On Sunday, August 19, the digital modes return to the Rookie Roundup. Created to give the budding operator a place to learn about contesting at an easier pace, the Rookie Roundup is a six hour contest open for all amateurs who have been licensed for three years or fewer. If you were licensed in 2010, 2011 or 2012, you qualify as a Rookie. The Rookie Roundup is run three times per year: SSB in April, RTTY in August and CW in December.

By popular request, a multioperator category has been created for the Rookie Roundup. Several Rookies can operate from one location as a group. You use the same call and name in the exchange, regardless of which operator is at the keyboard. This category is perfect for clubs wanting to help their newer members get more active.

A team competition has also been created: Up to five single operator Rookies -- each operating from their own location -- can band together as a team and combine their scores. Team members are also recognized for their individual efforts, too. Multioperator entries and non-Rookies are not permitted to be on a team. Register your team up to 15 minutes before the start of the contest.

Old Timers have a place in the Rookie Roundup, as well. Elmering is a critical component of the Rookie Roundup, and Old Timers are encouraged to not only get on and work the Rookies, but to host a Rookie and assist them with learning how to participate. Rookies can work anybody, but non-Rookies can only work Rookies. The contest exchange is easy: just send both call signs, your first name and your location (this is either your US state, Canadian province, Mexican call area or “DX” if you’re not in the US, Canada or Mexico).

Getting on RTTY has never been easier -- all you need is a PC, soundcard interface and some RTTY software to start making contacts. Veteran RTTY contester and CQ Contest Hall Of Fame member Don Hill, AA5AU, has a website geared toward the beginning RTTY op that is a wealth of info.

You can log the contest using paper forms provided on the Rookie Roundup web page, or use the real-time web site at www.inthelog.com. Once the contest is over and you’ve calculated your score, visit the WA7BNM Rookie Roundup page to submit your score. All official entries must use this form: http://www.b4h.net/arrlrr/index.php. But don’t dally -- you only have three days to submit your score summary. All score summaries must be received by 2359 UTC Wednesday, August 22, 2012.

The 2012 ARRL RTTY Rookie Roundup runs from 1800 UTC through 2359 UTC Sunday, August 19, 2012. Complete rules and score submission information can be found at the ARRL Rookie Roundup website. For more information, contact ARRL Contest Branch Manager Sean Kutzko, KX9X, via e-mail.