SO NOW YOU'RE HF-ACTIVE...

[KE5FRF]

TITLE: "SO NOW YOU'RE HF-ACTIVE"

© Heath Roberts, KE5FRF
With permission granted by the author to distribute with appropriate intellectual credit.



"Wow, I never thought this day would come. The FCC finally flexed its regulatory muscle and notified the world that US Amateur Radio operators will no longer be required to pass a Morse code proficiency test to indulge in the world below 50 Mhz. What does this mean for ME?"

This is a fair an honest question that many Technician class amateurs will be faced with in the coming weeks and months as American hams learn to accept the end of a long standing tradition and the beginning of a new era. It is natural to be excited about the new privileges that you will be granted. You are eager to plan your new HF station, purchase some new gear, and maybe even erect a tower and directional antenna for that DX band you've been hearing such great things about. There is so much out there to do and be a part of, you don't know where to begin.

I can assure you, this is a road that everyone has traveled in their quest as an amateur operator, code or not. You'll be certain to receive the wise counsel of some older fellow who has more than a few tips to share. A friend who upgraded his license to General last year will offer his insight into propagation and techniques for busting a pile-up. The local club will be offering a class on operating procedures. No worries, for there is a lot of resources at your disposal. All you must do is display a willingness to learn.

As exciting as the news is for you and as eager as you are, you can't help but wonder what mode you will like the best. Everyone says that PSK-31 offers the most efficient use of the spectrum and can cut through a host of propagation conditions that other modes can't. You saw an Extra class ham on Field Day working a digital station and this was the mode he used. It was interesting and he sure looked like he was having fun, but it kind of reminded you of an internet chat room like QRZ.COM.

Your buddy, the guy who upgraded his license before the new rules, swears that SSB is the most fun mode. He barely squeaked by on his code test and never looked back. He regularly checks into the WAS nets and is close to his goal on 80 meters and already confirmed 40 meters. There certainly won't be a lack of new friends to make on phone. Hmm...Maybe this will become your favorite mode too.

But there's one other fellow who keeps showing up and offering you suggestions that make a lot of sense but you're just not sure if you have it in you. He's the local CW guru and he spent the last two years coaxing you to master the code before the requirement was dropped, but you failed to heed his advice. You know it is probably too late to learn it now, the new rules go into effect next week, but you must admit that with the "pressure" off the idea of casually studying the code is intriguing. You've read some stuff on the internet about colorful figures in the history of amateur radio and telegraphy like Hiram Percy Maxim and T.R. McElroy. You've watched your CW friend use his Blue Racer during a contest and were fascinated by his skills. You feel a certain connection to this storied tradition even when you tap out "SOS" on your desk with your index finger. What is stopping you from turning your years of procrastination into something you think might benefit you in the long run?

My friend the answer is simple. Nothing is stopping you, nothing at all except the same thing that hindered every CW op who ever "dit his first dah." Learning Morse code is a work in progress. It is an endeavor of achievement that has a certain beginning but no real end. No matter what skill level your CW associates may brag to possess, they all make mistakes and have plenty of room for improvement. Just knowing this should set your mind at ease and give you inspiration!

Yep, you finally got that new HF rig via UPS delivery. The tower isn't up yet, but you managed to hoist a coax fed dipole into the old oak tree in the back yard. You cut it for 40 meters in hopes that it will offer the most playing time at this point in the sunspot cycle. Everything is hooked up and ready to go.

Power "ON"....Shschshhhschhtishahshhi....Static. "Hmmm what frequency is that? Oh, out of band."....Zzschshizzz...dadidadit dadadidah...dadidadit dadadidah. Oh boy, you recognize that familiar sound. Someone is calling CQ in code. Well, at least you know your antenna and feed line are working ok. Tune up...tune down...tune up. Nothing but static crashes and faint voices. You can't make anything out. Everything seems to be in order, filters configured for SSB. This is 40 meters, and you are on the lower sideband. "Oh well, I guess the band is dead".

So you tune back down to the CW sub band. Amazingly, as you move back to that CQ frequency, you must hear at least three ongoing QSOs along the way. Two of them are way to fast to make heads or tails, but one guy is sending slow enough that even YOU can copy a few of his characters. "Wow", you think. "I could do THAT!" You put the headphones on and lean back in your chair, close your eyes, and listen to the rhythm. You only know a handful of letters...S,O,C,Q....uh..uh...well SOS and CQ...but you are amazed that every time you hear these characters you immediately recognize them. "Hey, 26 letters in the alphabet, and I already know four!" You think to yourself, "Not bad."

My friend, you've just been bitten by the bug. There is a mystery behind all of those funny tones in the ether, and we've all found a childlike fascination with them at some point. You stand on the threshold of letting it be more than a fleeting interest. You have an opportunity before you to affiliate yourself with a tradition that has stood the test of time, and will stand strong many, many more years despite the actions of the Commission. Will you be just another op who jumps on board the sideband rollercoaster of QRM and static, or will you take the time to learn and develop a skill that will stay with you a lifetime?

This message is brought to you in hopes that you will consider the opportunities that CW brings. There is a large group of hams young and old whose only desire is to see the art and skill of telegraphy passed on for as long as it is feasible. Back before the FCC R&O, many of these folks seemed abrasive, but you must realize that they knew this day was coming but wanted nothing more than to delay it for as long as they could. Their desire is not to hold back deserving and ambitious hams that have much to offer. It never was. They simply seek to maintain the traditions which are the history of this hobby. They want to preserve and foster a mode of communication that they love and are proud to be a part of. Were their concerns and their motivations so unworthy?

Next time you fire up that brand new rig and hear the tell-tale music of Samuel Morse's creation, think about these things, and consider getting in touch with that fellow with the Vibroplex. I'm sure he'll be glad to invite you to his shack to show off his bug collection, and no doubt he'd be the first to take the time out to teach you those other 22 letters and some numbers to boot. Just think about it

[kg4ulp]

Nice article. I think it touches on the right reasons for operating in any mode - because you want to. I passed my 5 WPM a while ago and recently bought a paddle, but simply have not had the time to sit down and do enough CW regularly so that it sticks with me (and have yet to make a contact). This is a mode which requires practice! One of these days I'll get a code buddy and build up my confidence but in the meantime, my paddle beckons but gathers dust.

[n9jrn]

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif I don't normaly post on here but after reading your post I have to say bravo!!!!! I am so sick of The know code vs. no code fights it's unbelievable. your post has the perfect prospective, code will not die, not if we don't let it. I also think you are right about more people becoming interested now that it's not a requirement and they can just listen and pick it up asit comes instead of cramming for a test. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[KD5NCO]

I have been saying this for years but no where near as eloquently as Heath/KE5FRF just did.

Excellent post, Thanks!

This message is worth of cross posting into almost all the endless code--no code rambling rants and baiting....

Nice to know there are some like minded folks out there that have a pragmatic view of the changing world

It may take some time, but I predict S.P.A.R, and F.I.S.T.S. membership will be raising in part due to the new rules

There is a lot of fellowship, tradition, nostalgia, and old fashioned fun to be experienced as a Ham. I am very optimistic when I think about it from that perspective

[N0NCO]

Excellent article. Nice find....and great post.

73...

N0NCO

[KE5CCN]

Heath:
What a great post!!! Couldn't have said it better
myself. Looking forward to working you on HF very
soon.
JEFF
KE5CCN http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[kb2vxa]

Hi all,

I agree, a GREAT post that expresses the sentiments of myself and others. What a relief the pressure's off!

Isn't it a great incentive learning Morse code because you WANT to and not because you have to?

[wr1tx]

That was a great post, Heath. Finally a proper perspective on something that has been nothing short of imflammatory for a long time now. I couldn't have posted better myself.

[wb4dad]

Great Article Heath,

No Code or Know Code, CW will be with us for a while yet. There are thousands of Amateurs out there who still operate with a key in their fist, and would not have it any other way.

The FCC has not done away with Morse, only they have decided not to use it as a requirement anymore.

Needless to say, SSB is easier to use, but there is an awful lot of pride in the fists of those Ops who have been pounding brass for these many years.

I can almost hear them saying, "More room for me and my CW buddies, now that those in the CW portion of the band are there because they want to be."

Don't count those Ops out yet.

73.

Skip, WB4DAD FISTS # 12702

[w7auw]

Yup. What are you gonna use now for a filter to keep out the less than desireables? Longer harder tests that are already being talked about. Or do you think your golfcaddy really does need to stay on CB? Howya gonna keepum down on the farm now?

[KG4RUL]

Quote[/b] (ke7auw @ Dec. 27 2006,03:50)]Yup. What are you gonna use now for a filter to keep out the less than desireables? Longer harder tests that are already being talked about. Or do you think your golfcaddy really does need to stay on CB? Howya gonna keepum down on the farm now?
"less than desireables" - Seems to me I have read similar words in the writings of Adolph Hitler, Joseph Stalin and other stellar example of humanity. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

[w5met]

I think this post is great .. Yes I'm only a Tech but I love all modes of radio . I havre worked PSK31 CW and Phone on 6m have made a few contacts . I was the guy that could never get the time to sit down and get the code . I know I know most of you say YEA RIGHT but in this day and age I SPEND ALL ME SPARE time trying to make enough money to pay my bills ..the little bit I do have I wanted to enjoy my radio hobby is that a bad thing ? Now with the new rules coming I going for my upgrade yes ... But here is the thing

I live in a real bad area very heavey deed restrictions so any antennas I have need to be hidden so I get to work hard for all my calls ... ENTER CW who says I can not enjoy and take full advantage or the range CW will get for me just because i didn't pass the test and I CANT SEND and copy buy hand or ear http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif

Why not join all the other CW ops using the knolage I have with my computers ? Why is no one talking about this ?? I can get out there with all the other CW ops with my keyboard and my computer and I will and I know and I bet many will So the end of CW LOL I DONT THINK SO .. I think in the long run it's going to add CW opps I know I will be there ... Take care all and have a Great New Year

[ab8ma]

Heath,

I am not sure if you noticed, but you got a LOT of positive posts from folks who never posted here before, or have very low post counts. That alone shows what your article inspires.

Bravo.

[W9IND]

W5MET:

That's the spirit, OM. Even folks who are into 6 meter SSB can enhance their VUCC totals by knowing Mr. Morse's code. No reason to ignore all those helpful CW beacons when the sporadic E and/or aurora is rolling in.

Plus, if you're a small station, it's amazing how much more DX you can work if you dive into the dit-dah pileups. Less competition, y'know. And it's fun to do a contest or simply communicate (i.e., ragchew) in a "new" language.

As for the previous comment about keeping certain hams "down on the farm" ... hey, the war's over. So let's all come out of our Pacific Island caves and work together to make a great hobby even better. Surely we have more important things to do than settle petty scores that in the long run are irrelevant anyway.

73,
W9IND

P.S. Excellent article. And I'm a guy who writes for a living.

[w4nti]

Quote[/b] (KE5FRF @ Dec. 20 2006,06:22)]TITLE: "SO NOW YOU'RE HF-ACTIVE"

© Heath Roberts, KE5FRF
With permission granted by the author to distribute with appropriate intellectual credit.



"Wow, I never thought this day would come. The FCC finally flexed its regulatory muscle and notified the world that US Amateur Radio operators will no longer be required to pass a Morse code proficiency test to indulge in the world below 50 Mhz. What does this mean for ME?"

This is a fair an honest question that many Technician class amateurs will be faced with in the coming weeks and months as American hams learn to accept the end of a long standing tradition and the beginning of a new era. It is natural to be excited about the new privileges that you will be granted. You are eager to plan your new HF station, purchase some new gear, and maybe even erect a tower and directional antenna for that DX band you've been hearing such great things about. There is so much out there to do and be a part of, you don't know where to begin.

I can assure you, this is a road that everyone has traveled in their quest as an amateur operator, code or not. You'll be certain to receive the wise counsel of some older fellow who has more than a few tips to share. A friend who upgraded his license to General last year will offer his insight into propagation and techniques for busting a pile-up. The local club will be offering a class on operating procedures. No worries, for there is a lot of resources at your disposal. All you must do is display a willingness to learn.

As exciting as the news is for you and as eager as you are, you can't help but wonder what mode you will like the best. Everyone says that PSK-31 offers the most efficient use of the spectrum and can cut through a host of propagation conditions that other modes can't. You saw an Extra class ham on Field Day working a digital station and this was the mode he used. It was interesting and he sure looked like he was having fun, but it kind of reminded you of an internet chat room like QRZ.COM.

Your buddy, the guy who upgraded his license before the new rules, swears that SSB is the most fun mode. He barely squeaked by on his code test and never looked back. He regularly checks into the WAS nets and is close to his goal on 80 meters and already confirmed 40 meters. There certainly won't be a lack of new friends to make on phone. Hmm...Maybe this will become your favorite mode too.

But there's one other fellow who keeps showing up and offering you suggestions that make a lot of sense but you're just not sure if you have it in you. He's the local CW guru and he spent the last two years coaxing you to master the code before the requirement was dropped, but you failed to heed his advice. You know it is probably too late to learn it now, the new rules go into effect next week, but you must admit that with the "pressure" off the idea of casually studying the code is intriguing. You've read some stuff on the internet about colorful figures in the history of amateur radio and telegraphy like Hiram Percy Maxim and T.R. McElroy. You've watched your CW friend use his Blue Racer during a contest and were fascinated by his skills. You feel a certain connection to this storied tradition even when you tap out "SOS" on your desk with your index finger. What is stopping you from turning your years of procrastination into something you think might benefit you in the long run?

My friend the answer is simple. Nothing is stopping you, nothing at all except the same thing that hindered every CW op who ever "dit his first dah." Learning Morse code is a work in progress. It is an endeavor of achievement that has a certain beginning but no real end. No matter what skill level your CW associates may brag to possess, they all make mistakes and have plenty of room for improvement. Just knowing this should set your mind at ease and give you inspiration!

Yep, you finally got that new HF rig via UPS delivery. The tower isn't up yet, but you managed to hoist a coax fed dipole into the old oak tree in the back yard. You cut it for 40 meters in hopes that it will offer the most playing time at this point in the sunspot cycle. Everything is hooked up and ready to go.

Power "ON"....Shschshhhschhtishahshhi....Static. "Hmmm what frequency is that? Oh, out of band."....Zzschshizzz...dadidadit dadadidah...dadidadit dadadidah. Oh boy, you recognize that familiar sound. Someone is calling CQ in code. Well, at least you know your antenna and feed line are working ok. Tune up...tune down...tune up. Nothing but static crashes and faint voices. You can't make anything out. Everything seems to be in order, filters configured for SSB. This is 40 meters, and you are on the lower sideband. "Oh well, I guess the band is dead".

So you tune back down to the CW sub band. Amazingly, as you move back to that CQ frequency, you must hear at least three ongoing QSOs along the way. Two of them are way to fast to make heads or tails, but one guy is sending slow enough that even YOU can copy a few of his characters. "Wow", you think. "I could do THAT!" You put the headphones on and lean back in your chair, close your eyes, and listen to the rhythm. You only know a handful of letters...S,O,C,Q....uh..uh...well SOS and CQ...but you are amazed that every time you hear these characters you immediately recognize them. "Hey, 26 letters in the alphabet, and I already know four!" You think to yourself, "Not bad."

My friend, you've just been bitten by the bug. There is a mystery behind all of those funny tones in the ether, and we've all found a childlike fascination with them at some point. You stand on the threshold of letting it be more than a fleeting interest. You have an opportunity before you to affiliate yourself with a tradition that has stood the test of time, and will stand strong many, many more years despite the actions of the Commission. Will you be just another op who jumps on board the sideband rollercoaster of QRM and static, or will you take the time to learn and develop a skill that will stay with you a lifetime?

This message is brought to you in hopes that you will consider the opportunities that CW brings. There is a large group of hams young and old whose only desire is to see the art and skill of telegraphy passed on for as long as it is feasible. Back before the FCC R&O, many of these folks seemed abrasive, but you must realize that they knew this day was coming but wanted nothing more than to delay it for as long as they could. Their desire is not to hold back deserving and ambitious hams that have much to offer. It never was. They simply seek to maintain the traditions which are the history of this hobby. They want to preserve and foster a mode of communication that they love and are proud to be a part of. Were their concerns and their motivations so unworthy?

Next time you fire up that brand new rig and hear the tell-tale music of Samuel Morse's creation, think about these things, and consider getting in touch with that fellow with the Vibroplex. I'm sure he'll be glad to invite you to his shack to show off his bug collection, and no doubt he'd be the first to take the time out to teach you those other 22 letters and some numbers to boot. Just think about it
KE5FRF,

Congratulations on hitting it dead square on the head of the matter.

There is nothing at all I can add to your well thought out, non confrontational commentary.

May I suggest for those interested in hearing the true sound of old hand sent Morse Code, Give a listen on New Years Eve and Day. It is called Straight Key Net, SKN.

You will hear hand keys, Bugs, but NO KEYERS. Oh you can use one, but it won't be as much fun. And a lot of us drag out the Homebrew rigs and commercial gear from the 30's and later. Some of them don't chirp or drift. Wonder if you know what a chirp is? or a click?

The speeds are down there cuz it's tough running QRQ with a hand pump...hi. Some of the bug boys can make a keyer operator look like a Novice.

It's not a contest. It's fun. Give it a listen, and if you can't transmit there YET, there is always next year.

Welcome to real Ham Radio.

Dan/W4NTI

[w4nti]

Quote[/b] (kg4ulp @ Dec. 26 2006,15:07)]Nice article. I think it touches on the right reasons for operating in any mode - because you want to. I passed my 5 WPM a while ago and recently bought a paddle, but simply have not had the time to sit down and do enough CW regularly so that it sticks with me (and have yet to make a contact). This is a mode which requires practice! One of these days I'll get a code buddy and build up my confidence but in the meantime, my paddle beckons but gathers dust.
Do you commute to / from work? If it's a bit of a long trip then get a tape/CD and listen to that on the way.

Dan/W4NTI

[w4nti]

Quote[/b] (ke7auw @ Dec. 27 2006,07:50)]Yup. #What are you gonna use now for a filter to keep out the less than desireables? #Longer harder tests that are already being talked about. #Or do you think your golfcaddy really does need to stay on CB? #Howya gonna keepum down on the farm now?
It is UP TO US to Police and Instruct. FCC could care less what we do. AS LONG AS WE DON'T ANNOY THEM and CAUSE THEM EXTRA WORK. Get it?

ELMER the new comers, TRY NOT to be insulting when they slip with a ten four or come back. If it is obviously intended then they won't last long.

They will find Ham Radio is NOT their CUP OF TEA. They are outlaws and have no fun in a well kept front yard.

They will try and disrupt things on the bands, all that is really available during this period of the sunspot cycle is 20/40 and 80.....ALL populated with those that won't put up with it.

Dan/W4NTI

[w4nti]

Quote[/b] (w5met @ Dec. 27 2006,11:55)]I think this post is great .. Yes I'm only a Tech but I love all modes of radio . I havre worked PSK31 CW and Phone on 6m have made a few contacts . I was the guy that could never get the time to sit down and get the code . I know I know most of you say YEA RIGHT #but in this day and age I SPEND ALL ME SPARE time trying to make enough money to pay my bills ..the little bit I do have I wanted to enjoy my radio hobby is that a bad thing ? #Now with the new rules coming I going for my upgrade #yes ... But here is the thing

I live in a real bad area very heavey deed restrictions so any antennas I have need to be hidden so I get to work hard for all my calls ... ENTER CW #who says I can not enjoy and take full advantage or the range CW will get for me just because i didn't pass the test and I CANT SEND and copy buy hand or ear http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif

Why not join all the other CW ops using the knolage I have with my computers ? Why is no one talking about this ?? I can get out there with all the other CW ops with my keyboard and my computer and I will and I know and I bet many will So the end of CW LOL I DONT THINK SO .. I think in the long run it's going to add CW opps I know I will be there ... Take care all and have a Great New Year
Your missing a major point on CW my man. CW is a skill that one must master. It is a learning process, success makes you puff up a bit, be proud. Pass that test when others walk away.

Get on the air, use that hand key.....get major frustrated, do it some more... and more. Then suddenly you are actually in a conversation, and it is 13, 18, 20 WPM and you know that is impossible, you NEVER could do that. Wow....I'm not even sweating,,,I'm actually ENJOYING this.

Computers and readers are NOT the way to go.

If you actually work on your CW you will find this is true very soon.

Dan/W4NTI

[N2MMM]

I just hope that the newly upgraded hams enjoy themselves and obey the rules whether they choose to operate CW or not.

[W9IND]

W4NTI (and anybody else):

Regarding CW, you may be interested to know that during Museum Ships Weekend 2005, we put a special event station on the air that commemorated the U.S.S. Indianapolis Memorial in downtown Indy. (We operated in a building overlooking the memorial -- the ship itself, of course, was sunk during World War II, as anyone who watched the movie "Jaws" knows.)

Anyway, my point is that they borrowed my callsign for the operation, and my only request was to be the first operator. Since we were saluting a ship from World War II, I dragged out a straight key that was recovered from a downed German airplane in Finland. It was given to me by a Finnish man who wasn't into radio, but realized how much I would appreciate it (and I do). He said that as a kid, he and the other children of the neighborhood ran to the crashed plane and carted off everything they could carry ... and the key was his bounty.

So ... the first QSOs in the first-ever U.S.S. Indianapolis Memorial special event were made on a World War II straight key once used by the German air force. The key itself was a little tight, but it was still fun to be able to touch history while we were honoring it.

We plan to be back in 2007, so for anyone who'd like to work someone on a vintage key, you've been notified.

Just another fun aspect of CW -- the fact that you can operate via historic keys. I've even seen some old telegraphers' keys from the 19th century offered on eBay ... so take the challenge, new upgrades: Learn the dot-dash language for yourself and discover what possibilities await you.

[N2VR]

Bravo, well written.

I don't make a lot of CW contacts, have run a few CW contests and participated in a few Straight Key Nights (they're really fun!). The best reason I've found for knowing Morse is other country's licensing! Not all countries license like the US and to "talk" with those ops CW comes in real handy. For example, in Japan they license both the operator and the rig being used for particular modes at particular powers. A lot of Japanese hams live very close together in skyscraper apartments and are limited to low power on HF, so to get any DX they turn to code. Gotta tell you, having a 15 minute CW QSO with a teenager who's running 5W and is better than you at code is both a lot of fun and addicting! They seem to love it too, I have quite a pile of QSL cards saying THANK YOU!!!

In the midst of the last sunspot cycle this kind of contact was fairly regular; now not so, I haven't had a QRP contact from Japan all this year. But not to worry, the sunspots will come back and there's plenty of time to learn enough code to have lots of fun DXing! So put up that rhombic http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif and let's have fun!!!

73, Mike N2VR

[N5FOG]

Quote[/b] (ke7auw @ Dec. 26 2006,09:50)]Yup. What are you gonna use now for a filter to keep out the less than desireables? Longer harder tests that are already being talked about. Or do you think your golfcaddy really does need to stay on CB? Howya gonna keepum down on the farm now?
I'm still waiting for an answer about the conduct of the "less desirables" on 75 meters. If someone were to talk like those 75 meter clowns do on a local 2 meter repeater they would have people BEATING on their door.


Eric Kc5FOG

[W8TUZ]

Heath,

What a great post, thanks for saying what I have been thinking throughout every code vs nocode tirade I have suffered through.

I also noticed that you are a member of SPAR, use Echolink, as well as CW and I assume SSB. A well rounded ham, exploring all the modes that interest you.

You offer a fine example for many of us to emulate.

73!

[KE5FRF]

Quote[/b] (W8TUZ @ Dec. 29 2006,11:14)]Heath,

What a great post, thanks for saying what I have been thinking throughout every code vs nocode tirade I have suffered through.

I also noticed that you are a member of SPAR, use Echolink, as well as CW and I assume SSB. #A well rounded ham, exploring all the modes that interest you.

You offer a fine example for many of us to emulate.

73!
Tnk U

Well, I have tried several modes and each has something to offer. I like PSK-31 because of its weak signal capabilities. I like SSB now and then but mostly to catch DX...I do have an EchoLink node, but it is not set up at the moment. I have tried several modes but CW is the most fun for me. It is a challenge every day to push my capabilities.

Thanks to everyone who appreciates my article. I think this kind of thing needs to be said (and repeated) to heal the wounds and get everyone in the right frame of mind as the changes come in the next few months.

[W9WHE]

N2MMM writes:


"I just hope that the newly upgraded hams enjoy themselves and obey the rules whether they choose to operate CW or not".

Well, if they are "newly upgraded" (because they never learned CW) its a safe bet they will not be operating CW, don't you think?

+++++++++++++

KE7AUW writes:

"What are you gonna use now for a filter to keep out the less than desireables".

Why bother? Why not eliminate ALL testing? Let EVERYBODY in, with full privileges. Why discriminate?

[K7JEM]

Quote[/b] (W9WHE @ Dec. 29 2006,11:05)]N2MMM writes:


"I just hope that the newly upgraded hams enjoy themselves and obey the rules whether they choose to operate CW or not".


Well, if they are "newly upgraded" (because they never learned CW) its a safe bet they will not be operating CW, don't you think?
A person can know code, and have never passed the test. Also, some of those new upgrades, or techs, will certainly try keyboard CW. So, there are bound to be some "no code" hams enjoying CW after the new rules take effect.

Most of the new upgrades probably won't operate CW, but some will. And of that number, some will eventually become good CW ops.

Joe

[KE5FRF]

Quote[/b] ]Well, if they are "newly upgraded" (because they never learned CW) its a safe bet they will not be operating CW, don't you think?

Your logic escapes me. It is my hope IN FACT that newly upgraded hams after the R&O goes into effect WILL learn CW and OPERATE CW despite not HAVING to learn it. A choice now rather than a requirement. That was the whole point of this article, OM...I hope you can see that now.

Please, if one thread can be saved from becoming a shouting match/debate, this one would be it (I would hope). This article was designed to point out that the FCC made its decision, nothing can change it, and we must all find a way to live with it. The cup can be viewed as half empty or half full. I prefer to see it as half full with opportunities for new hams to learn and appreciate CW still out there as long as an Elmer is available to share his knowledge. The R&O does not have to signal the demise of Morse Code.

[W9WHE]

KE5FRF writes:

"It is my hope IN FACT that newly upgraded hams after the R&O goes into effect WILL learn CW and OPERATE CW despite not HAVING to learn it".


You think that people that were too lazy to learn code when the insentive was HF operation, will suddenly learn code when there is NO longer any insentive to do so? I'm afraid your logic escapes me.

99% of "no-code Generals" will never learn 5 WPM of code.
Techs that were too lazy to learn code WITH insentive (HF operation) are far LESS likely to learn CW now that there is no longer any insentive. Its just basic human nature.

[KE5FRF]

Quote[/b] (W9WHE @ Dec. 29 2006,15:08)]KE5FRF writes:

"It is my hope IN FACT that newly upgraded hams after the R&O goes into effect WILL learn CW and OPERATE CW despite not HAVING to learn it".


So you think that people that were too lazy to learn code when the insentive was HF operation, will suddenly learn code when there is NO longer any insentive to do so? I'm afraid your logic escapes me.

If people were too lazy to learn code when the reward was HF operation, I think it highly unlikely that they will suddenly say.... ghee whiz, I think I will now put forth the effort.
OM, you may in fact be correct. But I will give you an example. My daddy was very strict growing up and would put a lot of pressure on me to learn things that he tried to teach me. It might be the mechanics of an automobile, riding a bicycle, plumbing, carpentry...whatever. The pressure was there and it was sometimes counterproductive to MY OWN DESIRE TO EXCEL. We often see this with kids who rebel against their parents demands and go 180 degrees from the guidance of their parents. Now, TODAY, I do mechanical work for a living and have excelled further than my father ever dreamed with my career. It was my own initiative without outside expectation that propelled me. Amateur radio is an avocation, not a profession, and I strongly suspect that not all entry level licensees are LAZY, but rather did not see the ends (HF access) justifying the means (CW proficiency)...Now that the pressures are off, and they will be permitted access to the spectrum, they will get a taste of CW. Many Technicians out there have never invested in HF equipment, so have had little or no exposure to the reliability and pervasiveness of CW on the bands. Once they get a new radio and a piece of wire in the air, my gut feeling is that some will be mystified by those tones in the ether and want to learn it BECAUSE THE CAN, not because they have to.

No, I don't think it will be record numbers, but there will certainly be some who will.

In fact, I am becoming more convinced that we will see a surge of new CW ops on the bands learning code, however small.

But you are free to have your pessimistic opinion, and undoubtedly one of us will be correct, and one of us will be wrong. I think we can both agree that my optimism might be naive, but better to be optimistic and ulcer-free than be negative and have an upset stomach.

What's done is done. The FCC made its decision, it will soon be law. Here's a half-full glass of water, be my guest to drink and be merry.

[KC8YXA]

Thank You Your One Of The Few That Has Made Not Only Me But A Lot Of Others Feel Welcome.
Very Nice Posting I Learned More Reading Your Post Than Any That Have Come Befor It .
I Would Like To Try PSK-31 It Sounds Like A Mode I Would Like To Try. I Sure Hope Someday We Get To Hookup On 10M....

Thank You

[n7spy]

More Elmering, less whining. Thanks, Heath.:)

[N5FOG]

Quote[/b] (W9WHE @ Dec. 28 2006,15:08)]KE5FRF writes:

"It is my hope IN FACT that newly upgraded hams after the R&O goes into effect WILL learn CW and OPERATE CW despite not HAVING to learn it".


You think that people that were too lazy to learn code when the insentive was HF operation, will suddenly learn code when there is NO longer any insentive to do so? I'm afraid your logic escapes me.

99% of "no-code Generals" will never learn 5 WPM of code.
Techs that were too lazy to learn code WITH insentive (HF operation) are far LESS likely to learn CW now that there is no longer any insentive. Its just basic human nature.
I agree with FRF, there are allot of things in life that people will be more receptive to learn and become proficient at if they are not being forced to learn it. Just like when the new generals and extras get on HF, they will keep hearing CW stations and they will get a drive to learn CW, especially if they become DX chasers.

The HF incentive didn’t work for several reasons. First allot of hams really didn’t know what the incentive was / didn’t know what they were missing because they never got a chance or opportunity to experience HF. You can say “Its HF, you can talk all over the world” they will say big deal I can do that on my local repeater with IRLP. They don’t know the thrill of sitting there calling CQ and hearing the crackle of the static and then that DX station coming in just over the static.

The other reason the “incentive” didn’t work is people resented being forced to learn CW; it had nothing to do with being lazy. They resented being forced to learn a MODE they have no interest in at all to get HF access, they felt the means did not justifying the ends, and some honestly couldn’t learn CW and that just increased the resentment.

What’s going to happen is there will be fewer operators that passed a code receiving test on HF. BUT on the flip side this will end up generating more code PROFICIANT hams on HF. Instead of having the 5wpm guy that was forced to learn code tapping away on the DX window you will have code ops who are truly interested in learning code and will push themselves to 20+ wpm.

The hidden issue that I see is that the CW op’s seem to be worried that if we don’t continue to force people to learn CW that they soon won’t have anyone to have a CW QSO with or even that CW will die off.

Now with the removal of the testing requirement, CW will have to survive on its own merits. If the old timers and die hard CW ops are so concerned with its survival they should do stuff to help promote it without forcing it on people. Human nature is the more you force someone they more they rebel. What’s the old saying by stick or by carrot, you can force someone to do a job but the job they will do isn’t going to be worth a crap, but if they want to do the job the quality will be much better, and CW is no different.


Eric Kc5Fog

[w4nti]

Quote[/b] (Kc5fog @ Dec. 30 2006,08:02)]Quote[/b] (W9WHE @ Dec. 28 2006,15:08)]KE5FRF writes:

"It is my hope IN FACT that newly upgraded hams after the R&O goes into effect WILL learn CW and OPERATE CW despite not HAVING to learn it".


You think that people that were too lazy to learn code when the insentive was HF operation, will suddenly learn code when there is NO longer any insentive to do so? # I'm afraid your logic escapes me.

99% of "no-code Generals" will never learn 5 WPM of code.
Techs that were too lazy to learn code WITH insentive (HF operation) are far LESS likely to learn CW now that there is no longer any insentive. Its just basic human nature.
I agree with FRF, there are allot of things in life that people will be more receptive to learn and become proficient at if they are not being forced to learn it. Just like when the new generals and extras get on HF, they will keep hearing CW stations and they will get a drive to learn CW, especially if they become DX chasers.

The HF incentive didn’t work for several reasons. First allot of hams really didn’t know what the incentive was / didn’t know what they were missing because they never got a chance or opportunity to experience HF. You can say “Its HF, you can talk all over the world” they will say big deal I can do that on my local repeater with IRLP. They don’t know the thrill of sitting there calling CQ and hearing the crackle of the static and then that DX station coming in just over the static.

The other reason the “incentive” didn’t work is people resented being forced to learn CW; it had nothing to do with being lazy. They resented being forced to learn a MODE they have no interest in at all to get HF access, they felt the means did not justifying the ends, and some honestly couldn’t learn CW and that just increased the resentment.

What’s going to happen is there will be fewer operators that passed a code receiving test on HF. BUT on the flip side this will end up generating more code PROFICIANT hams on HF. Instead of having the 5wpm guy that was forced to learn code tapping away on the DX window you will have code ops who are truly interested in learning code and will push themselves to 20+ wpm.

The hidden issue that I see is that the CW op’s seem to be worried that if we don’t continue to force people to learn CW that they soon won’t have anyone to have a CW QSO with or even that CW will die off.

Now with the removal of the testing requirement, CW will have to survive on its own merits. If the old timers and die hard CW ops are so concerned with its survival they should do stuff to help promote it without forcing it on people. Human nature is the more you force someone they more they rebel. What’s the old saying by stick or by carrot, you can force someone to do a job but the job they will do isn’t going to be worth a crap, but if they want to do the job the quality will be much better, and CW is no different.


Eric Kc5Fog
I hope your right. But I seriously doubt CW will ever go away. Example...I'm on 160 meters right now 5.39 CST in the evening of Saturday, Dec 30. There is a contest going. It's called the Stew Perry. In honor of a Great CW/Top Band man.

Purpose is to work Grids, and the further the better.

It is absolutely full of CW operators doing their thing.

And even 80 is going strong, and there ain't no contest there.

Dan/W4NTI

[W9IND]

I'm not terribly worried about CW's survival, with or without a promotional effort by CW-proficient hams. There are still plenty of uses for it, including beacon IDs, plus it's even possible to have CW QSOs without ever knowing the code -- using a keyboard instead of a key. Hey, whatever works, I say.

Also, for ops with low power or low budgets, there's plenty of DX to be worked on CW, even if you're limited to only a few watts and are battling marginal conditions.

However, I honestly can't say I sympathize with anybody who resented having to learn CW "because it was a mode they weren't interested in." Sheesh, when I was 15 and studying for my Novice test without an Elmer in sight, I found Morse code plenty easier to learn than a lot of complex radio theory that I was often reading about for the first time. With the code, I merely had to memorize about 50 characters, but a person could study radio theory all his life and never learn half of it.

Point being: Back then I could have made the same argument -- "Why do I have to learn theory ... I'm not going to repair any radios; I just want to buy one and plug it in." And you have to admit, in this day and age, that argument is even more compelling that it used to be. Few people build their own rigs from scratch anymore, so one could argue that the only things hams really need to know are the FCC rules and regulations (including frequencies).

Don't get me wrong: I'm not making the argument that we should eliminate theory from the tests. I'm just pointing out that a person who finds theory difficult or uninteresting could make the same argument that's been used against Morse code ... and it would have just as much merit.

Sure, it's always better to know theory, but don't tell me a guy with a few bucks couldn't pay somebody to set up his rig and put up his antenna. He could then spend years on the air without ever having to bother knowing Ohm's Law or anything of the kind. And under those circumstances, as long as he operated within the rules, who could argue that he really needed to know theory?

So ... let's face it, sometimes we have to learn things that we're not interested in if we want the privileges that accompany this "useless" knowledge. And I've never seen a test yet -- whether it was for driving a car or operating a radio -- that covered only the subjects that I cared about.

[VK5TRE]

Finally, those in authority are recognizing that not everyone (despite the popular amateur myth) can learn the code and acheive reasonable speeds. I put in an hour every night for nine months and only ever got to 5wpm. My daughter who was in the Australian Navy before they eliminated code, was a 30wpm operator, and during her induction testing for Comms officer, they rejected nearly 50% of applicants as being incapable of learning good code. So much for the nonsense that everybody can learn. Just an indicator for those who are having trouble. If you naturally keep time in music on the off beat (which I and a significant percentage of the population do), then you are in trouble and low speeds are probably your fate..........but if you can find someone(anyone?) on the bands who will slow down, then you can fool around...........VK5JST

[KD5NCO]

600,000 +/- currently licensed Amateur radio operators in the USA

about 50% are code tested Tech + and above and the rest are non code trained and tested Technicians like me...why we do or do not want to learn code is irrelevant....now

What is relevant is how many of the rest of the USA population will gravitate to Ham radio and how many of the current Technicians will study and pass the general or extra exams.

All discussion about what the benefit of testing for CW and International Morse code at 5WPM by ear receive only is now MOOT! #The Fat Lady has sung...the other shoe dropped, and from Early Feb 2007 on into the future, no citizen in the USA will ever again have to prove a CW Morse code talent to get a Amateur Radio license. #That is only fact, not gloat or angst...simply a fact.

The case you might make that folks like me did not get off our asses to learn the code are a bunch of lazy whiners is always going to be in some minds. #So what...nothing we can ever do or say will ever change that.

I know that the many Amateurs/Hams really don't give a damn either way as long as the newer Amateurs behave, try to use their new found privilege with the proper perspective, and energy, and stay within the rules.

Heath started a grand topic... this thread is all about tomorrow and seeks to build a bridge to bring all classes of Hams together for the good of the Service and the enjoyment of a grand adventure.

He can see where there are opportunities every day to expose the new members to a mode that may enthrall some and intrigue others. He hopes that many will be curious enough to learn and get good at CW. I think he is spot on and I bet in the next 10 years he is personally responsible for some of the increases in FISTS and SPAR membership that I predict will happen.

Nothing in his well written musings suggest that all future Amateurs must experience CW and Morse code to be "real" Hams.

Many of you should relax and accept that some number of us can find what ever levels of personal enjoyment in this Avocation, Hobby, Service as we see fit within our own desires, expectations, budgets, and other family or personal freedoms or limitations.

I know Amateurs who spend every waking hour next to a radio as their only contact with the world outside of their medically managed living arrangment... they love to chat and reminisce with any soul who will answer the CQ...

Some of them prefer CW and many are only going to put down the microphone when they pass from this world...One fellow I know has zero electronic ability, never did never will... I would never presume to think of him as any less a man or an Amateur because of that limitation...he is just a fellow soul trying to enjoy his life.

I rather enjoy checking in on him now and then even though my grandma has passed and I have no real need to be there. #Occasionally I check in, drop off a few copies of CQ, QST, BS with him a bit then excuse myself to get back to my work. #

This man has never ever used a computer and is entirely free of these meanderings and #musings. #I told him about the FCCs final decision..he grinning response was ..."About GD time! That stupid test about kept me from getting on HF and the ass holes on the local repeaters were driving me batty with their mind numbing crap about the traffic"

Then he says... "got a secret for you Fred, lots of old farts like me out there just want to talk with old friends and could care less about nothing else. I bet they con a bunch of their buddies to get on the air and join the round tables".

The 600K+ Amateurs in America come from every cross section of social, racial, religious, economic or any other descriptive way to categorize folks...we have extremely smart, bright, and enthusiastic and we have dirt poor, mediocre, physically or mentally challenged folks and everything in between...

Some have caught the Satellite bug and think that is just to coolest thing there is, others have the means to drag a whole bunch of equipment to the top of a mountain , wait for their friend to get to the top of another peak and try to establish a new world record for 10Ghz QSO if the damned weather will cooperate. While down in the valley is a husband and wife scratching their heads about the latest wind storm that pretzeled their intricate 4X4 22 element long boom 2m EME array

For many, CW opens up vast new horizons to explore...for others parking on some daily 75 meter or 40 meter SSB frequency and BSing all day long with another friend that has bigger and better lies is the ultimate way to spend his or her time.

As long as there are optimistic folks like Heath there is a chance for the ARS to survive well into the future

[N2MMM]

Quote[/b] (KD5NCO @ Dec. 30 2006,21:39)]I think he is spot on and I bet in the next 10 years he is personally responsible for some of the increases in FISTS and SPAR membership that I predict will happen.
I plan to operate manual Morse and there's NO WAY in#$@&#*& that I'd join either organization.

[KI4IOV]

I'm one of those "lazy" no-code techs. I've been "lazy" for 30 years -- the code requirement has kept me out of ham radio for that long. I do plan to learn Morse, but haven't found the time (or an Elmer) to get it done. Now I don't have to -- I can continue to be "lazy" and just pass my Extra exam at the next testing date. My laziness has finally paid off! Now I can get below 50 MHz without a code test!

Is it a practice of US hams to INSULT potential new hams as a matter of course? I have tried over and over to learn to code for 30 years without success. I'm not sure why - Morse is hard for me, I've a busy work schedule, a home, wife and 5 kids to raise & support, hell, I'm BUSY. Given that I am clearly "lazy", why would you want ME in ham radio? I'm too LAZY to learn Morse. Well, you snooty "lazy no-code" types can go pee up a rope!

I BUILD my own gear because that's what I like to do to relax. Electronics is my hobby even if it's no longer my profession. Now I can spend my time learning theory and design techniques instead of learning Morse. I am a computer engineer and love digital modes (of which CW is one!) and you can bet your straight key that I'll be working you on CW, if only to hear your reaction when I send that I'm a no-code Extra!

Look, I understand the elitism of "I had to do this, so everyone else has to as well, or they aren't as good as me". I don't agree with it, I think it's silly, but I understand it. Elitism aside, in case you've forgotten, the license tests aren't exactly rubber-stamps. I studied hard for my Tech exam, as I will study hard for my Extra. I know something about radios, antennas and RF propagation. I know a bit about electronics in general and radios in particular. I did *WORK* for my ticket, and I will *WORK* for my upgrade. True, I won't pass a code test but that won't necessarily make me less of a Ham, will it?

Lighten up, people! The Decision has been made, no code is the law of the land -- deal with it. There are lots of hams like me who won't or can't learn code. My ham co-workers (all both of them) encouraged me to "memorize" the code just to get on HF so I could use voice and digital modes. You Morse afficianados know memorizing Morse isn't really usable - it's just a way around the code requirement. What good is that? How does that help me become a "real" ham? I don't think it does.

While I have no first-hand knowledge, I keep hearing references to 75M phone as an example of "undesirables" getting ham tickets; I'd like to remind everyone that said "undesirables" PASSED A CODE TEST. Why not wait and see, people? How can MORE people involved in ham radio be a bad thing? Judge us no-code hams by what we do and say ON THE AIR before deciding we're all a bunch of lazy, no-good, CB-class bums.

73 de KI4IOV

[KD5NCO]

N2MMM.... let go that angst brother... your and my "on QRZ battles" with some of their members need to end.

If you do or do not join either organization is not important... your angst with them only radiates from your few experiences with a very few of the folks here on the QRZed that argued with you these last five years...

Fundamentally both organizations are honorable and well intentioned sub-entities within the entire world of America's Amateur Radio Service. They are no better or worse then the AMSAT, SKYWARN, ARRL, NCI, VEC, ARES, RACES, TAPR, or any other sub group that fosters a niche use and view.

Within each of these sub-groups are extraordinary folks who you would enjoy being associated with. Conversely there are always the arrogant and self important butt heads that you would never choose to agree with much less associate with....that is life in America and it is not limited to our country or Avocation, Hobby, Service...

I meet the same narrow minded folks at work, or in my Radio Controlled model hobby, my motorcycle groups, and at the Church!

There is an argument for being a "Member" of an orginazation even if you are at odds with some of the members or general policies. #For example, I choose to be an ARRL member a group I highly disagree with on many issues. I have to spend a fair amount of energy studying several issues and communicating with my section manager and every body up the chain from him letting them know my views and ideas.

I doubt I will ever be a FISTS or SPAR member. But not because of the personalities within those orginazation I met here on the QRZed...Rather I am simply too busy to be active in any more associations then I already devote time to. #However, that is just me... I believe that being a Member of any fraternal orginazation requires some effort and envolvment in that orginazation's activities.

I humbly suggest you let go of the anger you hold for the hateful and unfair BS you were subjected to these last few years and move on. Life is much too short to hold onto anger that is never going to be erased...none of the folks who slighted you is ever going to come on here and apologise...

Take #some comfort that many many people worked long and hard to convince the ITU to drop the international requirement. Here in the U.S.A. dozens of old school, code tested, ARS folks in the ARRL, NCI, and the VECs worked hard to present the petitions and opinions to the FCC who eventually decided the matter in our favor.

Ham radio is dramatically changed...it is now up to all of us to make sure that change is really for the better...you, I and thousands others have a large role to play in the future of the ARS... continued infighting serves no good purpose

[W9IND]

You got it, Fred. I'm not sure why the word "lazy" has suddenly started coming up in the conversation, but it's not a word I've used or would use. My only point in my previous post was to note that some people have more aptitude for theory, while others (such as yours truly) have always found the code easier to learn.

So be it. There's no point in continuing this code/no code Civil War any further. I've seen lots of cheap shots in both directions, but there's nothing to "win" here other than an easier path to an upgrade. And now that the FCC has made that possible, why are we still debating anything?

My suggestion to code fans (of which I'm one) is to encourage people to try it -- not because they have to, but because it's fun. And even if they're not interested in it, lose the attitude that anyone who didn't learn code is unworthy. Far better to work with newcomers -- whatever their interests -- and gently help them learn the HF ropes. Hey, buy or donate a General Class study guide to a long-time Tech and say, "C'mon, I know you can do it."

My suggestion to those who detest code is to not let the attitudes of a few loudmouths affect your feelings about CW itself. There's no sense in saying, "I'll never try CW after the way some of those idiots acted," because you're blaming the mode for the actions of certain individuals.

Far better to channel these longstanding grudges into energy. Veterans, I suggest Elmering and encouraging the newcomers to upgrade to General and Extra and join in the HF fun.

And newcomers, I suggest using your energy to become the best amateurs you can be. Then, when it's all said and done, you'll have the satisfaction of looking back at the doubters and saying, "See? You were wrong about me."

73 and Happy New Year,
Brian, W9IND

[kc9djp]

Very Nice post Heath. Although being an active reader of the posts on this site, I can't help but notice that even the sincerest of posts will bring out the "Debbie Downers" of the hobby. I would hope that those who wish to spew sarcastic, unintelligible candor, will at least use some refrain when a newly licensed ham makes their first CQ request.

[KD5NCO]

Brian, W9IND

Thanks and I agree

With only 100 or so posts, but a "joined" date back in 2001 here on QRZ, I would have assumed you would know where the "Lazy" crapola got started. Thus, this from you is simply a curiosity

"I'm not sure why the word "lazy" has suddenly started coming up in the conversation, but it's not a word I've used or would use."

There is a smallish group who think that all younger generation folks are looking for a free ride.

This is true of some, but it manifestly unfair to assume ALL are lazy, dumbed down, and looking for a hand out.

The fact that our population is as large as it is, and we are as affluent as we are, has caused some segments of our society to behave very selfishly with an tendency to a lot of "me first" attitude.

This is a sad fact of life these days and we could debate why for 30 years and never agree, or solve the problem.

I personally think that a highly mobile society and television advertising, coupled with a government that wants to relieve folks of personal responsibility, has eroded the core of our society and diluted our personal values to dangerously low levels.

The folks here that tagged ALL no-code test advocates as "Lazy" painted with way too broad a brush and in the doing caused a LOT of hurt and anger.

[W9IND]

KD5NCO:

Good points, and I appreciate you filling me in on where the "lazy" tag came from. I was concerned that some people had misinterpreted my earlier comments.

If I read you right, I'm pretty much where you are on this. I think personal responsibility and altruistic behavior is on the downswing in our society for a variety of reasons that I'll not bring up here.

However, as someone who got his license at 15, I'd be the last one to take a potshot at the young people who are getting their licenses in the 21st century. I've met a lot of sharp, motivated kids, and regardless of whether their "entrance exam" was as tough as mine, I'd rather spend my energy working with them (and trying to help them upgrade) than channeling it into my mouth and fingertips, so to speak.

And as I said, to those who feel that they've been unfairly labeled "lazy," my advice is to move on with your life, pass the General or Extra exam and start having even more fun with your hobby. (Better yet, learn CW and show 'em you had it in you all along.)

In any case, I learned a long time ago (from frequenting certain portions of 80 meters) that it's a waste of your quality time to get into endless debates with narrow-minded people. You might as well argue with a drunk.

[kc0kbc]

Quote[/b] (N2MMM @ Dec. 28 2006,18:24)]I just hope that the newly upgraded hams enjoy themselves and obey the rules whether they choose to operate CW or not.
I think you'll find that we came to this avocation with a strong desire to do honor to it, not because we're looking for something to ruin. Although it's been 30 years since I touched a CB rig, I'll be amazed if you EVER hear a 10-4 or any of that carp. Rest assured; us new guys won't tolerate rule breaking or disrespect any more than anyone else.

It's truly a great article. Several other NCT's I know came into the hobby expecting to learn code, and we all still expect to learn code, and not because anyone tells us we should; and not just to the 5wpm level, but to real proficiency. My "Day One" was yesterday. Yes, I've already purchased an HF rig - which I intend to do nothing with but listen and learn for a very long time.

73 and Happy New Year to all of you!

Mike,
KC0KBC

[KD5NCO]

W9IND

Well said..all I can add is...EXACTLY!

It's pretty funny that since the R&O was announced more people are buying code learning software...or then...more code learning software is being sold than previously...uh...yeah...probably those who want to destroy any last vestiges of something they would never use. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

I bet this is going to be a geographical thing...pretty much like much else of this hobby. I personally know some young folks who just passed their NCT exams and are very interested in learning Morse code. My guess is now that it soon will not be a requirement many of those who didn't want to learn it will change their minds and learn it because they want to and not because they have to.

Anyway you look at it...ham radio is a changin' folks. The naysayers will say it is for the worse. But all they do...is talk about it. They could be out DOING something about it and lending their expertise and knowledge to make better the areas they think have gone to pot.

Reminds me of the TV commercial where someone missed the trash can and a bunch of people stand around gawking at the trash on ground and just talking about it. Along comes someone else, picks up the trash and puts it in the receptacle. That's what we need to do. Kind of a poor analogy but I think the point is made.

Larch, Elm, Oak, Maple, Walnut, Spruce, Pine
(Seven Trees)
to all.

[k8pg]

GIVE IT A BREAK THE HORSE HAS BEEN DEAD FOR 2 WKS!!! GETTING KIND OF RANCID -THE SKY HAS NOT FALLEN THE CODE IS STILL THERE-JUST LISTEN TO SKN RIGHT NOW-YOU FOLKS THAT DO NOT WANT TO KNOW CODE SO BE IT:p MORE ROOM FOR US CW DXERS AND RAGCHEWERS:) GET OVER IT! TIMES CHANGE AND NOTHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT THE WANT SOMETHING FOR NOTHING CROWD AND THE SO CALLED I CANT DO IT CROWD! AND THE OTs

PAUL-K8PG CW STILL LIVES AND ALWAYS WILL!http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

But we're ham radio operators and we like beating dead horses into pulp. That way no live animals get harmed in the making of the movie that will soon be out. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[KD5NCO]

K8PG



<table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td>Code Sample </td></tr><tr><td id="CODE">Why are you shouting?[/QUOTE]

[KC0YEF]

It was the Best of times / Worst of times.
For everything there is a SEASON...

I have had fun learning the code and had I instead just studied the General material I would already have taken the test again I missed it by three when I took my Tech Last Year, but the code for years has been a barrier for me for several reasons...which I will spare you.

0h I love to listen to a CW QSO on my old, Viking II and TS-820S. The warmth of those tubes and depth of Audio fidelity is astouding, I also get almost the same feeling on my OLD TS-940SAT.

But then that warm feeling passes and the cold reality of listening to sporadic letters comes in and spoils my fun I am up to 17 letters in 6 months but I will learn them all eventually.

With the ever plumeting price of used HF gear, and NO-Code HF operators you old-timers have a new challenge!!!

Make more slow code Nets to check into!!!

I love to listen but sending code is where THE learning curve will finally be in my favor for me to truly learn this Venereable and Noble language... But like any language of antiquity we must "use it or loose it" and Spectrum is expensive so the FCC might have been a lot harsher by simply taking the CW frequencys and selling them. They are worth a fortune!

So I know for sure that I will be enjoying my new hf frequencies and I also will take my General test in a couple months so we can talk about it some more.

73
James

[K4JF]

I'll tell you a true story that will really get the NCI crowd's knickers in a knot!

I had a young man in my shack yesterday. He is extremely tech-savvy, just finished college with a computer degree - (his Christmas gift was a device that lets him watch his home Tivo from anywhere via his laptop or PDA, just to give you an idea). Really with-it guy. He was positively impressed with my station, enjoyed seeing the QSLs from all over, and descriptions of the various equipment. Asked some pretty sharp questions about antennas and such. PSK31 and the lack of infrastructure it needed was intriguing to him, especially watching the signals on the waterfall.

But what really brought some interest was when I tuned into the CW portion of 40M (it was late) and was telling him what the CW ops were saying. "That's cool!" he said. Over and over he wanted to know where they were and what they were saying!

No bull!

[n0klu]

The NCI crowd as you put it, applauds your efforts to encourage someone to learn CW. They aren't against the use of CW it was against the "TESTING" only. At least that is what the preamble says, Quote[/b] ]What we believe. We want to make a few points crystal clear:

1. NCI is not opposed to manual Morse code operation. But Morse code is just another mode and should not be afforded any special priority over others. It is available to those who wish to use it. Morse proficiency should not be required for those who do not wish to use the mode.
2. Manual radiotelegraphy communications has been superceded by more modern, reliable, accurate, faster and efficient means of communication.
3. Requiring manual telegraphy proficiency is not compatible with the radio amateur's mandated objective of contributing to the advancement of the radio art.
4. No evidence exists that Morse proficiency is an indicator of a desirable, motivated or better qualified operator.
5. The Morse code requirement serves as an advancement barrier to many otherwise qualified individuals.
6. The value of Morse code communications in the Amateur Service is primarily recreational in nature and manual telegraphy proficiency should no longer be a compulsory licensing requirement for any class of Amateur Radio license.

Read the entire article at No Code International, web site (http://www.nocode.org/)

[KE4YGS]

Greetings

Ney year and new member here. #I am currently studying for my General exam upon my return to the U.S. in a couple of weeks. #I remember as a child in the 50-60s that a neighbor first showed me CW and a homebrew rig he had built. #I was all enthused and wide eyed about being able to talk to people so far away. #He told me it took some study and wasn't easy but that I could do it in a summer vacation.

Well I didnt become a ham then but he had inspired me into a lifelong career of electronics. #It has been a decent lving. #Navy taught me Vacum Tube theory in the 60s and then commercial companies brought me on board with solid state and digital info. #Satellites have become my field. #I did the Technician llicense late in life but I did enjoy the 2M repeater scene.

As my own dad was passing I was the in home care agent and a local (to them) repeater had 2M evening code practice sessions which I became a part of. #I actually picked it up and did my Novice requirement almost without thinking about it. #Now I was Tech+. #I reniewed and they sent me back a Tech with no (+) on the license. #I didnt even notice it until the last month.

Recently I have met up with a bunch of hams on line who are studying the code just out of interest. #I got into the on line clique and am now anxious to try out CW as a mode on HF. #I am prepped for the Genral Element 3 exam and hopefully will be able to hold a QSO in CW soon.

I guess everyone has a tale to tell but I found that CW is not the painful tooth pulling experience it was always touted to be. #Looking back, I saw Navy Radiomen learning 18+ WPM at 18 years old, so it can't be too hard. #

Well so far I am looking back looking at what I have missed for the lack of just a little bit of effort. #I don't learn anything fast, I have to work harder than most to learn even simple things, but I find code is not super human. #I enjoy it and look forward to using it on the air soon.

I was always afraid of the requirement, and just assumed I could'nt do it. #The truth is its fun, learning it is fun too. #Oh so its not a requirement now, it is still fun and I have loads of plans in mind for setting up my HF station. #Hope to find some slow speed fists out there to contact and grow with. #Whether its a requirement or not, I am going to continue to learn it and use it, simply because I want to and its fun. #

Nobody is twisting my arm and I don't have to do it, yet here I am ready for the kickoff. #My new Years Resolution is Element 3 in January, no later than February. #Hope to meet any of you banging a key on the air.

Somebody please point me to an old TS-430Sat or other decent used HF rig. #hahahahah

Scotty

[W9IND]

As far as the tech-savvy kids, I find it hilarious (in a positive, delightful way) that some of them are talking about buying Morse code-reading software.

While I think they'd have more fun learning it -- and probably many of them will -- I love the fact that a person can communicate in CW with a computer ... and be able to send, receive, DX and ragchew with it ... without knowing one letter of Morse code. And it doesn't bother me in the least that they might use CW in this manner.

Why? Because I enjoy the "music" of Morse code, and I'd much rather hear the bands full of computer-sent CW than dead silence. (Is it really that much worse than sending CW on a keyer as opposed to pounding brass?)

My point is, the times they are a-changin', and just as Internet DX spots, recorded CQs and logging software didn't destroy contesting, Morse code-reading software won't end CW as we know it. In fact, it might even make CW more popular.

So ... whatever works, I say. Go for it.

[ad4mg]

Quote[/b] (n0klu @ Jan. 02 2007,11:44)]The NCI crowd as you put it, applauds your efforts to encourage someone to learn CW. They aren't against the use of CW it was against the "TESTING" only. At least that is what the preamble says, Quote[/b] ]What we believe. We want to make a few points crystal clear:

1. NCI is not opposed to manual Morse code operation. But Morse code is just another mode and should not be afforded any special priority over others. It is available to those who wish to use it. Morse proficiency should not be required for those who do not wish to use the mode.
2. Manual radiotelegraphy communications has been superceded by more modern, reliable, accurate, faster and efficient means of communication.
3. Requiring manual telegraphy proficiency is not compatible with the radio amateur's mandated objective of contributing to the advancement of the radio art.
4. No evidence exists that Morse proficiency is an indicator of a desirable, motivated or better qualified operator.
5. The Morse code requirement serves as an advancement barrier to many otherwise qualified individuals.
6. The value of Morse code communications in the Amateur Service is primarily recreational in nature and manual telegraphy proficiency should no longer be a compulsory licensing requirement for any class of Amateur Radio license.

Read the entire article at No Code International, web site (http://www.nocode.org/)
Not exactly Mike. #They don't "applaud" anything. #They only state their singular mission ... elimination of Morse Code testing as a licensing requirement.

No encouragement to do, learn, enjoy, or otherwise promote CW is stated.

So, the NCI crowd fails to applaud anything.

Just to set the record straight.

[K4JF]

Quote[/b] (n0klu @ Jan. 01 2007,10:44)]The NCI crowd as you put it, applauds your efforts to encourage someone to learn CW.
Actually, there was no effort to get him to learn CW. He is very busy with a new degree, a new job, a relocation, and more.

BUT, I think he got a positive impression of ham radio, and may get interested on down the line, when the career is well-established, the home and family are established, etc. Just like most of us. Ham radio has never been a kids hobby. Not for most.

[KI4LAJ]

Excellent Post, I am a Tech now and studying for General, I also plan on learning the code. I have tried not to respond to any posts about code or no code because they all seem to end up with the same few arguing back and forth, but this is an excellent piece. Thanks

[n0klu]

Quote[/b] (K4JF @ Jan. 02 2007,17:21)]Quote[/b] (n0klu @ Jan. 01 2007,10:44)]The NCI crowd as you put it, applauds your efforts to encourage someone to learn CW.
Actually, there was no effort to get him to learn CW. #He is very busy with a new degree, a new job, a relocation, and more. #

BUT, I think he got a positive impression of ham radio, and may get interested on down the line, when the career is well-established, the home and family are established, etc. #Just like most of us. #Ham radio has never been a kids hobby. #Not for most.
Gee maybe he should have belittled him and called him names to get him to learn it....

No he did exactly what should have been done by all the Know-Code people... leave it to the individual and see if it interests them, and accept the fact if it doesn't.

It is all the bad mouthing and besmirchments that drove myself and others like me away from the code crowd. Not that we wanted a "hand out" but that it is wrong to act like that, all it did is cause us to retaliate in kind.

Sugar is received better than vinegar.

[w4nti]

James,

Cute but no gold star.

A Viking II is a TRANSMITTER. #Kind of tough to hear anything with, eh?

CW freqs are HF, #FCC can't sell HF because of the world wide range it has.

Anything I missed James?

Dan/W4NTI

[K4JF]

Quote[/b] (w4nti @ Jan. 01 2007,16:13)]James,

Cute but no gold star.

A Viking II is a TRANSMITTER. #Kind of tough to hear anything with, eh?

CW freqs are HF, #FCC can't sell HF because of the world wide range it has.

Anything I missed James?

Dan/W4NTI
(Emphasis added above)
I dunno, Dan. A sports reporter was writing the other day about a QB who couldn't hear the call on his helmet transmitter (it quit) and did well calling his own plays.

We know the news media never gets anything wrong, correct? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[w4nti]

Quote[/b] (K4JF @ Jan. 02 2007,17:19)]Quote[/b] (w4nti @ Jan. 01 2007,16:13)]James,

Cute but no gold star.

A Viking II is a TRANSMITTER. #Kind of tough to hear anything with, eh?

CW freqs are HF, #FCC can't sell HF because of the world wide range it has.

Anything I missed James?

Dan/W4NTI
(Emphasis added above)
I dunno, Dan. #A sports reporter was writing the other day about a QB who couldn't hear the call on his helmet transmitter (it quit) and did well calling his own plays.

We know the news media never gets anything wrong, correct? # #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif
Hi Hi,

Sometimes I just cain't help myself.

Dan/W4NTI

[K5KV]

Great post Heath and you are dead right.

One very positive thing about the changes in the rules is now any ham can operate CW. Through the decades, this has not been the case but with the upgrade of the tech license, all hams will have the ability to operate CW on some HF bands.

I hope some of the Technicians will enjoy CW now that it is not forced on anyone.

Nobody has to do CW now, but many in the past who hated CW learned to love it. Many hams wanted CW required for the sake of future hams who would become CW ops in the process.

[K4JF]

Quote[/b] (K5KV @ Jan. 04 2007,19:52)]Great post Heath and you are dead right.

One very positive thing about the changes in the rules is now any ham can operate CW. #Through the decades, this has not been the case ....
That is not the case. All hams have always had the option to use CW.

[K5KV]

Quote[/b] (K4JF @ Jan. 06 2007,16:14)]Quote[/b] (K5KV @ Jan. 04 2007,19:52)]Great post Heath and you are dead right.

One very positive thing about the changes in the rules is now any ham can operate CW. Through the decades, this has not been the case ....
That is not the case. All hams have always had the option to use CW.
I was speaking of HF CW. Technicians licensed without a code test in the past 15 years or so have not had any HF CW allocation. NOW THEY DO!!

[KE5FRF]

Hi Benny.
Thanks for reading and commenting on my post.
If I can only help inspire a handful of people to try CW, I've done a good thing. BTW, you were a big inspiration when I was studying code, and I appreciated your advice.

[KE4YGS]

An interesting rememberance just came to me. I know there are those who will diss transmitting and receiving CW with a computer as something new and uncalled for.

I would like to see if anyone remembers what a Bowman-Keyer is? Huh? Well in the 40s, maybe even the 50s, it was used to send messages via morse code CW. it has the ability to punch tape and play tape back. No electronic memory. It will print the text on the tape as it is punched. Transmit or receive.

I ran into the NAVY using them for transmitting code practice nets at the Submarine Base, New London/Groton, Ct.

Its a big wooden box with metal operational parts. Standard but large typewriter Keyboard. Sure wish I had taken some pictures back then. This was circa..1969 I believe when I saw it being used. The Radioman Chief brougtht it to the ET shop where I worked and had us set it up on a transmitter and reveiver for the net.

Scotty

[N2MMM]

Quote[/b] (KE4YGS @ Jan. 06 2007,19:53)]An interesting rememberance just came to me. #I know there are those who will diss transmitting and receiving CW with a computer as something new and uncalled for.

I would like to see if anyone remembers what a Bowman-Keyer is? #Huh? #Well in the 40s, maybe even the 50s, it was used to send messages via morse code CW. #it has the ability to punch tape and play tape back. #No electronic memory. #It will print the text on the tape as it is punched. #Transmit or receive.

I ran into the NAVY using them for transmitting code practice nets at the Submarine Base, New London/Groton, Ct.

Its a big wooden box with metal operational parts. #Standard but large typewriter Keyboard. #Sure wish I had taken some pictures back then. #This was circa..1969 I believe when I saw it being used. #The Radioman Chief brougtht it to the ET shop where I worked and had us set it up on a transmitter and reveiver for the net.

Scotty
Devices like that have been around for 150+ years. Thomas Edison worked on them for his Gold & Stock Telegraph Co. in the 1860s

[KE5FRF]

Yep.

In fact, the famous Samuel Morse "WHAT HATH GOD WROUGHT" transmission was recorded with such a device. Is the correct name for it a dictograph?

I believe I remember seeing Morse's (or Edison's) patent drawings where each key pulse energized a solenoid (or something) that caused a marking device to be impressed upon a scrolling paper. Kind of an x-y axis type recording device, and the telegrapher would have a hard copy reference to check his copy by, or simply for permenant record.

[KB1SF]

Quote[/b] (W9WHE @ Dec. 29 2006,11:05)]
Why bother? Why not eliminate ALL testing? Let EVERYBODY in, with full privileges. Why discriminate?
Yes, Jonathan. #Why "discriminate" indeed?

For, despite all the lofty sounding rhetoric about preserving the “traditions” and #"standards" of Amateur Radio and that tests for Morse along with multiple, ever-more-irrelevant tests for RF theory are still an “essential” part of our hobby, it is now clear to me…beyond any shadow of doubt…that the principal, underlying goal of most people mouthing such dogma is to indefinitely perpetuate the multi-tiered “caste system” that has existed within our Service in the United States for at least the last half century. #

Or, to put it more bluntly, what far too many of you now call “tradition” or “keeping the standards up” is simply your poorly disguised cover for a far different collective agenda: #Perpetuating systemic discrimination (there's that word again) within the Amateur Service.

And, by taking additional steps to bring at least SOME of that discrimination to a screeching, grinding halt by incrementally removing its regulatory underpinnings, it would now appear that the FCC wholeheartedly agrees with that assessment. #

Indeed, in their latest Report and Order that completely eliminated Morse testing in our Service, they noted, "This change eliminates an unnecessary regulatory burden that may discourage current amateur radio operators from advancing their skills and participating more fully in the benefits of Amateur Radio."

Translation: Morse testing was a systemically discriminatory barrier (spelled "unnecessary regulatory burden") to many otherwise qualified applicants seeking to fully participate in our Service that has now long outlived its usefulness. #

I suppose it would be different if Morse were still a "must have" skill in today's Amateur Radio. #However, as the FCC also noted in their latest Report and Order, Morse is now just one of many different modes we Hams use to communicate. #It simply is no longer a “must have” requirement to become a successful, rule-abiding member of our Service.

What's more, proficiency in Morse is an inherent, human psychomotor skill. #And the ease of learning it varies widely throughout the population based on a whole host of unique human factors, many of which are completely beyond our control. #My guess is that these two facts (along with the fact that there is no longer an international requirement that they do so) were probably among the most compelling reasons why the FCC arrived at their decision that Morse testing WAS horribly discriminatory, and finally decided to drop testing for it entirely in the Amateur Service. #

Now, certainly, there ARE many people in our hobby who are just too lazy to get up off their finals to learn Morse. And that is certainly their choice.

But, for the “Morse testing forever” crowd to now lay that same judgment on folks who absolutely CAN’T learn Morse no matter how hard they "work" at it is disingenuous at best and downright discriminatory at worst. #

Sadly, it also indicates a distressing ignorance of the human condition.

Fortunately, such people now make up an ever-shrinking minority in our Service. What’s more, the FCC has now…officially…repudiated ALL of their bogus arguments for retaining Morse testing. So, hopefully, both the “Morse testing forever” bigots AND all their bogus arguments will soon be relegated to the dustbin of history. #

For me, that day can’t come soon enough. #

Keith
KB1SF / VA3KSF

[w4nti]

Quote[/b] (kb1sf @ Jan. 07 2007,18:41)]Quote[/b] (W9WHE @ Dec. 29 2006,11:05)]
Why bother? Why not eliminate ALL testing? Let EVERYBODY in, with full privileges. Why discriminate?
Yes, Jonathan. #Why "discriminate" indeed?

For, despite all the lofty sounding rhetoric about preserving the “traditions” and #"standards" of Amateur Radio and that tests for Morse along with multiple, ever-more-irrelevant tests for RF theory are still an “essential” part of our hobby, it is now clear to me…beyond any shadow of doubt…that the principal, underlying goal of most people mouthing such dogma is to indefinitely perpetuate the multi-tiered “caste system” that has existed within our Service in the United States for at least the last half century. #

Or, to put it more bluntly, what far too many of you now call “tradition” or “keeping the standards up” is simply your poorly disguised cover for a far different collective agenda: #Perpetuating systemic discrimination (there's that word again) within the Amateur Service.

And, by taking additional steps to bring at least SOME of that discrimination to a screeching, grinding halt by incrementally removing its regulatory underpinnings, it would now appear that the FCC wholeheartedly agrees with that assessment. #

Indeed, in their latest Report and Order that completely eliminated Morse testing in our Service, they noted, "This change eliminates an unnecessary regulatory burden that may discourage current amateur radio operators from advancing their skills and participating more fully in the benefits of Amateur Radio."

Translation: Morse testing was a systemically discriminatory barrier (spelled "unnecessary regulatory burden") to many otherwise qualified applicants seeking to fully participate in our Service that has now long outlived its usefulness. #

I suppose it would be different if Morse were still a "must have" skill in today's Amateur Radio. #However, as the FCC also noted in their latest Report and Order, Morse is now just one of many different modes we Hams use to communicate. #It simply is no longer a “must have” requirement to become a successful, rule-abiding member of our Service.

What's more, proficiency in Morse is an inherent, human psychomotor skill. #And the ease of learning it varies widely throughout the population based on a whole host of unique human factors, many of which are completely beyond our control. #My guess is that these two facts (along with the fact that there is no longer an international requirement that they do so) were probably among the most compelling reasons why the FCC arrived at their decision that Morse testing WAS horribly discriminatory, and finally decided to drop testing for it entirely in the Amateur Service. #

Now, certainly, there ARE many people in our hobby who are just too lazy to get up off their finals to learn Morse. And that is certainly their choice.

But, for the “Morse testing forever” crowd to now lay that same judgment on folks who absolutely CAN’T learn Morse no matter how hard they "work" at it is disingenuous at best and downright discriminatory at worst. #

Sadly, it also indicates a distressing ignorance of the human condition.

Fortunately, such people now make up an ever-shrinking minority in our Service. What’s more, the FCC has now…officially…repudiated ALL of their bogus arguments for retaining Morse testing. So, hopefully, both the “Morse testing forever” bigots AND all their bogus arguments will soon be relegated to the dustbin of history. #

For me, that day can’t come soon enough. #

Keith
KB1SF / VA3KSF
Interesting position.....Let us then assume this.....If we had only 1 class of WRITTEN TEST, that would consist of mainly rules and regulations, and basic electronics and needed things like 468/F in Mhz, and how not to kill yourself when using High Voltage, etc etc. And maybe just enough basic theory to have a rudimentary knowledge of what is going on inside that radio device on your desk.

This basic license would allow ONLY VOICE within the present VOICE segements. At say 100 W PEP output (which is a defacto standard these days).

IF one wanted to operate OTHER modes, such as RTTY, PSK, SSTV, and yes CW....you would have to test for and pass a hands on test showing actual ability to use the mode. And/OR like the old Communist Block did, demonstrate profeciency in the new mode for 1 year before receiving a indorsement.

Comments?

I proposed this over ten years ago to the ARRL. I was totally ignored.

Dan/W4NTI

[K7JEM]

Why wouldn't you have to pass a test for voice?

Imitate something the old "Communist Block" did? Is this a joke? They couldn't get anything right.

Joe

[w4nti]

Quote[/b] (K7JEM @ Jan. 07 2007,19:59)]Why wouldn't you have to pass a test for voice?

Imitate something the old "Communist Block" did? Is this a joke? They couldn't get anything right.

Joe
Read my first paragraph:

Interesting position.....Let us then assume this.....If we had only 1 class of WRITTEN TEST, that would consist of mainly rules and regulations, and basic electronics and needed things like 468/F in Mhz, and how not to kill yourself when using High Voltage, etc etc. And maybe just enough basic theory to have a rudimentary knowledge of what is going on inside that radio device on your desk.

You would take a basic test and get voice privledges. Other modes would be added as you pass the requirements for that mode. Read it again.

No I'm NOT KIDDING about Ham Radio in the old Communist Block.

I spent 6 years in Germany talking with those folks on the bands, I think there method worked just fine.

Dan/W4NTI

[K7JEM]

I think that would over complicate things. We don't do that now, and it seems somewhat unnecessary. If people want to operate a mode, they can learn it and use it. They don't need to take a test on it, serves no useful purpose.

Ham radio isn't about tests, its about on the air usage and experimentation, among other things. Mode testing would just stifle that.

Joe

[K4JF]

Quote[/b] (kb1sf @ Jan. 06 2007,19:41)]Translation: Morse testing was a systemically discriminatory barrier (spelled "unnecessary regulatory burden")
Incorrect translation... sorry. "Unnecesary burden" refers to the workload of the FCC (which was in fact zero as related to the code test as VEs did it but was still used as one of the reasons). That is a completely different thing from a "discriminatory barrier".

Whether something is a barrier is completely unrelated to a workload level. It refers to an obstacle. The FCC had determined some time ago that there was no discriminatory barrier in the 5 wpm code test. That is why they eliminated the code waiver when all tests were dropped to 5 wpm.

They removed the test because they saw no need for the code knowledge in the Amateur service. That was the specific stated reason, not some imagined illegal discrimination.

[KB1SF]

Quote[/b] (K4JF @ Jan. 07 2007,21:35)] Incorrect translation... sorry. #"Unnecesary burden" refers to the workload of the FCC (which was in fact zero as related to the code test as VEs did it but was still used as one of the reasons). #That is a completely different thing from a "discriminatory barrier". #

Whether something is a barrier is completely unrelated to a workload level. #It refers to an obstacle. #The FCC had determined some time ago that there was no discriminatory barrier in the 5 wpm code test. #That is why they eliminated the code waiver when all tests were dropped to 5 wpm.

They removed the test because they saw no need for the code knowledge in the Amateur service. #That was the specific stated reason, not some imagined illegal discrimination.
Jim, nice try, but you need to do some more homework. #The FCC's words couldn't be clearer on the subject. #

First of all, to whom do the regulations apply? #Part 97 isn't written for the benefit of the FCC. The regulations are written for those persons and entities being regulated. That's us. #And the "burden" they impose is on those being regulated, NOT the regulators. #

Now, go back and read what the FCC actually said in their latest Report and Order: #"This change eliminates an unnecessary regulatory burden that may discourage current Amateur Radio operators from advancing their skills and participating more fully in the benefits of Amateur Radio." #

It is crystal clear in that statement that the person(s) being "discouraged" from "advancing their skills" are "current Amateur Radio operators"...NOT the FCC!

And, the reason the FCC couldn't eliminate Morse testing entirely any sooner was because the requirement for a Morse test had not (yet) been eliminated internationally. #

They also said as much in the latest Report and Order: #"We... believe that the public interest is not served by requiring facility in Morse code when the trend in amateur communications is to use voice and digital technologies for exchanging messages," the FCC said in its R&O. "Rather, we believe that, because the international requirement for telegraphy proficiency has been eliminated, we should treat Morse code telegraphy no differently from other Amateur Service communications techniques."

My guess is that the FCC had already arrived at the "no longer serving the public interest part" much earlier. That's why they chose to eliminate the 13 WPM and 20 WPM tests seven years ago (in 2000) and then dropped the remaining Morse test back to 5 WPM for all license classes...the absolute minimum required to make it a credible test and still meet the letter of the international requirement. #

This action also defused (but it did not eliminate) a good part of the discrimination issue because the FCC could then ALSO ditch all their code waiver gobbledygook for those higher speed tests that were a class action lawsuit simply waiting to happen.

73,

Keith
KB1SF / VA3KSF

[KB1SF]

Quote[/b] (w4nti @ Jan. 07 2007,19:02)]Interesting position.....Let us then assume this.....If we had only 1 class of WRITTEN TEST, #that would consist of mainly rules and regulations, and basic electronics and needed things like 468/F in Mhz, #and how not to kill yourself when using High Voltage, #etc etc. #And maybe just enough basic theory to have a rudimentary knowledge of what is going on inside that radio device on your desk. #

This basic license would allow ONLY VOICE within the present VOICE segements. At say 100 W PEP output (which is a defacto standard these days).

IF one wanted to operate OTHER modes, #such as #RTTY, PSK, SSTV, and yes CW....you would have to test for and pass a hands on test showing actual ability to use the mode. #And/OR like the old Communist Block did, #demonstrate profeciency in the new mode for 1 year before receiving a indorsement.

Comments?

I proposed this over ten years ago to the ARRL. #I was totally ignored.

Dan/W4NTI
Dan, of COURSE the ARRL ignored your suggestion! #

They, and their willing partners in the FCC at the time, were the ones who CREATED the whole incentive licensing mess in the first place!

In reality, what the FCC did (at the ARRL's urging) back in the 1950s was to take a simple international concept for a PERSONAL radio service and then (in typical US Government fashion) morph it into a grand, government-imposed, "national electronics training system" designed for absolutely NO OTHER PURPOSE than to crank out armies of trained electronics technicians and RF engineers with one goal in mind: #To feed the then MASSIVE U.S. electronics industry. #

As I've said in other posts, (and as you have so eloquently observed) most other countries never bought into the FCC's "incentive licensing" foolishness. #And, as a result, nowhere else in the world are our bands as carved up (with regulated sub-bands (and even sub-sub bands)) by license class and operating mode as they are here in the United States.

Elsewhere, the Amateur Service is regulated almost exclusively by bandwidth, not by license class or operating mode. And the differences between license classes in those countries have FAR more to do with safety (such as limiting the power output of lower tiered licensee's transmitters and prohibiting them from building those transmitters "from scratch") or regulatory matters (not allowing them to give exams or be the licensee of a club or repeater station) rather than a scheme to "reward" so-called “exclusive” frequency spectrum in exchange for regurgitating enough correct (but largely irrelevant) answers on ever-more-comprehensive, government mandated, multiple-choice exams.

This is probably also why most other countries in the world that have chosen to do so were easily able to drop their Morse testing requirements (or make them optional as the Canadians did) without skipping a beat. #The “earned” element was all but absent. However, by contrast, here in the United States, when the FCC finally dropped the Morse testing requirement, one would think the FCC had just killed the Pope and canceled Christmas.

Unfortunately, the FCC dug itself into a deep regulatory "hole" back in the 1950's when they hatched their "incentive licensing" (a.k.a. "national electronics training system") farce. #That's because a multitude of equal opportunity and equal access laws (most notably the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act) passed into law since that time have now made such patently discriminatory access requirements to publicly administered institutions illegal under US law.

Morse testing in the Amateur Radio Service in the United States is now history. #And it's only a matter of time before someone, somewhere successfully challenges the REST of the FCC's systemically discriminatory incentive licensing system in Federal court before it, too, goes the way of the dinosaur.

73,

Keith
KB1SF / VA3KSF

[KE5FRF]

I appreciate the discussions about the regulatory semantics. However, there is already an article with hundreds of posts regarding the FCC R&O. This article was not intended to rehash the debate (it is a moot point to do so). This article was posted to encourage all amateurs who might advance in the new testing structure to TRY Morse code even if it is no longer required. Of course, you are free to use this thread to do whatever you want. You can post brownie recipes or love poetry if you wish. But I think it would be better to let the topic of trying CW for the fun of it stand without the ping pong game of factoids that are totally irrelevant now.

[N2MMM]

Quote[/b] (KE5FRF @ Jan. 08 2007,10:54)]I appreciate the discussions about the regulatory semantics. However, there is already an article with hundreds of posts regarding the FCC R&O. This article was not intended to rehash the debate (it is a moot point to do so). This article was posted to encourage all amateurs who might advance in the new testing structure to TRY Morse code even if it is no longer required. Of course, you are free to use this thread to do whatever you want. You can post brownie recipes or love poetry if you wish. But I think it would be better to let the topic of trying CW for the fun of it stand without the ping pong game of factoids that are totally irrelevant now.
Thank you for the sanity.

[K5KV]

The best part of Heath's writing was the positive approach to the latest changes. There is opportunity for future hams to enjoy CW operation if they so desire.

[w4nti]

Quote[/b] (K5KV @ Jan. 08 2007,18:53)]The best part of Heath's writing was the positive approach to the latest changes. #There is opportunity for future hams to enjoy CW operation if they so desire.
Well I will tell you this....CW is certainly alive and well on 80 meters. It is all over the bottom 100 KC of the band. And it's not a contest either.

Amazing.

Dan/W4NTI

[K4JF]

Quote[/b] (K7JEM @ Jan. 06 2007,21:20)]Ham radio isn't about tests, its about on the air usage and experimentation, among other things. Mode testing would just stifle that.

Joe
So.... you would remove the mode related questions that are in all levels of the exams?

[K4JF]

Quote[/b] (w4nti @ Jan. 07 2007,20:14)]Well I will tell you this....CW is certainly alive and well on 80 meters. #It is all over the bottom 100 KC of the band. #And it's not a contest either.

Amazing.

Dan/W4NTI
That is gonna upset some people!!

[K7JEM]

Quote[/b] (K4JF @ Jan. 11 2007,21:47)]Quote[/b] (K7JEM @ Jan. 06 2007,21:20)]Ham radio isn't about tests, its about on the air usage and experimentation, among other things. Mode testing would just stifle that.

Joe
So.... you would remove the mode related questions that are in all levels of the exams?
If the test is a complete element, yes. The way we have things now is fine. A few questions about a lot of different modes and operational issues. You could totally miss all of the questions about eme and pass the test. Same with SSB or RTTY. This doesn't necessarily mean that you can't operate those modes, just that you need to learn more about them before doing so.

Joe

[KB1SF]

Quote[/b] (K7JEM @ Jan. 15 2007,00:13)]Quote[/b] (K4JF @ Jan. 11 2007,21:47)]Quote[/b] (K7JEM @ Jan. 06 2007,21:20)]Ham radio isn't about tests, its about on the air usage and experimentation, among other things. Mode testing would just stifle that.

Joe
So.... you would remove the mode related questions that are in all levels of the exams?
If the test is a complete element, yes. The way we have things now is fine. A few questions about a lot of different modes and operational issues. You could totally miss all of the questions about eme and pass the test. Same with SSB or RTTY. This doesn't necessarily mean that you can't operate those modes, just that you need to learn more about them before doing so.

Joe
It is becoming ever clearer that the FCC is coming under increasing pressure to make the examinations for access to the Amateur Service better match those knowledges and skills that are "need to know" vice "nice to know".

That's because testing for "nice to know" information is no longer legally supportable in light of current federal law as it relates to equal access to public resources like Amateur Radio. However, in some cases, it appears that the VEC question pool committee may now be running out of "need to know" topics to test.

For example, one of the questions in the latest question pool for the Technician license is as follows: "What is the name of the group that coordinates the building and/or launch of the largest number of amateur radio satellites?" The correct answer, of course, is AMSAT, the group I was the Vice President and then President of for nearly 10 years.

Now, certainly, I'm flattered that the VEC question pool committee would include a question in the PUBLIC examination pool about the PRIVATE organization that I was an officer and BOD member of for so many years.

However, I still have to ask…does knowing that AMSAT is the name of the PRIVATE organization that does these things absolutely critical "need-to-know" information for a Technician licensee?

I think not.

Clearly, this is just another, blatant example of testing for "nice to know" rather than "need to know" information in our Service. And, under current US law, that's called "systemic discrimination" because it makes successful entry into our Service contingent upon candidates correctly answering such "nice to know" questions that clearly go well beyond the "need to know" skills and knowledges that are absolutely necessary for such a license.

That is, while knowing that AMSAT does these things is certainly useful information to have, it is absolutely NOT a critical piece of information that one must have in order to be a "successful" Technician license. That’s because it has absolutely NOTHING WHATSOEVER to do with safety, or preventing one from becoming a nuisance or a hazard to one's self, to one's neighbors or to others on the Ham bands.

Testing for "nice to know" information is illegal. And the FCC darn well knows it’s illegal. And it needs to STOP.

73,

Keith
KB1SF / VA3KSF

[K4JF]

Quote[/b] (kb1sf @ Jan. 16 2007,09:20)]Testing for "nice to know" information is illegal. #And the FCC darn well knows it’s illegal. #And it needs to STOP.

73,

Keith
KB1SF / VA3KSF
No, it's not, Keith. If the information is relevant to the operation of an Amateur Radio station, it is not illegal. Now a "nice to know" related to house paint, of course, might be improper. But you just can't cite a law that says that a pertinent question is illegal.

Plus, you have to prove the query is designed to discriminate against a protected group, not just anybody. Example, it is illegal to discriminate against me, because I'm over the age of 45. But there is no way to illegally discriminate against my son, because he is a white male between 25 and 45 and not handicapped. He fits no protected class, so you can do just about anything you want to him. Not nice, but that IS the law.

Your categorization of "legal" questions allowed as only related to safety and interference simply has no basis in law. None. There are many more things defined in the intent and purpose of the Amateur Service than safety and interference, and the FCC is perfectly justified in allowing questions about any.

If your thesis is true, then all public and private colleges are illegal, as they post exams on all kinds of subjects, not related to the safety of the examinee.

[K4JF]

Quote[/b] (K7JEM @ Jan. 14 2007,01:13)]Quote[/b] (K4JF @ Jan. 11 2007,21:47)]Quote[/b] (K7JEM @ Jan. 06 2007,21:20)]Ham radio isn't about tests, its about on the air usage and experimentation, among other things. Mode testing would just stifle that.

Joe
So.... you would remove the mode related questions that are in all levels of the exams?
If the test is a complete element, yes. The way we have things now is fine. A few questions about a lot of different modes and operational issues. You could totally miss all of the questions about eme and pass the test. Same with SSB or RTTY. This doesn't necessarily mean that you can't operate those modes, just that you need to learn more about them before doing so.

Joe
But you still have a problem with those people who don't want questions about anything they aren't planning to do.

[K7JEM]

Quote[/b] (K4JF @ Jan. 17 2007,17:42)]Quote[/b] (K7JEM @ Jan. 14 2007,01:13)]Quote[/b] (K4JF @ Jan. 11 2007,21:47)]Quote[/b] (K7JEM @ Jan. 06 2007,21:20)]Ham radio isn't about tests, its about on the air usage and experimentation, among other things. Mode testing would just stifle that.

Joe
So.... you would remove the mode related questions that are in all levels of the exams?
If the test is a complete element, yes. The way we have things now is fine. A few questions about a lot of different modes and operational issues. You could totally miss all of the questions about eme and pass the test. Same with SSB or RTTY. This doesn't necessarily mean that you can't operate those modes, just that you need to learn more about them before doing so.

Joe
But you still have a problem with those people who don't want questions about anything they aren't planning to do.
There's no problem. People want lots of things they don't always get. There is nothing wrong with some part of a test checking for information you may never need.

There IS a problem with a whole test checking for proficiency in a mode a person may never use.

[N2MMM]

Quote[/b] (W9WHE @ Dec. 29 2006,11:05)]N2MMM writes:


"I just hope that the newly upgraded hams enjoy themselves and obey the rules whether they choose to operate CW or not".

Well, if they are "newly upgraded" (because they never learned CW) its a safe bet they will not be operating CW, don't you think?

+++++++++++++

KE7AUW writes:

"What are you gonna use now for a filter to ke