Completing a QSO in every mode on 5 bands

Completing a QSO in Every Mode on 5 Bands - Workshop for Beginners 
 Group Members: 
 
 Lili (HA2LY) 
 Zoli (HA0BZ) 
 Amar (E70AW) 
 Ljuba (YU5EEA) 
 Bastien (ON4BCY) 
 
 Event Overview: 
 
 
 Name of the Event: Completing a QSO in Every Mode, in at least 5 Bands (CW is optional) 
 
 Number of Participants: 5-10 people 
 
 Level of Experience: Beginner (participants have just obtained their licenses) 
 
 Duration: 1-2 hours 
 
 Location/Space Needed: 
 
 A single shack with a radio station setup. 
 A computer with logging software and digital mode software. 
 The space should accommodate all participants comfortably for hands-on radio operation. 
 
 
 
 Food: 
 
 
 Meals: Light refreshments like water, soda, and snacks (chips, fruits) to keep participants energized during the session. 
 
 Budget: 
 
 
 Do you need money for the event? 
 
 No significant costs are required beyond basic refreshments. 
 Use existing club resources for the shack, radios, and software. 
 
 
 
 Materials and Equipment Needed: 
 
 A working ham radio shack that supports different modes:
 
 
 SSB (Single Sideband) for voice QSOs. 
 
 CW (Morse Code) (optional) for those who want to practice. 
 
 Digital modes like FT8 or PSK31, which will require a computer and digital mode software. 
 
 
 
 Paper and pens for participants to take notes or log contacts manually if necessary. 
 
 Stopwatch app (to time QSOs for practice and efficiency). 
 
 Organizer's Preparations: 
 
 
 Prepare the shack: Ensure all equipment (radio, antennas, computer) is set up and tested before the event begins. 
 
 Software setup: 
 
 Check that the logging software is installed and configured properly. 
 Verify that the digital mode software is working, such as WSJT-X or fldigi. 
 
 
 Test the radio station on all planned bands (at least 5) to ensure proper operation during the workshop. 
 
 What Participants Need to Bring: 
 
 A positive attitude and willingness to learn. 
 No additional materials are required, as all necessary equipment will be provided. 
 
 Workshop Content: 
 1. Introduction to QSOs Across Multiple Modes and Bands (15 mins): 
 
 
 Explanation of Modes: 
 
 
 SSB (Voice): Introduction to making voice contacts over the radio, highlighting proper etiquette and procedures. 
 
 CW (Morse Code - Optional): Brief introduction to CW for those interested, though it's not mandatory for the workshop. 
 
 Digital Modes: Explanation of digital modes like FT8, including how to set up and log digital contacts using the computer. 
 
 
 
 Band Overview: 
 
 Explain the characteristics of different bands (e.g., 40m, 20m, 15m) and why operating on multiple bands can increase the range of contacts. 
 
 
 
 2. Hands-on Activity: Completing a QSO in Every Mode (60-75 mins): 
 
 
 Objective: Each participant will attempt to complete a QSO in at least 3 modes (SSB, digital, CW optional) on 5 different bands. 
 
 
 Process: 
 
 Participants take turns operating the station. 
 Start with SSB (voice mode) :
 
 The instructor will guide the first participant in making their QSO, explaining proper call signs, signal reports, and logging procedures. 
 
 
 Move to Digital Mode :
 
 The next participant will operate on digital mode (e.g., FT8) using the computer. 
 Guide them through the steps of selecting the band, initiating a QSO, and logging it using the software. 
 
 
 
 Optional CW (Morse Code) :
 
 If participants are interested, let them try making a simple CW QSO. This part is optional for those unfamiliar with Morse Code. 
 
 
 
 
 
 Band Changes: 
 
 After each successful QSO, switch to a different band and repeat the process, allowing participants to gain experience on multiple bands. 
 
 
 
 3. Timed QSO Challenge (Optional - 10-15 mins): 
 
 For those who complete their QSOs quickly, organize a timed challenge to see who can complete a contact the fastest while maintaining proper procedure. 
 Use the stopwatch app to track the time it takes for participants to complete a QSO on a specific mode. 
 
 4. Recap and Q&A (10-15 mins): 
 
 
 Review Key Points: 
 
 Discuss the different modes and what participants learned about operating on different bands. 
 Provide feedback on their QSOs, including any areas for improvement in signal reports, callsign usage, or logging. 
 
 
 
 Q&A Session: 
 
 Open the floor for questions, addressing any concerns or clarifications participants may have about operating on multiple modes and bands. 
 
 
 
 5. Conclusion and Next Steps: 
 
 Encourage participants to continue practicing QSOs in different modes and bands on their own time. 
 Suggest further resources or events, such as field days or contests, where they can put their skills to the test in a real-world setting. 
 
 Learning Objectives: 
 
 Teach participants how to complete a QSO using different modes (SSB, digital, and optionally CW). 
 Provide hands-on experience in operating across multiple bands. 
 Ensure participants are comfortable using logging software and operating both voice and digital modes. 
 Help participants gain confidence in making QSOs as beginner ham radio operators.