I'm not sure how crowded the 75/80M SSB band is at any given time. I can speak on contest conditions on 80 CW. Basically you have 3 major DX contests that will pack 80 CW: ARRL DX, CQ WW DX, CQ WPX (ARRL SS also packs the band on this side of the pond). DX is all over the lower 100 khz of 80, so the DX window in effect expands.
I think contest conditions in EU are probably worse than in NA. More major EU contests on more weekends, so there is a different set of concerns. Smaller contests in the US (QSO Parties), tend to run in the 3530-3560 range. Although it can be busy, it's rare that it is insane. You have a number of groups that use that area as well: FISTS, NAQCC, QRP to name a few. Most respect the other groups activities and everyone seems to get along just fine. They have been in this area for a long time. The area is refered to on many sites for CW and QRP enthusiasts. I think that should remain the case. I've not heard much digital activity between 3500-3600. I have heard lots of jammers, invaders and general crud, particularly in the lower 25. No one seems to be able to police them... Frankly, I don't see why folks can't coexist multi-mode with the changes. Of course, I tend to think most folks are decent and flexible. Gradual changes may happen, nets will stay or relocate as needed. Forcing the issue will drive some away from the hobby and cause bitterness in others, I don't see it as productive. Also, I don't see how it can effectively be policed, even if mandatory changes were made. Peer pressure works, if everyone signs on. Intentional jamming is a big problem with many working on it, but in my 30 years as a ham, it seems like it has remained the same or maybe become worse in some instances. As to the increase in power on the WARC bands, I think it is a mistake. 30 and 17 (12 is quiet most of the time now) are almost as level a playing field as one can find. Even the folks with a modest station have a shot at rare DX. I guess I still like skill and luck versus brute force. Sorry to take up the space with my ramblings... Cheers, Julius n2wn _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
