Just recently I pointed someone to the site since it has many different modes of operation. I have used the site from time to time, but mostly when I was trying to coordinate with someone for a new mode. We haven't had a new mode that interests me for a while now, so there has been less need. The next big thing sounds like the Thor mode, but it is apparently not ready yet. No information has been forthcoming in the NBEMS group.
Since we are doing amateur radio at least a little bit of the time, (in between internet use, like right this minute if you are reading this message, HI), I don't tend to use the sked page for general contacts as to me it seems like it defeats the purpose of amateur radio. What we do is similar to fishing for different kinds of fish. With digital operation, there are a lot of new fish species, so the chance of getting any particular one may be reduced. I used to try and come up with spot frequencies for various modes, but almost no one has any desire to do this. So what I do is move up a kHz or so above a watering hole area for PSK31 and call with different modes. I think that I have more luck with MFSK16 than any other non PSK31 mode, but sometimes have even tried a few others such as FAE400. If that does not work, I will make a PSK31 contact, which is (using the fish analogy) like shooting them in a barrel. But I will ask the other operator if they have any interest in trying some different modes. Once in a while I will find an operator who is more knowledgeable and has the software and interest to try different modes. Sometimes we have switched to many different modes to test them out. And in the end, I almost always find that PSK31 works the best to find the other station when a given mode doesn't work well (assuming the band is still reasonably working), or MFSK16 is still getting through if you can maintain the right frequency. I try and remember the audio frequency that I am on if something gets disturbed so that I can get back to the exact spot. Now that Multipsk solved the problem I had with switching out of the ICOM "D" mode, I find it to be the best program to use since it is the only program with the RSID system. Alternatively, or in addition, I will turn on the fax transmission showing the mode in the waterfall. All these things can help. So for those who want to try new modes, and are not sure of the mode being sent, please consider using Multipsk with RSID. It instantly switches your frequency, mode, and locks you within a few Hz for the sending stations mode. 73, Rick, KV9U Andrew O'Brien wrote: > I have such a web site Dave, but not used much these days. > > http://www.obriensweb.com/sked > > Click on "digital radio" > > Andy > > >
