Re: [amsat-bb] 5 Band VUCC Award
Bruce,
Correct. For those of us “Back East”, 6 Meter VUCC and Satellite VUCC are probably the easiest to earn. 2 Meters is certainly achievable especially using WSJT meteor scatter and EME.
Those in most parts of the West have an advantage on microwave—since high spots with five grids within range are most plentiful.
222 and 432 are within each of most—especially if we have increased activity on these bands.
Microwave about 2.3 GHz is tougher but if you’re willing to travel the five (5) grids required could be worked by yourself and a partner in a weekend.
For the record, I just achieved my second VUCC. This one on 2 Meters—a feat that took over a decade to complete. I’m limited to an indoor antenna due to HOA. Closing in on Satellite VUCC which would give me three of the awards.
Completing 432 would be possible—but likely would require a single Yagi EME effort from the driveway at night. My HOA will allow portable operations—but everything has to be back inside when the sun comes up.
That would give me four bands—anything else will require microwave and travel. A considerable expense. But one that I’d be willing to make if the reward was not only 10 GHz VUCC but also the new Five Band VUCC Award.
I really hope the ARRL will seriously consider the proposal. If you’re supportive of it, please contact your Section Manager and let them know.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
On Apr 22, 2019, at 7:52 AM, Bruce kk5do@amsat.org wrote:
So, I could do my 100 on satellite, 100 on 6m, then 100 on 2m and 50 on 70cm and be done.
The higher frequencies are impossible from the Houston area as we have no mountains. Those in mountainous regions have a distinct advantage in the higher frequencies. That is why you see a large group of high frequency use in Europe, East Coast and West Coast. I am not saying it does not present a challenge everywhere
73...bruce
On 4/22/2019 1:20 AM, Les Rayburn wrote:
Bruce,
Thank you for your input. Current VUCC rules would apply:
6 Meters, 2 Meters, and Satellite require 100 grids confirmed. 222 and 432 require 50 grids 902 and 1296 require 25 grids 2304 requires 10 grids All higher bands including 5 GHz, 10Ghz, and laser require only five.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
On Apr 21, 2019, at 10:07 PM, Bruce <kk5do@amsat.org mailto:kk5do@amsat.org> wrote:
100 grids terrestrial on 1296 or 2400. that is a bit rough. what 5 bands would it be? 222, 2m, 70cm, 1296 and ??? 2400?
73...bruce
Sent from my iPhone
On Apr 21, 2019, at 9:50 PM, Les Rayburn via AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb@amsat.org mailto:amsat-bb@amsat.org> wrote:
Lady & Gentlemen,
Not certain if my earlier message was received. No reply from anyone on the distribution list. Here it is again, in case the first one was lost in cyberspace.
In an effort to stimulate activity on VHF/UHF bands beyond 70 CM, I’d like to suggest the creation of a Five Band VUCC (5B VUCC) award that would closely mirror the 5 Band DXCC Award.
Successful applicants would need to achieve VUCC status on five or more of the VHF/UHF bands to be eligible for the larger award. A special certificate and pin could be created to honor recipients.
My feeling is that this award would encourage greater activity on the VHF/UHF bands, especially on bands that have less use like 222, 1296, and higher microwave bands. This increased activity encourages the sale of more gear, helps protect our spectrum from commercial interests, and advances the state of the radio art.
Please let me know if you think this idea has any merit, or what I could do to help support the creation of the new award. As always, grateful for your service to the hobby.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF 121 Mayfair Park Maylene, AL 35114 EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org mailto:AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of AMSAT-NA. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
--
Bruce Paige, KK5DO
AMSAT Director Contests and Awards AMSAT Board Member 2016-2020
ARRL Awards Field Checker (WAS, 5BWAS, VUCC), VE
Houston AMSAT Net - Wed 0100z on Echolink - Conference *AMSAT* Also live streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com http://www.amsatnet.com/ Podcast at http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml or iTunes
Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News http://www.arrl.org http://www.arrl.org/
AMSAT on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/amsat http://www.twitter.com/amsat
Lee, This would be a policy issue. Supportive information should go to your Director and the ARRL Awards Committee. I do not know who currently is on the Awards Committee. Maybe someone on the list can advise? Your Director can also provide you with that information. The Section Manager and his Field Service organization has no input into matters such as this.
“If you’re supportive of it, please contact your Section Manager and let them know.”
John Dyer AE5B
WTX ARRL Section Manager (retired) ARRL President’s Award 2014
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
From: Les Rayburn via AMSAT-BB Sent: Monday, April 22, 2019 10:45 AM To: Bruce Cc: AMSAT BB; Greg Sarratt W4OZK; VHF Contesting Reflector; vhf@w6yx.stanford.edu Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] 5 Band VUCC Award
Bruce,
Correct. For those of us “Back East”, 6 Meter VUCC and Satellite VUCC are probably the easiest to earn. 2 Meters is certainly achievable especially using WSJT meteor scatter and EME.
Those in most parts of the West have an advantage on microwave—since high spots with five grids within range are most plentiful.
222 and 432 are within each of most—especially if we have increased activity on these bands.
Microwave about 2.3 GHz is tougher but if you’re willing to travel the five (5) grids required could be worked by yourself and a partner in a weekend.
For the record, I just achieved my second VUCC. This one on 2 Meters—a feat that took over a decade to complete. I’m limited to an indoor antenna due to HOA. Closing in on Satellite VUCC which would give me three of the awards.
Completing 432 would be possible—but likely would require a single Yagi EME effort from the driveway at night. My HOA will allow portable operations—but everything has to be back inside when the sun comes up.
That would give me four bands—anything else will require microwave and travel. A considerable expense. But one that I’d be willing to make if the reward was not only 10 GHz VUCC but also the new Five Band VUCC Award.
I really hope the ARRL will seriously consider the proposal. If you’re supportive of it, please contact your Section Manager and let them know.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
On Apr 22, 2019, at 7:52 AM, Bruce kk5do@amsat.org wrote:
So, I could do my 100 on satellite, 100 on 6m, then 100 on 2m and 50 on 70cm and be done.
The higher frequencies are impossible from the Houston area as we have no mountains. Those in mountainous regions have a distinct advantage in the higher frequencies. That is why you see a large group of high frequency use in Europe, East Coast and West Coast. I am not saying it does not present a challenge everywhere
73...bruce
On 4/22/2019 1:20 AM, Les Rayburn wrote:
Bruce,
Thank you for your input. Current VUCC rules would apply:
6 Meters, 2 Meters, and Satellite require 100 grids confirmed. 222 and 432 require 50 grids 902 and 1296 require 25 grids 2304 requires 10 grids All higher bands including 5 GHz, 10Ghz, and laser require only five.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
On Apr 21, 2019, at 10:07 PM, Bruce <kk5do@amsat.org mailto:kk5do@amsat.org> wrote:
100 grids terrestrial on 1296 or 2400. that is a bit rough. what 5 bands would it be? 222, 2m, 70cm, 1296 and ??? 2400?
73...bruce
Sent from my iPhone
On Apr 21, 2019, at 9:50 PM, Les Rayburn via AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb@amsat.org mailto:amsat-bb@amsat.org> wrote:
Lady & Gentlemen,
Not certain if my earlier message was received. No reply from anyone on the distribution list. Here it is again, in case the first one was lost in cyberspace.
In an effort to stimulate activity on VHF/UHF bands beyond 70 CM, I’d like to suggest the creation of a Five Band VUCC (5B VUCC) award that would closely mirror the 5 Band DXCC Award.
Successful applicants would need to achieve VUCC status on five or more of the VHF/UHF bands to be eligible for the larger award. A special certificate and pin could be created to honor recipients.
My feeling is that this award would encourage greater activity on the VHF/UHF bands, especially on bands that have less use like 222, 1296, and higher microwave bands. This increased activity encourages the sale of more gear, helps protect our spectrum from commercial interests, and advances the state of the radio art.
Please let me know if you think this idea has any merit, or what I could do to help support the creation of the new award. As always, grateful for your service to the hobby.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF 121 Mayfair Park Maylene, AL 35114 EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org mailto:AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of AMSAT-NA. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
--
Bruce Paige, KK5DO
AMSAT Director Contests and Awards AMSAT Board Member 2016-2020
ARRL Awards Field Checker (WAS, 5BWAS, VUCC), VE
Houston AMSAT Net - Wed 0100z on Echolink - Conference *AMSAT* Also live streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com http://www.amsatnet.com/ Podcast at http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml or iTunes
Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News http://www.arrl.org http://www.arrl.org/
AMSAT on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/amsat http://www.twitter.com/amsat
_______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of AMSAT-NA. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
An idea I have been kicking around would be a VUCC challenge, like the DXCC Challenge on HF, 160, and 6 meters. You add together your grid totals from all VHF and UHF bands, and include satellites, and the higher score each year would get a trophy. This should get people interested in adding additional bands to their setup.
There could be a plaque issued when you reach some level of grid totals. For the DXCC Challenge is it 1000 band countries, with endorsements being added to that at specific levels. May 500 band grids would be the plaque level. I think that there should be some stipulation added that you must have worked say 20 grids on 3 different bands to get the initial plaque. This would keep someone from getting the initial plaque just by using 6 meters or the satellites. I love 6 meters and the satellites, but doing it on 1 band would kind of violate the spirit of the award. Also, for the DXCC Challenge you would have to use 3 bands minimum to get to 1000 band countries. You couldn't do it on just 20 meters.
Any thoughts on this idea?
73 John AF5CC
On Mon, Apr 22, 2019 at 10:45 AM Les Rayburn via VHF vhf@w6yx.stanford.edu wrote:
Bruce,
Correct. For those of us “Back East”, 6 Meter VUCC and Satellite VUCC are probably the easiest to earn. 2 Meters is certainly achievable especially using WSJT meteor scatter and EME.
Those in most parts of the West have an advantage on microwave—since high spots with five grids within range are most plentiful.
222 and 432 are within each of most—especially if we have increased activity on these bands.
Microwave about 2.3 GHz is tougher but if you’re willing to travel the five (5) grids required could be worked by yourself and a partner in a weekend.
For the record, I just achieved my second VUCC. This one on 2 Meters—a feat that took over a decade to complete. I’m limited to an indoor antenna due to HOA. Closing in on Satellite VUCC which would give me three of the awards.
Completing 432 would be possible—but likely would require a single Yagi EME effort from the driveway at night. My HOA will allow portable operations—but everything has to be back inside when the sun comes up.
That would give me four bands—anything else will require microwave and travel. A considerable expense. But one that I’d be willing to make if the reward was not only 10 GHz VUCC but also the new Five Band VUCC Award.
I really hope the ARRL will seriously consider the proposal. If you’re supportive of it, please contact your Section Manager and let them know.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
On Apr 22, 2019, at 7:52 AM, Bruce kk5do@amsat.org wrote:
So, I could do my 100 on satellite, 100 on 6m, then 100 on 2m and 50 on
70cm and be done.
The higher frequencies are impossible from the Houston area as we have
no mountains. Those in mountainous regions have a distinct advantage in the higher frequencies. That is why you see a large group of high frequency use in Europe, East Coast and West Coast. I am not saying it does not present a challenge everywhere
73...bruce
On 4/22/2019 1:20 AM, Les Rayburn wrote:
Bruce,
Thank you for your input. Current VUCC rules would apply:
6 Meters, 2 Meters, and Satellite require 100 grids confirmed. 222 and 432 require 50 grids 902 and 1296 require 25 grids 2304 requires 10 grids All higher bands including 5 GHz, 10Ghz, and laser require only five.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
On Apr 21, 2019, at 10:07 PM, Bruce <kk5do@amsat.org <mailto:
kk5do@amsat.org>> wrote:
100 grids terrestrial on 1296 or 2400. that is a bit rough. what 5
bands would it be? 222, 2m, 70cm, 1296 and ??? 2400?
73...bruce
Sent from my iPhone
On Apr 21, 2019, at 9:50 PM, Les Rayburn via AMSAT-BB <
amsat-bb@amsat.org mailto:amsat-bb@amsat.org> wrote:
Lady & Gentlemen,
Not certain if my earlier message was received. No reply from anyone
on the distribution list. Here it is again, in case the first one was lost in cyberspace.
In an effort to stimulate activity on VHF/UHF bands beyond 70 CM, I’d
like to suggest the creation of a Five Band VUCC (5B VUCC) award that would closely mirror the 5 Band DXCC Award.
Successful applicants would need to achieve VUCC status on five or
more of the VHF/UHF bands to be eligible for the larger award. A special certificate and pin could be created to honor recipients.
My feeling is that this award would encourage greater activity on the
VHF/UHF bands, especially on bands that have less use like 222, 1296, and higher microwave bands. This increased activity encourages the sale of more gear, helps protect our spectrum from commercial interests, and advances the state of the radio art.
Please let me know if you think this idea has any merit, or what I
could do to help support the creation of the new award. As always, grateful for your service to the hobby.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF 121 Mayfair Park Maylene, AL 35114 EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org mailto:AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. AMSAT-NA
makes this open forum available
to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership.
Opinions expressed
are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views
of AMSAT-NA.
Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite
program!
Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
--
Bruce Paige, KK5DO
AMSAT Director Contests and Awards AMSAT Board Member 2016-2020
ARRL Awards Field Checker (WAS, 5BWAS, VUCC), VE
Houston AMSAT Net - Wed 0100z on Echolink - Conference *AMSAT* Also live streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com <
Podcast at http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml <
http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml%3E or iTunes
Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News http://www.arrl.org http://www.arrl.org/
AMSAT on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/amsat <
http://www.twitter.com/amsat%3E
VHF mailing list VHF@w6yx.stanford.edu https://w6yx.stanford.edu/mailman/listinfo/vhf
A 5-Band VUCC award would be nice however I'm not sure it would increase activity on the bands beyond an individual's current effort of achieving a VUCC award on each band that currently exists. What advantage/incentive does it offer beyond having five separate VUCC awards? When the 5-Band DXCC award was created individual band DXCC Awards were not available as they are today.
Speaking just strictly from my personal situation, I have 11 single band VUCC awards (50 MHz thru 24 GHz). If a 5-Band VUCC award became available I would simply submit my existing individual award credits for a 5-Band award without getting on the air. If the award required an individual to start from scratch to achieve a 5-Band VUCC I have to confess I have absolutely no desire to get on the air and pursue that all over again and would not do so. From my normal operating perspective (and I realize those of you who know me would not certify me as being "normal") it would do nothing to increase my on-the-air activity.
What would stimulate me to get on the air more outside of a contest weekend is something John, AF5CC, mentions below. A VUCC Challenge Award similar to the DXCC Challenge Award where total grid count on all bands would come in to play.
Please do not read my comments as poo-pooing a 5-Band VUCC award. I believe it would be very nice. I just do not see how it would stimulate and increase activity since single band awards are already available.
73 Joel W5ZN
On 2019-04-22 17:23, John Geiger wrote:
An idea I have been kicking around would be a VUCC challenge, like the DXCC Challenge on HF, 160, and 6 meters. You add together your grid totals from all VHF and UHF bands, and include satellites, and the higher score each year would get a trophy. This should get people interested in adding additional bands to their setup.
There could be a plaque issued when you reach some level of grid totals. For the DXCC Challenge is it 1000 band countries, with endorsements being added to that at specific levels. May 500 band grids would be the plaque level. I think that there should be some stipulation added that you must have worked say 20 grids on 3 different bands to get the initial plaque. This would keep someone from getting the initial plaque just by using 6 meters or the satellites. I love 6 meters and the satellites, but doing it on 1 band would kind of violate the spirit of the award. Also, for the DXCC Challenge you would have to use 3 bands minimum to get to 1000 band countries. You couldn't do it on just 20 meters.
Any thoughts on this idea?
73 John AF5CC
On Mon, Apr 22, 2019 at 10:45 AM Les Rayburn via VHF vhf@w6yx.stanford.edu wrote:
Bruce,
Correct. For those of us “Back East”, 6 Meter VUCC and Satellite VUCC are probably the easiest to earn. 2 Meters is certainly achievable especially using WSJT meteor scatter and EME.
Those in most parts of the West have an advantage on microwave—since high spots with five grids within range are most plentiful.
222 and 432 are within each of most—especially if we have increased activity on these bands.
Microwave about 2.3 GHz is tougher but if you’re willing to travel the five (5) grids required could be worked by yourself and a partner in a weekend.
For the record, I just achieved my second VUCC. This one on 2 Meters—a feat that took over a decade to complete. I’m limited to an indoor antenna due to HOA. Closing in on Satellite VUCC which would give me three of the awards.
Completing 432 would be possible—but likely would require a single Yagi EME effort from the driveway at night. My HOA will allow portable operations—but everything has to be back inside when the sun comes up.
That would give me four bands—anything else will require microwave and travel. A considerable expense. But one that I’d be willing to make if the reward was not only 10 GHz VUCC but also the new Five Band VUCC Award.
I really hope the ARRL will seriously consider the proposal. If you’re supportive of it, please contact your Section Manager and let them know.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
On Apr 22, 2019, at 7:52 AM, Bruce kk5do@amsat.org wrote:
So, I could do my 100 on satellite, 100 on 6m, then 100 on 2m and 50 on
70cm and be done.
The higher frequencies are impossible from the Houston area as we have
no mountains. Those in mountainous regions have a distinct advantage in the higher frequencies. That is why you see a large group of high frequency use in Europe, East Coast and West Coast. I am not saying it does not present a challenge everywhere
73...bruce
On 4/22/2019 1:20 AM, Les Rayburn wrote:
Bruce,
Thank you for your input. Current VUCC rules would apply:
6 Meters, 2 Meters, and Satellite require 100 grids confirmed. 222 and 432 require 50 grids 902 and 1296 require 25 grids 2304 requires 10 grids All higher bands including 5 GHz, 10Ghz, and laser require only five.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
On Apr 21, 2019, at 10:07 PM, Bruce <kk5do@amsat.org <mailto:
kk5do@amsat.org>> wrote:
100 grids terrestrial on 1296 or 2400. that is a bit rough. what 5
bands would it be? 222, 2m, 70cm, 1296 and ??? 2400?
73...bruce
Sent from my iPhone
On Apr 21, 2019, at 9:50 PM, Les Rayburn via AMSAT-BB <
amsat-bb@amsat.org mailto:amsat-bb@amsat.org> wrote:
Lady & Gentlemen,
Not certain if my earlier message was received. No reply from anyone
on the distribution list. Here it is again, in case the first one was lost in cyberspace.
In an effort to stimulate activity on VHF/UHF bands beyond 70 CM, I’d
like to suggest the creation of a Five Band VUCC (5B VUCC) award that would closely mirror the 5 Band DXCC Award.
Successful applicants would need to achieve VUCC status on five or
more of the VHF/UHF bands to be eligible for the larger award. A special certificate and pin could be created to honor recipients.
My feeling is that this award would encourage greater activity on the
VHF/UHF bands, especially on bands that have less use like 222, 1296, and higher microwave bands. This increased activity encourages the sale of more gear, helps protect our spectrum from commercial interests, and advances the state of the radio art.
Please let me know if you think this idea has any merit, or what I
could do to help support the creation of the new award. As always, grateful for your service to the hobby.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF 121 Mayfair Park Maylene, AL 35114 EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org mailto:AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. AMSAT-NA
makes this open forum available
to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership.
Opinions expressed
are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views
of AMSAT-NA.
Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite
program!
Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
--
Bruce Paige, KK5DO
AMSAT Director Contests and Awards AMSAT Board Member 2016-2020
ARRL Awards Field Checker (WAS, 5BWAS, VUCC), VE
Houston AMSAT Net - Wed 0100z on Echolink - Conference *AMSAT* Also live streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com <
Podcast at http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml <
http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml%3E or iTunes
Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News http://www.arrl.org http://www.arrl.org/
AMSAT on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/amsat <
http://www.twitter.com/amsat%3E
VHF mailing list VHF@w6yx.stanford.edu https://w6yx.stanford.edu/mailman/listinfo/vhf
VHFcontesting mailing list VHFcontesting@contesting.com http://lists.contesting.com/mailman/listinfo/vhfcontesting
Well said Joel ... I concur ! 73 VE3KH
-----Original Message----- From: VHFcontesting vhfcontesting-bounces@contesting.com On Behalf Of w5zn@w5zn.org Sent: April 23, 2019 7:13 AM To: Les Rayburn les@highnoonfilm.com; vhf@w6yx.stanford.edu; AMSAT BB amsat-bb@amsat.org; Bruce kk5do@amsat.org; Greg Sarratt W4OZK w4ozk@arrl.org; VHF Contesting Reflector vhfcontesting@contesting.com Subject: Re: [VHFcontesting] [VHF] [amsat-bb] 5 Band VUCC Award
A 5-Band VUCC award would be nice however I'm not sure it would increase activity on the bands beyond an individual's current effort of achieving a VUCC award on each band that currently exists. What advantage/incentive does it offer beyond having five separate VUCC awards? When the 5-Band DXCC award was created individual band DXCC Awards were not available as they are today.
Speaking just strictly from my personal situation, I have 11 single band VUCC awards (50 MHz thru 24 GHz). If a 5-Band VUCC award became available I would simply submit my existing individual award credits for a 5-Band award without getting on the air. If the award required an individual to start from scratch to achieve a 5-Band VUCC I have to confess I have absolutely no desire to get on the air and pursue that all over again and would not do so. From my normal operating perspective (and I realize those of you who know me would not certify me as being "normal") it would do nothing to increase my on-the-air activity.
What would stimulate me to get on the air more outside of a contest weekend is something John, AF5CC, mentions below. A VUCC Challenge Award similar to the DXCC Challenge Award where total grid count on all bands would come in to play.
Please do not read my comments as poo-pooing a 5-Band VUCC award. I believe it would be very nice. I just do not see how it would stimulate and increase activity since single band awards are already available.
73 Joel W5ZN
On 2019-04-22 17:23, John Geiger wrote:
An idea I have been kicking around would be a VUCC challenge, like the DXCC Challenge on HF, 160, and 6 meters. You add together your grid totals from all VHF and UHF bands, and include satellites, and the higher score each year would get a trophy. This should get people interested in adding additional bands to their setup.
There could be a plaque issued when you reach some level of grid totals. For the DXCC Challenge is it 1000 band countries, with endorsements being added to that at specific levels. May 500 band grids would be the plaque level. I think that there should be some stipulation added that you must have worked say 20 grids on 3 different bands to get the initial plaque. This would keep someone from getting the initial plaque just by using 6 meters or the satellites. I love 6 meters and the satellites, but doing it on 1 band would kind of violate the spirit of the award. Also, for the DXCC Challenge you would have to use 3 bands minimum to get to 1000 band countries. You couldn't do it on just 20 meters.
Any thoughts on this idea?
73 John AF5CC
On Mon, Apr 22, 2019 at 10:45 AM Les Rayburn via VHF vhf@w6yx.stanford.edu wrote:
Bruce,
Correct. For those of us “Back East”, 6 Meter VUCC and Satellite VUCC are probably the easiest to earn. 2 Meters is certainly achievable especially using WSJT meteor scatter and EME.
Those in most parts of the West have an advantage on microwave—since high spots with five grids within range are most plentiful.
222 and 432 are within each of most—especially if we have increased activity on these bands.
Microwave about 2.3 GHz is tougher but if you’re willing to travel the five (5) grids required could be worked by yourself and a partner in a weekend.
For the record, I just achieved my second VUCC. This one on 2 Meters—a feat that took over a decade to complete. I’m limited to an indoor antenna due to HOA. Closing in on Satellite VUCC which would give me three of the awards.
Completing 432 would be possible—but likely would require a single Yagi EME effort from the driveway at night. My HOA will allow portable operations—but everything has to be back inside when the sun comes up.
That would give me four bands—anything else will require microwave and travel. A considerable expense. But one that I’d be willing to make if the reward was not only 10 GHz VUCC but also the new Five Band VUCC Award.
I really hope the ARRL will seriously consider the proposal. If you’re supportive of it, please contact your Section Manager and let them know.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
On Apr 22, 2019, at 7:52 AM, Bruce kk5do@amsat.org wrote:
So, I could do my 100 on satellite, 100 on 6m, then 100 on 2m and 50 on
70cm and be done.
The higher frequencies are impossible from the Houston area as we have
no mountains. Those in mountainous regions have a distinct advantage in the higher frequencies. That is why you see a large group of high frequency use in Europe, East Coast and West Coast. I am not saying it does not present a challenge everywhere
73...bruce
On 4/22/2019 1:20 AM, Les Rayburn wrote:
Bruce,
Thank you for your input. Current VUCC rules would apply:
6 Meters, 2 Meters, and Satellite require 100 grids confirmed. 222 and 432 require 50 grids 902 and 1296 require 25 grids 2304 requires 10 grids All higher bands including 5 GHz, 10Ghz, and laser require only five.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF Maylene, AL EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
On Apr 21, 2019, at 10:07 PM, Bruce <kk5do@amsat.org <mailto:
kk5do@amsat.org>> wrote:
100 grids terrestrial on 1296 or 2400. that is a bit rough. what 5
bands would it be? 222, 2m, 70cm, 1296 and ??? 2400?
73...bruce
Sent from my iPhone
On Apr 21, 2019, at 9:50 PM, Les Rayburn via AMSAT-BB <
amsat-bb@amsat.org mailto:amsat-bb@amsat.org> wrote:
Lady & Gentlemen,
Not certain if my earlier message was received. No reply from anyone
on the distribution list. Here it is again, in case the first one was lost in cyberspace.
In an effort to stimulate activity on VHF/UHF bands beyond 70 CM, I’d
like to suggest the creation of a Five Band VUCC (5B VUCC) award that would closely mirror the 5 Band DXCC Award.
Successful applicants would need to achieve VUCC status on five or
more of the VHF/UHF bands to be eligible for the larger award. A special certificate and pin could be created to honor recipients.
My feeling is that this award would encourage greater activity on the
VHF/UHF bands, especially on bands that have less use like 222, 1296, and higher microwave bands. This increased activity encourages the sale of more gear, helps protect our spectrum from commercial interests, and advances the state of the radio art.
Please let me know if you think this idea has any merit, or what I
could do to help support the creation of the new award. As always, grateful for your service to the hobby.
73,
Les Rayburn, N1LF 121 Mayfair Park Maylene, AL 35114 EM63nf AMSAT #38965, ARRL Life Member, CVHS Life Member, SVHF Member
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Bruce Paige, KK5DO
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participants (5)
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AE5B -
John Geiger -
Kevin Hobbs -
Les Rayburn -
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