Explorer category rules 2023 v CQ WW DX Contest-e

The EXPLORER category was created to allow amateurs to participate in the CQ WW Contest while creatively experimenting with Internet-connected stations and other new technologies. The aim of this category is to support innovation in operational strategies, station design and adaptation of technologies.

CQ WW DX Contest Basic Rules apply to the competition period, code exchanges and scoring. In addition to the current rules, the EXPLORER category includes the following:

1. The goal: The goal of the EXPLORER category is to support innovation in the field of operational strategies, station design and technology adaptation.

2. Categories (only high performance, where the total power must not exceed 1500 watts):

a) One operator, in which one licensed radio amateur serves as control operator, who performs or supervises all operational and recording functions.

b) Multiple operators, in which multiple operators perform or supervise all operational and recording functions. Multi-operator team members can work from different locations.

3. Help with making QSOs and getting QSOs: Using packet radio QSO alert systems, the Internet, local or remote Skimmer devices

devices, internet chat rooms, live broadcasts on social networks, etc. is allowed in both single-operator and multi-operator categories. However, independent searching or asking to be spotted is not allowed. All connections must be made by air.

4. Places: All participants can use multiple transmission and/or reception locations.

All broadcast locations must be in one country and one CQ zone. Remote receiving points can be located anywhere.

5. Broadcasting: all QSOs made within the Explorer category must use the same call sign. One broadcast signal is allowed on a given band at any given time, regardless of location. The maximum bandwidth of the signal must not exceed the normal bandwidth of one voice SSB (for SSB weekend) or CW (for the CW weekend) signal. This prohibits multi-carrier or time-multiplexed signals, which occupy multiple channels in one band. It is also not allowed to occupy two frequencies in one band, even in the case of, that alternated. For example, not possible is allowed to have “launched” stations on multiple frequencies in the same band, interleaving their CQ.

6. Service (attendants): The person is responsible for the control, whose task is to ensure, that normal safety precautions are taken before broadcasting, such as listening, to find out, whether the frequency is free before calling CQ. This is critical when using automated “robotic” stations. Every station, in which it is found, that he causes interference by not following this rule, will be disqualified and the operator may be disqualified from participating in the CQWW DX Contest the following year. All cross-border remote operations must comply with country regulations, in which the broadcasting workplace is located (workplaces).

7. Sending logs: Logs must be sent via upload to cqww.com. Logs must be in Cabrillo format and must contain a line: CATEGORY – STATION: EXPLORER.

8. Awards: The winning competitor in the category for one or more operators will receive a plaque. In addition, works will also be awarded, which will demonstrate a significant degree of innovation, may receive special plaques at the discretion of the CQWW Competition Committee

9. Club results: logos in this category are not eligible to contribute their CQWW club score in the club competition.