AdamI had an idea for an "every ham" radio contest, where stations of all sizes could compete on a relatively level playing field.
https://blog.k3can.us/posts/2026/apr/everyham/
Does something similar already exist?
Follow up: I've posted a draft of the rules!
https://blog.k3can.us/posts/2026/apr/everyham2/
I know the idea of trying to create a level field between big HF stations using #wsjtx and portable VHF stations on FM is probably an exercise in futility, but I think it sort of works (at least on paper).
Feedback is welcome!
#hamradio #amateurradio #contesting @unicycle @n8dmt @KD3BTG @n3vem @r1blh
Michael [Кошак] Skolsky (R1BLH)@me @n8dmt @unicycle @KD3BTG @n3vem
But why is the multiplier for CW so low? You play tabletop RPGs, so you should understand what "setting balance" means.
CW is actually a fairly difficult type of modulation for a human, and moreover, it’s not MGM — on the contrary, it’s the simplest technologically, the original type of modulation for radio communication in general.
Likewise, I wouldn’t combine AM and FM. Establishing communication using AM is significantly more difficult than using FM over the same distance.
@r1blh @n3vem @n8dmt @unicycle @KD3BTG Ultimately, I'm trying to keep things relatively simple to make the contest more approachable.
Together, AM and FM are some of the least efficient voice modes, so they get the highest multiplier. Conversely, CW is one of the most power-efficient modes, surpassed only by some digital modes. To maintain balance, it has one of the lowest multipliers, higher only than full-digital modes.
...Or to use gaming terms, CW was nerfed because it's too OP. :-)
Together, AM and FM are some of the least efficient voice modes, so they get the highest multiplier. Conversely, CW is one of the most power-efficient modes, surpassed only by some digital modes. To maintain balance, it has one of the lowest multipliers, higher only than full-digital modes.
...Or to use gaming terms, CW was nerfed because it's too OP. :-)