Wow! A personal best was notched for the blog through yesterday evening and I left the chair feeling exhausted. I entered multi-two because of connecting to the Internet as an SO2R work around project. The elements are there such as hardware and software minus an effective systems model. I believe the difference is observing Internet produced telemetry as I cannot hear the second wavelength inside the cans. Secondly, I believe, SO2V is under utilized and least understood software interface that is off the shelf available.
An SO2R operator listens on the second wavelength for the purpose of logging additional multipliers; logging additional Qs; or searching for the next band opening. Furthermore, an SO2R operator, is not connecting to other peoples labor as displayed on N1MM contest logger connected to a network of spotting clusters.
This weekend, for the first time, I utilized reverse beacon network (RBN) sensor telemetry to determine near real time antenna system efficiency; determine signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) as measured in decibels; observe West Coast activity as measured by East Coast RBN sensors; observe East Coast SNR as measured by West Coast RBN sensors; and, lastly execute a band change based on RBN telemetry including N1MM multiplier and available Q frequency distribution window.
For example, I monitored wavelength position of several West Coast stations as measured by East Coast RBN sensors asking myself, "Why did Big Gun station in Northern California shift wavelength from high to low at this time?" Or, "Am I transmitting on the highest, most efficient wavelength possible given time of day and hardware?"
I crosschecked my wavelength position with that of other West Coast stations using RBN telemetry. Also, as a method of determining antenna effiency and maximum usable frequency, I counted the number of activated East Coast sensors reporting SNR as measured in decibels.
I experienced one discrete moment when three sensors simultaneously activated in three different locations on 40m an hour or so before sunset. It was efficient minutes using three elements at a near 50 feet beaming at 75 degrees.
On the other hand, from the perspective of systems engineering, I did not fully utilize SO2V capabilities as a function of band switching. Neither did I efficiently utilize the capability of band map reporting. I want to test my process at the next available opportunity.
Overall, I enjoyed every minute in front of the controls while observing RBN telmetry as a decision making tool and, potential suitable substitute for SO2R hardware. Additionally, I want to shout out to the growing tribe of #hamr RadioSport enthusiasts whom went into the log this weekend.
Contest on!