[FQP] FQP 2014

[Marty Grove]

A few notes and a curiosity question for the group...

First, I'm planning on getting back on-the-air again for the upcoming 
FQP next month.  I missed last year due to starting a grad program at 
Florida Institute of of Tech. and not sure how preparing and operating 
in the FQP might interfere with school.  Yes, I'm still in school this 
year, but I'm more comfortable with my study routine and frankly just 
can't stand to miss another FQP.  I'm planning on operating all weekend 
in OKE so I can provide contacts from that county.

I was looking over the outstanding past statistics provided by K0RC and 
noticed (not surprisingly) that the counties of Escambia and Monroe have 
the least 'coverage'.  Monroe County is about a 4 to 5 hour drive from 
my QTH while Escambia is about 8 to 9.  After reading K0RC's stats I 
attempted to get a camping spot in Monroe this year but the snowbirds 
have all the camping spots filled, so I'll try for a spot down there 
next year.

BTW, the FCQ's Counties On The Air page appears to be available for 
entries: http://www.floridaqsoparty.org/cota.php

Now for my curiosity question:  I noticed that the rules state that the 
'Low Power' category is 150 watts or less.  I am currently planning on 
operating in that category.  But I'm curious as to how the determination 
of 150 watts was decided upon?  I often notice this figure in many 
contests.  I've come to understand that most HF radios are typically 
produced with 100 watts output (I realize some might be 5 or 10 watts, 
some 200 watts, but it seems the majority are rated at 100 watts).  Is 
the 150W figure in place so as to cover any barefoot rigs that transmit 
slightly over 100W?

Again, its just something I've been curious about... certainly not any 
issue that I have.  I've just wondered if there was something else to it 
that I haven't figured out yet.

I'm looking forward to the FQP.  I really enjoy operating remotely; 
setting up antennas and operating away from my home QTH.  Thanks to all 
you OM's and OW's that put this together every year!

Marty - KJ4LQX