The rules for the CQ WPX Contest for 2012 are now available. They can be viewed at http://www.cqwpx.com/rules.htm. Significant changes include the following:
New
(c) Entrants must not exceed the maximum output power specified by their license, or the power limit of their entry category, whichever is less, on any band. Power is measured at the final output connector of the transmitter.
Explanation
There was some question as to whether power is measured at the transmitter or at the antenna. This rule clarifies that power is measured at the output of the transmitter or transmitter/amplifier.
New
C. Single Operator Overlay Categories: Single Operator entrants may also submit their log for one of the categories shown below by adding an additional line in the Cabrillo log file header called CATEGORY-OVERLAY. All Overlay entries are grouped into high power and low power in the results.
Explanation
This rule clarifies how the Overlay categories are scored for awards. The Overlay categories combine single operator and single operator assisted into one category divided into high and low power. QRP scores are counted as low power.
Changed
(b) Participation is limited to members residing in or operating from a local geographic area defined as within a 275 km radius from center of club area (exception: DXpeditions specially organized for operation in the contest and manned by members).
Explanation
The club competition exists to provide clubs with a fun operating activity and to encourage club members to participate in the contest. The distance limitation was causing difficulty for some clubs in less populated areas. The rules still require members to operate in a local geographic area, but now this will be determined by the Director rather than by a specific distance limit.
New
(b) Single band entrants are required to include all contacts made during the contest period, even if on other bands. Only contacts made on the band specified in the Cabrillo header or summary sheet will be considered for scoring purposes. Logs with contacts only on one band will be classified as single band entries.
Explanation
This adds to the rules a practice that has been done for several years.
Changed
XV. Deadline: All entries must be emailed or postmarked NO LATER than April 18, 2012 for SSB section and June 20, 2012 for the CW section. Logs emailed or postmarked after the deadline may be ineligible for any awards.
Explanation
The log deadline has been reduced to three weeks after the contest.
Please direct any questions about the WPX Contest rules to
director@cqwpx.com.