 'one more with number 1'. 'Now going for twos, twos, twos, listening 200-210'
Once switching to the number system, it might be useful to reduce your window.
The number sequence for EU/Asia is the normal: 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-0. Do not go with more creative sequences.
Very important: the number sequence for NA follows propagation:
For NA: 1 2 3 4 8 9 0 5 7 6
Do NOT, repeat NOT, deviate from this sequence.
Portables are a non-issue. AA1AA/4, is a 4, not a 1. If he calls in as AA1AA, he is a 1.
Double numbers are a non-issue: Z32ZG can call in as a 3 or a 2.
Propagation for NA might probably so, that it is not opportune to run by numbers. Propagation might be so selective that there is only one zone to be worked at the same time. Be very careful that you make sure that one zone is not covering the other though!
6.3.5. Other splitting methods
There are none.
We do not work nets or lists. We do NOT work by country (e.g. for EU) ever ever!
6.4 The operating rhythm
Now we get into the metaphysics of the pileup techniques. Hold on to your knickers! hi. Rhythm will make your life easy. Rhythm will have you run a pileup like a professional or like a machine.
6.4.1. The rhythm of working stations
Rhythm does not mean rate. Rate is not everything. Rhythm is. Do not over emphasize rate.
Insist in working the guys in the same way, with the same words, with the same rhythm.
Typical exchange for our expedition in SSB (with incomplete calls) is:
- - 'KU', 59
- - VE1KU, thanks, 59
- - VE1KU, thank you, up 5-10 --> ALWAYS repeat his complete call to confirm!
Typical exchange for our expedition in SSB (with complete calls) is:
- - 'VE1KU', 59
- - VE1KU, thanks, 59
- - thank you (occasionally: 'thank you, up 5-10')
In CW (incomplete call):
- - 'KE 5NN
- - de VE1KE 5NN
- - VE1KE TU or VE1KE UP --> always repeat his complete call to confirm!
In CW (complete call):
- - 'VE1KE 5NN
- - de VE1KE 5NN
- - TU or UP
In all modes make sure that the one that you worked clearly understands that he is now logged. In all modes, repeat the station's complete call if you had it wrong or incomplete the first time, before you call QRZ again. This will increase the certainty of the guy that he was logged correctly, and thus increase the pileups joy, and reduce the chances for dupes. Your rate will be a bit lower, but the end result will show more net QSOs (less dupes).
In SSB make sure you speak clearly
A good habit to establish rhythm in SSB is not only to standardize your words (see example above) but also to minimize words.
In CW standardize your overs (how you give a report and how you call QRZ.
Partial persistence: In all modes make sure that you persist in the selected station until you have his full call. Do NOT ever make exceptions. Once you get 'KU', you stick to 'KU' until VE1KU gets through. If you realize that you made a mistake (you must be sure), and 'KU' does not come back, but it is 'KA' go like this:
- - CW: 'NIL UP' and then after 3 seconds: 'KA 5NN'
- - SSB: 'nothing heard, QRZ' and after 3 seconds 'KA 59'
In this way (though it is a bit naughty) you make clear that only KU was what you needed, and KA just called on the next QRZ.
Dupes are a non issue. Normally, you should not make a remark. If, however, 1 out of 10 stations you work in a pile shows to be a dupe, make clear you do not appreciate dupes. In a friendly way. e.g.: 'KKØKK, worked before. or KKØKK QSO B4' Try to figure out why you have so many dupe callers.
There are people that say that you can even work a couple of fake stations to increase the feeling of a rhythm (or at least not to loose the rhythm). I would not go that far, but it is up to you to decide. Make sure that you do not log the fakes, and that the fakes are no existing calls ('Gosh I heard him work my brother, who is not even home right now')
One more note on rates and speeds: do not dare to go faster than 20-25 wpm in CW on 160/80. Also make clear repeats of the calls on the low bands. Get your speed records on the main bands, not on the edge bands!
Rate is not the same as speed. You can work 4 stations per minute, with a CW speed of 30 wpm, but maybe only work 2 with a speed of 60 wpm.
Remember that a lot of hams can only get their own call at a high CW speed. So do not try to give QSL info or pileup directives at 50 wpm, reduce it when sending information!
It is important to get yourself into the right gear, before you start operating in the right rhythm. In other words, before you start operating, make sure the amp is properly tuned, right antenna, right direction, right mike or speed or keyer settings. With the first station you work in your new session, check your modulation and ask him if your frequency is clear. The latter is very important on the lower bands (e.g. 40 and 80m are very narrow and crowded and it can take a long time to find a good clear spot).
6.4.2. The rhythm of announcing calls, splits, QSL manager
Establish your rhythm of announcing our call, the split and the QSL manager. Depending on your speed, the best rhythm is:
Call: every 10 QSOs
Split: in SSB: every 10 QSOs (together with the split, call area etc..), in CW: every 20 QSO or so.
QSL manager: every 25 odd QSOs in SSB, every 50 odd QSOs in SSB. Our QSL manager is W4FRU.
6.4.3. The rhythm of announcing other frequencies (mainly for SSB)
People want to be informed. Tell them where the other stations are, what mode, and eventually what area they are working. This gives a professional impression ('Gosh, those guys know what the other stations are doing, and/or are well planned'). At the same time, it will give the people with limited air time, the chance of working us on a couple of band/modes in a short time.
Best is to integrate the announcement of the other frequencies together with the QSL manager.
6.4.4. The rhythm of announcing news (mainly for SSB)
When pileups do allow it, announce a bit of news every 100 odd QSOs. How many stations are on the air, temperature, wind etc.... This is called a 'conversational style'. We leave it up to each operator to integrate this into his own operating style. In most pileups, I found that 30 second announcements every 100 QSOs, gives you a bit of a break, stretch of a leg, and makes yourself ready for another go. Do not exaggerate this
There is a difference between a 'conversational style' and 'preaching'. Never preach to the crowd, no matter how badly they are behaving. If you need to correct them, do it in a professional way. Preachers belong in church, not on a DX station's key or mike.
You will get questions in the middle of pileups. By default, we do not answer questions, but if you get the same question over and over again, you might announce once the answer once in a while. This is much easier in SSB than in CW though. Typical questions are: 'when on 160', 'when on RTTY'. Answering questions directly just encourages more questions. And questions can totally disrupt your rhythm.
6.5 Logging
Always log onto the computer directly. Do not use paper to log the call first, and then fill it into the computer. If you need to do that, this means you are not familiar with CT or can not type. In both cases, you do not belong in the operating seat of this expedition.
Always keep paper and pencil ready, in case that you hear two or more calls at the same time, log the first while scribbling the others on a bit of paper. Some of us might be able to stack those in their memory.
Keeping paper and pencil ready is always handy if someone comes over to do something on your computer (taking a backup etc..). Make absolutely sure that you first log those on paper, back into the computer, before doing anything else.
Personally, I always write down the split I am using, otherwise I tend to forget (right: laugh hi.)
There is a difference between 'zeros' and 'oohs' on a keyboard.
A couple of notes on CT:
6.6 The war between the continents
We have to make absolutely sure that we give all continents an equal chance on all bands and all main modes (at least one band for RTTY, most bands for CW/SSB).
The main tool will be our central activity sheet, as hung in the kitchen tent. On there, we will log when we had what openings on what bands to what continent, and turf what mode we run that continent. This will make it very easy to overview what modes/bands we will have to stress to what continent. In this way e.g. RTTY-ers in JA will not be left out, or we will not forget to work EU on 17 CW e.g.
Make sure that you fill in the activity sheet RIGHT after your shift (a bit of self discipline, guys!), and to check it before going on shift.
Another tool to make sure that we give all continents an equal chance will be the pre-arranged operating schedules: Each op will be assigned to each operating shift with a well determined task: e.g. to run USA on 20 CW, or to work JA on 40 SSB, with a possible shift to 80 SSB whenever the openings might occur.
6.7 The war between the modes
While making the operating schedule, I will decide what modes to work, when to work what modes, what modes have priority, based on your input, and on the central activity sheet (what we have worked before). In this way we will make sure we balance the modes per continent and per band well.
Note that there will be NO 160m SSB, and 80m SSB will be limited.
A short note concerning RTTY: RTTY operations are tricky. They are very time consuming and are often more interruptive (cross band interference) than the other modes. If we do not run enough RTTY, the digital DXers will complain, if we run more than needed, the main DX public will complain. Therefore we will go by the following guidelines:
- 1. During the first two days, the RTTY activity will be limited to one hour per continent.
- 2. As the digital DXCC award is not split up by bands, we will try to provide as many as possible with one RTTY contact. There will be NO efforts to work as much RTTY as possible on the different bands. We will just try to work all continents on any of the main bands that are open, and that can provide that one RTTY contact that is needed.
- 3. After about 800-900 RTTY contacts in the log, the RTTY activity will be reduced to a minimum (there simply are not much more people active in this mode)/
6.7 Skeds, working friends & family, odd splits
Sorry, we will NOT keep skeds with non-ham friends and family over the radio. All traffic will have to be passed over Internet, Inmarsat phone and fax. We simply can NOT loose time for family traffic. Imagine that each op talks for 5 minutes (and that is NOT a lot, in calculating that the other party might be late, or there might be QRM etc..), we loose 100 minutes. No way.
We will NOT keep skeds with pilots. All pilot traffic will go via internet, with Inmarsat as fallback.
By default, we will NOT keep skeds for interviews. Most of that traffic should go via Inmarsat (and THEY call us on a pre-arranged telephone sked time, thus THEY make the expenses)
On the use of the Inmarsat:
If we run across friends or family in the pileup, you can take your time to say hi of course.
All of us have the problem with friends asking for skeds or odd split systems, just to make sure that we work them. Also most of the local QRPers (many who probably helped you in getting ready etc..) will want to make sure that they work you. How to go about it? First of all, be very discrete in whatever you do. Secondly, any favors of this kind are to be done in the second half of the operation. Thirdly, I have nothing against odd splits with a bunch of friends, or an odd split (upup means I am listening on frequency so and so), as long as you do it very discrete. I know that this system is not common in the US, but it is in EU and JA. Please please be discrete and wise. Some expeditions got into trouble because it was too obvious (running a whole JA or OH pileup 50 KHz above the top of the split, or working the guys by French department numbers, which indicates the frequency...). Also, whatever you do, make sure you get the turnover of number of stations: do not loose an hour of propagation, trying to work 10 local QRPers while the band only opens up 2 hours per day!
6.8 The DXpedition pilots
I refer to the DXpedition Pilot manual, by ON4UN.
Summarized, we have the following pilots:
These people are our main public relations and feedback channel to and from our DX audience. They will feel how our expedition is perceived and what we can do to improve. Their input will be very important.
The input/output to/from the pilots will go via satellite (Pacsat or Inmarsat), and printouts will be displayed in the kitchen shelter. Read it! In regular meetings, we will discuss the most important points of adjustment needed.
Telephone numbers of the pilots (and home numbers for each of us), will be distributed before the operation in a separate document.
6.9 Dealing with operational interference
Operating an expedition station is not simply a matter of sitting in front of a radio, and running the piles. There will be interruptions. How to handle them?
6.9.1 Self induced
As an operator, you might get tired, need a coffee or a cigarette, or just a break. You can, but make sure that your operating position is filled with another operator, if you decide to stop for a while. Brief him on what you are doing, e.g. 'running USA by numbers, my split is 200-220 and propagation is good and stable'. If it is a short break that you need, tell the pileup that you will be back in 2 minutes and to keep your TX frequency clear.
Whatever you do, make sure that you complete the number series you are working before stopping!!
6.9.2 Externally induced
You might be interrupted by other factors on which you have little or no control. The propagation might change (change continent, or start working freelance after finishing the numbers). You might get interference from another station within the camp: ask that operator if he has his filters in, or if he tuned the amp correctly). Your pileup might be interrupted by QRM, too many questions, requests, policing, wrong split. Deal with it on the spot. Get the stations off your TX frequency, or ask someone at the other end of the pileup what is happening.
6.10 Criticism, course corrections
Listening position: we will have a position that is free to listen in to the pileups that are operated.(make sure that you listen with the attenuator in, or without antenna, so you do not blow up the front-end!). People that listen in should be aware that their criticism to the running operator is interruptive. By preference, give your feedback to the operator after his shift, tell me as the radio operating czar, and only if urgent, tell the operator. Be considerate!!
Feedback from pilots: Pilots might give us feedback that requests for some course changes. Feedback from pilots will be given priority
Feedback from the pileups: The pileups might give you some feedback, or criticism. If it is only once, it might be a one time thing, but if it is repetitive, you might be doing something wrong, correct your course.
Monitoring progress: during the operation, we might experience we need to do some course changes. These will be hung out in the kitchen tent.
7.1 Reunion
FR is not a priority but if there is time available, we will be able to operate somewhere. How and where will be decided later. Probably, there will be no opportunity to get some of our radios and antennas out of the cargo, but we might find a station in FR from where we can operate somehow.
7.2 Maritime Mobile
We will install a /MM station from the moment we can get on the ship. We will man this station as much as possible, mainly to keep the public relations going, and to get ourselves in the running a bit with the Yaesu radios and the CT setup. Though the manning of the /MM station is not a priority, we will try to man it as much as possible. On the ship, there will be plenty of other work to be done: training sessions, rearranging the cargo.
7.3 Crozet
A short operation from Crozet will be possible. Probably we will be able to use the station which is already installed there. If not, on the ship, we need to prepare a small kit to operate with. Though the time on Crozet will be short, it would be good to run some (in priority) RTTY, CW and SSB. WARC activity would also be appreciated. We will give everybody a chance to man the station for a limited time.
7.4 Kerguelen
Same as Crozet, although we might spend some more time on Kerguelen.
Each of us has his specialties and preferences:
|
OPERATOR |
BANDS |
PREFERENCES |
|
9V1YC |
10-80 CW and SSB |
CW US east coast |
|
EA8AFJ |
10-80m SSB and RTTY |
10-40m SSB |
|
HB9AHL |
10-160m SSB and CW |
|
|
K4UEE |
10-160 SSB and CW |
CW and low bands |
|
K9AJ |
10-160 SSB and CW |
CW and Warc+low bands |
|
KK6EK |
10-80m, SSB |
USA |
|
KØIR |
10-160 SSB and CW |
low band CW |
|
N6EK |
10-160 SSB and CW |
20 SSB/CW, 40 CW |
|
N6MZ |
10-160m, CW and SSB |
CW, low bands, Warc |
|
NP4IW |
10-80 SSB and CW |
South America |
|
OE9AMJ |
||
|
ON6TT |
10-160m, SSB and RTTY |
|
|
PA3DUU |
VHF and HF RTTY |
VHF |
|
RA3AUU |
10-160m SSB and CW |
lowbands |
|
VK2TQM |
||
|
HB9AFI |
||
|
W8FMG |
10-80m SSB and RTTY |
CW |
|
WØGJ (WAØPUJ) |
10-10 SSB, CW, and RTTY |
SSB on main bands, CW on low bands |
|
WA3YVN |
10-160 |
If your rate is getting lower, and people ask for repeats, or people do not get back to you fast enough, this is an indicator that your TX frequency is not clear or propagation went down.
Pick and drag method: often, when there is a high band opening, people might not be there while propagation is. Tell the guys: 'now switching to 18145, band is open to USA', or ask the operator on the other bands to announce that we are now starting on 17m CW e.g.
Checking propagation: a quick way to check if there is propagation on another band, without switching antenna, or retuning the amp, is to ask the pileup to give a tune on the new band (certain frequency). Unplug the bandpass filter and listen on that band to see if you hear something. If not, stay on your current band, if there is propagation, then you might go through the effort of retuning and switching
Ask for info: do you hear our beacon on 10m?
Start small and grow (split): when starting to operate on a new band, start with a small split, and if needed only, let your split grow, while announcing the change.
If the pileup is very thin, ask the guys to put us on the cluster
React to your prime reaction, operate with your subconscious: This I find important: while running dense pileups, you might switch of your rational thinking, and start to switch to subconscious mode: react to every bit of a call that you heard. Try it, it will increase your hit rate!
If there is uncontrollable QRM on your TX frequency, it is a good habit to shift your TX a couple of KHz down (preferably not up or you will get too close to your RX frequency), and start listening again on ONE frequency, until the pileup has found you again, and then start broadening your RX window.
10.1 VK bandplans
|
160 m: 1800-1875 |
1800-1875 |
CW |
|
1810-1815 |
FSK |
|
|
1815-1875 |
SSB/AM |
|
|
1815-1835 |
DX Window |
|
|
1870 +/- 4KHz |
Avoid this freq!!! |
|
80 m: 3500-3700 and 3794-3800 |
3500-3700 |
CW |
|
3525-3625 |
Novice segment |
|
|
3535-3620 |
SSB/AM |
|
|
3620-3640 |
FSK |
|
|
3640-3700 |
SSB/AM |
|
|
3794 + 1 KHz |
Avoid this freq!!! |
|
|
3795-3800 |
DX Window |
|
40 m: 7000-7300 |
7000-7300 |
CW |
|
7030-7040 |
FSK |
|
|
7040-7300 |
AM/SSB |
|
30 m: 10100-10150 |
10.100-10.150 |
CW |
|
10.115-10.140 |
SSB/AM |
|
|
10.140-10.150 |
FSK |
|
|
10.1415 +/- 4KHz |
Avoid this freq!!! |
|
20 m: 14000-14350 |
14.000-14.350 |
CW |
|
14.070-14.112 |
FSK |
|
|
14.070-14.080 |
AMTOR |
|
|
14.080-14.095 |
RTTY |
|
|
14.095-14.112 |
Packet Radio |
|
|
14.100 +/- 500Hz |
IBP Beacon Guard Band |
|
|
14.112+14.350 |
SSB/AM |
|
|
14.230 |
SSTV Calling Freq |
|
|
14.250 |
FAX Calling Freq. |
|
17 m: 18068-18168 |
18.068-18.168 |
CW |
|
18.100-18.110 |
FSK |
|
|
18.110-18.168 |
SSB/AM |
|
15 m: 21000-21450 |
21.000-21.450 |
CW |
|
21.070-21.125 |
FSK |
|
|
21.125-21.300 |
Novice Segment |
|
|
21.150-21.450 |
SSB/AM |
|
|
21.150 +/- 500Hz |
BP Beacon Guard Band |
|
|
21.340 +/- 5KHz |
SSTV calling freq. |
|
12 m: 25890-24990 |
24.890-24.990 |
CW |
|
24.920-24.930 |
FSK |
|
|
24.930-24.990 |
SSB/AM |
|
10 m: 28000-29700 |
28.000-28.200 |
Narrow band modes |
|
28.000-28.050 |
CW Only |
|
|
28.050-28.150 |
FSK |
|
|
28.150-28.200 |
CW Only |
|
|
28.190-28.200 |
IBP Beacon Segment |
|
|
28.200-29.100 |
general CW/PHONE |
|
|
28.200-28.300 |
continuous duty beacons |
|
|
28.300-29.100 |
SSB/AM |
|
|
28.680 +/- 5KHz |
SSTV calling Freq. |
|
|
28.885 |
International 6M liasion Freq. |
|
|
29.120-29.280 |
FM SIMPLEX |
|
|
29.200 |
National domestic calling freq. |
|
|
29.300-29.510 |
Amateur Satellites |
|
|
29.510-29.700 |
FM Repeaters & Simplex |
|
|
29.520-29.580 |
Repeater inputs |
|
|
29.600 |
International Simplex Calling Freq. |
|
|
29.620-29.680 |
Repeater Outputs. |
10.2 Expedition transmit frequencies (depending on QRM):
|
CW |
SSB |
|
|
160 m |
1.8265 |
- |
|
80 m |
3.522 (for USA) |
3.799 (RX down in SSB) |
|
80 m |
3.507 (for EU/JA/VK) |
3.799 (for EU/JA- rx down in SSB. For VK: simplex) |
|
40 m |
7.022 (for non-EU) |
7.065 |
|
40 m |
7.007 (for EU) |
7.065 |
|
30 m |
10.104 |
- |
|
20 m |
14.024 |
14.195 |
|
17 m |
18.074 |
18.145 |
|
15 m |
21.024 |
21.295 |
|
12 m |
24.894 |
24.945 |
|
10 m |
28.024 |
28.475 |
RTTY:
|
21.085 |
|
18.105 (if 17 m proves to be the best band to one continent) |
|
14.085 |
|
10.140 (if 30 m proves to be the best band to one continent) |
|
7.030 (if 40 m proves to be the best band to one continent) |
10.3 Some world wide beacons (to be completed):
|
160m |
||
|
80 m |
||
|
40m |
80m |
|
|
30m |
10.144 |
DKØWCY - CW: 30 watts gives solar flux, A index, geomagnetic activity, aurora |
|
20m |
13.270 13.264 |
New York Air traffic control: SSB London Air traffic control: SSB |
|
17m |
18.068 |
IK6BAK beacon (continuously, low power) |
|
15m |
||
|
12m |
24.915 |
IK6BAK beacon (continuously, low power) |
|
10m |
NCDXF beacons
This table gives the minute and second within each hour of the start of the first transmission of each of the new five-band beacons on each frequency. Transmissions currently being sent are indicated in bold. Each transmission is repeated every three minutes. A transmission consists of the callsign of the beacon sent at 22 words per minute followed by four one-second dashes. The callsign and the first dash are sent at 100 watts. The remaining dashes are sent at 10 watts, 1 watt and 0.1 watts. The actual starting time of each transmission is approximately twenty milliseconds after the nominal time due to the keying delay of the transmitter. Equipment used at each beacon site includes a Kenwood TS-50 transceiver, a Cushcraft R-5 vertical antenna, a Trimble Navigation Accutime GPS receiver, and a controller built by the NCDXF.
|
Country |
Station |
14.100 |
18.110 |
21.150 |
24.930 |
28.200 |
operator |
status |
|
1 |
United Nations** |
4U1UN |
00:00 |
00:10 |
00:20 |
00:30 |
00:40 |
UNRC |
In New York 1 |
|
2 |
Canada |
VE8AT |
00:10 |
00:20 |
00:30 |
00:40 |
00:50 |
RAC |
Ready to ship |
|
3 |
USA |
W6WX |
00:20 |
*00:30 |
00:40 |
*00:50 |
01:00 |
NCDXF |
On the air |
|
4 |
Hawaii |
KH6WO |
00:30 |
*00:40 |
00:50 |
*01:00 |
01:10 |
UHRC |
In Hawaii |
|
5 |
New Zealand |
ZLØ |
00:40 |
00:50 |
01:00 |
01:10 |
01:20 |
NZART |
Built, call? |
|
6 |
Australia |
VK6Ø |
00:50 |
01:00 |
01:10 |
01:20 |
01:30 |
WIA |
Built, call? |
|
7 |
Japan** |
JA2IGY |
01:00 |
01:10 |
01:20 |
01:30 |
01:40 |
JARL |
In Japan |
|
8 |
Russia |
UAØ |
01:10 |
01:20 |
01:30 |
01:40 |
01:50 |
? |
Locating site |
|
9 |
China |
BYØ |
01:20 |
01:30 |
01:40 |
01:50 |
02:00 |
CRSA |
Locating site |
|
10 |
Sri Lanka |
4S7B |
01:30 |
01:40 |
01:50 |
02:00 |
02:10 |
RSSL |
Shipped 9/96 |
|
11 |
South Africa |
ZS6DN |
01:40 |
01:50 |
02:00 |
02:10 |
02:20 |
ZS6DN |
On the air |
|
12 |
Kenya |
5Z4B |
01:50 |
02:00 |
02:10 |
02:20 |
02:30 |
RSK |
In Kenya |
|
13 |
Israel |
4X6TU |
02:00 |
02:10 |
02:20 |
02:30 |
02:40 |
U Tel Aviv |
On the air |
|
14 |
Finland |
OH2B |
02:10 |
02:20 |
02:30 |
02:40 |
02:50 |
U Helsinki |
On the air |
|
15 |
Madeira** |
CS3B |
02:20 |
02:30 |
02:40 |
02:50 |
00:00 |
ARRM |
In Madeira |
|
16 |
Argentina |
LU4AA |
02:30 |
02:40 |
02:50 |
00:00 |
00:10 |
RCA |
On the air |
|
17 |
Peru |
OA4B |
02:40 |
02:50 |
00:00 |
00:10 |
00:20 |
RCP |
Ready to ship |
|
18 |
Venezuela |
YV5B |
02:50 |
00:00 |
00:10 |
00:20 |
00:30 |
RCV |
On the air |
*The W6WX and KH6WO beacons are not yet licensed for 18.110 and 24.930 MHz operation.
**This beacon is still transmitting in the older format on 14.100 MHz.
Note that our Heard beacon will be running in the same schedule too.
10.4 Propagation charts
Most figures are modeled for possible openings. If I have time, I will calculate the peaks for those that I have not done it yet. Typically, the high band openings are done with a low probability.
All propagation charts are modeled for our antennas (and those of our average public):
- gain: from 10m as 15 dBi going down to 80/160: 3 dBi
- angle: from 10m as 5 dgrs going up to 80/160: 25 deg
- Flux assumed as SFI 75.
- Es, PCA and indices are not taken into account.
Europe:
Japan:
NA-Eastcoast:
NA-Midwest:
NA-West Coast:
10.5 Main beam headings:
Though CT gives the short path beam headings for all locations, here are the most important ones:
Boy you should see the US on the great circle map! It really stretches out!
10.6 Main sunset/sunrise tables:
Though CT gives most of the sunset/sunrise tables, here are the main ones:
10.7 Switching checklist:
Here is a list of items you need to check every time you start operating, or switch bands:
10.8 Appendix: My personal activity sheets
(this needs to be a nice spreadsheet, which you will have in the paper copy of the operating manual):
These table, you can fill in, while you are operating, so you can fill in the central activity sheet on the chart in the kitchen shelter after every operating shift:
The propagation activity sheet, you mark with crosses the opening per continent, per band, per hour, that you have observed. After a few days, this will give, on the central Propagation activity sheet, a good overview of the openings we observe and help us plan our operators/modes/bands...
Example of Propagation activity sheet:
JAPAN
|
10 |
12 |
15 |
17 |
20 |
30 |
40 |
80 |
160 |
|
|
00 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
||||
|
01 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
||
|
02 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
||
|
03 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
||
|
04 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|||
|
05 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
||||
|
06 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|||||
|
07 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|||||
|
08 |
X |
X |
X |
||||||
|
09 |
X |
X |
|||||||
|
10 |
X |
X |
|||||||
|
11 |
X |
X |
|||||||
|
12 |
X |
X |
|||||||
|
13 |
X |
X |
|||||||
|
14 |
X |
X |
|||||||
|
15 |
X |
X |
|||||||
|
16 |
X |
X |
|||||||
|
17 |
X |
X |
|||||||
|
18 |
X |
||||||||
|
19 |
X |
||||||||
|
20 |
X |
||||||||
|
21 |
|||||||||
|
22 |
X |
||||||||
|
23 |
X |
X |
|
10 |
12 |
15 |
17 |
20 |
30 |
40 |
80 |
160 |
|
|
00 |
|||||||||
|
01 |
|||||||||
|
02 |
|||||||||
|
03 |
|||||||||
|
04 |
|||||||||
|
05 |
|||||||||
|
06 |
|||||||||
|
07 |
|||||||||
|
08 |
|||||||||
|
09 |
|||||||||
|
10 |
|||||||||
|
11 |
|||||||||
|
12 |
|||||||||
|
13 |
X |
||||||||
|
14 |
X |
X |
|||||||
|
15 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|||||
|
16 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|||
|
17 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
||
|
18 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
19 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
||||
|
20 |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|||||
|
21 |
X |
X |
|||||||
|
22 |
X |
||||||||
|
23 |
The mode activity sheet gives an overview of how many stations we worked on each band/mode to each continent. It will help to ensure us that we:
Each turf or tick on this sheet represents about 100 stations worked.
Again, after your shift, fill this in on the central mode activity sheet in the kitchen.
Example of Mode activity sheet: (every turf or tick is about 100 stations)
JAPAN
|
10 |
12 |
15 |
17 |
20 |
30 |
40 |
80 |
160 |
|
|
CW |
II |
I |
II |
III |
I |
II |
III |
II |
I |
|
SSB |
I |
II |
II |
II |
II |
||||
|
RTTY |
I |
EAST COAST U.S.
|
10 |
12 |
15 |
17 |
20 |
30 |
40 |
80 |
160 |
|
|
CW |
I |
I |
II |
III |
I |
II |
III |
II |
I |
|
SSB |
I |
I |
I |
I |
I |
I |
|||
|
RTTY |
I |