TO: ALL ARES OPERATORS IN
DISTRICT 3 (OFFICIAL)
ALL AMATEURS IN WEST VIRGINIA
(INFORMATION)
FROM: WOOD COUNTY EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS INCORPORATED AND WOOD
COUNTY AMATEUR RADIO EMERGENCY SERVICES (ARES)
ARES DISTRICT 3 BULLETIN NR 07.24 DATE: June 17,
2007
SUBJECT: WHAT IS FIELD DAY?
Since Field Day is coming up next weekend, there may be
some operators who don't know what Field Day is. For those
newcomers to Amateur Radio, or those who don't know, here's a short
expiation of Field Day. Field Day is the operating of Amateur
Radio stations for a period of 24 hours, making as many contacts as
possible using less those ideal situations. Less than ideal
situations would be classified as operating in a tent, camper, or other
such quarters, using only emergency power to power all communications
equipment during the event. Field Day is always held on the 4th
full weekend in June and is open to all Amateurs in the US and Canada.
During the event a short exchange of information must be sent between
both stations before I can be classified as a contact. All modes
of transmission can be used, such a Voice (AM, SSB, and FM), CW (Code),
and all forms of Digital Communications (Packet, Amtor, RTTY, MT-63,
PSK-31, etc.). Some modes get more points than others. It's
a good time to test out your ability to set up your emergency equipment
and try new techniques of communications. It's the one time of the
year that you can operate a contest on bands that you normally aren't
authorized, as long as there is a control operator of the proper class
present. It's a time to just have fun and learn new skills.
Field Day this year will be held June 23rd and 24th. Find a location
that you would like to operate from and go to it. Feel free to ask
questions or help with the setup and tear down. Don't be afraid to
operate, it's a good learning experience. Wood County Emergency
Communications will be operating Field Day on Hendershot Farm, just off
of Laurel Creek Road. Come join the fun a maybe learn something
new.
Ken Harris WA8LLM
Wood County WV
WV ARES Assistant Section Coordinator
WV ARES District 3 Emergency Coordinator