Rising use of AM on the shortwave ham bands

Paul/WA3VJB writes "The ARRL's Field Day is the latest national operating event providing an opportunity to dust off some vintage AM equipment and enjoy a nostalgic ride, this time for bonus contest points.



A rules change as of this year allows a 300 point bonus for Field Day stations demonstrating three modes of operation. This so-called "non-traditional mode" bonus would apply to AM operations during the event scheduled for June 23rd and 24th.



AM is enjoying a resurgence in popularity as people discover the pleasure of its warm sound and the storytelling, relaxed nature of QSOs in the mode. Older, vacuum-tube gear also lends itself more readily to repair and restoration. An increasing number of hams are finding satisfaction from being able to work on their radios and experiment with such equipment.



The Collins Collectors Association is the most recent national organization shifting its attention to include AM activity on the shortwave ham bands.



Testifying to the mode's popularity, the CCA's newly organized "First Wednesday AM Night" drew more than a hundred check-ins in February, and about 150 stations in March.



Although stations with any brand of gear are welcome to take part, the CCA hopes to encourage people who've been collecting the "senior" Collins models to actually use those receivers and transmitters on the air.



The event, on 75m, is established with an East Coast anchor who takes that region's check-ins for the first hour, 0100-0200Z. Participants give brief rundowns of their gear, and briefly tell the attraction AM holds for them.



At 0200Z, a midwestern region anchor takes the event and encourages additional checkins and storytelling.



The westward-rolling event then shifts to a Rocky Mountain region anchor and finally, a West Coast host, allowing good reception of all possible stations, regardless of whether they're running a lower-power Collins 32V2 transmitter, or a grand 20V2, or 30K.



The next CCA First Wednesday AM Night is scheduled for April 4th, 2001.



Regards,
Paul/WA3VJB Annapolis



DETAILS ON AM ACTIVITY, RESTORATION TIPS, AND PICTURES OF VINTAGE STATIONS ARE AT THE WEB PAGE NOTED WITH THIS FEATURE STORY.
PLEASE VISIT!"