I too am new to satellite operations having made my first QSO on November 24 of last year via AO51 and was immediately identified as a newbie and encouraged and given advice by several with whom I made QSO's. When I decided to get into this mode of operation, like most endeavors I pursue, I read everything I could on the subject. Online and in print the common advice from those offering it is "don't call CQ, do give your call and grid and wait for someone to answer you or call someone who is giving their call and grid, complete the exchange and move on. There seem to be some who make no effort to learn proper operating procedures or just ignore procedure, but a vast majority does seem to follow this type of procedure. What everyone seems to be concerned with are the pileups and common courtesy of not stepping on others and being long winded, which on the FM Birds could be anything above and beyond the exchange. Reconfiguring the Birds to transponder only is not a viable option, unless you wish to exclude newbie’s and oldies who for many reasons can only work the FM repeater mode. Patience with and outreach to any "offender" should be the first order of business, which I will make a concerted effort to do with the next one I can identify. This can be done with an email that courteously offers advice on how to succeed in and enjoy our hobby. A concerted effort from AMSAT is one way of getting the info out, but not all operators are members and I sure AMSAT has done this over the years. Like many activities, self policing through offers of help and advice is the best option. 73, Marvin K5MLT
________________________________ From: Joe jbarkley@truvista.net Cc: amsat-bb@amsat.org Sent: Tue, January 11, 2011 1:36:02 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Sat protocol
I am new to the satellite world as of 3 years ago. I have read all the posts on the thread/s and I am wondering if there is a ACTUAL satellite protocol or etiquette that could be referenced. I just the common courtesy I have learn over the years of working the bands Or at least I hope I do. If I am offending please let me know as I will others. I try and get on the early passes on the FM birds when it is not so crowded and can a 2 or 3 sentence conversation with guys I have worked before and guys I have not. It is much easier on the linear birds to do that at most any pass. Just my 2 nickles worth but it would be nice to refer someone to a "protocol" when you feel they are not operating in a manner befitting the hobby rather than them just thinking you should mind your own business and butt out..
73, Joe KI4TZ
Vince Fiscus, KB7ADL wrote:
At 12:42 PM 1/10/2011 -0800, w6zkh@att.net wrote:
Problem is Damon, is that some of the worse offenders are guys who've been around ever since I have been. Everyone out to get that elusive Grid Square that they've worked a zillion times before. I too did the same as you, and pretty much void the FM'er anymore, unless something special comes up.
For another 2 cents worth: (I know I'll get flamed) If there is some station announcing here on the BB that they are going to a special grid location that is rare or needed by someone, then give them and others a break. Namely, if he or even any other station that is working Portable or HT status, work him, then QRT, and leave the freq for others. 'Hogging' the channel, working or calling the same old station you've worked a zillion times before and not letting others work the Portable/HT stations, just to satisfy your QSO count for more wallpaper just doesnt hack it, in my opinion. end of rant & extinguisher in hand.............
John
You won't get flamed by everyone, I'll join ya in the fire.
How many times do they actually have to work the SAME grid before it finally counts? LOL
I don't join in but I listen. It's kind of like listening to CB.
KB7ADL
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_______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb