UCM:

The new surface mount technology will now require highly trained "Gnome
Technicians", the ones with the smallest of hands will be most suited,
with very, very small soldering irons... and BIG magnifying glasses...

John

On Fri, 05 Aug 2005 00:02:52 +0000, Unclaimed Mysteries wrote:

wrote in part:



Would you eliminate the technical parts of the tests because hams
aren't required to build or fix their rigs?


No. But I would emphasize troubleshooting strategy, which would help
hams at all levels from the appliance operators to the
one-handed-behind-the-back surface-mount circuit homebrewers.


Would you eliminate all mode-specific and band-specific questions
because hams aren't required to use any specific band or mode?


Nope. But know the best operating procedures for each band and mode. And
why, from a basic radio science perpective.

Would you eliminate all technology-specific questions
because hams aren't required to use any specific technology?


No. Keep the introductory electronics, but strongly emphasize the
science behind the RADIO WAVES you're EMITTING and RECEIVING, and the
media in which they propagate. This means that even appliance operators,
so maligned on this group and elesewhere, will have as firm foundation
in the actual activity of communications as the electronics wizard.


*Besides* eliminating the code test, what would *you* change about
the license tests?

It's the Operator Techniques, stpuid. ($1) With fewer LIDS, people won't
care what electronics skill level you have when the mike is off. And ham
radio will be less of the circle jerk it has become.

And eliminate the swimsuit competition as stated in previous message. I
mean, the Huntsville Hamfest is coming up and man, I don't even want to
think about it.

73 Corry K4DOH