Edson Pereira Amateur Radio Homepage PU1JTE : N1VTN : JF1AFN 

The Art of Experimentation

The experimentation and technical investigation aspects of Amateur Radio is what interests and motivates me the most. In the search for knowledge, we often meet different types of people. The following text authored by VK2ZSO (reproduced here with permission) describes very well the different groups of people we may encounter in our experimentation journey.

The Dreamers

Characterised by the love of experimentation and always dreaming of making a new discovery or different approach. Flits from one technological flower to another. Says they are going to do this and that, but actually usually only half finishes most things. Once the challenge of learning something new is gone its onto the next challenge.

The Practicians

Keep and eye out for the members of this group. These are the ones that I reckon you should associate with if you are into experimentation. They are identified by being moderate, supportive (even when they might think what you are doing is a bit off the wall) and are more interested in having a go than simulating and analysing things to death. Usually, but not always, have a site filled with practical information on how to do things and what they have done.

The Analysts

No matter what you idea you have he can find a million reasons why it is not practical, not useful, or has already been done (usually by himself in some obscure way). Usually associated with extensive mathematical analysis applied to almost any question, even the most passing casual remark. Keep clear of a member of this group as he can run you ragged in circular arguments for months. Don't try and compete - he is an expert. I do experimentation as an exercise in freedom of thought. Beware the technological thought police.

The Egotists

Don't get me wrong - I have nothing against ego. I have a fairly healthy one myself. If you didn't have an ego you might not get out of bed in the mornings!!! It is just that ego should be applied in reasonable quantities - like chili sauce - just enough spices things up - too much is a major irritation. Usually associated with trumpeting that everything they do is better, bigger, faster and just plain superior to anything you might have the temerity to proffer. Can sometimes engage in intellectual sabotage - arising from the fear that you might do something that is better than their efforts. Desiderata.

The Nutters

There's room for all persuasions. My website has attracted more than several from this group over time - especially the radio astronomy section (some see this as communicating with aliens). Be kind - I definitely don't believe in aliens, but they could be right and you wouldn't want to pass up a ride in an alien spacecraft (without the obligatory medical examination thank you very much) would you?

Conclusion

Associate with those who have a like mind and tolerate others that don't with as much humour as you can muster. Don't let them upset you or discourage you. Remember, experimentation is meant to be fun and is meant to be a freedom from restriction in thought. I have a 9 - 5 job which provides me with all the "fun" I need.



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