Operating standards have been declining
no news to any DXer. Even the IARU took
notice and published a resolution encouraging operators to "operate to
the highest levels of proficiency, with proper consideration for others
using the amateur radio bands." Read
the Full Resolution
here.
The publication of DXEtiquette
in the
March 2010 issue of QST sparked a new world-wide effort to get all hams
to operate in a manner consistent with that Resolution. To that end an
international group of DXers have developed a DX Code of
Conduct. Since introducing it, hams from all continents have
joined in this effort. You can play an important role in spreading the
word. This is one project of which it can truthfully be said, "We are
all in this together, and we can all benefit."
Many have also said that the fight
against impolite behavior is a lost cause, but we don't agree. If one
person throws a stone in a pond, the ripples die out quickly. But if
tens of thousands of us each throw a pebble in the pond, the waves will
be huge. We'd like every active HF operator in the world to support
higher standards of conduct knowing that tens of thousands of others
support him too.
Inconsiderate operating standards are
just not in keeping with the high moral standards of our hobby. More to
the point, it is counter-productive and simply inconsistent with the
aim of our hobby, to have FUN. But if you think it is bad at your end,
consider the plight of the poor guy at the other end. For a great
example of that, click here.
Be proud of your accomplishments
but be
respectful of newer hams who do not yet have your skills and equipment.
They deserve the same consideration you once received when you were
younger. Let’s do everything we can to promote ethical
operating practices and polite behavior amongst the DX fraternity so as
to increase the enjoyment of all participants. Everyone who has the
ability to generate a signal the DX stations can hear should have the
opportunity for a contact without being squashed by impolite hams.
In an effort to restore more gentlemanly
behavior to the process, the DX Code of Conduct asks you to aspire to a
higher ethical standard. A large number of DX Clubs and
national amateur societies have already endorsed the Code and have
asked their members to adopt it as their personal Code as well.
Our goal is to have every licensed amateur in the world support the Code.
Translations
Make no mistake about it
This is a successful effort that has worldwide support. The project started not long ago but take a look at the Flag Counter at the bottom of the page. Over 20,000 hams from all over the world are really excited about improving the conduct on the bands. I'm sure ethical conduct is important to you too and iIf you are a new visitor, wecome aboard. Enjoy the website and help us spread the word!