"So Long, Farewell, Auf Weidersehen. . ."

[AG3Y]

Been seeing OM, young men, "newbies", OFs, and all sorts of people making posts telling us they are leaving the avocation, and giving us the reasons.

Do we really want to hear this? Or not? Should we be wishing them "Godspeed", or asking them "here's your coat, what's your hurry?" "Don't let the door hit you on the way out!" or "Please , PLEASE reconsider! ! "

What'cha think? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif Is this the next episode in the "Beginning of the end" for ham radio, or just a cleansing of the rif-raf?

I'm not saying what I think, one way or another. I'm just posting a neutral question. So tell me what YOU think ?

73, Jim

[k0dxc]

Im going inactive because Im moving, I am not leaving the hobby

[kf4vgx]

Quote[/b] (AG3Y @ Dec. 27 2007,23:34)]Been seeing OM, young men, "newbies", OFs, and all sorts of people making posts telling us they are leaving the avocation, and giving us the reasons.

Do we really want to hear this? Or not? #Should we be wishing them "Godspeed", or asking them "here's your coat, what's your hurry?" #"Don't let the door hit you on the way out!" or "Please , PLEASE reconsider! ! "

What'cha think? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif #Is this the next episode in the "Beginning of the end" for ham radio, or just a cleansing of the rif-raf?

I'm not saying what I think, one way or another. #I'm just posting a neutral question. # So tell me what YOU think ?

73, Jim
Let them do as they please .
Who are we to question them . http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

[VE7DCW]

Well...I know I'm going to be staying for awhile....anyone else going to stay put? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif


73

[WA9SVD]

Maybe in part, it's "winnowing out the chaff."

I certainly hate to see ANY OT (or even OF) leave the ranks, because as crusty or dissatisfied, disillusioned and disgusted as they may be, we NEED experienced Elmers.

Probably many of the "newbies" are simply being lost due to natural attrition once they realize Amateur Radio is not something in which they are/were really interested. To them I DO say, "Good Luck," because I believe they were sold unrealistic expectations of Amateur Radio, and it's not to their liking or expectations.

Unfortunately, there IS a small but vocal group of mostly new licensees that are "He**-bent" on converting Amateur Radio into a carbon copy of the Service from which they came, but they are actually the anathema of the ideals and Standards Amateurs have upheld from the very beginning. To some of them, rules are not just meant to be bent, but breaking the rules seems to be a true requirement for any honor or recognition of accomplishment, and is at least tacitly encouraged. The concept of "Self Policing" is lost to them; their mantra, as in the rest of Society, seems to be "you can do anything you want as long as you don't get caught," and their true belief seems to be that the only "wrong," "sin" or fault is in getting caught, not in some illegal, immoral, or fattening act itself. Sadly, that current business ethic in this country also seems to promote the attitude that "anything is OK if you don't get caught."

[KB3LIX]

I AIN'T goin no wherz !!!

Too early in the game to quit !!!

[KC5CSG]

Let them leave. They remind me of emo little girls that are screaming they're going to cut their wrists if we don't pay them some sort of sympathy. Don't let the doorknob hit you where the good lord split you I say.

Natural selection at its best.

Jerry

[N5FOG]

I think its people who want to make a scene and get attention. I know that sounds bad but its the truth. If they want to leave then they should do so quietly and with some decorum.

But instead since they're soured on ham radio they have to try and tell us all the reasons ham radio is crap and try to sour us with them.

Whats the old saying, misery loves company and these hams who have to post a sob story of why they are being "forced" to leave the hobby because of how things are going is a perfect example.

They are no different than the co-worker I'm sure we have all had at one time or another. The one who tels you about how he is going to quit and why the company has gone to crap.




FOG

[k7mh]

They are all girlie men. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

[N0NB]

I agree with N5FOG. I see it as a means of calling attention to oneself. Nothing more.

Once upon a time I fell for the claptrap, but no longer. Last time I checked this was still a free enough country that if a person doesn't want to participate in the hobby, they don't have to.

I just tell them, "Have fun!"

[G8ADD]

Excuse my plain English, but I think its bl***y rude! They are telling us that we are inferior beings that they no longer wish to have anything to do with, and they are going to leave us and go mix with their equals.

I feel like saying belt up and p**s off!

(Sigh) I will never master this polite urbane Englishman twaddle!

73

Brian G8ADD

[k5okc]

I remember going to several hamshacks in the 60's and seeing whole rooms dedicated to a transmitter and receiver. Those old rigs were monsters. Then again, radio was something special. I remember staying up all night to listen to far away AM stations (we didn't have a TV). Heck, I didn't get my first BFO receiver until 1970, and could finally listen to SSB on my 5-band world radio.

When you compare that to today, when a 160 - 6 metre band transceiver can fit in your hand, there's just no magic in that. Plus, you can't work on it, or watch the tubes glow.

I think ham radio is a very nostalgic thing. The older hams like to talk about nostalgia, and the new hams don't have a clue what they are yapping about. The've never heard of the radio names, or ever wanted a Collins full line. They are happy to get their ching-chang zippy-one blaster and there's just no respect from them.

Off they go. But they don't just go, they go with a lot of noise. Sort of like a smoker when he dies, he makes a lot of noise gasping for air... We are all unworthy, and they have to let us know that we are unworthy.

Bah!

[W3MIV]

I believe that those who recant their interest probably never had much of an interest at the start. That is why I also believe that the ULS stats grossly overstate the reality of amateur radio that lives on the air.

To wax Biblical, "many are called, but few are chosen." Or, to put it less delicately, "ye got it or ye ain't."

No loss.

[K1CJS]

I too agree with FOG, they're people out looking for attention. Kinda like 'Hey, I'm going to leave....(unless I can be baited to stay)

Let 'em go. With some noteable exceptions, they will not be missed at all.

[PA5COR]

I started with electron tubes at the age of 12, too old to stop now ;)

[KD8COO]

I'm not going anywhere either! Too much fun to let a few people ruin it!

[k3wrv]

Jim-

As an OT/OF, I think it's a bit of both and has thus ever been. Many of us get depressed by the lack of civility on the bands and the general decline of good operating habits. Maybe frustrated is a better term. Or we get bored. And take a break from the hobby. This has happened to me several times over the years, and maybe sort of follows the Sunspot cycle.

And we often get bored or take on new interests. When I was in High School and College, for example I discovered these marvelous creatures called Girls! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif And went QRT fer a while. (But never long enough to let my ticket lapse).

But then, something comes along and re-sparks the interest. Maybe DX, or QRP, or SSTV, or computers. And I jump back in for a while with a vengence.

Of course there are external factors that come into play as well - incentive licensing took a dreadful toll, and the recent move to "non-incentive" licensing is probably doing the same. But there were lots of similar complaints back in the early 60's when there were a ton of Novices who suddenly upgraded to the consternation of the OF's.

But I think I can safely say I'm not going anywhere until the Lord pries the mike from my cold dead hands. As I told my Draft Board when I informed them that I was going to Canada and they asked if I planned to return, "Of course! I'm not going to leave you Bas****DS in charge of the Country!

[AA0CX]

I've got a pretty strong stomach. But when something really digusts me, there are two functions on my radio that have never failed me yet. The "off" button, and the VFO.

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif I'll be around....

[kc4umo]

I have to agree with FOG also.
If I were sick and tired of the way something is I will quietly exit the building. I dont need the attention or hear others comments on the way out.

But I would say I am a person of few words. Joined here in 1999 and only have about 500 post. Most in the recent year. So I had little to contribute.:p

I hate to see anybody leave, there are a good handfull here that has helped me in lerning more about the hobby from a technicle standpoint that would really be missed if the left AR.

[KA4DPO]

It's kind of like you rented a very posh hall for a special party. The party was wonderful for a long time, all the guests were civil and intelligent people who shared a common interest in science. The doorman was very selective about the guests he let in and everyone who attended contributed something to the party.

One day they changed doormen and the new one has no scruples, he lets in almost everyone. Because of his indiscretion a lot of trashy low lifes are showing up at the party. They are eating the food and drinking the punch but contributing nothing. They don't understand the concept of your party, they don't want to and they don't care, they just like the food.

You know you can't keep them out but you know that if very many more show up the party is going to be ruined.

I think some of the more well heeled guests have begun to notice that the party is turning into a drunken brawl. Being intelligent high class people they are leaving early rather than having to mix with inbred rabble.

They know that soon the party will be over, the food will be gone and the low lifes will simply whine until they can crash another party and eat all of their food.

[KC5CSG]

Quote[/b] (KA4DPO @ Dec. 29 2007,08:23)]It's kind of like you rented a very posh hall for a special party. #The party was wonderful for a long time, all the guests were civil and intelligent people who shared a common interest in science. #The doorman was very selective about the guests he let in and everyone who attended contributed something to the party. #

One day they changed doormen and the new one has no scruples, he lets in almost everyone. # Because of his indiscretion a lot of trashy low lifes are showing up at the party. # They are eating the food and drinking the punch but contributing nothing. #They don't understand the concept of your party, they don't want to and they don't care, they just like the food. #

You know you can't keep them out but you know that if very many more show up the party is going to be ruined.

I think some of the more well heeled guests have begun to notice that the party is turning into a drunken brawl. Being intelligent high class people they are leaving #early rather than having to mix with inbred rabble.

They know that soon the party will be over, the food will be gone and the low lifes will simply whine until they can crash another party and eat all of their food.
LOL!!! Talk about the Grand Illusion. A ham comparing our hobby to high society. Now, that's comedy people.

Jerry

[W6GQ]

Quote[/b] (N0NB @ Dec. 29 2007,00:56)]I agree with N5FOG. #I see it as a means of calling attention to oneself. #Nothing more.
NARCISSISTIC

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif

[n9vo]

I don't think the hobby is in the dire straits that most of the posters feel. Look at it this way. If you made a list of the top 100 posters here on the zed and then deleted all their posts, you would have a very vacant site!!!! In the grand scheme of things, the number of posters/whiners/naysayers/goodguys on here are hardly representative of the hobby. If I see a post that truly disgusts me, I just move on -- If I hear something offensive I spin the vfo or shut it off. The handful of posters who continually stir the pot, regardless of subject are such a small sampling, they hardly matter!

If I should ever choose to leave (hardly likely), I'll just let the door hit me where the good Lord split me!!!! I will not beg for condolences........ http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[WA6MHZ]

It must be band conditions. At the bottom of the Sunspot cycle, working Kansas is DX! So gone are the days of working India while mobile (I did it driving down the main street in El Cajon) and 10 meters is completely useless. So, when they tune the bands and hear nothing but hiss or OFs blabbing away about getting their gall bladder out, where is the excitement? But I know that the good ol' days will be back, in another 5 or so years, and I can take the rusty old bucket of bolts out of mothballs and fire that mother up! So, bye bye to all those rushing for the door, I find plenty more to do in the meantime while waiting on the Sun. Plenty of old rigs to restore, VHF Contests are still hopping, PSK is the trendy mode these days, and back to more boatanchor restoration. New hams coming in will easily fill the gap. Not a problem.

[KC9GUZ]

Quote[/b] (VE7DCW @ Dec. 28 2007,22:57)]Well...I know I'm going to be staying for awhile....anyone else going to stay put? #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif


73
Nope. im not going anywere. Im in this hobby until the day i die. I enjoy it too much. Uh, well until the day my wife gets mad and gets rid of all my gear! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[WA6MHZ]

Quote[/b] (KC9GUZ @ Dec. 29 2007,09:59)]Quote[/b] (VE7DCW @ Dec. 28 2007,22:57)]Well...I know I'm going to be staying for awhile....anyone else going to stay put? #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif


73
Nope. im not going anywere. Im in this hobby until the day i die. I enjoy it too much. #Uh, well until the day my wife gets mad and gets rid of all my gear! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif
My wife is already mad, but she knows getting rid of the gear is an impossibility. She would need a giant bulldozer and a fleet of Waste management truck sized dumpsters! Yes there is that much stuff. The house sure would look empty without it. We would have a table, a few folding chairs, a bed and a love seat couch. Thats about it!

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (wa6mhz @ Dec. 29 2007,10:28)]Quote[/b] (KC9GUZ @ Dec. 29 2007,09:59)]Quote[/b] (VE7DCW @ Dec. 28 2007,22:57)]Well...I know I'm going to be staying for awhile....anyone else going to stay put? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif


73
Nope. im not going anywere. Im in this hobby until the day i die. I enjoy it too much. Uh, well until the day my wife gets mad and gets rid of all my gear! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif
My wife is already mad, but she knows getting rid of the gear is an impossibility. She would need a giant bulldozer and a fleet of Waste management truck sized dumpsters! Yes there is that much stuff. The house sure would look empty without it. We would have a table, a few folding chairs, a bed and a love seat couch. Thats about it!
WOW! "a table, a few folding chairs, a bed and a love seat couch?"

THAT would be quite extravagant!


(Glad you were apparently saved from the recent fires. I hope to find you on the air someday soon.)

[N2RJ]

Quote[/b] (KC5CSG @ Dec. 29 2007,10:32)]Quote[/b] (KA4DPO @ Dec. 29 2007,08:23)]It's kind of like you rented a very posh hall for a special party. #The party was wonderful for a long time, all the guests were civil and intelligent people who shared a common interest in science. #The doorman was very selective about the guests he let in and everyone who attended contributed something to the party. #

One day they changed doormen and the new one has no scruples, he lets in almost everyone. # Because of his indiscretion a lot of trashy low lifes are showing up at the party. # They are eating the food and drinking the punch but contributing nothing. #They don't understand the concept of your party, they don't want to and they don't care, they just like the food. #

You know you can't keep them out but you know that if very many more show up the party is going to be ruined.

I think some of the more well heeled guests have begun to notice that the party is turning into a drunken brawl. Being intelligent high class people they are leaving #early rather than having to mix with inbred rabble.

They know that soon the party will be over, the food will be gone and the low lifes will simply whine until they can crash another party and eat all of their food.
LOL!!! Talk about the Grand Illusion. A ham comparing our hobby to high society. Now, that's comedy people.

Jerry
John speaks the truth.

I'm sorry it hurts, but the truth hurts, and it usually hurts the most when it hits home.

Enjoy the party and the free food. We know you enjoy a drunken brawl.

Meanwhile I will continue partying on with those who enjoy and contribute.

[KC5CSG]

Quote[/b] (KC9GUZ @ Dec. 29 2007,09:59)]Quote[/b] (VE7DCW @ Dec. 28 2007,22:57)]Well...I know I'm going to be staying for awhile....anyone else going to stay put? #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif


73
Nope. im not going anywere. Im in this hobby until the day i die. I enjoy it too much. #Uh, well until the day my wife gets mad and gets rid of all my gear! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif
I wear the pants in this house but only when my skirt is in the wash.

[AB8XA]

It's a HOBBY, "an activity done regularly in one's leisure time for pleasure!"

And as with many of the many I've had over many years, I may drift in and out of it, or not. #

Hobbies aren't for one to serve and be dedicated to, they're to serve the hobbyist with enjoyment.

That may explain why one feels compelled to announce their departure, especially if that's the only and/or primary hobby they've ever had.

[AB8XA]

Quote[/b] (N2RJ @ Dec. 29 2007,12:34)]John speaks the truth...
No, like many pessimistic OTs, not only here and now, but worldwide over the millennia, John selectively remembers "the good old days." #That's just human nature. #I got a good laugh out of the comparison of hams to high society as well.

[N6KX]

I usually get a kick out of the "farewell" notices posted by hams who elect to "leave the hobby." #What drama!

Do bird-watchers who tire of their hobby post public announcements - no, pronouncements - formally declaring their cessation of all related activities and their dissociation from the ranks of the active? #Who cares?

Some of these farewells read like the abdication of a throne or a renunciation of citizenship. #And there is often an accompanying indictment of those whose remain behind, apparently blind to the revelation that now compels them to move on.

I wonder what these folks hope to achieve with their self-delivered eulogies? #Are we, the readers, supposed to feel something in particular? #Stupid, for continuing to be an active ham? #Sorry, for not living up to their expectations? #Clueless, for not perceiving reality as they do?

I say, follow your heart. #I look forward to the opportunity to purchase your used gear. #And I look forward to the empty air that follows my "QRL? QRL?" so I can call CQ without having to QSY. #Don't let the door hit you...

Howie N6KX #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif

[w3dub]

Come on with QRZ, you have a captive audience. I agree with some of the posters in this thread that some people just seem to be attention *****s. Plus there's no actual way for us really to know whether they're actually leaving the hobby... or just stop posting on the zed. Maybe we need to sticky the "Official QRZ I'm leaving" thread http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[KC9GUZ]

Quote[/b] (wa6mhz @ Dec. 29 2007,10:28)]Quote[/b] (KC9GUZ @ Dec. 29 2007,09:59)]Quote[/b] (VE7DCW @ Dec. 28 2007,22:57)]Well...I know I'm going to be staying for awhile....anyone else going to stay put? #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif


73
Nope. im not going anywere. Im in this hobby until the day i die. I enjoy it too much. #Uh, well until the day my wife gets mad and gets rid of all my gear! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif
My wife is already mad, but she knows getting rid of the gear is an impossibility. #She would need a giant bulldozer and a fleet of Waste management truck sized dumpsters! #Yes there is that much stuff. #The house sure would look empty without it. #We would have a table, a few folding chairs, a bed and a love seat couch. #Thats about it!
When she goes through her anti radio tirades and threatens to get rid of my gear, i tell her to sell it all to a local ham so i can buy it all back in time!! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[KB3LIX]

Quote[/b] (N2RJ @ Dec. 29 2007,13:34)]Quote[/b] (KC5CSG @ Dec. 29 2007,10:32)]Quote[/b] (KA4DPO @ Dec. 29 2007,08:23)]It's kind of like you rented a very posh hall for a special party. #The party was wonderful for a long time, all the guests were civil and intelligent people who shared a common interest in science. #The doorman was very selective about the guests he let in and everyone who attended contributed something to the party. #

One day they changed doormen and the new one has no scruples, he lets in almost everyone. # Because of his indiscretion a lot of trashy low lifes are showing up at the party. # They are eating the food and drinking the punch but contributing nothing. #They don't understand the concept of your party, they don't want to and they don't care, they just like the food. #

You know you can't keep them out but you know that if very many more show up the party is going to be ruined.

I think some of the more well heeled guests have begun to notice that the party is turning into a drunken brawl. Being intelligent high class people they are leaving #early rather than having to mix with inbred rabble.

They know that soon the party will be over, the food will be gone and the low lifes will simply whine until they can crash another party and eat all of their food.
LOL!!! Talk about the Grand Illusion. A ham comparing our hobby to high society. Now, that's comedy people.

Jerry
John speaks the truth.

I'm sorry it hurts, but the truth hurts, and it usually hurts the most when it hits home.

Enjoy the party and the free food. We know you enjoy a drunken brawl.

Meanwhile I will continue partying on with those who enjoy and contribute.
Actually, a very good analogy.

Too bad the old doorman died. He did a decent job, but this new guy leaves much to be desired.

Many of the new licensees have no clue, and no desire to learn, because they know-it-all

They have no love of radio for radios sake,
and that is what it is supposed to be all about.

They just want to get boozed up and talk to like minded schmucks.

Hopefully, they will stay a while, look around, decide that it not for them, and leave QUIETLY

We can only hope !!!!!

(btw, I call them licensees, because they hold an amateur license, but are not amateurs in the true sense and spirit of the word amateur.)

[G0GQK]

People stop doing all sorts of things,playing golf,going down the pub, riding a bike, but there's no need to tell everyone is there ?

Just sell your equipment and find something else to do as a pastime.

G0GQK

[ka0sog]

Geez, let em go! I don't want to talk to a bunch of whiners anyway. This hobby has all sorts of potential. (potential - get it? you know voltage? .....never mind.)

"You picked a fine time to leave me Lucille."

[kl7aj]

Well, when a ham legend like Wayne Green leaves the hobby entirely, perhaps a little introspection might be called for.

I plan on being around for a while.....if for no other reason than that I've put a LOT of work into the Opus! Hopefully this will attract a whole new audience into ham radio than we've been trying to recruit.

I recommend that everyone here read "The Dangerous Book for Boys." And then THINK about why this book has been staggeringly successful....one of the best selling non-fiction books of all time. Those Brits hit a receptive nerve....and it's not the nerve we've been trying to hit (or the ARRL)

Think about it.

Eric

[KI4SYC]

I just got on the air this year so I'm not planning to leave anytime soon.

On a related note...my Power Supply up and died today.

[wb4old]

Quote[/b] (AG3Y @ Dec. 28 2007,22:34)]Been seeing OM, young men, "newbies", OFs, and all sorts of people making posts telling us they are leaving the avocation, and giving us the reasons.
I think that most making the public leaving are wanting to vent their dismay, frustration, anger and let those they feel that are the cause or at least part of it know their feelings.
Not everyone hangs it up. Some leave, some operate CW only, some only talk to hams, some do not care, some want to destroy ham radio.. It is just a hobby.
For a person that has been a ham for years 20,30, 40, 50 it is sad to see them go.
For hams.

[w3dub]

Quote[/b] (KI4SYC @ Dec. 29 2007,16:57)]I just got on the air this year so I'm not planning to leave anytime soon.

On a related note...my Power Supply up and died today.
Good.. have fun. But that will certainly take you off the air, however http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

[KD6WAG]

Who cares?

[AG3Y]

Quote[/b] (KB3JGU @ Dec. 30 2007,02:34)]Quote[/b] (KI4SYC @ Dec. 29 2007,16:57)]I just got on the air this year so I'm not planning to leave anytime soon.

On a related note...my Power Supply up and died today.
Good.. have fun. But that will certainly take you off the air, however #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif
Naaaa, that's what batteries and QRP are for ! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[K8ERV]

Quote[/b] (ka0sog @ Dec. 29 2007,14:48)]"You picked a fine time to leave me Lucille."
Ah, another Rogers fan--

TOM K8ERV Montrose Colo

[N4PRT]

It's always been this way--folks come in to a hobby, look around, tinker a bit, and then drift off. Some come back, some don't. Some find it was not what they thought it was--others find it too much so. Some that have been in it just can't stand change. One thing that has changed, and I see this in other interest groups I am involved in (such as traditional film based photography, woodworking, etcetera) is now the internet gives the Drama Queens a place to whine. So, sorry you did not find what you wanted--or that it was more than you bargained for. Have a nice day, and good luck to you!

[w3dub]

Quote[/b] (AG3Y @ Dec. 30 2007,09:17)]Naaaa, #that's what batteries and QRP are for ! # http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Yeah but not all of us are so blessed http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

I have my batteries, don't know about this gentleman.

[WA6MHZ]

Quote[/b] (KI4SYC @ Dec. 29 2007,14:57)]I just got on the air this year so I'm not planning to leave anytime soon.

On a related note...my Power Supply up and died today.
If its a Linear supply (big heavy transformer) it is probably easily fixed. If its a switcher, toss it in the trash, switchers are impossible to fix. They use offshore components and are a bear to troubleshoot. But Linear supplies are pretty easy. If its an Astron, its a snap!
First you need to see if the pass transistors are blown. Disconnect the base and emitter wires and measure them for shorts. If all OK, your in pretty good shape. Next item to check is the LM723 IC. That usually goes. Pop in a replacement. If still no go, you also might check the fuse. That goes sometimes too!

[W8NSI]

Quote[/b] (k5okc @ Dec. 28 2007,22:33)]I remember going to several hamshacks in the 60's and seeing whole rooms dedicated to a transmitter and receiver. Those old rigs were monsters. Then again, radio was something special. I remember staying up all night to listen to far away AM stations (we didn't have a TV). Heck, I didn't get my first BFO receiver until 1970, and could finally listen to SSB on my 5-band world radio.

When you compare that to today, when a 160 - 6 metre band transceiver can fit in your hand, there's just no magic in that. Plus, you can't work on it, or watch the tubes glow.

I think ham radio is a very nostalgic thing. The older hams like to talk about nostalgia, and the new hams don't have a clue what they are yapping about. The've never heard of the radio names, or ever wanted a Collins full line. They are happy to get their ching-chang zippy-one blaster and there's just no respect from them.

Off they go. But they don't just go, they go with a lot of noise. Sort of like a smoker when he dies, he makes a lot of noise gasping for air... We are all unworthy, and they have to let us know that we are unworthy.

Bah!
That monster transmitter and receiver were part of what got me started too. My friend, Larry Geluso, was a novice and the station was a huge old Johnson crystal transmitter and a big receiver (that I can't remember the models of either). I was fascinated to sit and watch while he made a cw contact. Throw one switch to change over the antenna, and then a switch on the front of the transmitter to go to transmit mode, then reverse the process to receive.

But to say the magic is gone... NOPE!

Look at a rig like the Elecraft KX-1, self contained, multiband, and with the proper antenna, you can work the world. From the palm of your hand!!! Or an old TenTec Argonaut or any other solid state portable rig. The only ones not impressed are those who use 11 meters to work skip and operate "freeband", or maybe someone who has not had his internet connection go dead and feel cut of from the world.

My first hf transmitter was a Heathkit AT-1. (I still have it!) The receiver was not worth using because it was a shortwave broadcast receiver with no selectivity. I got an old Hallicrafters that worked bit better. Then I bought and built the Heath HW-16 and really had fun. Crystals were a real drag though. The HG-10B VFO was the next addition.
DXing on 15 meters was fun.

I know a few local hams who joined because they are immersed in the emergency services scene.

Everyone should have a niche that interests them.

I am interested in digital modes like psk31 and rag chewing in general.

Until I move over to that big hamshack in the sky, I am here to stay.

[KC2PBJ]

Who the hell cares if they go? #The disgusted, angry, and OF "knights that go nee" are those who would make lousy elmers and have clearly indicated their disdain for newcomers. Experienced operators, and new guys, without the "attitude" will foster well for our collective future.#The newbies who leave didn't have much of a clue as to the joys of the avocation and that is a normal state of affairs. #After a return to amateur radio after four decades, I'm not going anywhere. #Worst case scenario will be some decent used equipment on the market.

[k9xr]

Quote[/b] (AB8XA @ Dec. 29 2007,11:49)]Quote[/b] (N2RJ @ Dec. 29 2007,12:34)]John speaks the truth...
No, like many pessimistic OTs, not only here and now, but worldwide over the millennia, John selectively remembers "the good old days." #That's just human nature. #I got a good laugh out of the comparison of hams to high society as well.
This coming from a guy who says that a hobby is not to be served or dedicated. #He's been in and out of many over the years.

I think I've finally figured it out. #

Get out of CB or whatever these guys attitudes came from.

Wait for the hobby to dumb down.

Jump in and Disrespect the guys that have been at this for many years with a stong passion and deep respect for the heritage and traditions of the hobby. #Afterall, you guys REALLY DO know it all after a year or two.

Rejoice when these guys finally get tired of what you have injected into this hobby.You don't need them anyway.

After not too long you guys will probably succeed in turning this into what CB has become.

When even YOU get tired of all the B.S. you can just get out and jump into another hobby or interrest and dilute that one too.

Before you flame me just be aware that this isn't aimed at all the new guys, just the ones that "JUST DON'T GET IT". I hope they try to before it is too late. A great deal of the new guys try hard to learn as much as they can as fast as they can. This is aimed at the guys that already know it all so they think they have nothing to learn about Amateur Radio.

[KA4DPO]

Quote[/b] (AB8XA @ Dec. 29 2007,13:49)]Quote[/b] (N2RJ @ Dec. 29 2007,12:34)]John speaks the truth...
No, like many pessimistic OTs, not only here and now, but worldwide over the millennia, John selectively remembers "the good old days." #That's just human nature. #I got a good laugh out of the comparison of hams to high society as well.
I'm sorry to wipe the grinn off your face, I trust there's no drool on there as well.

I meant to compare amateur radio with polite society, not high society. Is that more within your grasp?

[N5KRC]

You know, I only see the crap here on this web site. I do a lot of monitoring of various bands, and I have yet to hear anyone on the air profess their discuss for Amateur radio, nor do I see it on other Amateur-related web sites. I believe the attention-getters come here, get their panties in a knot over this-or-that, and get to the point of "oh-pitiful-me-I'm-leaving". To me, so be it, that's a few more kilohertz of bandwidth I won't have to compete with to make my contacts.

I've spent the last several days of my vacation in the shack on the air, and today even ventured out to the field and worked QRP with an 817 and end-fed half-wave thrown in to a tree. The only negativity I've seen over the last week regarding Amateur radio has been here on QRZ.com.

If your time on the radio is so bad you have to take time out of your day and log in to a world-wide forum and ask the world to throw you a pitty-party, then just do me one favor and let me know what types of deals you'll be offering on your Amateur radio equipment. I'll be glad to help expedite your departure from our hobby and make some good deals on equipment for my shack.

This hobby isn't for everyone, but there is no reason to make a public ordeal about it all. Sell your equipment and move to a different hobby, if it's not for you. No reason to spread your doom-n-gloom to the rest of us just because someone got your knickers knotted up.

[AB8XA]

Quote[/b] (k9xr @ Dec. 30 2007,18:33)]Quote[/b] (AB8XA @ Dec. 29 2007,11:49)]Quote[/b] (N2RJ @ Dec. 29 2007,12:34)]John speaks the truth...
No, like many pessimistic OTs, not only here and now, but worldwide over the millennia, John selectively remembers "the good old days." #That's just human nature. #I got a good laugh out of the comparison of hams to high society as well.
This coming from a guy who says that a hobby is not to be served or dedicated. #He's been in and out of many over the years.

I think I've finally figured it out. #

Get out of CB or whatever these guys attitudes came from.

Wait for the hobby to dumb down.

Jump in and Disrespect the guys that have been at this for many years with a stong passion and deep respect for the heritage and traditions of the hobby. #Afterall, you guys REALLY DO know it all after a year or two.

Rejoice when these guys finally get tired of what you have injected into this hobby.You don't need them anyway.

After not too long you guys will probably succeed in turning this into what CB has become.

When even YOU get tired of all the B.S. you can just get out and jump into another hobby or interrest and dilute that one too.

Before you flame me just be aware that this isn't aimed at all the new guys, just the ones that "JUST DON'T GET IT". I hope they try to before it is too late. A great deal of the new guys try hard to learn as much as they can as fast as they can. This is aimed at the guys that already know it all so they think they have nothing to learn about Amateur Radio.
Hey Albert... remember that little ditty about sticks and stones? #I didn't disrespect anyone, but on the other hand, like most, I have little respect for doomsayers, whiners, and name-callers, young or old.

One earns respect, or lack thereof, by what one does, much more than from what one's done. #Those who EXPECT respect for old achievements and do nothing now but piss and moan they don't get it from the new generation these days are are the personification of "has beens."

[AB8XA]

Quote[/b] (KA4DPO @ Dec. 30 2007,18:50)]Quote[/b] (AB8XA @ Dec. 29 2007,13:49)]Quote[/b] (N2RJ @ Dec. 29 2007,12:34)]John speaks the truth...
No, like many pessimistic OTs, not only here and now, but worldwide over the millennia, John selectively remembers "the good old days." #That's just human nature. #I got a good laugh out of the comparison of hams to high society as well.
I'm sorry to wipe the grinn off your face, I trust there's no drool on there as well.

I meant to compare amateur radio with polite society, not high society. #Is that more within your grasp?
John, you may not know it, but believe it or not, Hara Arena is used for ballroom dancing, as well as Hamvention. Your description of AR brings forth the vision of attendees of the latter showing up at a venue of the former. You gotta admit that's funny... and I'm still grinning.

I grew up in your old "polite society." For example, I was taught to politely say, "I'm sorry, but we don't serve colored people here" respectfully as one could under the circumstances. Back then, politeness was often a mask for incivilities that make the overt hostility in ham radio forums and phone bands today pale in comparison.

[KA4DPO]

Quote[/b] (AB8XA @ Dec. 31 2007,04:48)]Quote[/b] (KA4DPO @ Dec. 30 2007,18:50)]Quote[/b] (AB8XA @ Dec. 29 2007,13:49)]Quote[/b] (N2RJ @ Dec. 29 2007,12:34)]John speaks the truth...
No, like many pessimistic OTs, not only here and now, but worldwide over the millennia, John selectively remembers "the good old days." #That's just human nature. #I got a good laugh out of the comparison of hams to high society as well.
I'm sorry to wipe the grinn off your face, I trust there's no drool on there as well.

I meant to compare amateur radio with polite society, not high society. #Is that more within your grasp?
John, you may not know it, but believe it or not, Hara Arena is used for ballroom dancing, as well as Hamvention. #Your description of AR brings forth the vision of attendees of the latter showing up at a venue of the former. #You gotta admit that's funny... and I'm still grinning.

I grew up in your old "polite society." #For example, I was taught to politely say, "I'm sorry, but we don't serve colored people here" respectfully as one could under the circumstances. #Back then, politeness was often a mask for incivilities that make the overt hostility in ham radio forums and phone bands today pale in comparison.
I guess I don't mind your vision but I do mind being called a pessimistic OF. Since you don't know me that's kind of rude don't you think,I'm neither old nor a pessimist.

As for the racial stuff, I don't remember that but we were taught differently. That was a sad bit of history and has nothing to do with amateur radio but hey, it's your vision not mine.

[KC5CSG]

I always felt as though this hobby needed an enima.

[ky5u]

Quote[/b] (N5KRC @ Dec. 30 2007,17:00)]This hobby isn't for everyone, but there is no reason to make a public ordeal about it all. Sell your equipment and move to a different hobby, if it's not for you. No reason to spread your doom-n-gloom to the rest of us just because someone got your knickers knotted up.
Very well put. I hate to see anyone quit but if you're going to do it, JUST DO IT.

[w1alc]

It's like the Hotel California....You can check out, but you can never leave......

[AB8XA]

Quote[/b] (KA4DPO @ Dec. 31 2007,09:34)]...I do mind being called a pessimistic OF...
Quote[/b] (AB8XA @ Dec. 29 2007,13:49)]...No, like many pessimistic OTs [a respectful term, not OF]...

[k9xr]

Hey Leonard...

In your own words:

"I became interested in Hm Radio on December 15 after reading about the FCC dropping the code.."

"Hobbies are not to be served or dedicated to."

Yep, You earned a lot of respect from me with that.

[N8CPA]

Quote[/b] (KC5CSG @ Dec. 31 2007,10:45)]I always felt as though this hobby needed an enima.
I've always felt as though people who can't spell enema need one administered through their ear canals.

[AB8XA]

Ah, I see you found my profile, Albert, and proved my point about selective memory in quoting it.

[KC5CSG]

Quote[/b] (N8CPA @ Dec. 31 2007,10:59)]Quote[/b] (KC5CSG @ Dec. 31 2007,10:45)]I always felt as though this hobby needed an enima.
I've always felt as though people who can't spell enema need one administered through their ear canals.
True and I guess people who rely on them would know best how to spell it. You got the meaning though.

This hobby needs an enema.........yeah, that looks better. Thanks.

Jerry

[KC2PBJ]

Forget "dumbing down". How about "decenting up"? Forget the "no-code" argument. No one has says that we can't operate CW (some better than others and the some fewer that are even patient with us less skilled learners).

[KC5CSG]

Quote[/b] (KC2PBJ @ Dec. 31 2007,17:52)]Forget "dumbing down". #How about "decenting up"? #Forget the "no-code" argument. #No one has says that we can't operate CW #(some better than others and the some fewer that are even # patient with us less skilled learners).
Why bother? The only people using CW are elitists that I would rather let die off. I say open the CW portions on all bands to digital modes and let the CW operators use CW's efficiency and narrow propterties to allow them to find whatever's left to operate on. After all, since CW cuts through all the garbage I don't see any need for CW to have a special allocation anymore.

Jerry

[K7JEM]

Quote[/b] (KC5CSG @ Dec. 31 2007,20:43)]Quote[/b] (KC2PBJ @ Dec. 31 2007,17:52)]Forget "dumbing down". How about "decenting up"? Forget the "no-code" argument. No one has says that we can't operate CW (some better than others and the some fewer that are even patient with us less skilled learners).
Why bother? The only people using CW are elitists that I would rather let die off. I say open the CW portions on all bands to digital modes and let the CW operators use CW's efficiency and narrow propterties to allow them to find whatever's left to operate on. After all, since CW cuts through all the garbage I don't see any need for CW to have a special allocation anymore.

Jerry
CW bands are open to digital transmissions right now, with the exception of the lowest parts of 2M and 6M.

Use it if you got it.

Joe

[N5FOG]

Quote[/b] (AG4YO @ Dec. 30 2007,09:56)]but if you're going to do it, JUST DO IT.
Charles you would be great working the phones at the suicide hotline http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

But I agree if they are going to leave then they should just shut up and do it.


FOG