With linear birds using SSB and CW modes providing anywhere from 20-50 KHz of bandwidth, I'm curious about proper frequency coordination on AO-73. I've noticed some operators seem to park themselves right in the middle of the transponder and stay there for extended QSOs, while others quickly move around to avoid interference.

The benefits of more bandwidth and the ability for multiple users to make QSOs simultaneously should allow for better frequency management than the FM birds. What's considered good practice for frequency selection and QSO length on the linear transponders? I know maximum uplink power should be 5 watts to a 7 dBi gain antenna (25W EIRP), but are there any unwritten rules about frequency etiquette?

Generally try to use the lower portion of the transponder for CW and the upper portion for SSB. Keep QSOs brief during high activity periods - maybe 2-3 minutes max. Lower power will also work well, so don't always run maximum power.

I use AMSAT's laminated frequency chart as a handy reference that demonstrates the relationship between uplink and downlink frequencies. For AO-73, I typically start around 435.160 MHz on the uplink which puts me at about 145.940 MHz on the downlink.

The key is listening before transmitting and being flexible with your frequency. If you hear another QSO in progress, move up or down the band. Finding yourself on the downlink can be tricky for newcomers but with practice it becomes second nature.