I'd put it this way: Some folks just want to get on the air and operate. Others take greater joy in knowing they can get the most out of what is available. There's room for a variety of operators.
EVERY station is a collection of compromises. There is no perfect station or even a perfect portion. Antennas are part of that compromise, since available space, height and ground conditions, (no) tree etc. can vary greatly within a very short distance. The only 'perfect' antenna is the isotropic, which is hard to build. :o) An example of compromise is the commonly used portable "rubber duck" (AKA the semi-radiating dummy load). One can be more/less efficient, but it works and nothing is perfect. Keeping that in mind, most do the best they can with what they have. Both ends of the operator spectrum (soggy noodle antenna -> every Pico watt out) make folks happy, so who's to complain? Some like QRP, some QRO, DX or not, ragchew or not, some are more technically minded and so on. While I tend to think it's wise to know WHY you're doing something and understanding what compromises you're accepting, I understand those that just want to get on the air and have fun. If you can afford heating the room (or hardware) with reasonable safety and you're having fun, have at it. Rick WA6NHC -----Original Message----- From: David Gilbert Ham radio being a knowledge-based hobby, some people prefer to understand what they're doing. Apparently others don't seem to care. Dave AB7E ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
