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Today's Topics:
1. Re: Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators (Robert MacHale)
2. Re: Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators (John Brier)
3. Re: TEST (KD2NFC, Joe Puma)
4. Re: Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators (Zach Metzinger)
5. Re: Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators
(Brian Wilkins KO4AQF)
6. Re: Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators (Greg D)
7. SSB Electronics USA distributor (Rafael Pena)
8. Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators (Jeff Moore)
9. Re: Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators (Greg D)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Message: 1
Date: Mon, 8 Jun 2020 21:13:03 +0000 (UTC)
From: Robert MacHale <robert.machale@?????.???>
To: AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb@?????.???>, Michael Walker
<va3mw@??????????.???>
Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators
Message-ID: <1723296921.1207248.1591650783850@????.?????.???>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8
Michael,
Thanks for sharing your experience.
>> What a friendly bunch.
>> No wonder the hobby is dying.
No doubt we have all encountered the "satellite police" or "aprs monsters"
or whatever they have been labelled recently. I feel concerned that some
border on the line of a cyber-bullies.
In contrast, the HRO store in Anaheim, California near where I live once
gave away bumper stickers that read:
"HAM RADIO - PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE"
And, that has been the attraction to the hobby for many people.
I wish someone at AMSAT would step up and provide leadership on how to
serve, teach, and encourage the new users while also admonishing the bullies.
There have been times I have felt concerned introducing Boy Scouts to the
Satellite side of Ham Radio concerned they will encounter abusive people on
air or online in forums.
This is a super interesting hobby with many opportunities for education and
growth. But, the hobby is kinda killing itself from within. Perhaps there
are only a handful of rotten apples - but they tend to be the ones that make
the lasting impressions.
Congratulations on producing YouTube videos for beginners. Keep up the good
work!!!
Sincerely,
Robert MacHale. KE6BLR Ham Radio License.?http://www.aprsat.com/predict
.?http://www.spaceCommunicator.club?
. Supporting Boy Scout Merit Badges in Radio, Robotics, and Space Exploration
Silly Joke: "The beatings will continue until moral improves".
On Monday, June 8, 2020, 01:21:46 PM PDT, Michael Walker via AMSAT-BB
<amsat-bb@?????.???> wrote:
Let me chime in on this as this strikes a nerve with me, a d if I offend
you, my apologies but I think it needs to be said as a new user.
I work in the retail industry for Ham Radio (most? know what I do).
I talk to customers all day long and they come from all walks of life and
all education levels.? Most new hams do not have the technical background
they some of us have and they need some very basic information and
mentoring to get over the hump.? This is a confusing hobby for new hams.
AMSAT has not been good at helping out very new users.? They want to have
fun and actually communicate as well they do want to understand.
Some learn well from reading.? Some from Videos and some from 1 on 1
coaching on the phone so they can ask questions.
I will be the first to admit that getting started with SATpc32 for a new
operator is difficult.? I spent a few weeks at it and nothing phases me in
technology and integration.? ? This is why I did the intro video on YouTube
on how to navigate the GUI that I have received LOTS of emails on and how
it get them out of 1st gear.? Oh, and I searched YouTube before I did the
video and everything I saw assumed you knew how to drive SATpc32.? So, I
do the video and all I get is slammed by AMSAT members for assuming I did
not having a licensed copy.? What a friendly bunch.
I was about a day from selling a new IC-9700, rotators, ERC controller and
antennas.? Why would I want to be part of a group that didn't really want
to help.? No wonder the hobby is dying.
Don't get me wrong, it is an amazing piece of software and it does what it
does amazingly.? My rant is not about the software it is about those that
don't like the simple questions.
Yes, it is a technical hobby but hams new to this part of the hobby do not
understand the terms and how it affects the operation of trying to make a
QSO.
Updating for a new satellite is not easily understood and despite all the
instructions that people tossed at me, none worked to get RS44 functional
when it came out.? And, yes, I read the manual.? A LOT.? The manual expects
you to be a seasoned and educated Satellite operator.
For those that spend some one on one time, I think you in advance for all
your mentoring as I am sure many have benefitted from your contributions.
For those that say "RTFM" consider where you started and who helped you to
get out of 1st gear.? RTFM doesn't work for everyone.? ? In fact, it has
the opposite effect by scaring new members/operators away.
*** Remember, there is no stupid question. ***
Mike va3mw
>
_______________________________________________
Sent via AMSAT-BB@?????.???. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available
to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions
expressed
are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of
AMSAT-NA.
Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program!
Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
------------------------------
Message: 2
Date: Mon, 8 Jun 2020 17:15:24 -0400
From: John Brier <johnbrier@?????.???>
To: Thomas Schaefer <ny4i@????.???>
Cc: AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb@?????.???>
Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators
Message-ID:
<CALn0fKOJ=5ng6WCvDM-dpHqqLZjkPfmh4Td__=uQy68Ym0=Zdg@????.?????.???>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
I have paid for SatPC32 and am grateful for Erich and AMSAT for making it
available to the sat community and for improving it regularly.
At the same time I find it could use many improvements. I have no problem
editing text files but it is obviously not something everyone gets.
The question should be, what do we lose by having a way to edit that in the
GUI?
I also find it counter intuitive in ways. For example, there are text box
fields where you can put a cursor inside it and highlight the text, and
this text is something you might want to adjust, but it is just for
display.
Just checked the program to make sure my memory is correct. One example is
Rotor Setup > Time Interval. Yes there are arrows to adjust it right next
to it but why is it highlightable?
73, John Brier KG4AKV
On Mon, Jun 8, 2020, 16:42 Thomas Schaefer via AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb@?????.???>
wrote:
> Absolutely true. I too appreciate the complexity of the task that SatPC32
> is trying to do well, But we do it and everyone that uses it a disservice
> to treat it as a sacred cow above suggestions for improvement. The concept
> of going to a text file and manually editing it to add a new satellite in a
> Windows program is 2020 is mind-boggling. That is certainly not any
> definition of user-friendly. While Erich tries to make it easy to find it
> by using the menus to open the text files, focusing on a decent editor
> rather than a new radio would be a boon to user the user experience.
>
> No doubt I will be flamed immediately for daring to write this, and people
> are welcome to use a different program (MacDoppler,etc), let?s not jump all
> over a newer (and not so new) user for having the temerity to question if
> this is as good as it gets to manually edit text files. No doubt I will
> soon be banished to the realm of those that dare to criticize anything
> related to SatPC32, but let?s be honest.
>
> Before I am accused of not thanking Erich for his donation of SatPC32, I
> do appreciate it. And while I could say think of all the new operators that
> would have a better experience if SatPC32 was just a little bit easier to
> use, I am also cognizant that adding new users may not be in the best
> interest of some?especially those that immediately jump upon any user for
> the first mistake they make (calling them a LID, bad mounting them on this
> reflector and social media, etc).
>
> Go ahead..let me have it.
>
> Regards,
>
> Tom Schaefer, NY4I
> Blog: www.ny4i.com
> Madeira Beach, FL (Grid: EL87ot)
>
>
>
>
> > On Jun 8, 2020, at 4:18 PM, Michael Walker via AMSAT-BB <
> amsat-bb@?????.???> wrote:
> >
> > Let me chime in on this as this strikes a nerve with me, a d if I offend
> > you, my apologies but I think it needs to be said as a new user.
> >
> > I work in the retail industry for Ham Radio (most know what I do).
> >
> > I talk to customers all day long and they come from all walks of life and
> > all education levels. Most new hams do not have the technical
> background
> > they some of us have and they need some very basic information and
> > mentoring to get over the hump. This is a confusing hobby for new hams.
> > AMSAT has not been good at helping out very new users. They want to have
> > fun and actually communicate as well they do want to understand.
> >
> > Some learn well from reading. Some from Videos and some from 1 on 1
> > coaching on the phone so they can ask questions.
> >
> > I will be the first to admit that getting started with SATpc32 for a new
> > operator is difficult. I spent a few weeks at it and nothing phases me
> in
> > technology and integration. This is why I did the intro video on
> YouTube
> > on how to navigate the GUI that I have received LOTS of emails on and how
> > it get them out of 1st gear. Oh, and I searched YouTube before I did the
> > video and everything I saw assumed you knew how to drive SATpc32. So, I
> > do the video and all I get is slammed by AMSAT members for assuming I did
> > not having a licensed copy. What a friendly bunch.
> >
> > I was about a day from selling a new IC-9700, rotators, ERC controller
> and
> > antennas. Why would I want to be part of a group that didn't really want
> > to help. No wonder the hobby is dying.
> >
> > Don't get me wrong, it is an amazing piece of software and it does what
> it
> > does amazingly. My rant is not about the software it is about those that
> > don't like the simple questions.
> >
> > Yes, it is a technical hobby but hams new to this part of the hobby do
> not
> > understand the terms and how it affects the operation of trying to make a
> > QSO.
> >
> > Updating for a new satellite is not easily understood and despite all the
> > instructions that people tossed at me, none worked to get RS44 functional
> > when it came out. And, yes, I read the manual. A LOT. The manual
> expects
> > you to be a seasoned and educated Satellite operator.
> >
> > For those that spend some one on one time, I think you in advance for all
> > your mentoring as I am sure many have benefitted from your contributions.
> >
> > For those that say "RTFM" consider where you started and who helped you
> to
> > get out of 1st gear. RTFM doesn't work for everyone. In fact, it has
> > the opposite effect by scaring new members/operators away.
> >
> > *** Remember, there is no stupid question. ***
> >
> > Mike va3mw
> >
> >
> >
> >>
> > _______________________________________________
> > Sent via AMSAT-BB@?????.???. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available
> > to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership.
> Opinions expressed
> > are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of
> AMSAT-NA.
> > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite
> program!
> > Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
>
> _______________________________________________
> Sent via AMSAT-BB@?????.???. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available
> to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions
> expressed
> are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of
> AMSAT-NA.
> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program!
> Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
>
------------------------------
Message: 3
Date: Mon, 8 Jun 2020 17:24:50 -0400
From: "KD2NFC, Joe Puma" <kd2nfc@?????.???>
To: "Joseph Trombino, Jr" <w2kj@?????????.???>
Cc: AMSAT-BB@?????.???
Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] TEST
Message-ID: <2FD7ADC4-4453-478F-ADB9-C2E0B92F1EB2@?????.???>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
Email received...
Joe
KD2NFC
Sent from my iPad
> On Jun 8, 2020, at 12:40 PM, Joseph Trombino, Jr via AMSAT-BB
<amsat-bb@?????.???> wrote:
>
> ?TEST
>
> 73, Joe W2KJ
> _______________________________________________
> Sent via AMSAT-BB@?????.???. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available
> to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions
expressed
> are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of
AMSAT-NA.
> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program!
> Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
------------------------------
Message: 4
Date: Mon, 8 Jun 2020 17:13:17 -0500
From: Zach Metzinger <zmetzing@?????.???>
To: amsat-bb@?????.???
Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators
Message-ID: <ce375e1c-19b5-913d-0c0e-8189e91a0812@?????.???>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8; format=flowed
On 06/08/20 16:13, Robert MacHale via AMSAT-BB wrote:
> I wish someone at AMSAT would step up and provide leadership on how to
serve, teach, and encourage the new users while also admonishing the bullies.
Robert,
You could be that "someone", except that I'd leave off the "admonishing"
part. Bullies get bored when there is no reaction from their target.
AMSAT needs volunteers like you to help the next generation of satellite
operators get started! It is easy to say "someone should", instead of "I
will".
Be the change you wish to see in the world, even if Ghandi didn't say
it. :-)
--- Zach
N0ZGO
------------------------------
Message: 5
Date: Mon, 8 Jun 2020 18:21:37 -0400
From: Brian Wilkins KO4AQF <bwilkins@?????.???>
To: amsat-bb@?????.???
Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators
Message-ID:
<CAO_Eq329iUScb0o8kjJxaynYz5jRdwoPU8B_peHGqy+W_7w6MQ@????.?????.???>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
OP - please don?t leave!
I believe mentors do exist. Some that come to mind are WD9EWK, KK4YEL,
KO4MA, NR0Q, KC7JPC, W3ARD, N4DCW, KE8FZT, N5LEX, KE9AJ, W9TWJ and a bunch
others who have helped ME since getting started in December 2019.
On Mon, Jun 8, 2020 at 6:14 PM Zach Metzinger via AMSAT-BB <
amsat-bb@?????.???> wrote:
> On 06/08/20 16:13, Robert MacHale via AMSAT-BB wrote:
> > I wish someone at AMSAT would step up and provide leadership on how to
> serve, teach, and encourage the new users while also admonishing the
> bullies.
>
> Robert,
>
> You could be that "someone", except that I'd leave off the "admonishing"
> part. Bullies get bored when there is no reaction from their target.
>
> AMSAT needs volunteers like you to help the next generation of satellite
> operators get started! It is easy to say "someone should", instead of "I
> will".
>
> Be the change you wish to see in the world, even if Ghandi didn't say
> it. :-)
>
> --- Zach
> N0ZGO
> _______________________________________________
> Sent via AMSAT-BB@?????.???. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available
> to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions
> expressed
> are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of
> AMSAT-NA.
> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program!
> Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
>
--
Brian Wilkins
KO4AQF
------------------------------
Message: 6
Date: Mon, 8 Jun 2020 16:17:03 -0700
From: Greg D <ko6th.greg@?????.???>
To: Michael Walker <va3mw@??????????.???>
Cc: AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb@?????.???>
Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators
Message-ID: <f1d08cc9-0852-a839-0250-10b37aac2517@?????.???>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8
Hi Mike,
Good points. Let me offer an expanded view on the situation, and a
thought on perhaps a way forward.
I think part of the issue is that the hobby we call "amateur radio" has
continued to expand in multiple directions (which is an incredibly good
thing), yet the structure of the formal education and support (think
license preparation and testing) has either not changed or has shrunk
(elimination of Morse code). We have a 1-dimensional solution to a
2-dimensional problem. We fortunately have a pretty strong tradition of
Elmering, and with the technology of the Internet, many ways to deliver
it beyond the traditional radio club, but that's perhaps a bit too
unstructured for many. As a result, they either give up, sit there
paralyzed and bewildered, or just stay within a narrow comfort zone.
To be fair, that narrow comfort zone might be all some ever want to do
with the hobby, and that's fine. But my expectation is that there are
many more who would pursue various areas if there was a little more
support (structure) in getting there. Even the awareness that such
disciplines and modes exist is pretty random.
My thought... Many of the lanes of interest have industry or a
significant nexus of organizational backing (Satellite communications,
emergency services, QRP operating, Digital Voice, even Morse Code).
Would it work if these organizations created study guides and a formal
certification process by which licensed operators could get additional
recognition, which they could attach to their signature / call sign /
etc. Think "CCNP" for network engineering , "PMP" for project
management, or the "Salad Bar" that honors a military uniform.
While it could get to be a little "snobbish" if taken too far, the
visibility and formality of such a series of certifications might create
the second dimension in advancement that our licensing structure
currently lacks. In doing so, it could provide the framework to build
on the tradition of Elmering that is at the core of our hobby, and
answer your challenge of how to mentor new satellite operators.
Just a thought.
Greg KO6TH
Michael Walker via AMSAT-BB wrote:
> Let me chime in on this as this strikes a nerve with me, a d if I offend
> you, my apologies but I think it needs to be said as a new user.
>
> I work in the retail industry for Ham Radio (most know what I do).
>
> I talk to customers all day long and they come from all walks of life and
> all education levels. Most new hams do not have the technical background
> they some of us have and they need some very basic information and
> mentoring to get over the hump. This is a confusing hobby for new hams.
> AMSAT has not been good at helping out very new users. They want to have
> fun and actually communicate as well they do want to understand.
>
> Some learn well from reading. Some from Videos and some from 1 on 1
> coaching on the phone so they can ask questions.
>
> I will be the first to admit that getting started with SATpc32 for a new
> operator is difficult. I spent a few weeks at it and nothing phases me in
> technology and integration. This is why I did the intro video on YouTube
> on how to navigate the GUI that I have received LOTS of emails on and how
> it get them out of 1st gear. Oh, and I searched YouTube before I did the
> video and everything I saw assumed you knew how to drive SATpc32. So, I
> do the video and all I get is slammed by AMSAT members for assuming I did
> not having a licensed copy. What a friendly bunch.
>
> I was about a day from selling a new IC-9700, rotators, ERC controller and
> antennas. Why would I want to be part of a group that didn't really want
> to help. No wonder the hobby is dying.
>
> Don't get me wrong, it is an amazing piece of software and it does what it
> does amazingly. My rant is not about 955 ROUNDSTONE DR
> GALT, CA 95632the software it is about those that
> don't like the simple questions.
>
> Yes, it is a technical hobby but hams new to this part of the hobby do not
> understand the terms and how it affects the operation of trying to make a
> QSO.
>
> Updating for a new satellite is not easily understood and despite all the
> instructions that people tossed at me, none worked to get RS44 functional
> when it came out. And, yes, I read the manual. A LOT. The manual expects
> you to be a seasoned and educated Satellite operator.
>
> For those that spend some one on one time, I think you in advance for all
> your mentoring as I am sure many have benefitted from your contributions.
>
> For those that say "RTFM" consider where you started and who helped you to
> get out of 1st gear. RTFM doesn't work for everyone. In fact, it has
> the opposite effect by scaring new members/operators away.
>
> *** Remember, there is no stupid question. ***
>
> Mike va3mw
>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Sent via AMSAT-BB@?????.???. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available
> to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions
expressed
> are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of
AMSAT-NA.
> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program!
> Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
------------------------------
Message: 7
Date: Mon, 8 Jun 2020 23:27:23 +0000
From: Rafael Pena <pinoleronica@???????.???>
To: "amsat-bb@?????.???? <amsat-bb@?????.???>
Subject: [amsat-bb] SSB Electronics USA distributor
Message-ID:
<CY4PR03MB322335FEDBF8DED61279C47CC6850@?????????????.????????.????.???????.??
?>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
HRO does not have them all in stock....place yourself on the waiting list
for the ones not in stock....I did.
Rafael / NN3RP
Message: 8
Date: Mon, 8 Jun 2020 16:20:36 -0400
From: "Joseph Trombino, Jr" <w2kj@?????????.???>
To: amsat-bb@?????.???
Subject: [amsat-bb] SSB Electronics USA distributor
Message-ID: <B4B4D0CF-B90E-47CE-8D73-C565DCA630A9@?????????.???>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
Howdy Gang.
Getting back into the satellites after a long hiatus (since the demise of
AO40) and wonder if there is a current distributor for SSB Electronics
VHF/UHF preamps.
Appreciate and info.
73, Joe W2KJ
------------------------------
Message: 9
Date: Mon, 8 Jun 2020 16:25:47 -0400
From: Dave Webb KB1PVH <kb1pvh@?????.???>
To: "Joseph Trombino, Jr" <w2kj@?????????.???>
Cc: AMSAT -BB <amsat-bb@?????.???>
Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] SSB Electronics USA distributor
Message-ID:
<CAEMY9Fe-VkhCaMhYgs5U9brTFzBiKvkY8=WQjRzraea5Vj9s7g@????.?????.???>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
HRO sells them.
Dave-KB1PVH
Sent from my Galaxy S9
------------------------------
Message: 8
Date: Mon, 8 Jun 2020 16:42:22 -0700
From: Jeff Moore <tnetcenter@?????.???>
To: Amsat BB <amsat-bb@?????.???>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators
Message-ID:
<CALx_moTr6u0r9D0seA+TyxzOynApvrtUVx0kqkjN53iuPfhyxw@????.?????.???>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
We already have "certifications" - they're called licenses - we don't need
any more! Education is great and needed - lose the certifications, they
are unneeded and unwanted!!! This is a hobby first and foremost! It
ceases being a hobby when you have to get certified to do anything in
addition to getting licensed!
Jeff Moore -- KE7ACY
On Mon, Jun 8, 2020 at 4:19 PM Greg D via AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb@?????.???>
wrote:
> Hi Mike,
>
> Good points. Let me offer an expanded view on the situation, and a
> thought on perhaps a way forward.
>
> I think part of the issue is that the hobby we call "amateur radio" has
> continued to expand in multiple directions (which is an incredibly good
> thing), yet the structure of the formal education and support (think
> license preparation and testing) has either not changed or has shrunk
> (elimination of Morse code). We have a 1-dimensional solution to a
> 2-dimensional problem. We fortunately have a pretty strong tradition of
> Elmering, and with the technology of the Internet, many ways to deliver
> it beyond the traditional radio club, but that's perhaps a bit too
> unstructured for many. As a result, they either give up, sit there
> paralyzed and bewildered, or just stay within a narrow comfort zone.
>
> To be fair, that narrow comfort zone might be all some ever want to do
> with the hobby, and that's fine. But my expectation is that there are
> many more who would pursue various areas if there was a little more
> support (structure) in getting there. Even the awareness that such
> disciplines and modes exist is pretty random.
>
> My thought... Many of the lanes of interest have industry or a
> significant nexus of organizational backing (Satellite communications,
> emergency services, QRP operating, Digital Voice, even Morse Code).
> Would it work if these organizations created study guides and a formal
> certification process by which licensed operators could get additional
> recognition, which they could attach to their signature / call sign /
> etc. Think "CCNP" for network engineering , "PMP" for project
> management, or the "Salad Bar" that honors a military uniform.
>
> While it could get to be a little "snobbish" if taken too far, the
> visibility and formality of such a series of certifications might create
> the second dimension in advancement that our licensing structure
> currently lacks. In doing so, it could provide the framework to build
> on the tradition of Elmering that is at the core of our hobby, and
> answer your challenge of how to mentor new satellite operators.
>
> Just a thought.
>
> Greg KO6TH
>
>
>
> Michael Walker via AMSAT-BB wrote:
> > Let me chime in on this as this strikes a nerve with me, a d if I offend
> > you, my apologies but I think it needs to be said as a new user.
> >
> > I work in the retail industry for Ham Radio (most know what I do).
> >
> > I talk to customers all day long and they come from all walks of life and
> > all education levels. Most new hams do not have the technical
> background
> > they some of us have and they need some very basic information and
> > mentoring to get over the hump. This is a confusing hobby for new hams.
> > AMSAT has not been good at helping out very new users. They want to have
> > fun and actually communicate as well they do want to understand.
> >
> > Some learn well from reading. Some from Videos and some from 1 on 1
> > coaching on the phone so they can ask questions.
> >
> > I will be the first to admit that getting started with SATpc32 for a new
> > operator is difficult. I spent a few weeks at it and nothing phases me
> in
> > technology and integration. This is why I did the intro video on
> YouTube
> > on how to navigate the GUI that I have received LOTS of emails on and how
> > it get them out of 1st gear. Oh, and I searched YouTube before I did the
> > video and everything I saw assumed you knew how to drive SATpc32. So, I
> > do the video and all I get is slammed by AMSAT members for assuming I did
> > not having a licensed copy. What a friendly bunch.
> >
> > I was about a day from selling a new IC-9700, rotators, ERC controller
> and
> > antennas. Why would I want to be part of a group that didn't really want
> > to help. No wonder the hobby is dying.
> >
> > Don't get me wrong, it is an amazing piece of software and it does what
> it
> > does amazingly. My rant is not about 955 ROUNDSTONE DR
> > GALT, CA 95632the software it is about those that
> > don't like the simple questions.
> >
> > Yes, it is a technical hobby but hams new to this part of the hobby do
> not
> > understand the terms and how it affects the operation of trying to make a
> > QSO.
> >
> > Updating for a new satellite is not easily understood and despite all the
> > instructions that people tossed at me, none worked to get RS44 functional
> > when it came out. And, yes, I read the manual. A LOT. The manual
> expects
> > you to be a seasoned and educated Satellite operator.
> >
> > For those that spend some one on one time, I think you in advance for all
> > your mentoring as I am sure many have benefitted from your contributions.
> >
> > For those that say "RTFM" consider where you started and who helped you
> to
> > get out of 1st gear. RTFM doesn't work for everyone. In fact, it has
> > the opposite effect by scaring new members/operators away.
> >
> > *** Remember, there is no stupid question. ***
> >
> > Mike va3mw
> >
> >
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Sent via AMSAT-BB@?????.???. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available
> > to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership.
> Opinions expressed
> > are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of
> AMSAT-NA.
> > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite
> program!
> > Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
> _______________________________________________
> Sent via AMSAT-BB@?????.???. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available
> to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions
> expressed
> are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of
> AMSAT-NA.
> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program!
> Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
>
------------------------------
Message: 9
Date: Mon, 8 Jun 2020 16:51:56 -0700
From: Greg D <ko6th.greg@?????.???>
To: Jeff Moore <tnetcenter@?????.???>, Amsat BB <amsat-bb@?????.???>
Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators
Message-ID: <27ac94cd-89ab-2b7b-3e02-126c89e83462@?????.???>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8
We do have licenses, but they are one dimensional. My point is that the
problem is two dimensional, both capability (license class) and
technology (in-depth by topic). I've got an Amateur Extra license, but
I'm a complete novice when it comes to the HF digital modes. On the
other hand, many in my club call me the "satellite guy", but I could do
that with a Technician license. Two dimensions.
I do understand the risk of it losing the "hobby" aspect - that is
definitely a concern. But just as there is an incentive to pursue a
higher license to gain access to more spectrum, the idea is that adding
the "word salad" to your call sign, signature, and/or club name badge
might be enough incentive to do some studying to pass a credential
exam. It certainly won't appeal to (or motivate) everyone, and there's
absolutely no requirement to pursue a credential in order to operate in
that mode, but it might just provide enough structure to what is
currently a very hit-and-miss education system.
Greg KO6TH
Jeff Moore via AMSAT-BB wrote:
> We already have "certifications" - they're called licenses - we don't need
> any more! Education is great and needed - lose the certifications, they
> are unneeded and unwanted!!! This is a hobby first and foremost! It
> ceases being a hobby when you have to get certified to do anything in
> addition to getting licensed!
>
> Jeff Moore -- KE7ACY
>
------------------------------
Subject: Digest Footer
_______________________________________________
Sent via amsat-bb@?????.???.
AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available to all interested persons worldwide
without requiring membership. Opinions expressed
are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of
AMSAT-NA.
Not an AMSAT member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program!
https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
------------------------------
End of AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 15, Issue 190
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