[DX-CHAT] Waterproof Connections
I learned the proper materials and methods for watertight connections while working for over 20 years in underwater acoustics. When you put transducer arrays and other electrical devices underwater at depths of greater than 600ft, and for long periods of time, you lean how to do it right. The materials we used on electrical cable connections were to first cover it with the pliable material that we called Monkey Dung. I have seen a similar material used by hams over the years and I am sure it is adequate. It is a pliable, tacky, putty like material that can be hand molded to completely cover the connectors. It is very similar to the material they use on RV's to seal panel and exterior skin materials. You can buy it by the roll at an RV parts supplier. I'll bet it works just fine. This material completely encases the connector, and then is covered with a self vulcanizing tape which creates an impervious seal. The partial roll I have remaining in my shack was made by Bishop Electric of Cedargrove, NJ. I tried to locate them recently to try and buy some more, and couldn't find them. I have recently purchased a Scotch 3m product called 130C Linerless Rubber Splicing Tape. This is very similar to the Bishop Electeric tape, but I have no long term, or underwater experience with it. It just looks very much like the same thing. You can then cover the self vulcanizing tape with conventional vinyl electrical tape if you wish to eliminate the tacky exterior you will be left with from the self vulcanizing tape, but it contributes little to the watertight covering. For ham radio coax connections, I think you can eliminate the monkey dung and just use the self vulcanizing tape covered over with vinyl electrical tape. That should get the job done for the long term. John Owens - N7SEJ _ Netscape. Just the Net You Need. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] QSL costs
Strange. This W9OL list states "IRC not accepted" for Sweden. My post office in town sure accepts them so go figure. Guess I don´t beleive W9OL, besides he got the source wrong, SM4DQC is a broken call!! 73 Jim SM2EKM Ron Notarius wrote: Yes, W9OL has one. Here's a clip from his latest post on the issue: Creating and modifying the old text based IRC/GS Chart became difficult. We have taken a new approach. I've created two new forms. One in Excel format for download. http://www.qsl.net/w9ol/IRC_Chart.xls Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI
To Jerry, Ron, Joe, Richard et. al. Apologies for the slow response, but time differences mean that I was sleeping then working whilst you were sending replies! I hope the information supplied on Australian postage costs is of benefit to readers. With respect to the LoTW question. A close reading of my comment refers to Awards Managers, not qsl managers. Not all awards that I or others might be interested in, emanate from the ARRL. To name just two current awards: (1) IOTA currently requires the presentation of hard copy qsl cards with the island name printed on them. (2) All Australian DXCC awards require the sighting by two amateurs of all qsl cards or an official of an amateur society quote from WIA rules March 2005 "Applicants need to hold QSL cards for all QSO's claimed" I understand that discussions/negotiations are beginning to take place between other ARRL and other organisations around the world, but at the moment there is still a dual system in place. Therefore qsl cards are still a requirement. If an Awards manager wished to verify any claimed qsos, my understanding is that it would be nigh impossible for them to do so at the present. Take a hypothetical. An amateur applied for an IOTA award with 600 cards. 10 are deemed to be questionable. Currently the Awards Manager can either request the verifying officer of the original application to check the cards again or call in the cards in question from the applicant. Under LoTW, currently the Awards Manager cannot access other people's qso data, as it is password protected and unless the Awards Manager has arranged to have the particular award supported by LoTW, no further information is available. Some form of electronic verification, such as an e-qsl for the the qso is not available from LoTW either. It is my understanding that the COST of support by LoTW for non-ARRL awards has yet to be decided. CONCLUSION: Hard copy QSL cards are still remain a necessity, as I stated in the post. If anyone wants clarification of any issues associated with postal charges, qsl managers etc. in Australia, please feel free to e-mail me privately at [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cheers Peter VK3QI - Original Message - From: "Jerry K3BZ" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Peter Forbes" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; Sent: Wednesday, July 20, 2005 12:49 AM Subject: Re: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI Hi, Peter... thanks for the very detailed and informative message... that stuff is good to know and keep in mind. One question you wrote: "Comments have also been made about the LoTW. Unfortunately, until LoTW is able to be accepted and accessed at no cost by Awards Managers outside of the U.S.A., the requirement of hard copy qsl cards will remain a necessity." What are the costs for a manager outside the US to accept and access LOTW? Does the ARRL make you pay to use LOTW? 73, Jerry K3BZ - Original Message - From: "Peter Forbes" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2005 2:55 AM Subject: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI Australian Postage Charges for QSLS There has been a recent discussion thread about the cost of postage to various areas of the world. Currently the following applies: (1) A SINGLE card (not folded type) sealed in an envelope and stamped CARD ONLY costs A$1.10 airmail to anywhere in the world. (2) More than one card sealed in an envelope to Pacific rim countries and Pacific Islands (except KH6 and South American Pacific Islands) costs A$1.20, Airmail for up to 50 grams weight. (3) More than one card sealed in an envelope to Rest of World costs A$1.80 Airmail for up to 50 grams weight. There is NO Economy or Surface Rates on Letters available. If the weight exceeds 50 grams and up to 125 grams the cost doubles for (2) and (3), that is A$2.40 and A$3.60 respectively. Typically the 50 grams weight limit means between 10 and 15 cards maximum, depending on board weight and whether cards are folded and/or use stick-on labels. Exchange Rates 1 US Green Stamp is approximately A$1.30 after exchange charges are included. 1 IRC will generate stamps to the value of up to A$1.80 postage. Card Costs Generally an envelope is about 10 cents. QSL cards vary from around 10 cents to 25 cents, depending on quality and production run numbers. Buro Membership in Australia The Wireless Institute of Australia (WIA) as the official IARU buro for VK, does provide pickup points (at cost to the non-member), however membership of the WIA is not compulsory (and legally could not be made so in this country). A manager who chooses not to collect inwards cards from the buro, is quite within their rights to do so. Note that the WIA also has NO obligation to return unclaimed cards to the originating buro. (see IARU website and minutes regarding this matter)
Re: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI
Joe, I see your point, but let's make sure we're talking about apples-to-apples, not apples-to-oranges. There is no cost to anyone, be they station or station's manager, to UPLOAD to Logbook of the World. There is no cost to anyone to VIEW their logs and matching QSO's with other logs in Logbook. I want to make this distinction clear, as this is one of the simplest yet most misunderstood parts of using Logbook. So where are the fees charged? When you apply for an ARRL award (at present, only DXCC in it's many flavors) for yourself. Then and only then are the per-credit charges, ah, charged -- and no, I haven't looked at the particulars on this lately, so please don't beat me up on it. But -- remember, if you sent in the accumulated physical cards, you would STILL be paying, be it for the basic cost of the award, or for the number of excess cards, etc. Further, and more importantly, you would have to: (a)Pay shipping costs to the League (b)Worry about whether or not the shipper would lose or damage the cards (c)Worry about whether the cards would actually count (d)Pay shipping costs back from the League (e)Worry about whether or not the shipper would lose or damage the cards Now -- with Logbook, NONE of the fees apply, nor do any of those worries apply. And I'd wager that the per-credit costs involved will still cost a lot, lot less than shipping & handling & insurance charges. As far as CQ, RSGB/IOTA, and other awards (to say nothing of WAS & VUCC etc)... patience. Give the ARRL a chance to "shake out" the system, find and fix the bugs, and tweak as neccesary. The potential of Logbook is great, but it is not realistic to expect to get it all at once. I for one would rather wait and have it done right, than have it all Tuesday (I've lived through too many "dot zero" software releases!). So having said all this, I find kvetching about the "costs" of Logbook a bit premature. How can we complain about unknown costs for things that aren't implemented yet? At least Logbook isn't constantly dunning me on login for donations -- or (at least in theory) selling "QSL cards" based on my log data to people I've worked, like some other electronic "QSL" services I could mention! 73, ron wn3vaw - Original Message - From: "Joe Subich, W4TV" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "'Jerry K3BZ'" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2005 4:19 PM Subject: RE: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI > > > K3BZ asked of VK3QI > > > One question you wrote: "Comments have also been made > > about the LoTW. Unfortunately, until LoTW is able to be > > accepted and accessed at no cost by Awards Managers outside of > > the U.S.A., the requirement of hard copy qsl cards will > > remain a necessity." > > > > What are the costs for a manager outside the US to accept and > > access LOTW? Does the ARRL make you pay to use LOTW? > > Arrangements have not, as yet, been made between ARRL and any > other awards sponsor although discussions have supposedly been > held with both CQ and IOTA. > > ARRL charges a fee for use of LotW credits for DXCC ... there > has been no announcement of support for other ARRL awards but > I have been told that WAS and VUCC "are in the works." It is > my expectation that ARRL will have a "per credit" charge > similar to DXCC for WAS and VUCC. > > Still, I do not know if or how ARRL expects to charge for > credits used for other award programs ... I do not believe > there is even an API in place to support outside awards > programs although the "station location" information does > include information necessary to support both the CQ and > IOTA awards. > > 73, > >... Joe, W4TV (ex K4IK) > > > Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems > http://njdxa.org/dx-chat > > To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org > > This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA > http://njdxa.org > Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI
That's exactly what I thoughtThanks Ron. There is NO cost for DX to use LOTW, and therefore NO reason for a DX manager not to use LOTW, as indicated by Peter VK3QI. besidespossibly money. 73, Jerry K3BZ - Original Message - From: "Ron Notarius" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Jerry K3BZ" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; "Peter Forbes" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2005 11:11 AM Subject: Re: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI > Straight from the Logbook of the World FAQ page > https://p1k.arrl.org/lotw/faq#cost: > --- > How much does it cost to use Logbook of the World? > > There is no charge for digital certificates or for submitting log data to > the LoTW system. A charge is levied only when you apply for an award using > QSL matches obtained via LoTW. (Note that there's a charge for awards no > matter how you apply for them). > > The specific fees charged for using Logbook data for awards vary depending > on how many credits you buy at one time. See the Fees page for details > --- > > I don't think it can be stated any plainer than that. It costs NOTHING to > upload data. Period. Yes, you may have to jump through a hoop or two to > get authorized -- a neccesary evil to ensure that you are who you say you > are -- but all that costs is a little time, no money. > > Costs are ONLY involved when YOU apply for YOUR awards. That also does not > incur any costs to the DX Station(s) QSL Manager. > > 73, ron wn3vaw > > - Original Message - > From: "Jerry K3BZ" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > To: "Peter Forbes" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; > Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2005 10:49 AM > Subject: Re: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI > > > > Hi, Peter... thanks for the very detailed and informative message... that > > stuff is good to know and keep in mind. > > > > One question you wrote: "Comments have also been made about the LoTW. > > Unfortunately, until LoTW is able to be accepted and accessed at no cost > by > > Awards Managers outside of > > the U.S.A., the requirement of hard copy qsl cards will remain a > necessity." > > > > What are the costs for a manager outside the US to accept and access LOTW? > > Does the ARRL make you pay to use LOTW? > > > > 73, Jerry K3BZ > > > > - Original Message - > > From: "Peter Forbes" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > > To: > > Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2005 2:55 AM > > Subject: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI > > > > > Australian Postage Charges for QSLS > > > > > > There has been a recent discussion thread about the cost of postage to > > > various areas of the world. Currently the following applies: > > > > > > (1) A SINGLE card (not folded type) sealed in an envelope and stamped > > CARD > > > ONLY costs A$1.10 airmail to anywhere in the world. > > > > > > (2) More than one card sealed in an envelope to Pacific rim countries > and > > > Pacific Islands (except KH6 and South American Pacific Islands) costs > > > A$1.20, Airmail for up to 50 grams weight. > > > > > > (3) More than one card sealed in an envelope to Rest of World costs > > A$1.80 > > > Airmail for up to 50 grams weight. > > > > > > There is NO Economy or Surface Rates on Letters available. > > > > > > If the weight exceeds 50 grams and up to 125 grams the cost doubles for > > (2) > > > and (3), that is A$2.40 and A$3.60 respectively. > > > > > > Typically the 50 grams weight limit means between 10 and 15 cards > maximum, > > > depending on board weight and whether cards are folded and/or use > stick-on > > > labels. > > > > > > Exchange Rates > > > > > > 1 US Green Stamp is approximately A$1.30 after exchange charges are > > > included. > > > > > > 1 IRC will generate stamps to the value of up to A$1.80 postage. > > > > > > Card Costs > > > > > > Generally an envelope is about 10 cents. > > > > > > QSL cards vary from around 10 cents to 25 cents, depending on quality > and > > > production run numbers. > > > > > > Buro Membership in Australia > > > > > > The Wireless Institute of Australia (WIA) as the official IARU buro for > > VK, > > > does provide pickup points (at cost to the non-member), however > membership > > > of the WIA is not compulsory (and legally could not be made so in this > > > country). A manager who chooses not to collect inwards cards from the > > buro, > > > is quite within their rights to do so. > > > > > > Note that the WIA also has NO obligation to return unclaimed cards to > the > > > originating buro. (see IARU website and minutes regarding this matter) > > > > > > The Original Post > > > > > > If you read the original post from Art RX9TX, you will note that there > was > > a > > > reference to a "Package" of cards.The particular qsl manager is not > > > identified. > > > > > > If in fact, there were multiple requests and cards sufficient to put the > > > combi
Re: [DX-CHAT] Kudos to CQ Magazine
> CQ Magazine still publishes ALL of the scores of the DX contests and > surprisingly has not gone out of business regardless of the pages that info > takes up... remarkable! > Hi Charles: By coincidence, my CQ issue with the 2004 WW SSB results came today, and there WAS some writeup material that I wanted to see (listing of ops at multi-op stations) that is now ONLY on the web. I hadn't noticed this before, but apparently the expanded results started on their web site in 2002... StuKC1F Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
[DX-CHAT] Kudos to CQ Magazine
I have been vy positively impressed by CQ Magazine's last six or so issues. The Aug. one, for example, gives a definitive statement about the ham licensing situation in the United Kingdom... subject of rumors for months... nice DX related article! CQ Magazine still publishes ALL of the scores of the DX contests and surprisingly has not gone out of business regardless of the pages that info takes up... remarkable! And, unlike another popular ham mag, CQ has not told me how to build a dipole nor how to use wire nuts to attach feedlines to ants (these are things we do not know?--- and even that article did not mention the caution to be sure the plastic wire nuts point upward to avoid filling with water Wasted happy chat!!! And we needed a color photo of the nuts...yes?). CQ Magazine has taken on the FCC (agn Aug issue) Advisory board appointments---vital to ham radio but invisible in other organizations and publications. "Way to go"! ... in an advocacy position that far exceeds the USA organization we should expect to take this matter on. CQ Magazine has published several "way out" articles that are great thought pieces that push us to think of new things. Also, there was a good article that honestly faced some of the otherwise unspoken political realities in the world that also affect ham radio DXing. I am a happy and continuing subscriber !!! Congrats CQ Magazine. Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] QSL costs
I don't keep track of how the cards get to me, just IF they get to me. If I send for a card - bureau, manager or direct - I expect a reply. And I don't care how the reply comes in. And if an IRC or 2 or 3 or 4 will not cover air mail, I have no trouble with the bureau or surface mail. JUST SO IT GETS HERE! de Paul, W8AEF - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; dx-chat@njdxa.org Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2005 3:12 AM Subject: [DX-CHAT] QSL costs What about the DX station that requests green stamps to cover the cost of mailing the card and then sends your card via the Buro?This has happened to me on numerous occassions and probably to just about everyone else.Mort/WA2ARS
Re: [DX-CHAT] do I know? re QSL costs
Charleyyou pulled the plug for sure... those of us who struggled to get QSL cards in the 30's and for years after WWII know how difficult it can be. All Russian cards had to go via Box88 in Moscow and you were lucky to get a return card in 3 or 4 years. Sending green stamps was not in vogue as yet; in fact, if some foreign amateurs were caught receiving green stamps they became criminals. Personally, I dont hesitate to include $5 or more when its a bona fide expedition as their expenses are quite heavy. They deserve our support for sure. I also remember that many foreign amateurs had QSL cards printed for them by US amateurs as gifts. Its still gratifying to do something for someone less fortunate. 73 Norm K1AA - Original Message - From: "Charles Harpole" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2005 12:15 PM Subject: [DX-CHAT] do I know? re QSL costs Hey, Do I know how to start a discussion or what This is more computer typing ink spilled than at the last printer's convention. A pile-up on the DX Chat Reflector... wow. I love it !!! And, I still say, "bring a smile to the face of the poor DX op laboring away to answer YOUR cards..." just tuck a suprisingly large amount in the envelop and glow with the satisfaction that you brought a little joy into this cruel world. 73, Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI
K3BZ asked of VK3QI > One question you wrote: "Comments have also been made > about the LoTW. Unfortunately, until LoTW is able to be > accepted and accessed at no cost by Awards Managers outside of > the U.S.A., the requirement of hard copy qsl cards will > remain a necessity." > > What are the costs for a manager outside the US to accept and > access LOTW? Does the ARRL make you pay to use LOTW? Arrangements have not, as yet, been made between ARRL and any other awards sponsor although discussions have supposedly been held with both CQ and IOTA. ARRL charges a fee for use of LotW credits for DXCC ... there has been no announcement of support for other ARRL awards but I have been told that WAS and VUCC "are in the works." It is my expectation that ARRL will have a "per credit" charge similar to DXCC for WAS and VUCC. Still, I do not know if or how ARRL expects to charge for credits used for other award programs ... I do not believe there is even an API in place to support outside awards programs although the "station location" information does include information necessary to support both the CQ and IOTA awards. 73, ... Joe, W4TV (ex K4IK) Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] sealing coax fittings
I see no reason why Silicone tape wouldn't work. Personally I've always liked the N type connectors as where the threaded connector fits into the socket itself is sealed by virtue of a rubber sealing ring in the male connector. The cable gland itself (a pressure type cable gland) is waterproof. Some people regard use of N types connectors for shortwave as a waste, but personally I much prefer them to those truly awful PL259s. If you want to be a tad more QRO, then use 7/16s or "C" type. They're all dirt cheap at fleamarkets and, unlike the solder body PL259s (glorified CB connectors) it only takes a minute to desolder them and use them again, and again, and again Cheers Dave G0OIL -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Jim Reisert AD1C Sent: 19 July 2005 12:44 To: Charles Harpole; dx-chat@njdxa.org Subject: Re: [DX-CHAT] sealing coax fittings What about silicone plumber's tape? If wrapped first with the silicone tape, then with the UV electrical tape, would that seal out the water? - Jim -- Jim Reisert AD1C, 7 Charlemont Court, North Chelmsford, MA 01863 USA +978-251-9933, <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>, http://www.ad1c.us Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org d Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
[DX-CHAT] do I know? re QSL costs
Hey, Do I know how to start a discussion or what This is more computer typing ink spilled than at the last printer's convention. A pile-up on the DX Chat Reflector... wow. I love it !!! And, I still say, "bring a smile to the face of the poor DX op laboring away to answer YOUR cards..." just tuck a suprisingly large amount in the envelop and glow with the satisfaction that you brought a little joy into this cruel world. 73, Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
RE: [DX-CHAT] This is ridiculous
I sure wish DX'ing was the way it was back in the 60's and 70's when the CW bands were loaded with "very rare" DX. The bureau system worked great, and you could bet that a nice looking QSL and 1 IRC would definitely bring you a direct card back. 73 and GL, Larry K4WLS I concur ! We may add the 1950's as well !! hi 73 Rag LA5HE Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI
Straight from the Logbook of the World FAQ page https://p1k.arrl.org/lotw/faq#cost: --- How much does it cost to use Logbook of the World? There is no charge for digital certificates or for submitting log data to the LoTW system. A charge is levied only when you apply for an award using QSL matches obtained via LoTW. (Note that there's a charge for awards no matter how you apply for them). The specific fees charged for using Logbook data for awards vary depending on how many credits you buy at one time. See the Fees page for details --- I don't think it can be stated any plainer than that. It costs NOTHING to upload data. Period. Yes, you may have to jump through a hoop or two to get authorized -- a neccesary evil to ensure that you are who you say you are -- but all that costs is a little time, no money. Costs are ONLY involved when YOU apply for YOUR awards. That also does not incur any costs to the DX Station(s) QSL Manager. 73, ron wn3vaw - Original Message - From: "Jerry K3BZ" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Peter Forbes" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2005 10:49 AM Subject: Re: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI > Hi, Peter... thanks for the very detailed and informative message... that > stuff is good to know and keep in mind. > > One question you wrote: "Comments have also been made about the LoTW. > Unfortunately, until LoTW is able to be accepted and accessed at no cost by > Awards Managers outside of > the U.S.A., the requirement of hard copy qsl cards will remain a necessity." > > What are the costs for a manager outside the US to accept and access LOTW? > Does the ARRL make you pay to use LOTW? > > 73, Jerry K3BZ > > - Original Message - > From: "Peter Forbes" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > To: > Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2005 2:55 AM > Subject: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI > > > Australian Postage Charges for QSLS > > > > There has been a recent discussion thread about the cost of postage to > > various areas of the world. Currently the following applies: > > > > (1) A SINGLE card (not folded type) sealed in an envelope and stamped > CARD > > ONLY costs A$1.10 airmail to anywhere in the world. > > > > (2) More than one card sealed in an envelope to Pacific rim countries and > > Pacific Islands (except KH6 and South American Pacific Islands) costs > > A$1.20, Airmail for up to 50 grams weight. > > > > (3) More than one card sealed in an envelope to Rest of World costs > A$1.80 > > Airmail for up to 50 grams weight. > > > > There is NO Economy or Surface Rates on Letters available. > > > > If the weight exceeds 50 grams and up to 125 grams the cost doubles for > (2) > > and (3), that is A$2.40 and A$3.60 respectively. > > > > Typically the 50 grams weight limit means between 10 and 15 cards maximum, > > depending on board weight and whether cards are folded and/or use stick-on > > labels. > > > > Exchange Rates > > > > 1 US Green Stamp is approximately A$1.30 after exchange charges are > > included. > > > > 1 IRC will generate stamps to the value of up to A$1.80 postage. > > > > Card Costs > > > > Generally an envelope is about 10 cents. > > > > QSL cards vary from around 10 cents to 25 cents, depending on quality and > > production run numbers. > > > > Buro Membership in Australia > > > > The Wireless Institute of Australia (WIA) as the official IARU buro for > VK, > > does provide pickup points (at cost to the non-member), however membership > > of the WIA is not compulsory (and legally could not be made so in this > > country). A manager who chooses not to collect inwards cards from the > buro, > > is quite within their rights to do so. > > > > Note that the WIA also has NO obligation to return unclaimed cards to the > > originating buro. (see IARU website and minutes regarding this matter) > > > > The Original Post > > > > If you read the original post from Art RX9TX, you will note that there was > a > > reference to a "Package" of cards.The particular qsl manager is not > > identified. > > > > If in fact, there were multiple requests and cards sufficient to put the > > combined weight greater than 50 grams, then the actual cost could well > have > > exceeded A$ 4.00 in postage (A$3.60 and cards at 10 to 25 cents each). > > > > This would equate to between 3 and 4 green stamps or 2 IRCs, the amount > > that the manager was indeed requesting. > > > > Our PositionVI3JPI, VI5WCP, VI5BR and VI5PN > > > > Over the last 3 years, our IOTA group has activated the above calls and > over > > 25,000 qsos. All members of the team are WIA members and we readily > accept > > cards via the Buro or Direct. > > > > Interestingly, the typical direct request now contains either 1 IRC, 1 IRC > > &1 Green Stamp, 2 Green Stamps or an International Business Reply Envelope > > (especially from JA). >
Re: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI
Hi, Peter... thanks for the very detailed and informative message... that stuff is good to know and keep in mind. One question you wrote: "Comments have also been made about the LoTW. Unfortunately, until LoTW is able to be accepted and accessed at no cost by Awards Managers outside of the U.S.A., the requirement of hard copy qsl cards will remain a necessity." What are the costs for a manager outside the US to accept and access LOTW? Does the ARRL make you pay to use LOTW? 73, Jerry K3BZ - Original Message - From: "Peter Forbes" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2005 2:55 AM Subject: [DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI > Australian Postage Charges for QSLS > > > > There has been a recent discussion thread about the cost of postage to > various areas of the world. Currently the following applies: > > > > (1) A SINGLE card (not folded type) sealed in an envelope and stamped CARD > ONLY costs A$1.10 airmail to anywhere in the world. > > > > (2) More than one card sealed in an envelope to Pacific rim countries and > Pacific Islands (except KH6 and South American Pacific Islands) costs > A$1.20, Airmail for up to 50 grams weight. > > > > (3) More than one card sealed in an envelope to Rest of World costs A$1.80 > Airmail for up to 50 grams weight. > > > > There is NO Economy or Surface Rates on Letters available. > > > > If the weight exceeds 50 grams and up to 125 grams the cost doubles for (2) > and (3), that is A$2.40 and A$3.60 respectively. > > > > Typically the 50 grams weight limit means between 10 and 15 cards maximum, > depending on board weight and whether cards are folded and/or use stick-on > labels. > > > > Exchange Rates > > > > 1 US Green Stamp is approximately A$1.30 after exchange charges are > included. > > > > 1 IRC will generate stamps to the value of up to A$1.80 postage. > > > > Card Costs > > > > Generally an envelope is about 10 cents. > > QSL cards vary from around 10 cents to 25 cents, depending on quality and > production run numbers. > > > > Buro Membership in Australia > > > > The Wireless Institute of Australia (WIA) as the official IARU buro for VK, > does provide pickup points (at cost to the non-member), however membership > of the WIA is not compulsory (and legally could not be made so in this > country). A manager who chooses not to collect inwards cards from the buro, > is quite within their rights to do so. > > Note that the WIA also has NO obligation to return unclaimed cards to the > originating buro. (see IARU website and minutes regarding this matter) > > > > The Original Post > > If you read the original post from Art RX9TX, you will note that there was a > reference to a "Package" of cards.The particular qsl manager is not > identified. > > > > If in fact, there were multiple requests and cards sufficient to put the > combined weight greater than 50 grams, then the actual cost could well have > exceeded A$ 4.00 in postage (A$3.60 and cards at 10 to 25 cents each). > > > > This would equate to between 3 and 4 green stamps or 2 IRCs, the amount > that the manager was indeed requesting. > > > > > > Our PositionVI3JPI, VI5WCP, VI5BR and VI5PN > > > > Over the last 3 years, our IOTA group has activated the above calls and over > 25,000 qsos. All members of the team are WIA members and we readily accept > cards via the Buro or Direct. > > > > Interestingly, the typical direct request now contains either 1 IRC, 1 IRC > &1 Green Stamp, 2 Green Stamps or an International Business Reply Envelope > (especially from JA). > > > > However, a significant number do not include an SASE or postage. > Fortunately, due to the generous nature of many fellow countrymen from > around the world, there has been sufficient surplus to allow us to reply to > these requests directly. > > > > In the case of buro cards received and replied to, the average time of > arrival in our hands is between 12 and 15 months and in most cases the buro > reply has been made within 3 months, as this is the normal clearance time > for the VK3 outwards buro to the major ham population areas such as JA, W, G > DJ, I, EA, F and UA. This means a total buro time, of around 18 to 21 > months. > > > > To my knowledge, fortunately there are only a handful of active VK operators > who don't accept buro cards, for reasons known only to themselves. In some > cases, these relate to operations from VK9 and VK0 where permanent residents > are not involved and wisely, a manager has been used. > > > > I hope the above information helps to explain the high and ever increasing > costs associated with qsling out of VK land. > > > > Comments have also been made about the LoTW. Unfortunately, until LoTW is > able to be accepted and accessed at no cost by Awards Managers outside of > the U.S.A., the requirement of hard copy qsl cards will remain a necessity. > > > > > > Peter Forbes VK3QI > > > > Manager for VI3JPI, VI5BR and VI5PN > > > > and VK3
Re: [DX-CHAT] QSL costs
Yes, W9OL has one. Here's a clip from his latest post on the issue: Creating and modifying the old text based IRC/GS Chart became difficult. We have taken a new approach. I've created two new forms. One in Excel format for download. http://www.qsl.net/w9ol/IRC_Chart.xls and Same design but ported to .htm http://www.qsl./w9ol/IRC_Chart.htm For the time being, I'll keep the old http://www.qsl.net/w9ol/ircchart.txt available but it will go in the future as the .xls format is a lot easier to maintain. I'd appreciate it if the Non USA hams would check the info as it seems to change much quicker than I get updates. Please check the notes sections also as them may not be pertinent any longer. Please and thank you 73, ron wn3vaw - Original Message - From: "Zack Widup" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2005 8:24 AM Subject: Re: [DX-CHAT] QSL costs > Is there a website somewhere with all this info for the various countries > collected together in one place? I'd do it myself but I'm so busy these > days I have a hard time just keeping up with the e-mail. > > Zack W9SZ > > > On Tue, 19 Jul 2005, Jan Erik Holm wrote: > > > > > This is the cost for Sweden: > > 1.35 Dollar or 1.08 Euro or 1 IRC > > > > That means, people sending Dollar > > bills need to send 2 Dollars. > > > > 1 Euro bill or 1 IRC is OK with me!! > > > > Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems > http://njdxa.org/dx-chat > > To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org > > This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA > http://njdxa.org > Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] QSL costs
Is there a website somewhere with all this info for the various countries collected together in one place? I'd do it myself but I'm so busy these days I have a hard time just keeping up with the e-mail. Zack W9SZ On Tue, 19 Jul 2005, Jan Erik Holm wrote: > > This is the cost for Sweden: > 1.35 Dollar or 1.08 Euro or 1 IRC > > That means, people sending Dollar > bills need to send 2 Dollars. > > 1 Euro bill or 1 IRC is OK with me!! > Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] sealing coax fittings
What about silicone plumber's tape? If wrapped first with the silicone tape, then with the UV electrical tape, would that seal out the water? - Jim -- Jim Reisert AD1C, 7 Charlemont Court, North Chelmsford, MA 01863 USA +978-251-9933, <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>, http://www.ad1c.us Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re[2]: [DX-CHAT] This is ridiculous
Hello dx-chat, Tuesday, July 19, 2005 Vic Goncharsky wrote to dx-chat@njdxa.org: VG> Generally speaking there's no difference between " fat cat American capitalist VG> ham" and "poor Russki ham" I haven't seen anything about "poor russki ham" here, what was that about? VG> In fact those of us who are in this hobby for 30 years or so, don't need much VG> and certainly can afford to get the the new one every 2-5 years for even $10. I have never seen your call in the Challenge listings, that is the difference. Of course I would pay $100 just now for each of 7 or 8 I need for DXCC HR#1. But I don't want to pay 4 or even 2 dollars for each of 350+ I need for DXCC Challenge 2000. VG> Senceless discussion It depends on what makes sense to you personally. -- 73...Art RX9TX19-Jul-05 11:32 UTC "Just trust yourself, then you will know how to live."(Goethe) Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] This is ridiculous
Generally speaking there's no difference between " fat cat American capitalist ham" and "poor Russki ham" - everyone has to pay the same amount to get certain QSLs, that's the rule of the game. In fact those of us who are in this hobby for 30 years or so, don't need much and certainly can afford to get the the new one every 2-5 years for even $10. No IRC - no QSL Senceless discussion On Monday 18 July 2005 22:54, you wrote: > I find it hard to fathom that I and other fat cat Amerucan capitalist hams > are being urged to send $5 to a poor ham in another country so we can walk > in their shoes! I have news for you world travelers who run from one end of > the globe and back and come home to a big shack while you plan your next > excursion. There are those of us, like me (I am disabled with little > income) who can barely scrape up the minimum $2 or 1 IRC that seems to be > the minimum nowadays. I have an envelope of outgoing cards that are waiting > until I can scrape up a couple of bills to put into an envelope to send off > to that poor ham somewhere who is probably better off financially tham I > am, and who will more likely than not not reply anyway. $5? Why not $10 or > why not a nice Icom? I have been licensed 41 years now and have never > failed to answer a qsl whether it has return postage or not, and I can > remember when qsling was a courtesy, not a business. This whole thread is > disgusting and will result in more and more unnecessary cost to an already > dying system. Go ahead and send more than return postage if you wish, but > the end result will be that people like me will be expected to follow suit > and while you are somewhere living it as a dx station, I will be trying to > determine if I can afford your card. Phooey!! > > > Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems > http://njdxa.org/dx-chat > > To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org > > This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA > http://njdxa.org -- 73, Vic Goncharsky US5WE/K1WE --- FAIRS http://www.fairs.org DX Clusters: DXSpider: telnet fairs.org.ua 41112 CLX: telnet fairs.org.ua 9000 Packet Gateway Node: AWZ node: telnet fairs.org.ua 3694 Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] This is ridiculous
From: "Tom Johnson" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "DX chat" Sent: Monday, July 18, 2005 3:54 PM Subject: [DX-CHAT] This is ridiculous I find it hard to fathom that I and other fat cat Amerucan capitalist hams are being urged to send $5 to a poor ham in another country so we can walk in their shoes! I have news for you world travelers who run from one end of the globe and back and come home to a big shack while you plan your next excursion. There are those of us, like me (I am disabled with little income) who can barely scrape up the minimum $2 or 1 IRC that seems to be the minimum nowadays. I have an envelope of outgoing cards that are waiting until I can scrape up a couple of bills to put into an envelope to send off to that poor ham somewhere who is probably better off financially tham I am, and who will more likely than not not reply anyway. $5? Why not $10 or why not a nice Icom? I have been licensed 41 years now and have never failed to answer a qsl whether it has return postage or not, and I can remember when qsling was a courtesy, not a business. This whole thread is disgusting and will result in more and more unnecessary cost to an already dying system. Go ahead and send more than return postage if you wish, but the end result will be that people like me will be expected to follow suit and while you are somewhere living it as a dx station, I will be trying to determine if I can afford your card. Phooey!! Tom, I am also disabled. My SS disability check a monh is about 1/4 per month I made teaching college. All my newer rigs are sold. My newest one is a used IC-765. I don't have a tower or yagi, and have never had one in the 47 years I have been a ham and DX'er. I sure wish DX'ing was the way it was back in the 60's and 70's when the CW bands were loaded with "very rare" DX. The bureau system worked great, and you could bet that a nice looking QSL and 1 IRC would definitely bring you a direct card back. With more DX'ers on in the CW Extra bands, it is now much more difficult for me to compete with the guys running yagis and linears. I have always found a way to live with the changes that came along these past decades, and I surely did NOT LIKE the $0.05 Extra. My best advice, is take the lemon and try your best to make lemonade from it. If I were you, I would put a note in my direct QSL request and tell the DX that you are disabled and 1 IRC is all you can afford. It would at least tell him that all USA DX'ers are not well off finacially. You might be surprised to get his QSL and your IRC returned. This has happened to me a lot of times. The DX just returned my IRC. You just never know OB 73 and GL, Larry K4WLS Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
Re: [DX-CHAT] QSL costs
This is the cost for Sweden: 1.35 Dollar or 1.08 Euro or 1 IRC That means, people sending Dollar bills need to send 2 Dollars. 1 Euro bill or 1 IRC is OK with me!! Or the bureau is also fine but ofcourse slow. If someone still needs a cards for my operations in SV5 SV9 CT3 and CN2KM I will be happy to confirm, right now all QSL requests are answered. I still have logs and QSL´s for these old calls: SM2DWH/S2 G5BHX GU5BHX and F0GUU 73 Jim SM2EKM --- mike-sv1rk wrote: HELLO TO ALL ONE DOLLAR IN GREECE IS OK. ONE AIR MAIL LETTER COST IS 0.65 EURO WITH ONE OR TWO QSLS CARDS ENCLUDING. BEST 73 MIKE SV1RK Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
[DX-CHAT] Australian QSL costs - some clarifications from VK3QI
Australian Postage Charges for QSLS There has been a recent discussion thread about the cost of postage to various areas of the world. Currently the following applies: (1) A SINGLE card (not folded type) sealed in an envelope and stamped CARD ONLY costs A$1.10 airmail to anywhere in the world. (2) More than one card sealed in an envelope to Pacific rim countries and Pacific Islands (except KH6 and South American Pacific Islands) costs A$1.20, Airmail for up to 50 grams weight. (3) More than one card sealed in an envelope to Rest of World costs A$1.80 Airmail for up to 50 grams weight. There is NO Economy or Surface Rates on Letters available. If the weight exceeds 50 grams and up to 125 grams the cost doubles for (2) and (3), that is A$2.40 and A$3.60 respectively. Typically the 50 grams weight limit means between 10 and 15 cards maximum, depending on board weight and whether cards are folded and/or use stick-on labels. Exchange Rates 1 US Green Stamp is approximately A$1.30 after exchange charges are included. 1 IRC will generate stamps to the value of up to A$1.80 postage. Card Costs Generally an envelope is about 10 cents. QSL cards vary from around 10 cents to 25 cents, depending on quality and production run numbers. Buro Membership in Australia The Wireless Institute of Australia (WIA) as the official IARU buro for VK, does provide pickup points (at cost to the non-member), however membership of the WIA is not compulsory (and legally could not be made so in this country). A manager who chooses not to collect inwards cards from the buro, is quite within their rights to do so. Note that the WIA also has NO obligation to return unclaimed cards to the originating buro. (see IARU website and minutes regarding this matter) The Original Post If you read the original post from Art RX9TX, you will note that there was a reference to a "Package" of cards.The particular qsl manager is not identified. If in fact, there were multiple requests and cards sufficient to put the combined weight greater than 50 grams, then the actual cost could well have exceeded A$ 4.00 in postage (A$3.60 and cards at 10 to 25 cents each). This would equate to between 3 and 4 green stamps or 2 IRCs, the amount that the manager was indeed requesting. Our PositionVI3JPI, VI5WCP, VI5BR and VI5PN Over the last 3 years, our IOTA group has activated the above calls and over 25,000 qsos. All members of the team are WIA members and we readily accept cards via the Buro or Direct. Interestingly, the typical direct request now contains either 1 IRC, 1 IRC &1 Green Stamp, 2 Green Stamps or an International Business Reply Envelope (especially from JA). However, a significant number do not include an SASE or postage. Fortunately, due to the generous nature of many fellow countrymen from around the world, there has been sufficient surplus to allow us to reply to these requests directly. In the case of buro cards received and replied to, the average time of arrival in our hands is between 12 and 15 months and in most cases the buro reply has been made within 3 months, as this is the normal clearance time for the VK3 outwards buro to the major ham population areas such as JA, W, G DJ, I, EA, F and UA. This means a total buro time, of around 18 to 21 months. To my knowledge, fortunately there are only a handful of active VK operators who don't accept buro cards, for reasons known only to themselves. In some cases, these relate to operations from VK9 and VK0 where permanent residents are not involved and wisely, a manager has been used. I hope the above information helps to explain the high and ever increasing costs associated with qsling out of VK land. Comments have also been made about the LoTW. Unfortunately, until LoTW is able to be accepted and accessed at no cost by Awards Managers outside of the U.S.A., the requirement of hard copy qsl cards will remain a necessity. Peter Forbes VK3QI Manager for VI3JPI, VI5BR and VI5PN and VK3 WIA Buro Outwards Manager. Subscribe/unsubscribe, feedback, FAQ, problems http://njdxa.org/dx-chat To post a message, DX related items only, dx-chat@njdxa.org This is the DX-CHAT reflector sponsored by the NJDXA http://njdxa.org
