Morse Code Eliminated by FCC [Archive] - Page 2

n5ark

12-16-2006, 04:03 PM

Those of you that are whinning and so forth. I have a simple but clear statement to you. I am sorry that things did not go your way. Something to think about. The interest in morse code is dying. It has been for a long time. That is not secret to anyone in ham radio. Look in the obituaries and you will see 2-3 a day that has passed on. The death rate verses the pass rate is no where close. My question to you is-once the majority of the people that know code become very ill or die, what happens then. Pretty soon there will be only a vew left. If you don't want any changes in ham radio why buy a new radio with the NEW bells and whistles. That is change. If Techs are so bad and are completley dumb in some peoples post, why are they presidents of clubs that tell you extras what to do? Ever think of that. Some of the language you hear on HF by the OF's are enough to make you leave the hobby. (Being that is the reason I left CB). ON other hands if it had not been for CB radio I prob would not be here now. mjnIt is nasty, trashy and not what a ham radio opperator should be. Kind of like WWI veterans. Would you want to take a muskeet to Iraq and fight. Prob not in this day in time. Times change and so do rules. Everyone just get along and we could have a wonderful hobby called Ham Radio. When I am on the air, I dont go and check the class of license to see if I want to talk to them or not. If they are NICE I will talk to them. If not I will move on. I know some are like that. Lets enjoy the hobby and quit bickering.

W5HTW

12-16-2006, 04:03 PM

All I will say is -- I am grateful it's over!!! Now we can all get back to ham radio. I'm sure we will find another axe to burn at both ends, but this one is a cooked goose.

NO MORE CODE THREADS!! WHOOPEE!!!

Ed

ai7r

12-16-2006, 04:04 PM

It does make sense that they expand the phone bands in time for some new hams. #For a government move that's pretty smart.

The only thing that's sad is that there are a lot of people out there who would love working CW mode (non-computer) if they learned the code. #I know I would have never learned it in '66 to get my novice if I didn't have to. #I did, and it's been a joy in my life since then. #Of course, there are a lot who never liked it, mostly because they didn't get good enough at it that it was comfortable to use. #And that's cool too of course.

So, for those that would have but never will, that's possibly a loss for them.

Meanwhile, I hope we gain enough hams now to grow over a long period. #If we do, it'll be the only hobby left that's actually growing.

To the new comers. #Welcome to HF! #Try to learn good operating practices. #Listen and learn. #ID often and try not to use some of the foul language that some of us Extra class hams have started using.

Bottom line, have fun!!

http://www.presenceknown.com/radio

K8DGL

12-16-2006, 04:06 PM

I have been a Ham for nearly 47 years. I have seen many changes. The bottom line: Changes have been made to either make a buck or save a buck.
The FCC has taken an attitude towards Ham's just as they did with CB. Rather than allowing Ham's to become a unified force they have adopted the old attage: Divide and conquer.

k5co

12-16-2006, 04:07 PM

kd6fyk, no code tech, says that his fifteen year wait is over! Here comes CB to amateur radio. Can you imagine being so lazy as to wait fifteen years instead of picking up CW at 5WPM?

The worst is that a man that has never used CW is missing amatuer knowledge that would make him a lot better ham. And, he is so ignorant that he doesn't care.I wish that he'd stay off of HF.

The ARRL wins; they will have advertisers selling more radios, which they were paid to do. And they think that these dummies will buy a membership and books from the ARRL money-machine publishing. Fat chance, guys that won't learn code can't read or comprehend well enough.

KC8WPJ

12-16-2006, 04:08 PM

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif # what's next, glorified 11 Meter Operators? [QUOTE]Remember: It's not the class of license an Amateur holds, it's the class of the Amateur who holds the license that matters. # Everyone is complaining, Here goes the band!!! It went years ago, ie... southcars # http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

AF6BC

12-16-2006, 04:11 PM

Quote[/b] (KL7FZ @ Dec. 15 2006,23:11)]The saddest day in the history of Amateur radio. All that is left now is petition the FCC to change the name to "Citizen's Band Radio Service" and put 11 meters back in the allocations.
For over 45 years I was proud to say I was an Amateur Radio Operator. Now I am almost ashamed to tell anyone I am a part of it.
Very sad. And my new amp just came in the mail today.
Maybe I'll just take out the tubes and plant flowers in #
the holes.
73
KL7FZ
I am a no code tech. Three of my five children are, also. The kids' ages are ten and younger. We belong to a local ham radio club and attend all meetings. I have passed the written test for general and extra. I attended classes on general and extra theory prior to testing. I love this hobby and my family commits many hours to it each month. I have been studying the code to complete the upgrade to extra. I hope the cw decision does not mean I am a secound class ham, not allowed to drink from the same fountain and have to ride at the back of the ham radio bus! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

ah6gi

12-16-2006, 04:11 PM

Quote[/b] (na4it @ Dec. 16 2006,07:06)]I have seen hams including OLD extras get on the new digital modes with signals so wide they took up the spectrum and interfered with ongoing communications.

I sense that you're saying that us oldsters haven't kept up?

Well, I got my novice license in 1963, passed the 13 WPM general in 1964. I've built software for 35 years, got an M.S CSci in 1992. You're not quite fair in your assessment of OLD extras.

Here's an idea. Since the VEC's now give the tests, why not have them run a parallel, alternate universe, license program.

You sit for the Extra, pass it, then they ask you if you want to take a code exam, 5, 13, 20. If you pass, say, 13 WPM, they give you a VEC-13 certificate and on your QSL cards and computer sigs, you are:

ah6gi/4 E13

Bragging rights? T0, T5, T13, T20, G0, G5, G13, G20, E0, E5, E13, E20.

W5HTW

12-16-2006, 04:12 PM

By the way, these are Technicians we are talking about, I think. Don't they still have to pass the General written exam before they get on HF voice? And those NCTS will still not be able to get on the current new allocations for Techs with code, as they don't know code.

I agree, the VEs will be giving General tests like crazy! But this move by the FCC alone, does not automatically grant Techs voice privileges on HF. They have one more step to go.

Or two, if they chose to be 'top of the line.'

Ed

ni4jm

12-16-2006, 04:12 PM

Amazing...the FCC eliminates the code, expands 3 of the HF bands and is still pushing for a full deployment of BPL and making it easier for BPL to be deployed nationwide? Hmmmm....makes you wonder what their motives really are.

- KE4EAO

AE7Q

12-16-2006, 04:12 PM

Quotes from the thread:

"Our NCT, 15 year wait is almost over."

"I've been waiting for years for this."

"Think of all the people out there that ... have not been able to work the HF bands."

The purpose of the code test is to keep the lazy out of amateur radio.

The purpose of the written test is to keep the stupid out of amateur radio.

Unfortunately, neither test is accomplishing its intended purpose, although they are a help.

I hope all the no-code people will prove all the code people wrong, but I'm not counting on it.

k7bg

12-16-2006, 04:13 PM

Quote[/b] (w4kvw @ Dec. 16 2006,08:21)]"CB'ers"who will now be not just be on 11 meters but now on ALL of the HF bands.
I keep reading about CBers on here. Have any of you listened to the CB channels when the skip is rolling? They too are getting used less and less. It's not the wall to wall noise that it used to be. It's not CW that is getting outdated. It is HF radio in general. You wanna know why nobody is on the radio? There are three reasons: (1) There is no "major" HF contest this weekend; (2) They are on their computer communicating --like I am right now; (3) They are on their cell phone.

We can bemoan the demise of the vacuum tube, CW, and comprehensive testing, but the whole concept of HF radio communication is evaporating.

ni4jm

12-16-2006, 04:15 PM

kk7ss

12-16-2006, 04:17 PM

If the bands go the way of some of the QSO's I've heard lately, then there will be a lot more folks using CW...
Narrow filters cut out a lot of the "Potty Mouth" stuff and they wont understand me anyway !!
Now what's the difference between world wide cell phones and Ham Radio..??

ki4nvk

12-16-2006, 04:20 PM

Quote[/b] (AK4P @ Dec. 16 2006,08:57)]Well, I hear 11 meters is pretty vacant these days. Maybe I'll buy a CB and try that. It can't be any worse than 75 meters is becoming now and how all of the bands will become soon. Anyone want to buy my gear? It will be up for sale on Ebay in a few weeks. Salut ham radio. It was fun while it lasted. 73 & SK -- AK4P http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif
That is a sad, sad reply. Why anyone would think that dropping the code requirement makes Amateur Radio the chicken band is beyond me.

A more appropriate comparison would be all of VHF and UHF, and above, on the Amateur Radio bands.

While many of you are over-reacting such as AK4P, you really should consider this:

6 Meters, 2 Meters, 440 and many others are not chicken bands by any means. All these bands are operated by licensed Hams. Some of the most courteous, professional, and technically advanced Amateur Operators we have in the hobby operate in VHF / UHF, using all forms of communications. And many of those don't even care for HF bands.

Amateur Operators police themselves.

73!
David
de KI4NVK
KI4NVK Web (http://66.177.169.64/ki4nvk)

W9GRN

12-16-2006, 04:21 PM

Quote[/b] (N9DGS @ Dec. 16 2006,08:42)]Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,01:43)]This is truly a sad day in Amateur Radio. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

This Kenwood 950 can sit and ROT for all I care. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

Truly, Truly Sad. #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

73 DE K8CPA

-Chuck

Hey Chuck. Instead of letting such a fine piece of equipment just sit and rot why not let me have it and I'll put it to good use? Just send the michrophone with it. You can keep the CW key, I won't be needing that.

Seriously, I tested for my no code tech license 02/16/91, two days after it became available and drove six hours one way to do so because I was so excited and could not wait for three weeks until my area tested. I love the hobby but I wouldn't give a dime for every dit or dah ever made. I don't know of anyone who could say that I ever conducted myself unworthy of a ham although I hear a lot of it out there, HF bands included. So not being interested in CW don't mean anything more than that. It is a mode of communication just like a foreign language if you will, but I'm not interested in speaking spanish, french , or japaneese either, just good old english by word of mouth. Times do change, hopfully for the better. We'll see.
Darrell
Just wondering,now that Morse Code will be gone how will you be able to communicate with our counterparts in other countries? I thought the code was a universal language.

k6pts

12-16-2006, 04:24 PM

Having just earned my general a couple of months ago I really feel like something is being lost. After all of the excuses I had made myself over the years. I studied for 6 weeks and passed the code. I felt like I really accomplished something and carried on with the tradition of other amateurs that came before me. I also used to feel that code was a useless mode that shouldn't need to be required. But after learning it I was wrong. There needs to be things in life that are worth working to achieve otherwise there is no value to them.

73 K6PTS

wa4eho

12-16-2006, 04:26 PM

Why is it that so many posters on this site want a "Free Ride"? Geez, I don't want to get up in the mornings and go to work, but I know I won't get paid if I don't. It's called Incentive. To those that say, Oh gosh, they still have to memorize the Q&A, I say bull.
I got my novice (WN4EHO)in 1962 and learned the code at the age of 13. Got my General (WA4EHO) at 14. No Q&A to study, just determination. Got out in 1984 because of the way Ham Radio was headed then. Mostly disrespect and profanity.
I heard some guys talking about ham radio one day and after asking a few questions, got my hands on the Q&A, studied it and the code during lunch for a WEEK, and became KI4CMJ. I now have my old call back (WA4EHO). It was a Freebie compared to the test I had to take in '63!!! To me losing the code is a freebie. The Q&A is a freebie. Sorry but that is my opinion. Nobody appreciates something that is just literally given to them as much as something they have to work for. Look around at the brats you see in Wal-Mart. All they've had is freebies all their lives. This is why CB radio turned out the way it did. The truth is the truth and I'm sure a lot of the "no coders" will lamblast me but as that famous quote goes "Frankly my dear, I don't give a darn". I'm an old timer, so I didn't quote it exactly.
The FCC has finally dealt Ham Radio the final blow as far as I'm concerned.Geez.
Now don't get me wrong, I know a lot of good new Hams and talk to them regularly on 2 meters. My point is that with no code, in the future there will be those that see this as a opportunity to get a license without the effort. That was CB radio. Memorizing answers is not the type incentive that Ham Radio should require. Ham Radio was and still should be about electronics, projecting, experimenting, building your own equipment and inventing, not just gabbing (ragchewing) on the radio. The code was the only thing standing between Ham Radio and CB. No matter what you say, the Q&A is not a deterent to riff-raff. Geez, we throughly enjoyed it when our teacher in school said "OPEN BOOK TEST" and that it what the Q&A is unless one is so stupid that they can't read. Anybody can memorize what the Q of a tank circuit is but understanding it is another thing.
So to those that think this is going to be the best thing for Ham Radio since sliced bread, I hope you are right but I don't think so. To those of you that think this is going to be the downfall to Ham Radio, I agree with you but I hope we're wrong.
I'm sitting here now listening on 2 meters to all the no code techs just laughing in their beer and gloating. One guy said he has waited for 6 years for this to happen so he could get on 10 meters. This guy is what I am talking about. All he wants is a freebie!
All I can say from here on is only time will tell and if the direction our country has taken in the last 20 years is any indicator as to what is going to happen with Ham Radio, then we are in serious trouble folks!!
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

wa2yne

12-16-2006, 04:28 PM

Quote[/b] (KB4YKJ @ Dec. 15 2006,23:21)]Quote[/b] (ke6oud @ Dec. 15 2006,23:19)]Ok, now somebody clue me in here....
I've passed my written General 2 months ago & am 3/4 way thru on doing my 5 wpm code. Am I now just wasting my time trying to do the CW test? Do I need to re-do a new General written? Should I just start studying for my extra? I'm confused now.....
I did want to pass the 5 wpm just so no one can whine my ticket was handed to me. And besides, what if someday I get in a bad accident & not able to speak or write to communicate but can tap out CW?

73, Charlie #KE6OUD
(Merry Christmas to all!)
You are now a full fledged General as soon as it is published in the federal register which normally 30 days. #If #you wish to learn it for the personal satisfaction you can because there are still bands alloted to code. #All of the no code Techs just become equal to tech plus and can now talk 28.300-28.500 legally. #Enjoy.
I'll agree, I might have gotten a license in the 50's if not for the code and the fact that I did not know any hams at that time. I did experiment with radios, listened to SW broadcast and a few hams (though not very often).
Got my Novice in 73, I think, forget exact year, but didn't go farther at that time.
Although code is not going to be required now, it could still be useful. I did manage a few contacts from NY to WA on 15 CW...
Still need to study and take the extra exam.

To the whiners, I heard some of the same whining when it was first proposed to have a no code license.
Y'all gonna hafta find a new summin ta whine bout...

Wayne WA2YNE
Imperial Tejas (Texas fer thuh ill itter ate) http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif

w8osp

12-16-2006, 04:30 PM

Quote[/b] (k5co @ Dec. 16 2006,09:07)]kd6fyk, no code tech, says that his fifteen year wait is over! Here comes CB to amateur radio. Can you imagine being so lazy as to wait fifteen years instead of picking up CW at 5WPM?

The worst is that a man that has never used CW is missing amatuer knowledge that would make him a lot better ham. And, he is so ignorant that he doesn't care.I wish that he'd stay off of HF.

The ARRL wins; they will have advertisers selling more radios, which they were paid to do. And they think that these dummies will buy a membership and books from the ARRL money-machine publishing. Fat chance, guys that won't learn code can't read or comprehend well enough.
See this post is completly inmature and degrading. Attacks to other hams because of what ever reason is completly un called for. Did i miss something somewhere it states that you have to be a super ham to have your cw? I will not degrade anyone of any class of operation... why? Cause this is a HOBBY!! When this does not become a hobby i will find another.

W8TCZ

12-16-2006, 04:31 PM

Did I hear the FCC was considering including licenses in Cracker Jack boxes as free prizes?

wa1ynu

12-16-2006, 04:31 PM

DECEMBER 16,2006, A DAY THAT WILL LIVE IN INFAMY!

N1BHH

12-16-2006, 04:32 PM

Quote[/b] (kb8mcz @ Dec. 16 2006,01:03)]HERE COMES THE CHICKEN BAND!!!!
Isn't it already here? Why don't you check out 14.275 for starters. There's a bunch of "I'm gonna get you" attitude there, and there's a bunch of other places to find it, like 2 meter repeaters.

kc2jga

12-16-2006, 04:34 PM

For those countries that have already removed the CW requirement, how are things with you guys?
Are you experiencing CB like conditions that we are forecasting?
Are all your "NCT's" acting like fools and clogging up the HF portions?
Or has nothing really changed and everything seems to be running better than expected?

Come on guys. It's not the end of the world.

Does everyone think that EVERY single NCT is going to run out, take the written test, spend hundreds of dollars on new equipment so they can get on HF? I think not. Don't worry, everyone will trickle in some time or another.

KC9BVQ

12-16-2006, 04:35 PM

Quote[/b] (ki4nvk @ Dec. 16 2006,09:20)]Quote[/b] (AK4P @ Dec. 16 2006,08:57)]Well, I hear 11 meters is pretty vacant these days. Maybe I'll buy a CB and try that. It can't be any worse than 75 meters is becoming now and how all of the bands will become soon. Anyone want to buy my gear? It will be up for sale on Ebay in a few weeks. Salut ham radio. It was fun while it lasted. 73 & SK -- AK4P http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif
That is a sad, sad reply. Why anyone would think that dropping the code requirement makes Amateur Radio the chicken band is beyond me.

A more appropriate comparison would be all of VHF and UHF, and above, on the Amateur Radio bands.

While many of you are over-reacting such as AK4P, you really should consider this:

6 Meters, 2 Meters, 440 and many others are not chicken bands by any means. All these bands are operated by licensed Hams. Some of the most courteous, professional, and technically advanced Amateur Operators we have in the hobby operate in VHF / UHF, using all forms of communications. And many of those don't even care for HF bands.

Amateur Operators police themselves.

73!
David
de KI4NVK
KI4NVK Web (http://66.177.169.64/ki4nvk)
I agree. On past 6 meters, 2 meters, 220, 440 I have heard no potty mouth or bad behavior. This means the techs that use it are polite and non-abusive for non-coders. We have a great amateur club in the area that comprises the spectrum of license holders and all are respectful. And guess what? The president of the club for the last number of years is a Tech. This individual puts in a huge amount of time into the club organizing communication events and so on. Therefore, lets move on!!!!!

ni4jm

12-16-2006, 04:35 PM

Since they are eliminating the code, shouldn't it be required that the question pool be taken off the internet? If I remember correctly, when I was in High school, if you had the answers to the test that was cheating! Instant F and suspension from school! No code, fine! It's beautiful! Take the Q/A off the internet and make people buy the books. I got my NCT in 1993 when I was 12. I am now a proud 5wpm extra. I had to buy the book. No cheating!

- EAO

N1BHH

12-16-2006, 04:36 PM

Quote[/b] (wr5aw @ Dec. 16 2006,07:02)]Quote[/b] (k1lwi @ Dec. 16 2006,04:52)]THIS IS SAD DAY IN HAM RADIO WHAT NEXT DO WAY WITH WRITTEN EXAM TOO .JUST GIVE LIC WAY ANY ONE WANT IT http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif
PS JUST DUMMING DOWN OF THE HAMS http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
Don't want dumbded down hams? Get out there and be an elmer. Hams don't learn from question pools. They learn from their peers. Are YOU willing to help a new ham?
Congratulations, somebody found the elixir for ham radio. That's right, take these guys under your wing and lead them in the correct way of doing things.

wa2yne

12-16-2006, 04:38 PM

Quote[/b] (KI9A @ Dec. 16 2006,09:03)]HEY GUYS!! #think about this:

If we start to whine and cry that the written test is too hard, and has/is keeping me out of ham radio, maybe they will make that easier, or eliminate that?? Coooll...

10-4?

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif
Hmm, reminds me of when I went to Buffalo to take the exams for second class phone.
There was actually one person who flunked the exam for third class, which was a breeze....
I tell people I'm on my second General, first one was the commercial phone, ha ha.

I do not feel we need to dumb down the current General ham exam, though I feel the Extra has a mess of non relevant questions in it. (I got 50% without having studied, having ben busy studying the general).
I also feel that the tech exam needs some clarification on rules, as some never seem to figure out the rules.
I am _NOT_ crying about the code being dropped, even though I passed code in the 70's....

Wayne WA2YNE
Imperial, Tejas

KI4MSA

12-16-2006, 04:41 PM

Quote[/b] ]The ARRL wins; they will have advertisers selling more radios, which they were paid to do. And they think that these dummies will buy a membership and books from the ARRL money-machine publishing. Fat chance, guys that won't learn code can't read or comprehend well enough.

And this is exactly the thing that keeps younger people out of Amateur Radio. # PRIMADONNAS that think others are inferior just because they don't want to learn Morse Code.

Who would want to have a QSO with someone like that? (except someone else like that)

This NO-CODE Technician says:

... . . # -.-- .- # --- -. # .... ..-. # http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

KG4ICA

12-16-2006, 04:43 PM

Finally after all these years, as a HAM, I get to do voice, with
a hearing handicap, and not able to pass the code has kept me
from conversing with many many Ham buddies of mine across
the world. Have had radio's for 25 years but couldn't do anything
with them!!! thank you all for finally helping!!!! and my hat is off
to all Hams with their code!!!!!!!
Happy Holidays !!!
Tubefixer, Nashville, TN. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

wa1ynu

12-16-2006, 04:44 PM

MAKE NOTE LACAL TWO METER IN CENTRAL VERMONT HAS BEEN IN CB MODE FOR MOHTHS NOW THEY CAN CELABRATE

kc2jfs

12-16-2006, 04:49 PM

N0EE

12-16-2006, 04:52 PM

Well, I hope the Federal Candyass Company at least will have enough gumption and integrity to ban Roger Beeps and Echo Mikes...

ni4jm

12-16-2006, 04:54 PM

Quote[/b] (kc2jfs @ Dec. 16 2006,09:49)]I will make my thoughts very clear. Write a letter to the ARRL telling them thanks for NOTHING. I for one will DROP MY MEMBERSHIP as soon as it expires. They have done absolutely NOTHING for amateur radio. They couldn't even step up to the plate to fight for saving the 5 wpm for Extras. Say goodbye to the ARRL !! I guarantee CQ magazine will have its circulation soar.
Yeah ok...you keep telling yourself that. The FCC is the ultimate decision maker here. The ARRL can only argue their point. The FCC makes and breaks the rules. Haven't you figured that out yet? If BPL happens the way they want it to, there won't be an amplifier big enough to make it through that noise.

- EAO

we3y

12-16-2006, 04:57 PM

For all those who love Morse code please forgive me, while a dance a jig to its demise. Hooah

n9ltv

12-16-2006, 04:57 PM

WOW. The people who are against this are just SO negative. #Hopefully, they'll make good on their threats to get out of the hobby, etc. #Maybe ham radio will be better off without those kind of attitudes. #Lets face it, we've all run across people like that on the air and they're just jerks. #Listen, I work CW 90 percent of the time. #I also work PSK and SSTV, but I didn't have to pass a test to work those modes. #So it seems kinda stupid to make people pass a CW test. #A written test is still required, so I do think any new operator will be serious about the hobby. #The demise of ham radio is not at hand. Only the demise of close minded people who just can't accept the fact that the world is a changing place.

k4rjj

12-16-2006, 04:58 PM

Quote[/b] (kc0kbc @ Dec. 16 2006,00:11)]Please, don't put folks like me in a position where we have to apologize for the rest of our lives because we only recently came into your avocation.

73,
Mike, KC0KBC
Mike, I will NEVER have to say I'm sorry for following the rules as given. I hope no one else does either.

KI4QFY

12-16-2006, 05:00 PM

Quote[/b] (n5ntg @ Dec. 15 2006,22:52)]Remember: It's not the class of license an Amateur holds, it's the class of the Amateur who holds the license that matters.
God Bless You! God Bless You! God Bless You!
Someone who shares my opinion. And always lead by example.

ni4jm

12-16-2006, 05:01 PM

Quote[/b] (n9ltv @ Dec. 16 2006,09:57)]WOW. The people who are against this are just SO negative. Hopefully, they'll make good on their threats to get out of the hobby, etc. Maybe ham radio will be better off without those kind of attitudes. Lets face it, we've all run across people like that on the air and they're just jerks. Listen, I work CW 90 percent of the time. I also work PSK and SSTV, but I didn't have to pass a test to work those modes. So it seems kinda stupid to make people pass a CW test. A written test is still required, so I do think any new operator will be serious about the hobby. The demise of ham radio is not at hand. Only the demise of close minded people who just can't accept the fact that the world is a changing place.
HERE HERE!!! I'll drink to that one! I am SSB all the way. I can do CW at about 10 wpm at best. I am proud of that but CW isn't for everyone.

- EAO

k8cpa

12-16-2006, 05:02 PM

Quote[/b] (wd0ct @ Dec. 15 2006,03:43)]Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 15 2006,23:43)]This is truly a sad day in Amateur Radio. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

This Kenwood 950 can sit and ROT for all I care. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

Truly, Truly Sad. #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

73 DE K8CPA

-Chuck

Cheer up, I'll be happy to take it off your hands. $650 is my best offer.
In a Pigs eye.... It'll sit and collect dust until the rapture of the Church FIRST!

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

KI4MSA

12-16-2006, 05:02 PM

Quote[/b] ]WOW. The people who are against this are just SO negative. #Hopefully, they'll make good on their threats to get out of the hobby, etc. #Maybe ham radio will be better off without those kind of attitudes. #Lets face it, we've all run across people like that on the air and they're just jerks. #Listen, I work CW 90 percent of the time. #I also work PSK and SSTV, but I didn't have to pass a test to work those modes. #So it seems kinda stupid to make people pass a CW test. #A written test is still required, so I do think any new operator will be serious about the hobby. #The demise of ham radio is not at hand. #Only the demise of close minded people who just can't accept the fact that the world is a changing place.

Amen!

This NO-CODE Technician says:
... . . # -.-- .- # --- -. # .... ..-. # http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

N1BHH

12-16-2006, 05:03 PM

Quote[/b] (na4it @ Dec. 16 2006,09:22)]If anyone is so discouraged they are giving away (or throwing away) their equipment, I'd like to have another IC706MKIIG and another Yaesu FT8800...see shipping address under NA4IT on QRZ.

I'll even pay the shipping..........

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
That's right, send me the rig that you think is so useless you will never operate it again. Send me that rig now, and after that, send your license back to the FCC and make sure you say it's all Riley's fault. All the whining and complaining will get you nowhere. The FCC put their foot down said, move your frequencies and added there is no more code requirement. They won't reverse this action. Hurray for the FCC.

kv5e

12-16-2006, 05:04 PM

CW has been a great tradition of the ARS and I believe that it will continue to be a popular mode for those who enjoy the spectral efficiency and favorable Eb/No that CW provides. That being said I wonder if the vitriol and alacrity of both viewpoints of this issue might be a symptom of the self-absorbed and narcissistic world view that many of the posters on this forum possess.

If the amount of effort and relentlessness that goes into some of the authors here were channeled into elmering others, then the ARS would be far better off.

A house divided against itself cannot stand.

There's a lot of "BTUs" burned up here in dichotomous discourse that could be put to far better use, IMHO!

Time to start cutting dipoles, teaching connector attachment, teaching about V/I nodes on antennas, MUF and propagation modes, introducing others to good grounding and EMP protection, series and parallel resonance, velocity factor and transmission line characteristics, start a General license class . . . . . . . . et cetera....

or you can waste time with pointless mental masturbation in arguing.

I, for one, will welcome the newcomers and do all that I can to catalyze their learning about their newly gained spectrum and teaching "Good Amateur Practices" which is also a great tradition of the ARS. We really need to show that we are good stewards of the multi-billion dollar spectrum resources that we enjoy for free and that others have to pay for!

Craig KV5E #- kilovolt five electron

k8cpa

12-16-2006, 05:06 PM

Quote[/b] (w4clm @ Dec. 15 2006,03:58)]Well one good thing about this. We don't have to listen any more to all the morons with their excuses as to why they can't hear the code, can't hear the tones, I'm tone deaf, I'm dyslexic, I'm this and I'm that! I can't do this and I can't do that. Can't never did anything! #I've heard it all, I've got hemorrhoids and can't sit for the code exam, every time I sit for the exam it pinches #my optic nerve and I can't see to write because my head is in my anal cavity! And we don't have to worry about the code exams being compromised at the VEC session anymore, because we just threw the baby out with the bath water! #

I've listened to and heard every excuse in the book for over 35+ years and I'm sick and tired of all the excuses as to why people can't get a license. Now everyone will have to find some new excuses for not getting a ticket. #Hey here's a real classic they can try on for size "I'm just to damned lazy and stupid to memorize a hand full of questions to get that license."

Every road block and wall has been knocked down to this endeavor and THERE ARE NO MORE EXCUSES LEFT.
The old excuse that amateur radio is too expensive has long gone by the way side as every CB'er and trucker is running the latest and greatest Yaesu #or Kenwood SSB rig on 27.6 MHz and 28 MHz.

I've been licensed 36 years, like anyone really gives a S**t. But you know there is one thing I've learned and it's an easy to do. Each and every one of these rigs has an ON / OFF switch and it's likely it will remain in the O~F~F position a little more. #As the bands become more crowded and the Super Bowl gang on Channel 6 make their play for the 75 meter yard line the game will get a little more exciting. #HELL, Riley can't enforce the problems he has to deal with now!

So lets just let everyone play ball as it would be politically incorrect to leave anyone out!
We have already given our jobs away overseas and we are giving the country away to Mexico. #So why not license illegal aliens while we are at it too so they can buy radios and talk home! #Everyone may as well join in, just slap $25 on the table guys for an amateur operators PERMIT. #May as well just pay for the license! #Technician and General are all the same, there is nothing advanced about an advanced class license and you didn't have to do any Extra works to get an Extra class ticket.

Yeah you guys are right, maybe the sky hasn't fallen, but it's a pretty damned dark day outside for amateur radio as a whole. #Being an amateur radio operator with its once respected license, looked upon by outsiders with envy and respect as an honorable endeavor is not what it was only a few short years ago. #Amateur radio and incentive licensing is now much like the commercial telephone and radio telegraph exams, they are all a joke. #But I'm afraid the joke is on us as a community, while the quantity of so called licensed amateurs will likely increase, the knowledge base will be inversely proportional to the increasing license numbers. #

Even at that, someone will still manage to be left out and find some reason to bitch to their liberal senator as to why they can't get a amateur permit, until even the written exams are more watered down then what they already are today until they follow that of the broadcast industry and marine radio that of signing nothing more the a signature line for an operators permit. (Hey here's a novel idea ~ I need a doctors permit for the written exam!)

No the sky has not fallen my friends, #but it's a damned shame that the amateur radio permit has no pride in ownership.

73s
Carol Maher W4CLM
Well Put Carol..

You're old buddy from 3960.

-Chuck

kc2jfs

12-16-2006, 05:08 PM

Quote[/b] (ke4eao @ Dec. 16 2006,09:54)]Quote[/b] (kc2jfs @ Dec. 16 2006,09:49)]I will make my thoughts very clear. Write a letter to the ARRL telling them thanks for NOTHING. I for one will DROP MY MEMBERSHIP as soon as it expires. They have done absolutely NOTHING for amateur radio. They couldn't even step up to the plate to fight for saving the 5 wpm for Extras. Say goodbye to the ARRL !! I guarantee CQ magazine will have its circulation soar.
Yeah ok...you keep telling yourself that. The FCC is the ultimate decision maker here. The ARRL can only argue their point. The FCC makes and breaks the rules. Haven't you figured that out yet? If BPL happens the way they want it to, there won't be an amplifier big enough to make it through that noise.

- EAO
What are you kidding me?? Tell me specifically what the ARRL has done to better amateur radio. I got news for you...They are LOSING and will lose the BPL battle. They DUMBED DOWN amateur radio to the point that your license should come with a radio purchase. They won't allow EQSL for awards because they had to come up with their own "pay me more" LOTW. They are a JOKE. BYE BYE ARRL I AM DONE WITH YOU !!

N1BHH

12-16-2006, 05:10 PM

Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,01:43)]This is truly a sad day in Amateur Radio. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

This Kenwood 950 can sit and ROT for all I care. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

Truly, Truly Sad. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

73 DE K8CPA

-Chuck

Send me that 950 now, you care not for amateur radio fun, but I do. I could use another decent radio. Send it to my FCC address listing and I'll thank you forever.

KI4MSA

12-16-2006, 05:13 PM

Quote[/b] ]I, for one, will welcome the newcomers and do all that I can to catalyze their learning about their newly gained spectrum and teaching "Good Amateur Practices" which is also a great tradition of the ARS. We really need to show that we are good stewards of the multi-billion dollar spectrum resources that we enjoy for free and that others have to pay for!

Craig KV5E #

Thanks Craig! # I wish there were millions more like you in Amateur Radio.

This NO-CODE technician says:
... . . # -.-- .- # --- -. # .... ..-. # http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

KC2PFV

12-16-2006, 05:15 PM

Argh...

My internet connection has been down for the last 15 hours, packet radio has been down and my HF is messed up with RF... I had a headache last night, and went to sleep early. I wake up, and what do I see? The CW requirement dropped YESTERDAY!

I wish I was at least here to see the mass craze as it occurred!

OK, my stance, for one final time. I believe the code should have been kept for General and Extra. Why? Not everything should be handed over. 5 WPM, 25 straight copy is VERY easy. GUYS, there is NO reason to not upgrade with the 5 WPM requirement. It's crazy to think it is hard, but that is all in the past. I KNEW they were going to get rid of it, but I was hoping they'd at least keep it for Extra. Well, I can say that I became an Amateur Radio operator on March 3rd 2006 and I upgraded to General WITH 5 WPM ONE MONTH to the DAY PRIOR TO DROPPING IT, NOVEMBER 15TH 2006.

I can say the VHF/UHF bands have MANY MANY good ops who never "learned the code." Myself included. I am VERY active on the bands, and I NEVER learned the code prior to upgrading to General. The code MAY have held people back, but it WAS something for us to be proud of. We no longer have that. One thing guys, don't worry about the bands becoming CB. ANY TEST will DETER bad ops! DON'T WORRY! It was nice to have CW as a requirement, but if the FCC doesn't want to bother with us anymore, so be it. What can we do? We are slaves of the system.

Have a nice holiday season, I'm not feeling so good right now, but I'm sure I'll get over this soon. I can only imagine how sad the old CW ops are and how happy the soon to be Generals are. Lets just hope that we can all get along this holiday season.

73 DE TOM KC2PFV

KC0OEW

12-16-2006, 05:17 PM

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif Available: One well used Call Sign !!!!!!!!!
Will Sell CHEAP!!!!!!!!!!!!!

KE5JRM

12-16-2006, 05:25 PM

Quote[/b] (KL7WP @ Dec. 16 2006,01:15)]Let’s not jump to conclusion in thinking that Technician Class licensees will have limited voice privileges below 30 Mhz. Look at the wording in the FCC press release. The first sentence reads as follows, “Today’s Order also revises the operating privileges for Technician Class licensees by eliminating a disparity in the operating privileges for the Technician Class and Technician Plus Class licensees.” #But the next sentence reads “Technician Class licensees are authorized operating privileges on all amateur frequencies above 30 MHz.” There is no mention of frequencies below 30 MHz.

In saying that “the FCC, in today’s action, afforded Technician and Technician Plus licensees identical operating privileges”, the interpretation should be that the Tech Plus is loosing HF privileges.

It’s just too bad that the FCC chose to release the statement, without any further clarification, late on a Friday. #In the least it shows a lack of courtesy to the Amatuer community, at worse it smacks of political sleaze.

And really, what is so hard about learning about 40 sound patterns? As the saying goes, “When all else fails – Amateur Radio”, but within Amateur Radio the saying should be, “When all else fails – CW”.

Further, why all the extra space for the 80/75 meter SSB crowd? #When demonstrating ham radio to anyone, I make it a point to avoid those frequencies so as to avoid any risk of embarrassment to our hobby and loosing a potential new Amatuer.

The FCC did nothing to enhance the digital modes which is really the bright spot in our future and can be used to attract more young persons.

Tnx es 73 #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
For me this is a great day. You said "what is so hard about learning 40 sound patterns?" Well I have HF hearing loss and I just can't make out the sounds well enough to pass the test even with headphones. So for me I can now get my General

KC2PFV

12-16-2006, 05:26 PM

ni4jm

12-16-2006, 05:26 PM

Quote[/b] (kc2jfs @ Dec. 16 2006,10:08)]Quote[/b] (ke4eao @ Dec. 16 2006,09:54)]Quote[/b] (kc2jfs @ Dec. 16 2006,09:49)]I will make my thoughts very clear. Write a letter to the ARRL telling them thanks for NOTHING. I for one will DROP MY MEMBERSHIP as soon as it expires. They have done absolutely NOTHING for amateur radio. They couldn't even step up to the plate to fight for saving the 5 wpm for Extras. Say goodbye to the ARRL !! I guarantee CQ magazine will have its circulation soar.
Yeah ok...you keep telling yourself that. The FCC is the ultimate decision maker here. The ARRL can only argue their point. The FCC makes and breaks the rules. Haven't you figured that out yet? If BPL happens the way they want it to, there won't be an amplifier big enough to make it through that noise.

- EAO
What are you kidding me?? Tell me specifically what the ARRL has done to better amateur radio. I got news for you...They are LOSING and will lose the BPL battle. They DUMBED DOWN amateur radio to the point that your license should come with a radio purchase. They won't allow EQSL for awards because they had to come up with their own "pay me more" LOTW. They are a JOKE. BYE BYE ARRL I AM DONE WITH YOU !!
Hey, I can agree that the ARRL is about as useless as a box of rocks when it comes to battle with the FCC but still...the FCC is the ultimate decision maker. As far as what the ARRL has done for ham radio, all of my study manuals were ARRL. I was tested for my NCT in 1993 by the ARRL acredited team in Charlotte, NC. I got my General ticket from another ARRL VE team. I learned to build antennas using the ARRL antenna book that my father got in 1980. The list goes on...

- EAO

w2hld

12-16-2006, 05:28 PM

Quote[/b] (wr5aw @ Dec. 15 2006,23:52)]Quote[/b] (w2hld @ Dec. 16 2006,05:36)]Good for the FCC... they can do less work
Good for the equipment manufacturer.. Sell more radios..
Good for the "entitlement" class of people... they get something for almost nothing..
BAD for those who worked hard for the privilege of being a part of this hobby.. and now having their efforts and license diluted with the right of passage but a few pages of questions memorized.
Don't forget to mention that to your buddies on the TRS repeater Monday morning. By the way, Mike, how many new hams in the Dallas area have you elmered lately?

Let me say it again, Mike. In case you missed my earlier remarks. Hams don't learn from question pools. They learn from their peers. Are YOU willing to help a new ham?
Al... I don't believe the intent of this forum is to use it as a vehicle to take personal shots at others.. While I don't feel I need to justify my contributions to the betterment of the hobby, I would be pleased to do so with you off line and personally. Drop me an e-mail, w2hld@arrl.net, and we can set something up.

KC2PFV

12-16-2006, 05:28 PM

w2mrd

12-16-2006, 05:28 PM

Wow, such negativity (and immaturity). With such hatred, have you diehards broken many code keys from pounding too hard?

For those who claim that now HF will become like CB, let me tell a little story:
A few nights back I was skimming through 75m on my SW, explaining some things to my wife. We come across a QSO from Maine. I hope no kids were listening, because the language was terrible. But of course, they must be perfect operators if they passed their code exam, right? Give me a break...it's the class of the person, not what is written on the grant from the FCC. There are NCTs who are terrible operators, and there are 20wpm extra class hams who are terrible operators. CW is not a magic ticket to perfect gentlemenship. I've got a better idea - if you hear people on the HF bands (or ANY band) acting inappropriately, correct them or ignore them. It's just like real life...eventually they'll troll away.

I'm happy that now I can get on HF and enjoy some contesting (and I bet the average scores will increase as the number of operators increase). Since I have no plans to use CW, I never understand the point of requiring it for licensing...and it's not that I didn't try...I did, never with much luck at mastering it.
I would have had NO objections if the FCC had kept code in place for some HF privileges (say Extra), but at least open SOMETHING up to the code uninterested who want to enjoy all that HF has to offer.

You know what will keep the HF bands from becoming "CB-ish"...the price of an HF radio. They are NOT cheap...most people are not going to drop hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on a radio just because they can. They are going to be people who are truely interested in HF and amateur radio operations.
I've been waiting for this moment for 15 years, and I can tell you that the big holdback for me is still going to the price of an HF rig and the space to put up a decent antenna.

I love to experiment and soon I'll have a whole new set of modes and frequencies to do it on. And for the contesters out there, soon I'll be another station to add to your total score.

KC7ATO

12-16-2006, 05:29 PM

Free at last...free at last...thank the FCC almighty...were FREE of the Morris Kode test at last.(With app. to MLK). http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

PE1RDW

12-16-2006, 05:32 PM

Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,19:26)]Quote[/b] (N9DGS @ Dec. 15 2006,09:42)]Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,01:43)]This is truly a sad day in Amateur Radio. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

This Kenwood 950 can sit and ROT for all I care. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

Truly, Truly Sad. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

73 DE K8CPA

-Chuck

Hey Chuck. Instead of letting such a fine piece of equipment just sit and rot why not let me have it and I'll put it to good use? Just send the michrophone with it. You can keep the CW key, I won't be needing that.
Blow it out XXXXXXXXXXXEDITXXXXXXXXXXXXXX you see fit.

no-code, smart alleck twirp.

-Me
Nice language for someone with a christian avatar, my advice for you: sell the rig to a freebander and send you licence back to the fcc, hamradio will be better of without lids like you.

N1BHH

12-16-2006, 05:36 PM

Quote[/b] (kr4ey @ Dec. 16 2006,07:48)]This is a SAD day in history. Ham radio will never be the same.
Maybe it will turn into a new CB in the NEAR future.
That will be the day I sell all my equipment.
It is sad that people pushed this so hard to get passed because there too damn lazy to learn 5wpm morse code.
This not a bad day for Amateur Radio. Now is the time to take an aspiring ham under your wing and guide him or her through the rough waters ahead. Teach them how to build a wire antenna that radiates a good solid signal. Show them how morse code can be a fun activity. Show them how great audio beats some of the RF laden crud I've heard coming from many stations of late. Amateur Radio enters a new era and you are not going to help anyone along the way, just spit on the idea that they are going to hurt the precious hobby you have enjoyed by brining in appliance operators. I'd love to know how a man can be filled with so much hate. Be a mentor, you might just enjoy it.

kr4ey

12-16-2006, 05:36 PM

Quote[/b] (W9GRN @ Dec. 16 2006,09:21)]Quote[/b] (N9DGS @ Dec. 16 2006,08:42)]Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,01:43)]This is truly a sad day in Amateur Radio. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

This Kenwood 950 can sit and ROT for all I care. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

Truly, Truly Sad. #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

73 DE K8CPA

-Chuck

Hey Chuck. Instead of letting such a fine piece of equipment just sit and rot why not let me have it and I'll put it to good use? Just send the michrophone with it. You can keep the CW key, I won't be needing that.

Seriously, I tested for my no code tech license 02/16/91, two days after it became available and drove six hours one way to do so because I was so excited and could not wait for three weeks until my area tested. I love the hobby but I wouldn't give a dime for every dit or dah ever made. I don't know of anyone who could say that I ever conducted myself unworthy of a ham although I hear a lot of it out there, HF bands included. So not being interested in CW don't mean anything more than that. It is a mode of communication just like a foreign language if you will, but I'm not interested in speaking spanish, french , or japaneese either, just good old english by word of mouth. Times do change, hopfully for the better. We'll see.
Darrell
Just wondering,now that Morse Code will be gone how will you be able to communicate with our counterparts in other countries? I thought the code was a universal language.
I guess I'll be hangin out on only CW. Phone will just like the CB band. I don't use the phone bands that much anyhow, my last SSB contact was a few months ago.
CW: 211 countries and working.

BTW: Get your hands on some rare DX, there is a CW contest this weekend.

k8cpa

12-16-2006, 05:37 PM

Quote[/b] (N1BHH @ Dec. 15 2006,11:10)]Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,01:43)]This is truly a sad day in Amateur Radio. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

This Kenwood 950 can sit and ROT for all I care. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

Truly, Truly Sad. #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

73 DE K8CPA

-Chuck

Send me that 950 now, you care not for amateur radio fun, but I do. I could use another decent radio. Send it to my FCC address listing and I'll thank you forever.
Not on your best day.

k8cpa

12-16-2006, 05:39 PM

Quote[/b] (PE1RDW @ Dec. 15 2006,11:32)]Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,19:26)]Quote[/b] (N9DGS @ Dec. 15 2006,09:42)]Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,01:43)]This is truly a sad day in Amateur Radio. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

This Kenwood 950 can sit and ROT for all I care. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

Truly, Truly Sad. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

73 DE K8CPA

-Chuck

Hey Chuck. Instead of letting such a fine piece of equipment just sit and rot why not let me have it and I'll put it to good use? Just send the michrophone with it. You can keep the CW key, I won't be needing that.
Blow it XXXXXXXXXXXXXEDITXXXXXXXXXXXyou see fit.

no-code, smart alleck twirp.

-Me
Nice language for someone with a christian avatar, my advice for you: sell the rig to a freebander and send you licence back to the fcc, hamradio will be better of without lids like you.
[B]Uhmmm..XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX X

Thank you.

-Chuck K8CPA - A Proud American.

wr5aw

12-16-2006, 05:40 PM

Quote[/b] (KC0OEW @ Dec. 16 2006,10:17)]http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif Available: One well used Call Sign !!!!!!!!!
Will Sell CHEAP!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm amazed at the ratio of experience to dissatisfaction in this thread. Just on casual observation and with a little research, it seems many (if not the majority) of the naysayers and doomsayers have been licensed less than 10 years.

On the other hand, what I find rather comforting is the number of true OTs who are right there ready to welcome new hams with open arms. THOSE are the elmers that some of you SHOULD be.

I've been in this hobby less than ten years. I don't operate HF. Can't afford it. Someday though. What I do, however, is help wherever I can. Storm spotting. Bike rides. Emergency operations. And I've even been a VE for a couple of years. Nothing more rewarding than seeing the grin on the face of someone who just got their ticket.

I try to encourage ANYONE who approaches me with an interest in amateur radio. I'm always happy to share what I know with them. And I don't discriminate on the basis of their experience, skills, or cw speed. Makes no difference to me. Because when the power lines are down and there's traffic to pass, my HW traffic doesn't discriminate. I hope you won't either.

I hope some of you naysayers, especially you newer guys, will take some time in your busy lives to help out the new guy. Help em learn cw, show em how to build a dipole, bring em to your home for a station tour. Be an elmer.

KI4SKM

12-16-2006, 05:40 PM

Quote[/b] (N4OI @ Dec. 16 2006,05:32)]Now that it is not required, will anyone be motivated enough to learn morse code and experience the surprising joy of operating CW mode? I believe I may be one of the last few who have entered the fraternity of CW ops -- the last of the Mohicans? I hope I am wrong.... 73 de Ken - N4OI.

I really don't understand this attitude. My wife, 13 year old son & I all just got our Tech ticket. I also passed the General written and have been (and will continue) working on my cw as have they. They both intend to upgrade to at least General and I plan to get my Extra before next year is out.

I think those that want to learn CW will continue to do so. Frankly I don't see that the old element one test really does much. I can certainly learn to receive and pass the test, but that hardly means I can send. Whole different set of skills. Even among those that learn and pass, there are many that never use it again.

I certainly understand the idea of making the effort to learn showing commitment to getting the license. However, I don't see it as any sort of effective filter to the "riff raff" that many say it keeps out. I've know too many very intelligent people that could easily blow through all of the testing, but were complete jerks that I wouldn't want on the air. Not to mention the many complaints leveled at some of the 20wpm Extras that think they own certain portions of the airways.

In the end, you still have to make an effort, you still have to spend the cash and you still have to take the time to get on the air. Any group that large is going to have a certain percentage of undesirables - regardless of code or no code.

---Bill Tuttle <> KI4SKM

k4rjj

12-16-2006, 05:41 PM

Quote[/b] (kc2jfs @ Dec. 16 2006,09:49)]I will make my thoughts very clear. Write a letter to the ARRL telling them thanks for NOTHING. I for one will DROP MY MEMBERSHIP as soon as it expires. They have done absolutely NOTHING for amateur radio. They couldn't even step up to the plate to fight for saving the 5 wpm for Extras. Say goodbye to the ARRL !! I guarantee CQ magazine will have its circulation soar.
I'll see your drop and say that my wife and I will be joining the ARRL at the first of the year. 2 yeas to your nay.

See if 73 mag wants to come back.

KC2PFV

12-16-2006, 05:43 PM

k9dy

12-16-2006, 05:43 PM

GREAT!!
Now let's do away with that pesky written exam, and grandfather everyone to EXTRA!!

Abolish the "unnecessary regulatory burden" to quote the FCC.

KC9BVQ

12-16-2006, 05:43 PM

Quote[/b] (PE1RDW @ Dec. 16 2006,10:32)]Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,19:26)]Quote[/b] (N9DGS @ Dec. 15 2006,09:42)]Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,01:43)]This is truly a sad day in Amateur Radio. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

This Kenwood 950 can sit and ROT for all I care. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

Truly, Truly Sad. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

73 DE K8CPA

-Chuck

Hey Chuck. Instead of letting such a fine piece of equipment just sit and rot why not let me have it and I'll put it to good use? Just send the michrophone with it. You can keep the CW key, I won't be needing that.
Blow it outXXXXXXXXXXXXEDITXXXXXXXXXyou see fit.

no-code, smart alleck twirp.

-Me
Nice language for someone with a christian avatar, my advice for you: sell the rig to a freebander and send you licence back to the fcc, hamradio will be better of without lids like you.
Hey Chuck....Look at yourself in the mirror....You are a CB'er with that kind of language....

KD5OFF

12-16-2006, 05:45 PM

Well the code has gone the way of the good ole' days. For many years it was just the music of code that graced the airwaves and it will be sad to see it not be part of the process of obtaining an amateur license.
I personally passed the 5WP test for my General and I do worry some about making it "easier" to get or advance your license. Maybe the real concern should not be for how you get your license, but how you keep it.
I have wondered if it wouldn't be a good idea to have each of us "re-test" before our licenses are re-issued. This way we would be up to date with the latest rule changes and operating modes. Sort of a re-certification process.
Ham radio is a self policing, self discipline, self control hobby. It will-IS, up to each of us to be responsible for our on air activities.
Ham radio will live or survive because of how we care for it.

73 my friends,
Mike

PE1RDW

12-16-2006, 05:47 PM

Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,19:39)][B]Uhmmm... who asked you? You ain't even in America. So, kleep your trap shut.

Thank you.

-Chuck K8CPA - A Proud American.
This was an open forum last time I checked so I don´t need to be asked and you don´t know if I´m currently in America and I will defenatly not "kleep my trap shut".

There is a fine line between being proud of your country and being a nationalist, have a nice walk along a beach or in a mountain to calm down sir, you migh get health problems if you keep it up like this.

N1BHH

12-16-2006, 05:48 PM

Quote[/b] (AG4YO @ Dec. 16 2006,09:57)]Those NCTs who upgrade with good attitudes will be welcome in my book! But for the butt heads, they're not Hams they're:(spam)
I like Spam myself. Tastes good with a couple fried eggs in the morning over the Field Day campfire. I'll be having a Spam sandwich with a slice of cheese in a few minutes. If you don't want it, that's just TOO bad, because this will rejuvinate our bands. There must be some elmers for these new no code operators, why don't you volunteer to guide them along? No you can't because you don't like it one bit.

KI4EMA

12-16-2006, 05:50 PM

Quote[/b] (KL7FZ @ Dec. 15 2006,20:49)]Quote[/b] (kw6am @ Dec. 16 2006,01:00)]What abunch of lazy retards. Ohh tthe code is so hard to learn I have to actually study and use my brain... A SAD DAY for the amateur radio community. All you non code backers DROP DEAD!
I second this!

The lazy, no good, know-nothing, do-nothings are soon to inherit Amateur Radio because of a few brainless FCC lawyers that know nothing about radio, communication, history, or tradition. This promoted and spurred on by the ARRL sellouts.
Licensed now for 45 years, I have seen the slide. If you have not been around that long you cannot speak to this! You do not, can not know, what it is like now compared to what it was. #

So what you will inherit, after dreaming about being a ham, all the time while waiting for the code to be dropped and the tests to be dumbed down, will not be Amateur Radio after all. It will a LOT less. Your loss. Your fault.

You may have the license BUT YOU WILL NEVER BE REAL AMATEUR RADIO OPERATORS AS SEEN BY HISTORY. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE LESS!! YOU GOT WHAT YOU DESERVED. STUCK IN A CB RADIO HELL WITH THE REST OF THE DUMMIES!
And I am laughing. I was there when it was Amateur radio. I was privileged to be there when it was real radio. You lose. You missed it! Too late!

As the man said "DROP DEAD!"

KL7FZ
Well if you have been Licensed for 45 years it sounds like it will not be much longer for HF will be better.

ni4jm

12-16-2006, 05:52 PM

Quote[/b] (PE1RDW @ Dec. 16 2006,10:47)]Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,19:39)][B]Uhmmm... who asked you? You ain't even in America. So, kleep your trap shut.

Thank you.

-Chuck K8CPA - A Proud American.
This was an open forum last time I checked so I don´t need to be asked and you don´t know if I´m currently in America and I will defenatly not "kleep my trap shut".

There is a fine line between being proud of your country and being a nationalist, have a nice walk along a beach or in a mountain to calm down sir, you migh get health problems if you keep it up like this.
So Chuck, how many more people are you gonna insult with your "Rather large mouth" today?

w5api

12-16-2006, 05:53 PM

It is about time that the FCC eliminated testing on the antique mode MORSE. A mode that I personally will NEVER use. There are tens of thousands of qualified operators that feel the same way and have elected to not upgrade to General until the stupid requirement was eliminated. Why would I want to spend a couple of months learning something that I will never use and dislike. Morse is not dead. It is still an allowed mode and loved by many, but to have morse as the gate keeper was ridiculous.

Chuck
KE5DMF

W5PJW

12-16-2006, 05:54 PM

SAD.......[B]

kc7jty

12-16-2006, 05:55 PM

THIS IS ALL A JOKE.....RIGHT??

KE5JRM

12-16-2006, 05:59 PM

Quote[/b] (KL7FZ @ Dec. 16 2006,01:49)]Quote[/b] (kw6am @ Dec. 16 2006,01:00)]What abunch of lazy retards. Ohh tthe code is so hard to learn I have to actually study and use my brain... A SAD DAY for the amateur radio community. All you non code backers DROP DEAD!
I second this!

The lazy, no good, know-nothing, do-nothings are soon to inherit Amateur Radio because of a few brainless FCC lawyers that know nothing about radio, communication, history, or tradition. This promoted and spurred on by the ARRL sellouts.
Licensed now for 45 years, I have seen the slide. If you have not been around that long you cannot speak to this! You do not, can not know, what it is like now compared to what it was. #

So what you will inherit, after dreaming about being a ham, all the time while waiting for the code to be dropped and the tests to be dumbed down, will not be Amateur Radio after all. It will a LOT less. Your loss. Your fault.

You may have the license BUT YOU WILL NEVER BE REAL AMATEUR RADIO OPERATORS AS SEEN BY HISTORY. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE LESS!! YOU GOT WHAT YOU DESERVED. STUCK IN A CB RADIO HELL WITH THE REST OF THE DUMMIES!
And I am laughing. I was there when it was Amateur radio. I was privileged to be there when it was real radio. You lose. You missed it! Too late!

As the man said "DROP DEAD!"

KL7FZ
Mr. Tolley
You are a very bitter and hateful old man and I really feel sorry for you. A real Ameteur Radio Operator would never act in the manner you have. You should consider turning in that NEW Extra Class licence so you will feel better about yourself. But if not, perhaps I'll answer your CQ one day.

kc7jty

12-16-2006, 06:00 PM

See...good things DO come to those who wait.

How long do I have to wait now to take my Gen & Extra written exams?

AK4P

12-16-2006, 06:03 PM

Quote[/b] (k9dy @ Dec. 16 2006,10:43)]GREAT!!
Now let's do away with that pesky written exam, and grandfather everyone to EXTRA!!

Abolish the #"unnecessary regulatory burden" to quote the FCC.
No need for that. Soon anyone who can read and memorize will upgrade to Extra. The FCC might as well create the General Amateur Radio license. One license for everything. I keep hearing the argument that "Morse code keeps otherwise qualified people out of ham radio." While that may have been true in some cases, it certainly kept a lot of otherwise UN-qualified people out of ham radio. Believe me, there are a lot more of them around than there are " otherwise qualified people", and now the last vestige of a once proud hobby is gone. The Morse code test was the last test of "meddle"; of how much does one want to become a ham. Now, Harry and his brother and anyone else who bothers to read and memorize can be an Extra. To those who don't understand why this happened, the demise of Morse code testing was foisted on ham radio by No-Code International, a group funded by ALCU-type lawyers who perhaps have another initiative in mind. Like BPL for example. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

W9YZI

12-16-2006, 06:03 PM

sad day for amateur radio every one wants some thing for nothing, good news for yeasu kenwood and icom we can sell more radios 10-4 good buddy what happend to working for a lic just like every thing in this world your suppose to work for it not be handed it too you on a platter sad day! time to find a new hobby.. not sad cause I worked very hard to get to were im at and I said the same thing when I was first lic I cant learn the code well I did learn because i worked at it till i could copy cw and have watched ham radio go to the wind all in the name of selling more gear dumbing down does not help are ranks if you think this is going to help ham radio your in for a big surprise my elmer would have never considered a no code lic what ever happend to 75 watts and xtal control on cw thats right the old novice lic we need more hams but we dont need dumb or should i say lazy hams

ni4jm

12-16-2006, 06:05 PM

Quote[/b] (N9MYN @ Dec. 16 2006,11:03)]sad day for amateur radio every one wants some thing for nothing, good news for yeasu kenwood and icom we can sell more radios 10-4 good buddy what happend to working for a lic just like every thing in this world your suppose to work for it not be handed it too you on a platter sad day! time to find a new hobby..
That attitude is what's sad.

- EAO

W9YZI

12-16-2006, 06:10 PM

Pretty sad when the no code hams cant even copy the cw ids on most fm repeaters whats next do away with cw id for voice id lets just dumb it down some more and just charge a fee and fill out a form for a lic who needs to know any thing or learn any thing humm kinda like in the 70s with 11m fee and form then lic yep that works

N1BHH

12-16-2006, 06:11 PM

Quote[/b] (k7bg @ Dec. 16 2006,11:13)]Quote[/b] (w4kvw @ Dec. 16 2006,08:21)]"CB'ers"who will now be not just be on 11 meters but now on ALL of the HF bands.
I keep reading about CBers on here. Have any of you listened to the CB channels when the skip is rolling? They too are getting used less and less. It's not the wall to wall noise that it used to be. It's not CW that is getting outdated. It is HF radio in general. You wanna know why nobody is on the radio? There are three reasons: (1) There is no "major" HF contest this weekend; (2) They are on their computer communicating --like I am right now; (3) They are on their cell phone.

We can bemoan the demise of the vacuum tube, CW, and comprehensive testing, but the whole concept of HF radio communication is evaporating.
There's alot to be learned here. There aren't many people on the air right now because the bands are dead, thanks to the latest X-class and M-class flares and the latest Coronal Mass Ejections, and most of all, they are in here whining away about the demise of the amateur radio bands. Bunch of un-bathed crybabies in here. Take a shower more than once a month please, your stinking the place up.

N8NOE

12-16-2006, 06:12 PM

Quote[/b] (AG4YO @ Dec. 15 2006,18:21)]Come on guys, the fat lady has sung....
This said it!... It's over, and nothing we can do now.. This is what everyone wanted, now we have to live with it.

w9wo

12-16-2006, 06:14 PM

Quote[/b] (KI9A @ Dec. 16 2006,11:00)]Quote[/b] (kd6fyk @ Dec. 15 2006,22:51)]Finally,common sense shall rule.
Our NCT,15 year wait is almost over.
Wow, 15 years, and you could not muster the guts to learn 5 wpm??

Sad. Truely sad.

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif
Don't take guts my friend, only desire. I have no desire to go back in time and play with dits and dahs. Technology happens. So should we. Move on or don't. Do what ever makes you happy but times do change. CHANGE IS GOOD.
Darrell

nz3m

12-16-2006, 06:15 PM

again...

Pride will be gone.
Sense of accomplishment will be gone.
Respect will be gone.
Heritage will be gone.

Amateur Radio is no longer special. Hard earned privileges are respected. Given privileges are not. Soon, nobody will care about the rules due to this lack of respect.

Tom the ham says... "I'm a ham radio operator"

Joe average says... "Big freakin deal, I'm an automobile operator"

KG4LHQ

12-16-2006, 06:18 PM

So will technicians soon to be no code generals have the same privilages as the current General class license?

KC5SAS

12-16-2006, 06:19 PM

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/3937/cwtearsab8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

N1BHH

12-16-2006, 06:21 PM

Quote[/b] (kc2jfs @ Dec. 16 2006,11:49)]I will make my thoughts very clear. Write a letter to the ARRL telling them thanks for NOTHING. I for one will DROP MY MEMBERSHIP as soon as it expires. They have done absolutely NOTHING for amateur radio. They couldn't even step up to the plate to fight for saving the 5 wpm for Extras. Say goodbye to the ARRL !! I guarantee CQ magazine will have its circulation soar.
They have done nothing FOR amateur radio oerators, they don't represent even their own membership which is still dropping. The membership of the ARRL in the US is only one third the amount of licensees, maybe actually more like one fourth. I'm glad you are never going to renew with the ARRL, that send them a message.

K6MKF

12-16-2006, 06:23 PM

I spent hours learning and practicing semaphone when I was in the Scouts. #It's fun, but now it's an obsolete communications protocol and rarely used. #I got over it.

I spent hours learning and practicing Morse Code on my way to Amateur Extra. #It's fun, but now the FCC offically recognizes that it's also an obsolete communications protocol. #I'll get over this too.

Amateur Radio is a technology-based hobby. #Technology advances and improves. #We ought to get used to this and expect the hobby to change accordingly.

I'm going out to the garage now and, once and for all, throw out those old semaphone flags. #But I'm keeping my 1944 J-38 US Army issue straight key and my Vibroplex Keyer just in case I hear someone on CW calling CQ.

73 de Mike, K6MKF #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

w9wo

12-16-2006, 06:26 PM

Quote[/b] (ke4eao @ Dec. 16 2006,13:05)]Quote[/b] (N9MYN @ Dec. 16 2006,11:03)]sad day for amateur radio every one wants some thing for nothing, good news for yeasu kenwood and icom we can sell more radios 10-4 good buddy what happend to working for a lic just like every thing in this world your suppose to work for it not be handed it too you on a platter sad day! time to find a new hobby..
That attitude is what's sad.

- EAO
I agree. Sad attitude. Don't let the airwaves hit you in your rear end on the way out. Who are you kidding anyway? You aren't going anywhere. Your the same guy that said that amatuer radio was dead when they created the no code tech license. Surprise, it's still alive and well. What are you going to complain about next?
Darrell

W5TJZ

12-16-2006, 06:30 PM

The ultimate demise of Ham radio, the straw that broke the camel's back. A giant Citizens Band, good buddy, the front door is open. I guess the next step will be to prohibit the use of morse code. The cry babies are the ones who wanted the elimination of the morse code requirement, not the ones who wanted to keep it. At last they are pacified. Rest in peace, Samuel F.B. Morse, God bless you.

KG4LHQ

12-16-2006, 06:30 PM

Can anyone answer that ? I posted a few posts above...

Seems like instead of all this ranting why not try to answer questions about this new change?

I will post it again

So will technicians soon to be no code generals have the same privilages as the current General class license?

N1BHH

12-16-2006, 06:31 PM

Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,12:37)]Quote[/b] (N1BHH @ Dec. 15 2006,11:10)]Quote[/b] (k8cpa @ Dec. 16 2006,01:43)]This is truly a sad day in Amateur Radio. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

This Kenwood 950 can sit and ROT for all I care. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

Truly, Truly Sad. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

73 DE K8CPA

-Chuck

Send me that 950 now, you care not for amateur radio fun, but I do. I could use another decent radio. Send it to my FCC address listing and I'll thank you forever.
Not on your best day.
A man with a christian avatar says that? You said you would let your radio rot. Then give it to a new no code ham. Maybe they can get on the air and have fun, because you sound like you aren't having fun. And you might want to know I love CW and can send and receive it in my head at 45 wpm. I think this is a great opportunity to guide a new ham in a good direction.

ad4mg

12-16-2006, 06:37 PM

Quote[/b] (KG4LHQ @ Dec. 16 2006,14:30)]Can anyone answer that ? I posted a few posts above...

Seems like instead of all this ranting why not try to answer questions about this new change?

I will post it again

So will technicians soon to be no code generals have the same privilages as the current General class license?
There were changes made on December 15 to general class allocations. #When any technician upgrades to general, he/she has the same spectrum in which to operate as currently licensed general class operators.

Short answer - yes, but inclusive of the 12/15/06 changes.

EDIT: wassup Clyde!? Good to see ya around. Lots of toilet ticks about, you reckon?

Bwaaahaaahaaahahahahaha!

w6aws

12-16-2006, 06:37 PM

I for one am sad to see it go. #I believe one should earn priveledges. #I studied for 4 months to get my measly 5wpm, but I did it. #Now I am up to about 13 wpm.

My proposal was to dump it for General, and increase back to 13wpm for Extra. Try to keep some band sacred!

I will sit back and watch. #I dont think the HF bands will become like 11 meters. #I have more faith in the techs I quess.

For sure all the HF radio manufacturers are "licking their chops".

Still, a sad day in my opinion.

Andy

KG4LHQ

12-16-2006, 06:40 PM

Quote[/b] (ad4mg @ Dec. 16 2006,11:37)]Quote[/b] (KG4LHQ @ Dec. 16 2006,14:30)]Can anyone answer that ? I posted a few posts above...

Seems like instead of all this ranting why not try to answer questions about this new change?

I will post it again

So will technicians soon to be no code generals have the same privilages as the current General class license?
There were changes made on December 15 to general class allocations. When any technician upgrades to general, he/she has the same spectrum in which to operate as currently licensed general class operators.

Short answer - yes, but inclusive of the 12/15/06 changes.

EDIT: wassup Clyde!? Good to see ya around. Lots of toilet ticks about, you reckon?

Bwaaahaaahaaahahahahaha!
Thanks for the answer!

I'm going to be glad when this goes thru...

Thanks

N4HJ

12-16-2006, 06:43 PM

Quote[/b] (W5TJZ @ Dec. 16 2006,11:30)]The cry babies are the ones who wanted the elimination of the morse code requirement, not the ones who wanted to keep it.
That sure doesn't seem to be the case in this thread!

kc0kbc

12-16-2006, 06:48 PM

Quote[/b] (w6aws @ Dec. 16 2006,11:37)]I have more faith in the techs I quess.
14 Pages so far, and this is the first response I've seen indicating that us NCT's are anything but the lowest form of life.

Let me say it for about the 5th time: Most of us new folks became hams because we want to do it right, because we respect the traditions and everything you older folks have had to do, we want to CARRY ON those traditions, and still have every intention of doing so.

Unless, of course, this goes on to 100 pages of these insults, in which case I may just get out of it altogether, as I'm beginning to think I was completely wrong about the character of the average ham.

kg4kkn

12-16-2006, 06:50 PM

Quote[/b] (w4hlk @ Dec. 16 2006,01:23)]So here we stand at the end of amateur radio. In the years coming they will say “It’s out of control we should give the frequency to the commercial services.”
Have you heard of ONE commercial service that's shown any interest in the HF bands? If not, calm down.

SW Churches? Yawn. Voice of XYZ broadcasters? They're tripping over themselves to abandon expensive SW broadcasts. It's all internet now.

Data? HF is too slow for the sort of data rates needed by commercial services. Maybe good enough for some telemetry but it's not going to be the next wifi.

Commercial services are looking at UWB and SDR, not HF.

ad4mg

12-16-2006, 06:51 PM

Quote[/b] (KG4LHQ @ Dec. 16 2006,14:40)]Quote[/b] (ad4mg @ Dec. 16 2006,11:37)]Quote[/b] (KG4LHQ @ Dec. 16 2006,14:30)]Can anyone answer that ? I posted a few posts above...

Seems like instead of all this ranting why not try to answer questions about this new change?

I will post it again

So will technicians soon to be no code generals have the same privilages as the current General class license?
There were changes made on December 15 to general class allocations. #When any technician upgrades to general, he/she has the same spectrum in which to operate as currently licensed general class operators.

Short answer - yes, but inclusive of the 12/15/06 changes.

EDIT: # wassup Clyde!? #Good to see ya around. #Lots of toilet ticks about, you reckon?

Bwaaahaaahaaahahahahaha!
Thanks for the answer!

I'm going to be glad when this goes thru...

Thanks
You are very welcome! Not too many reading the posts, too busy spewing venom.

The arrl page has the new chart up illustrating the newest allocations. Wait for the R&O to be published, then hold on for 30 more days before you do anything though (unless you want to pass the 5 wpm now!). All of this fuss is over what is simply an announcement. It doesn't become law until 30 days after the R&O is officially published.

Best 73,
Luke

kr4ey

12-16-2006, 06:53 PM

Quote[/b] (KG4LHQ @ Dec. 16 2006,11:30)]Can anyone answer that ? I posted a few posts above...

Seems like instead of all this ranting why not try to answer questions about this new change?

I will post it again

So will technicians soon to be no code generals have the same privilages as the current General class license?
You will be a technician till you pass your General. No going from Tech or Tech+ to General automatically.
You will have same privileges as current General Class as soon as pass that test.
But this may take a few months, it has only a press release.

How will you have full privileges of a General Class, when you have no idea how to send and receive CW http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif??? Duh

kg4kkn

12-16-2006, 06:58 PM

Quote[/b] (kc0kbc @ Dec. 16 2006,13:48)][quote=w6aws,Dec. 16 2006,11:37]
Unless, of course, this goes on to 100 pages of these insults, in which case I may just get out of it altogether, as I'm beginning to think I was completely wrong about the character of the average ham.
The "average ham" is the same as the "average" person you see in the grocery store, Wallymart, church, or the one who cut you off in traffic this morning.

Some of us might like to think the antennas make us better but we're really still just human with all the good things and bad that go with that.

It's a mistake to think the license tests are some kind of purity filter that only good folks pass through. All it really means is that they managed to get enough right answers to collect their ticket.

wa2dzo

12-16-2006, 07:02 PM

How many of the people who post here care about Ohms law. It is one that brings instant justice to those who violate it. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

K1MVP

12-16-2006, 07:02 PM

Quote[/b] (kc7jty @ Dec. 16 2006,11:00)]See...good things DO come to those who wait.

How long do I have to wait now to take my Gen & Extra written exams?
If you are willing to wait a little longer,--ya might see
the day where you don`t have to even wait to take a
general or extra exam ,as the only requirement will be to
e-mail in your application based on what you "want",
and presto,--the FCC will issue your "ham radio permit"
as long as they get their fee,--everything will be "AOK".

73, K1MVP

nz3m

12-16-2006, 07:05 PM

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2003/01/photogalleries/snakes/images/primary/snake_3n.jpg

w0vu

12-16-2006, 07:09 PM

[w0vu http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

wa2dzo

12-16-2006, 07:13 PM

It's all about callsigns and civility. If the ham bands get broken there will be no one who knows how to fix it, except the FCC. I think we know how that will go.

K7LRB

12-16-2006, 07:19 PM

Welcome ALL new hams! I have been a ham radio operator for about 46 years and probably 99% CW. I thoroughly enjoy CW but have NEVER knocked anyone who does not. I rarely post to forums, would rather spend my “radio time”, well, on the radio. Please read the following with an open mind, and please accept that it is merely an attempt to make what I think are reasonable observations about the latest, major change in amateur radio.

Code testing is no longer a requirement for access to HF. It’s a done deal! The “radical” posts/comments notwithstanding, I will try to verbalize what I believe are shared “concerns” of those of us who enjoy CW. I say again, I NEVER have knocked anyone who joins this great hobby (it’s a hobby to me) no matter how they became a ham. ALL are welcomed and I will encourage ANYONE in whatever way I can. In a nutshell, I think there are those of us who are concerned about the possibility of CW actually being banned as a mode. Here is why I believe my concerns are not completely without merit.

It is a bit like the “slippery slope” syndrome. First the phone bands are expanded, and significantly on 80m, then code testing is dropped entirely as a requirement. Basically what the FCC, ARRL, and MANY people who desire HF access are saying is that CW is no longer necessary. It is “outdated” and serves no purpose. Given that, it would seem axiomatic that band space where CW is currently being operated could be better utilized for more valuable modes, specifically, phone (SSB, hi-fi SSB, etc.), especially since there MAY be a significant increase in phone ops. Did I mention Winlink?

I am not being an “alarmist” and no, I am not in a panic. I see two possible scenarios here. One is that with the “potential” chaos, precipitated simply by what MAY be a large increase in phone ops, more and more people will gravitate to the relative tranquility of CW (Once you become proficient it really is quite pleasant and, overwhelmingly typically free of foul language, name calling, jamming, etc.). Then, presumably, IF the FCC, or whoever, looks lustfully upon the spectrum used by CW ops, they will have to think again, in that it is such a popular mode. I like that scenario best. Of course another scenario is that by the time the “slippery slope” has slid and CW is actually banned, I will be pushing up daisies and really won’t care. That’s OK too, but I believe that would be a true loss to future generations.

The bottom line is simply this folks. I welcome ALL to ham radio, code or not, and I hope you have at least a fraction of the fun and enjoyment I have over the past several years. But please, all I ask is that there be a place where I can work HF CW. And should I venture to phone, with my “less than broadcast quality” voice, I hope you will welcome me there too.

Enjoy what we have and 73 to ALL,
de Larry

k0ru

12-16-2006, 07:20 PM

QRS no longer needed for anyone. #All no coders pickup the latest PSK31/RTTY/CW do everything software and keyboards and fire up. #Us high speed ops no longer need to QRS for you. #This is no different then any other digital mode now. #Yee Haa, let'r rip!

Welcome aboard and enjoy the fun.

Rob - K0RU

KI4MSA

12-16-2006, 07:21 PM

Quote[/b] ]Can anyone answer that ? I posted a few posts above...

Seems like instead of all this ranting why not try to answer questions about this new change?

I will post it again

So will technicians soon to be no code generals have the same privilages as the current General class license?
Once this change becomes effective, until you pass the Element 3 (General) test you will have the same privledges as the current TECH PLUS (Technician with Element 1 credit)

I hope this helps to answer the question.

This NO-CODE Technician says:
... . . # -.-- .- # --- -. # .... ..-. # http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

K2MLS

12-16-2006, 07:23 PM

I will make my thoughts very clear. Write a letter to the ARRL telling them thanks for NOTHING. I for one will DROP MY MEMBERSHIP as soon as it expires. They have done absolutely NOTHING for amateur radio. They couldn't even step up to the plate to fight for saving the 5 wpm for Extras. Say goodbye to the ARRL !! I guarantee CQ magazine will have its circulation soar. DE KC2IFS AKA WA2SID

The ARRL is a very powerful group. They were able to influence, Australia, Canada, Great Brittain and others to drop the CW. All the more reason to join!

If one were to look at the over all scheme of things this is nothing. Mr. La Fayette did the FCC take something personally from you? Did they tell you that you can't use CW? Did the FCC cause a diminished value of your radio equipment?

The Amateur Radio Service hasn't been damaged insufferably, nor has the ARRL done anything to deserve members jumping ship. If they were trying to allow the FCC to give/sell our frequencies away or press for the disallowing the use of CW then one would have the right to howl.

I suggest you put your energy into fighting BPL and not the ARRL.

wa6itf

12-16-2006, 07:28 PM

This action by the FCC will have zero effect on the service. Ham radio is not an easily marketable product. Its not something that attracts the masses.

As such, the deletion of Morse testing has no real meaning other than the end off a "ritual hazing" by current members of its mini-society of newcomers.

There will be:

* No increase in the number of folks becoming hams. Folks won't come to to it because a lack of code makes it easier to come to. They come to it because they want to!

* No greater losses in numbers than we see now. Attiicion is taking place due to our collective age. You cannot legislate the forces of nature,

* No rush on the part of current hams to upgrade. Look at the numbers. The last time it was Tech+ doing "paper upgrades" to General. There are no "paper upgrades" here -- just Morse testing going away. So its less work for the VE's and VEC's -- not more.

* No "feared takeover" of ham radio by Freebanders. Why would they get licenses to do what they do now without them? If they truly wanted to "take over" it would have happened by now as "they" outnumber "us" by likely 100 to 1. And I doubt that we and the FCC -- combined -- could stop this if it ever happened. Butaside from forrays now and again into 10 meters -- it really has not.

* No major sales increase in High Frequency radio gear. Thats naught but wishfull thinking by a few dealers who should have learned from the last round of restructuring that the interest in HF is not as big as they think it is. HT's and 2 meter transceivers are still the bigest selling item -- not high end HF gear.

A year from now, after the tempers have died down a bit, we will all look back and see that the deletion of Morse testing has had zero effect on the hobby.

Or, as the character "Diana Morales" sings in the Broadway musical 'A Chorus Line': "... and I felt nothing."

In this case, "I experienced nothing" is likely far more apropos.

de
Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF

KI4RTK

12-16-2006, 07:31 PM

I'm a fairly new Tech, been on the air less than a month now and was already actively studying both code and theory to take the element 1 and 3 exams at a local Hamfest in February.

Sooo, now what? Hurry up and find a VE session somewhere to take element 1? Or stay on schedule and upgrade by taking only element 3? Dosn't really matter I guess. Moot point.

At least I have learned enough at this point to say I may actually use CW someday even if I don't have a CSCE to show for it.

On a different note, for the doomsayers... My question is if this is really the begenning of the end of the world what about all the countries where code has already been eliminated for HF privledges?

What happened there? Is HF in Canada and parts of Europe "CB land" now? Or is it just us ugly Americans that can't seem to behave in a civilized manner and obey the rules?

For the Oldtimers, Lead by example... Elmer the newcomers and show them the way to do it right.

nz3m

12-16-2006, 07:39 PM

Quote[/b] (KI4RTK @ Dec. 15 2006,13:31)]#Or is it just us ugly Americans that can't seem to behave in a civilized manner and obey the rules?
Bingo!

Other countries don't have the test answers given to them. We just eliminated the ONLY thing that required studying and motivation.

N6JSX

12-16-2006, 07:40 PM

Quote[/b] (w4hlk @ Dec. 16 2006,04:23)]This is inconceivable. How could they just sneak this in under the radar? How can they do this? It’s like taking down the gate. The gate was flimsy and could be easy over run, but it was a gate.

How could they do this to us???
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

As this post asks - how did this happen? HOW DID THE "ARRL" NOT know this was coming?

Or once again did the ARRL look the other way due to a perceived increase in 20% of HAMdom ARRL member$hips? The ARRL has an established track record of intentional head-in-the-sand actions when HQ perceives a monitary gain coming. Remember the FCC 220 Band rip-off that the ARRL allowed to happen with minimal objections when the FCC bribed the ARRL with Novice Enhancement? Which today means nothing - no more Novice and 220-222 is still lost.

The ARRL http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif once again - inaffective - narrow sighted - lathargic by intent. Just amazing that the ARRL turnd their backs to the CW faithful - but they are getting old and their member$hips will soon be nil. Get the point!

GREED is bu$ine$$ that secures ARRL HQ $alaries!

ke4qdc

12-16-2006, 07:40 PM

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73

K4JF

12-16-2006, 07:43 PM

I see NCI website is still up. So much for their promise that "all we want to do is eliminate the exam, not CW".

Which will be next? Eliminate CW or eliminate all AR testing? Curious minds want to know......

ke4cxp

12-16-2006, 07:43 PM

Today we have seen the end of an era. Will this mean that the Ham Bands will become nothing more that glorified CB channels? I think not we Hams are a respectful lot and will continue to teach and educate the new comers about our traditions and operating practices. It will be up to the old timers who are code certified to keep alive the tradition of Morse code and to pass it down to those of us who do not know Morse code. The airwaves will forever ring with the sound of Morse code, from the haunting sounds of history to the modern sounds of today’s Hams keeping one of the most cherished modes of operation alive and well. So let not this decision tear us apart but let it bring us together, for we all know that if it were not for Ham Radio the victims of disasters would not have been able to communicate with their families in time of need. For we are the last best hope for communication when all else fails, we are the voice of those who have no voice when disaster strikes. Let us continue this tradition and welcome the new operators to the HF bands.

With this I bid you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

ke4qdc

12-16-2006, 07:46 PM

Quote[/b] (KG4LHQ @ Dec. 16 2006,11:40)]Quote[/b] (ad4mg @ Dec. 16 2006,11:37)]Quote[/b] (KG4LHQ @ Dec. 16 2006,14:30)]Can anyone answer that ? I posted a few posts above...

Seems like instead of all this ranting why not try to answer questions about this new change?

I will post it again

So will technicians soon to be no code generals have the same privilages as the current General class license?
There were changes made on December 15 to general class allocations. #When any technician upgrades to general, he/she has the same spectrum in which to operate as currently licensed general class operators.

Short answer - yes, but inclusive of the 12/15/06 changes.

EDIT: # wassup Clyde!? #Good to see ya around. #Lots of toilet ticks about, you reckon?

Bwaaahaaahaaahahahahaha!
Thanks for the answer!

I'm going to be glad when this goes thru...

Thanks
Tech will still be a tech after this goes through. No auto general class. Dumb NCT don't even know what the current rules are. Now we got somebody wanting to be a no code general. Good lord. See what kind of group of people we look forward to seeing on the HF bands. Still looking for a handout now give a general ticket

k9dy

12-16-2006, 07:59 PM

I have read here that some don't see the need to learn something they will never use. I wonder how they did in school?

kc2jfs

12-16-2006, 08:02 PM

Quote[/b] (K2MLS @ Dec. 16 2006,12:23)]I will make my thoughts very clear. Write a letter to the ARRL telling them thanks for NOTHING. I for one will DROP MY MEMBERSHIP as soon as it expires. They have done absolutely NOTHING for amateur radio. They couldn't even step up to the plate to fight for saving the 5 wpm for Extras. Say goodbye to the ARRL !! I guarantee CQ magazine will have its circulation soar. DE KC2IFS AKA WA2SID

The ARRL is a very powerful group. They were able to influence, Australia, Canada, Great Brittain and others to drop the CW. All the more reason to join!

If one were to look at the over all scheme of things this is nothing. Mr. La Fayette did the FCC take something personally from you? Did they tell you that you can't use CW? Did the FCC cause a diminished value of your radio equipment?

The Amateur Radio Service hasn't been damaged insufferably, nor has the ARRL done anything to deserve members jumping ship. If they were trying to allow the FCC to give/sell our frequencies away or press for the disallowing the use of CW then one would have the right to howl.

I suggest you put your energy into fighting BPL and not the ARRL.
Monte,
You can't even get my call sign correct! No wonder why you need someone to give you something you can not achieve on your own.

What are you kidding me?? Tell me specifically what the ARRL has done to better amateur radio. I got news for you...They are LOSING and will lose the BPL battle. They DUMBED DOWN amateur radio to the point that your license should come with a radio purchase. They won't allow EQSL for awards because they had to come up with their own "pay me more" LOTW. They are a JOKE. BYE BYE ARRL I AM DONE WITH YOU !!

N5FOG

12-16-2006, 08:04 PM

Quote[/b] (wd5jnc @ Dec. 15 2006,09:50)]Well looks like it has started. I always thought you used a calling frequency to make contact and then move off to a clear freq. so some one else could use the Calling frequency. Well Not not on 146.52 seems the "boys" (read No code techs.) are on there talking about getting thier HF antennas up and what radios and amps they are going buy. funny i only heard one call sign in the bunch in the last 20 minutes. Looks like it hasnt taken long for ham radio to go down the tubes. Any good buddies out there want a entire station cheap? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif
I listen to 75 meters all the time and NEVER hear a call