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 Keeping
in Touch via the Webby Nigel, G4KIU There is little doubt that since the D68C DXpedition to the Comoros in February 2000, there has been an explosion in internet access across the world. While many of us can be considered "early adopters", an increasing number of operators now have full "always on" internet access in their shacks. During the D68C operation, the web site saw many thousands of visitors. What we are finding with the 3B9C site, is that the number of visitors before the start of the operation, far exceeds expectations. About the 3B9C Website Preparations for the site were started in October 2003 and was ready for launch when the DXpedition was publicly announced at the RSGB HF Convention in Manchester, UK. Visitors to the convention, were able to see the web site and read about the operation in detail. Since October, the web site has grown on an almost daily basis, as evidenced by the site index. The addition of operators as the team grew has proved a popular area, with visitors keen to see the faces at the end of the voices and fists. Details of the preparations can be seen in the various picture galleries. More pages covering including operating tips have been written by team members and both commercial sponsors and club sponsors have been added. During the Operation The web site is expected to be very busy during the operation, with visitors keen to check whether they are in-the-log. The online log will be updated daily, so there may be a delay in seeing your QSOs. Rodrigues Island offers good quality access to the internet. This means that the web pages will be updated live by Nigel G4KIU, directly from the island, at least once a day. Look for a wide range of pictures and stories as the DXpedition progresses and check the updates page for the latest items. Team members will be encouraged to share their experiences of the operation. The QSO counter on the home page will also be updated each day, so visitors will be able to keep a track on progress. There is direct contact with the DXpedition by email, using our special e-mail address. Check here for details on how and when to send an e-mail to 3B9C. After the Operation A DXpedition doesn't stop when the final antenna is dismantled. The job for QSL managers is only just starting and is likely to last for several years. The 3B9C QSL information page shows the direct route for cards, together with an online request form for a bureau card if preferred. In addition, the Nevada Rodrigues Trophy pages are expected to be busy with operators submitting entries for these very smart trophies. You can also order a video of the 3B9C operation, which comes with a free copy of the D68C operation video. Site Designer The pages have been designed and updated by Nigel, G4KIU. As a team member with 3B9C, Nigel will update pages live from Rodrigues. As professional web designer, Nigel specialises in sites for small businesses in the UK. He works from a home office in the village of Hartfield, East Sussex. Hartfield is perhaps best known as the home of Winnie the Pooh and author A.A. Milne. Nigel lives on the edge of "Hundred Acre Wood", close to the real pooh-sticks bridge. Nigel also designed the web sites for D68C (Comoros), K80/T (American Samoa) and GB50 (Windsor Castle). Technical Stuff The site was written using Microsoft Front Page 2003, with pictures edited using PaintShop 5.0. Pages are sent by FTP to a Cobalt RaQ3 Linux web server, located in a secure facility in London Docklands. The connection to the internet from London is significant, allowing many users to access the site at the same time. |
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