One Way to Encourage Guys to Get on CW

[kb6nu]

On our club e-mail list, we've been doing a post-mortem on our Field Day operations. One of the cooler things was our "Get On The Air" (GOTA) station. At the GOTA station, a dozen different people made their first HF contacts, including a number of Technicians. It has spurred several of them to start working on their code so that they can upgrade to General.

Another thing that we noted is that while we made many more contacts this year, we scored just a few more points than last year. The reason, of course, is that all those extra contacts were SSB contacts, not CW contacts. We ran two phone stations, but only one CW station.

Next year, I'm proposing that we go to 4A and run two CW stations. I'm going to call the second CW station the "Get On CW" (GOCW) station. At this station, we're not going to care how fast someone operates or how many contacts he or she makes. Instead, the idea is to show them how much fun it can be to work CW. I plan to be around as much as possible to demonstrate CW, coach those that want to operate, and help them make contacts (by logging for them and helping them copy the fast stations).

In addition, I'm going to talk to the guys in the club who keep talking about working CW, but never seem to find the time or the energy to do so and encourage them strongly (i.e. twist arms, if necessary) to operate for an hour or two. The idea being to get them over the hump as far as CW goes. I might even give out awards to the operator who made the most contacts, the operator who showed the most courage in sitting down and operating, etc.

I'd like to see this become a nation-wide FISTS (http://www.fists.org) effort. The GOCW stations could even congregate around the Fists frequencies--or designate some other frequencies around which to find one another--so that we can work one another without having to deal with the contest twits who are rude to slower operators.

You can participate in the Get On CW effort even if your Field Day operations don't allow for a separate station. My suggestion would be to designate some time period at one of your stations for GOCW operation. If you do this, realize that you're going to have to steal some prime time from the "real contesters," though. You're not going to have a successful effort if you schedule the GOCW operation from 2 am to 4 am Sunday morning.

Let me know what you think of this idea, and please e-mail me (kb6nu@w8pgw.org) if you plan on participating. Also e-mail me if you have an idea of how to make the GOCW effort more effective.

[kd5tlc]

Great idea... I've been a ham for two or three years now, I've had more fun on CW since I went ahead and found an old JJ-38 key at a hamfest. Don't hardly use the michrophone anymore. Plenty of people are faster than me, but it's always a great time. I like the idea of GOCW.
_ _ ... ... _ _ _.. . _._ _.. ..... _ ._.. _._. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[k0ews]

Great idea!
Our little group runs 1A every year, and CW only. Not only for the points, but to avoid the massive QRM of the phone bands. I can remember my first Field Day experience with my brother's club. I logged for him at "kickoff" and the QRM on 20 meter phone was something that about bowled me over. Later in the evening, the ARRL SM showed up with one of his CW contester friends, and I got to see for the first time in my ham carreer, a good CW operator in a contest. That did it for me. I only needed 5 wpm to get my ticket then in 2000, but have since gone ahead and run pretty much all CW and now am very comfortable in the 20-30 wpm range, and still work on getting my speed up. I want to run with those 35+ wpm dogs someday.
My point; operating in contests was my first step. I operated CW in any contest I could find for a while, and it really helped me up my speed. Now it's like a second language, and all because of what I saw one Field Day.

Great post.

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

[WS2L]

GetOnCW station, now thats a great idea. Unfortunately these days there seems to be less people interested in operating CW. I'm no better myself as on Field Day I always operate 40 SSB and have let my CW skills get a bit rusty. I guess I will have to dust off my collection of Bug's and start using them again as the crowded phone bands on FD can get quite aggravating.

The idea of getting operators on cw is really great! We have several older hams in our club who have "been there and done that" but still enjoy the social aspects and food at Field Day. Getting them over to a cw shack and back into the swing of Field Day would create many Elmering opportunities.

It was pure magic to watch John handle the cw shack on twenty and eighty meters. His five hundred qso's not only helped the bottom line for our club (7A MI) but inspired me to begin working on my code. My personal Field Day was spent on cw with software reading the code and a memory keyer sending the exchange. I cherry picked the qso's and did a respectable job. But there was another operator, Tom, to share the shack with who did it all from his portable shack and straight key. Another magical thing to watch and learn from.

I have heard that forty has an area of slower code types who might be more willing to share the experience with slower code callers? It is not really necessary to drop in on the extra bands with super fast speed to get the feeling and qso's. Remember the reason for Field Day is to have fun. Well, have fun and learn a thing or two. It IS a contest.

Thanks for the great idea of pushing cw and having fun doing Field Day!

[WR2E]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (KC8TBX @ July 31 2004,05:23)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">#Remember the reason for Field Day is to have fun. #Well, have fun and learn a thing or two. #It IS a contest.[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
At the risk of getting off the worthwhile (IMO) topic of getting more folks interested in operating CW, I wish to offer the following reminder about the ARRL sponsored "Field Day" excercise. #

The following is a quote from the ARRL website:

"The event is designed to test operators' skills in setting up and operating radio communication equipment in situations where electrical power is limited or unavailable. The idea is to simulate the conditions that can occur during a hurricane, tornado or other emergency, including man-made disasters."

It's NOT a contest, #It CAN be fun, but that's not the reason for the event.

73 de WR2E - Jeff

[k0ru]

Actually I feel this is a fantastic idea. #Hopefully some folks will consider it on their next outting, which doesn't necessarly have to be just Field Day.

How about a Foxhunt, say with a couple of CW stations providing clues to the actual fox. #Allot of ideas could blossum here.

Club's typically gather for the biggy "Field Day", but you have Sweepstakes, and CQ World Wide that also can create allot of interrest in a new comer, or oldy alike. #Typically, what I have found is once you open up your station, or maybe a Field Site for a contest, or event allot of folks like to come to see "Just how does the other guy do it" #"How do they work those DX Pileup during a contest" #its nice to pickup a pointer here, and there to take back to your own station.

True, allot of people believe "Field Day" is a contest, and in some cases it is. #It's a contest, where it challenges you the "Operator" against yourself. #To fine tune those listening skills, talking skills, and rig procedures. #Many of times its just the challenge of getting to the Field Day site and becoming an actual participant. #In what ever way you look at "Field Day" the best things we learn are through oppurtunity and experience. #No matter what level of License, or Activity you contribute to ham radio, it is a wonderful feeling to realize you can pass those techniques onto others, as well as maybe learn some new ones on the way.

I've run into many of operators that have wanted to learn this, or learn that and its usually always the same.
"If only you lived closer, or someone local could spend sometime with me to learn this and teach me the technique"

Hopefully your club can find other events to put CW, Antenna building, DX Chasing, etc... to use as an oppurtunity to spread good will and fellowship. #This will naturally bring those that are curious, and those that just need help to the table for a chance to learn and teach.

"Think outside of the box"

Thanks for a great idea.

73 - W8YRB - Rob

[kg2v]

I must admit to being one of those "extra lights" who is afraid of the code - I've never actually gotten on the air with it - yeah, I passed the 5wpm, but.....

Any ideas how to get over this hump? I _WANT_ to work CW

[AC4BB]

I have been on 10 meter CW for the better part of Today, Saturday, And,I hope to have many more great days there.

Bryan,AC4B http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[W5HTW]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (KC2IXE @ July 31 2004,21:09)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">I must admit to being one of those "extra lights" who is afraid of the code - I've never actually gotten on the air with it - yeah, I passed the 5wpm, but.....

Any ideas how to get over this hump? I _WANT_ to work CW[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
It's like "mic fright." I know of no way to get around it but just, as the shoe folks say, "just do it." Yeah, that isn't all that easy, I know.

Listen on the bands. Find someone you can copy. Copy him/her for a while, monitoring the QSO. Then as one person signs off, call that person. Be sure it is someone you can copy with no, or at least only moderate, difficulty, and by that I mean not only speed, but band conditions, such as QRN.

Then try for a very short contact. Figure out in advance, while you are listening to him with another contact, what you are going to say. Like: TNX, UR RST 599 QTH XXX ES NAME IS XX HOW COPY and then his call, DE and your call. Make it short - don't try to tell him your version of the Gettysburg Address.

Want to meet me on 40 CW one evening? If you are in 2 land, we are two hours difference, but I'd be happy to be your first contact. In fact, I'll be happy to work you more than once. To do it, we can even do it in the Novice band where we won't have much QRM. I tend to go up there to the 40m Novice band, around 7145-7148 or so now and then. Around 10 pm your time, maybe 9:30, will do fine.

Drop me an email: w5htw (at) ATT.NET.

Ed

[N8CPA]

This is a great idea! #If you want to see it become a nationwide FISTS effort, talk to Nancy now. #And then rewrite the thread post as an article for next Spring's Keynote. #Who knows? #You might even get some official encouragement from the League. #One of the reasons for the double value of CW Qs is the idea of spectral conservation.

And anyone who wants an opportunity to overcome keyfright, there's no better way than to jump into a contest. #Most ops calling CQ will answer at your speed. #

Your next big opportunity is next Saturday, the CW NAQP. #It will start at 1800Z and run until 0600Z Sunday morning. #Just send name and state, or province. #The truncated exchange will make you feel less pressure than a long ragchew, while increasing your code confidence level. #If you start then, and practice with random ragchews and state QSO parties and other events between now and next November, you'll be ready to participate in November SS [only 98 days away but who's counting]. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

After SS, you'll be begging for time to pass so you can be a Field Day brasspounder. #And you will have already worked out your keyfright. #But before you make that first contact next weekend, you better be warned. #CW contesting is highly addictive. #You won't be able to get enough of the stuff after you become comfortable with using code.

[k4uug]

Y #A #W #N ! here we go again another code vs no code,Glen said no more posting on the code subject whats up with that again they center the whole hobby apon a mode of operation why not phone,ritty,pactor,psk? Whats up with that glen? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

[WR2E]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (N1OBN @ Aug. 01 2004,10:53)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Y #A #W #N ! here we go again another code vs no code[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
Not one of these posts is "code vs. no-code" debate...

73 de WR2E

[w6em]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (N1OBN @ Aug. 01 2004,14:53)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Y #A #W #N ! here we go again another code vs no code,Glen said no more posting on the code subject whats up with that again they center the whole hobby apon a mode of operation why not phone,ritty,pactor,psk? Whats up with that glen? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>

If your on-the-air grammar is as poor as it is in your posting, how could anyone make anything sensible out of what your are trying to say (in CW or keyboard modes)?

You're probably a riot to listen to on phone. #Er, oops, I just looked you up and you're a "dedicated to the abolition of CW" NO CODE Technician, so we won't hear you except on a local repeater or maybe on MARS HF operation.

And, your grammar and spelling on your QRZ "home page" is even more of an abomination....

By the way, a period is: . _ . _ . _ and a comma is _ _ .. _ _ and a question mark, .. _ _ ..


Lee
W6EM

[AB9FH]

I think this is a fine idea. #I will make a note of it for our Field Day effort next year. #I learned the code well enough to pass the 5WPM listening test, but don't own a key or radio capable of the mode. #This is yet another incentive to start working with my daughter on the code. #She has her technician license and wants to move up to General.

Howard Parks, AB9FH

[ag4rq]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (N1OBN @ Aug. 01 2004,14:53)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Y #A #W #N ! here we go again another code vs no code,Glen said no more posting on the code subject whats up with that again they center the whole hobby apon a mode of operation why not phone,ritty,pactor,psk? Whats up with that glen? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
This article and all posts before yours has nothing to do with any code / no-code debate. It is an article about CW. You are the one who is turning it into a code / no-code debate. I read the 10 tenets of your religion in your profile. The first reads "1.I am 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." If you are not opposed to manual Morse code, then why do you object to any article that promotes the use of it? It is obvious that your goal is to eradicate Morse code completely from amateur radio as if it never existed. Lots of luck! Don't hold your breath. Too many hams love using it. You indicate your web site to be that of NCI. 'Nuff said! Go spew your hatred for CW somewhere else and quit trashing the CW threads.

[N8CPA]

Glenn said nothing about discussing any mode. The moratorium is on the discussion of a requirement. This thread is NOT about any requirement, but about using, promoting and perhaps demonstrating the use of a legitimate, classical wireless mode.

[k4uug]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (w6em @ Aug. 01 2004,21:38)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">If your on-the-air grammar is as poor as it is in your posting, how could anyone make anything sensible out of what your are trying to say (in CW or keyboard modes)?

You're probably a riot to listen to on phone. #Er, oops, I just looked you up and you're a "dedicated to the abolition of CW" NO CODE Technician, so we won't hear you except on a local repeater or maybe on MARS HF operation.

And, your grammar and spelling on your QRZ "home page" is even more of an abomination....

By the way, a period is: . _ . _ . _ and a comma is _ _ .. _ _ and a question mark, .. _ _ ..


Lee
W6EM[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>

Lee I believe your attitude is the Achilles Heel of Amateur Radio!

Ouch another personal attack ! I was warned so I can't respond to defend myself ! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif Hey Glen Lee W6EM is not playing nice with others!http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[k4uug]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (ag4rq @ Aug. 02 2004,00:52)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">If you are not opposed to manual Morse code, then why do you object to any article that promotes the use of it?[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
I am sorry ,I can not reply because I have been told not to debate CW (mode of operation) PRO or CON ! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif

[AB3AP]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (KC2IXE @ July 31 2004,21<!--emo&http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">I must admit to being one of those "extra lights" who is afraid of the code - I've never actually gotten on the air with it - yeah, I passed the 5wpm, but.....

Any ideas how to get over this hump? I _WANT_ to work CW[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
I'd recommend using Morse Academy (free) which a Google search will quickly locate for you. It doesn't have a slick commercial look, but is a first rate program. Set the character speed to at least 15 wpm, and the overall speed to maybe 5 wpm. When you get 90% correct, bump the speed up by 1 wpm.

Also, tune into the W1AW weekday evening "slow code" sessions and copy what you can.

And finally, just copy QSOs. When you can copy enough to know what's being said, start listening for a CQ at your speed. I first got on the air in May 2003 and am now up to about 23 wpm. I can no longer write easily at that speed, so I'm trying to develop a new skill of copying by ear and jotting down just calls, names, QTH, etc. It's a fun personal challenge. I work CW about the half the time, and other digi modes and phone the other half. Different modes for different moods, I like to say. :-)

Good luck! Hope to have a cw qso with you.
Mike AB3AP

[WR2E]

You guys who would like to copy faster, and like myself and Mike, can't write that fast... assuming you can touch-type, try opening a word processor and typing the copy. You might be surprised!

73 de WR2E
Jeff

[w6em]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (N1OBN @ Aug. 02 2004,04:36)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Lee I believe your attitude is the Achilles Heel of Amateur Radio!

Ouch another personal attack ! I was warned so I can't respond to defend myself ! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif Hey Glen Lee W6EM is not playing nice with others!http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
Mr. Bernardi/N1OBN:

Probably the greatest threat to the continuance of our pastime is having posted material so that anyone who might lookup your callsign in the QRZ database will be greeted with the likes of what you have displayed on yours. #That, along with an attempt to placate those who might object to your attitude due to your disabilities.

I've taken the liberty of copying what you have posted for those on this thread to see, and I didn't correct your spelling:

"My feelings about Amature Radio's license restructuring plan.

I am dedicated to the abolition of the Morse code testing requirement as a prerequisite for any class of Amateur Radio license.

I want to make a few points crystal clear:

1.I am 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.

7.The most challenging problem is our attitude towards newcomers and our focus on the HF experience as the defining characteristic of Amateur Radio. If you do not operate HF, or if you are not proficient with a telegraph, then you are not a real ham radio operator.

8.This is our most challenging problem - our attitude towards change. If we can overcome this hurdle, promoting Amateur Radio is the easy part. (ARRL President, Rod Stafford, W6ROD, wrote of similar issues - I encourage you to read it.)

9.I do not have good ideas on how to change people's attitudes. I wish I did because I believe our attitude is the Achilles Heel of the Amateur Radio Service.

10.Changing our attitude towards change and new comers is a key part of growing ham radio in the future.


N1OBN
Bio last modified: 2004-08-01"

[k0ews]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote </td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">I must admit to being one of those "extra lights" who is afraid of the code - I've never actually gotten on the air with it - yeah, I passed the 5wpm, but.....

Any ideas how to get over this hump? I _WANT_ to work CW[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>

Greetings, from one "Extra Light" to another. I'd be glad to show you what I did. I went from 5 wpm to 30 wpm inside a year.
First, spend as much time in the CW bands as you can. Just listen. Even if you cannot copy all of what you hear, you will be able to copy some, and that is progress. You should listen to QSOs where you can get 70 percent of what they are saying. Try the novice band on 40 meters.
Second, put out a couple of SLOW CQs. Try it on 30 meters. Someone will pick you up. Don't worry about how much you can copy; everyone misses some. I use PSK as an example. Sometimes the signal goes down and the message is garbled in PSK/digital, but you know what the message says. Same thing in CW. Missing a character or two will not prevent you from hearing what the other station is trying to say.
Third, work contests. Not a lot, but some. I lot of stations that contest sit on a frequency and give the same exchange each time. Copy one until you copy the exchange, put out your call, and give your exchange. Contesters will slow down to work you, they want the points! A good one to do is the NAQP this weekend. It's just the name and state, and an easy one to do. I started with that, and the state QSO parties, and then Sweepstakes was where I really got my mettle tested. If you can do sweepstakes, you can do Field Day easy.
These are things that worked for me. CW is something I truly enjoy now, along with QRP. I feel sorry for folks who don't use the mode, as they are missing a lot of the fun ham radio can be, but I also fully realize that not everyone is cut out to be a CW operator; some folks just can't do it, and that's OK too; that's why we do have other modes. Give CW a shot, I mean really try some of that stuff, and check back with us. I would like to see how you progress. 73 and best of luck!

[N5GLR]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (KC2IXE @ July 31 2004,21<!--emo&http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">I must admit to being one of those "extra lights" who is afraid of the code - I've never actually gotten on the air with it - yeah, I passed the 5wpm, but.....

Any ideas how to get over this hump? #I _WANT_ to work CW[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
Yes. #To increase your speed, use the G4FON software (free download ... just search for the call). #For "on-the-air" practice, join the FISTS code buddy program and get on the air. #I used this system to go from not remembering most of the morse alphabet to solid copy at 18 wpm in about 3 months. #Use the software about 30 minutes a day minumum and practice on the air about the same and you'll be there in faster than you think. #Half the battle is being motivated to learn and you've got that part. #Now, just do it.

73,
Garry
N5GLR

[W5HTW]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (w6em @ Aug. 02 2004,08:00)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE"></span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (N1OBN @ Aug. 02 2004,04:36)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Lee I believe your attitude is the Achilles Heel of Amateur Radio!

Ouch another personal attack ! I was warned so I can't respond to defend myself ! ??? Hey Glen Lee W6EM is not playing nice with others!:p[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
Mr. Bernardi/N1OBN:

Probably the greatest threat to the continuance of our pastime is having posted material so that anyone who might lookup your callsign in the QRZ database will be greeted with the likes of what you have displayed on yours.[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
W6EM ... When you update your bio it says "no political stuff" or something to that effect. I had noticed this, too, with OBN, but my guess is Fred does not have the time to read everyone's bio and make sure it conforms to his rules.

It is tempting, of course, to put your feelings on your bio page, but QRZ policy is no. In fact, to be sure I complied (I did, but wanted to be sure) I simply removed my bio entirely. Now mine just says see my web page (which I can't seem to get around to updating!)

Ed

[k4uug]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (w6em @ Aug. 02 2004,11:00)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE"></span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (N1OBN @ Aug. 02 2004,04:36)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Lee I believe your attitude is the Achilles Heel of Amateur Radio!

Ouch another personal attack ! I was warned so I can't respond to defend myself ! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif Hey Glen Lee W6EM is not playing nice with others!http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
Mr. Bernardi/N1OBN:

Probably the greatest threat to the continuance of our pastime is having posted material so that anyone who might lookup your callsign in the QRZ database will be greeted with the likes of what you have displayed on yours. #[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
This subject is not open for debate! Those are my Opinions and what I belive ,but we can not debate them as I was told I could not debate them! Personal attacks are un called for! Disability or not it has nothing to do with electronics! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif have a nice day http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[k4uug]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (W5HTW @ Aug. 02 2004,11:41)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">When you update your bio it says "no political stuff" or something to that effect. #[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>

Please keep the subject matter related primarily to yourself, your profession, your family. We do not permit links to non-amateur radio related sites except for personal sites about yourself. We inspect all biography submissions and will delete those that contain or point to offensive material. This isn't a political forum. If you want to write about your opinions, use our Online Forums instead. POSITIVELY NO COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING is allowed.





My bio was updated today to change a link !No political stuff in my bio {democrat or republican} Just a little about my past and about #Amateur radio in the future.The subject is how ever not open for debate.But you keep trying to skirt around it to debate it.I will not debate it untill I am told I can by glen I can't debate it!
Your Personal attacks are un called for ! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[k0ews]

Nobody attacked OBN. W6EM stated that his grammer and spelling skills leave something to be desired. They do. That's not a personal attack. That's called criticism; and there IS a difference between the two.
Nobody on this thread was debating Code versus No Code, nor was anyone interested in debating it;but we were offering input and advice on getting people to use CW. All of the responses, except for those of OBNs have been extremely positive. I would suggest that if OBN has anything to add germaine to the learning and use of the code, he go ahead and add it. If he came here to ruin a thread and to pick a fight over code/no code, that he go somewhere else. This thread is about improving and using the morse code. It is for those interested in the morse code. Not about the stupid assenine code/no-code debate which has been debated literally hundreds of times on this board, and which the FCC will decide and none of us anyway. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

[K0RGR]

Getting back to the original post - I would like to see a 'Get on CW' station for Field Day. Of course, the existing GOTA station can be that, too, but it would not hurt to have a separate category. It would be even better if there were suggested frequencies for the low-speed crowd.

I ran the GOTA station for my club this year, and we had a group of new Techs and a couple new Generals who were comfortable at 5 WPM, but I couldn't get them to get on CW, even with me there to help them out if needed. There weren't many opportunities for it, because we had a lot of people with no CW skills observing, so we stayed on SSB almost the whole contest. So, being able to have a separate station for "Get on CW" might be a good thing.

Sadly, this year, our CW QSO total was down quite a bit from last year. We were running 100 W this year vs. a KW last year, but our SSB station got more contacts than last year, so power wasn't the only problem.

While FISTS is organizing a push for this, how about just suggesting some frequencies for slow-speed contacts in the upcoming major contests, such as Sweepstakes?

Perhaps it is time to consider bringing back an updated version of the "Novice Roundup" contest for CW newbies. Call it the "CW Roundup" and let it run for two weeks like the old NR did. Limit power to 50 watts out, 80, 40 and 15 meters CW, only. This contest died due to lack of interest years ago, but now, people of all license classes could participate.

After a couple weeks of this contest, anyone's code speed should improve.

[k0ews]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote </td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Perhaps it is time to consider bringing back an updated version of the "Novice Roundup" contest for CW newbies. Call it the "CW Roundup" and let it run for two weeks like the old NR did. Limit power to 50 watts out, 80, 40 and 15 meters CW, only. This contest died due to lack of interest years ago, but now, people of all license classes could participate. [/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
That's a great idea! This would be a great time to re-introduce it. Another idea; what about instead of ARRL Straight Key Night, they have Straight Key Week? It's not "competitive" anyhow, and the slower speeds are very inviting for a newcomer anyway. I look forward to SKN every year.

[k4uug]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (k0ews @ Aug. 02 2004,12:12)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">which the FCC will decide and none of us anyway. # #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
AMEN ! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[n5bg]

For a "dying, useless mode" CW still seems to have some vitality left. I got my start in ham radio back in the forties, and when I got my first ticket in 1950 I didn't have the $ to buy a microphone, much less the modulation transformer and all the stuff needed for AM phone (if anybody here remembers that ancient mode.
A homebrew one tube transmitter hooked to a beautiful surplus J38 key got me going and communicating just fine. There was a lot of CW on 80, 40 and twenty and I made a lot of friends and worked some good DX with just forty watts into a piece of wire. I've stuck with it just because I love it and its fun and challenging.

Believe it or not, I hear more really good CW ops now than 55 years ago. Some is due to electronic keyers and keyboards, but not all. It seems that the CW guys and gals now on use the mode because they LIKE it, not because that's all there is. I still get a thrill out of working a solid DX QSO in absolutely marginal band conditions where SSB is unreadable. I also like a good CW ragchew. As to the license requirements, who cares.
CW proficiency requirements won't keep out the loudmouths and nutcases. I take pride in having had to pass my Extra at 20 WPM. but don't in the least begrudge anyone with an "Extra Lite" or tech or general.
Welcome to all hams of good will.

By the way OBN, you can "advance the radio art" and still be a CW op. I've made a pretty good living over the years as a radio engineering professinal and help advance the art a little along the way while having fun at home on 40 CW.

73,
Bill

[wa0ttn]

I greatly regret not doing better planning for CW at Field Day this year. I have always loved CW, but haven't worked it much for quite a number of years now. In preparation for Field Day, I listened to the W1AW bulletins on my commute home from work and found my copying skills came back up to 18 wpm remarkably fast.

I brought my single-lever paddle to Field Day on Saturday, but things were so hectic that I never got around to trying it out. I took it home with me that night and only brought a straight key on Sunday morning. I made one token CW contact, but found that my once-stout brass-pounding arm had turned totally to glass.

So next year I'm planning on keeping the paddle handy and doing my part to keep CW in the mix. And especially because the QSO exchange for Field Day is so simple, it's a great way to brush up rusty CW skills.

[N8CPA]

I regret I was a General for 12 years before I discovered how enjoyable code could be. I spent my work days yacking on a phone non-stop. CW saved my interest in HF, such a peaceful and cathartic mode. I also regret that it was another 3+ years before I discovered CW contesting. It feels like I missed 16 years of some of the best that Amateur Radio offers.

[k3itg]

well I think code stinks and i shouldn't have to learn it to get on hf because i don't intend on using it. i find it alot easier to say "MARK" than "-- .- .-. -.-" hell it's even harder to type. If code is what you like all the power to ya.

[AA8EK]

I got my novice license when I was 14 years old and a student at Talawanda High School in Oxford, Ohio. I still remember the club station call there which is WB8PTN. Back in the early to mid seventies you got a novice license and all you had was cw privileges on the HF bands. Your novice license was good for two years from the date of issue. At the end of 2 years you were expected to move up to general or obtain a technician license. If I remember correctly, the technician license gave you VHF privilages only. My love was always HF so I had very little interest in the tech license. In those days the novice license was not renewable.
At the end of two years I had the 13 wpm code speed but I was stumped by the theory. I waited several years(spent time goofing off on a CB radio and wanting a amateur license) and obtained a second novice license, you could get another novice license if you stayed off the air for one year. So with two novice licenses, with only CW privaleges my code speed was close to 20 wpm. At the end of my second novice license I really cracked the books and was able to obtain a general license. My code was excellent by this time. I went through my general, advanced and onto the extra license with in the space of a three or four years. Back then the toughest theory seemed to be the advanced license. I finally made extra class about 12 years ago, give or take a few months.
I found that after spending so much time as a novice, limited to 75 watts and CW privileges only, CW became a second language to me, I was very fluent in it and still am. I have been an extra for about 12 years or so and my love now is CW. I have all the equipment to run a great sounding SSB station but I find myself pounding brass all the time. I am to the point now where I don't need to write down what I am copying, but rather I can form complete words in my head. I think my code speed now is about 25 wpm, I can copy a bit faster than that but I am comfortable at 25 wpm. I am finding now, 95 percent of my time is spent with CW.
Another reason I love CW is due to the location of my shack. My shack is located in the basement of my house directly under my wife's and my son's bedrooms. I can stay up late at night working DX while my family enjoys a good nights sleep. I put the headphones on and turn the sound on the keyer down and I can work the world in almost complete silence, this to make my family happy. I can not do this running SSB as I would keep my wife and son up half the night listening to me calling CQ.
For me CW is not just a second language but it has lead to a better marriage and family life. My family gets a solid nights sleep and I get a night of DXing, a match made in heaven the way I see it! I can only say to those that would like to try CW is to stick with it! Get on the novice portion of the 40 meter band and start calling CQ, don't be shy! It will come slowly to you, but it will come. You have to be patient and you have to stick with it. I found that leaving some morse running in the background is a good way to slowly build up your code speed. You will find yourself picking up a letter here and a letter there and you will be just that much closer to mastering CW. The way I see it if I can do it just about anybody can, you just have to stick with it.
Good DX and good luck to everyone.
73's
AA8EK
Steven J. Moore
Hamilton, Ohio 45013-1607
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[N7YA]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (kb3itg @ Aug. 03 2004,19:50)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">well I think code stinks and i shouldn't have to learn it to get on hf because i don't intend on using it. i find it alot easier to say "MARK" than "-- .- .-. -.-" hell it's even harder to type. If code is what you like all the power to ya.[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
Its all ok, in a few short years...if that...CW will be gone from requirements, but i am certain it wont be off the air. as long as i have a callsign, i will continue to sign with -. --... -.-- .- . I love cw, i even like to pick up the mic once in a while...and i will eventually try out digital and sats. I like the program you are doing, i encourage it.
I just hope we can soon be over the hobbys own vietnam that is the code/no code thing....its taxing, i would like most of us to get along again. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif
Anyway, im happy as long as people keep getting official licenses...i dont care what mode they choose to operate. as long as hams keep joining thats all that matters...its just my opinion and im pretty well set in it.
I hope to hear you guys on the air....veteran or newbie, i dont care, lets qso!

Mark, ill look for you on phone and well qso there, its all the same to me brother. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

73...Adam, N7YA
20 wpm extra...big deal http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[WA2ZDY]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (KC2IXE @ July 31 2004,22:09)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">I must admit to being one of those "extra lights" who is afraid of the code - I've never actually gotten on the air with it - yeah, I passed the 5wpm, but.....

Any ideas how to get over this hump? #I _WANT_ to work CW[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
The only way is to get on the air and DO IT!!

I have said this before, but it's worth repeating.

Code is like a foreign language. #Think of it that way while you read this . . .

How many of you took a foreign language in school? #Most of you probably. #It was misery wasn't it? #Awful, probably the class you hated the most. #You struggled and struggled, but you finally started to get it. #

Then one day you realised you were good enough, fluent enough to think about maybe a trip to the faraway land where your second language is the native tongue. #Come on, admit it, you did. # Why did you feel that way? #Because #you did the work; you didn't like it, but you did it. #Even if you couldn't conjugate the verbs and all, you could make yourself understood and you understood what was being said to you. #Suddenly, it wasn't misery anymore; it was fun.

Code is the same way. #EXACTLY the same way. #But with a 5 wpm level being all there for exams now, it never becomes fun. #You are never pushed to get to the point where it is fun and you want to do more and visit that foreign land (the cw subbands.) #If you HAD to get better, you would and you would pass the hump of drudgery and suddenly it would be fun. #Fun enough at least to keep trying it and getting better at it.

When I was first licensed, the Novice offered no voice privileges. #Either we got on CW or we didn't get on the air. #So we got on CW just because that's how it was. #

In my case, I was 13. #My mother wouldn't let me go to New York City to take my General. #That would have been quite a trip for a kid of that age. #(Funny how years later, things Mom said all make sense now, huh?!) #But I did finally go to NYC with other kids in my high school after a few months. #So it was that after 11 months as a Novice, I got my General. #It was December 1975 and WN2ZDY had become WA2ZDY. #

I had no SSB rig and no money to pay for one was on the horizon, so as a General, I just stayed on CW. By then it wasn't really "work" anymore anyway, it was just another way to chat. #By the time I had my own SSB rig, I didn't want to use it. #

That's how it was for me. #What's sad is that I read all these comments from no-code techs who say they will never work CW. #You folks don't even KNOW if you'll like it. #It's like our parents said to us when we were children: #"take a bite, try it, how do you know you won't like it if you don't taste it?" # If you try it, give it a fair chance and then you don't like it, that's fine. #But to just say you won't like it? #

Some of you wouldn't like it, that's true. That's what is so great about ham radio - there's something for everyone. #But a lot of you WOULD enjoy it. #It's a skill to be proud of, an accomplishment. #No, it's not something you will earn a living with. #It's not the latest and greatest either. #But is that why you became a ham? #

At least try it, or don't say you don't/won't like it. #You can't know if you'd like it.

By the way, I guess I DO like it enough. #I am finally back on HF with my Kenwood TS140 in my truck. And yes, I'm working CW every day while on the work commute. #Talk about fun!

personal note: Hey Q, you going to DVRA this year? I'm free that weekend. Lemme know.

[W9GRN]

Great idea and great article.Thankyou! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[W9GRN]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (k0ews @ Aug. 02 2004,09:12)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Nobody attacked OBN. #W6EM stated that his grammer and spelling skills leave something to be desired. #They do. That's not a personal attack. #That's called criticism; and there IS a difference between the two. #
Nobody on this thread was debating Code versus No Code, nor was anyone interested in debating it;but we were offering input and advice on getting people to use CW. #All of the responses, except for those of OBNs have been extremely positive. #I would suggest that if OBN has anything to add germaine to the learning and use of the code, he go ahead and add it. #If he came here to ruin a thread and to pick a fight over code/no code, that he go somewhere else. #This thread is about improving and using the morse code. It is for those interested in the morse code. # Not about the stupid assenine code/no-code debate which has been debated literally hundreds of times on this board, and which the FCC will decide and none of us anyway. # #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
Totally agree! I would rather see positive posts instead of the negative ones.When I log onto this website,I use it to learn something from other amateur radio ops who would like to share their knowledge.Not negative posts,which gains me nothing at all.

[WS2L]

WA2ZDY

What weekend is DVRA Chris, I don't have my list of hamfests readily available. Let me know here or via email.

[W0LC]

Quote[/b] (W9GRN @ Aug. 08 2004,17:17)]Quote[/b] (k0ews @ Aug. 02 2004,09:12)]Nobody attacked OBN. #W6EM stated that his grammer and spelling skills leave something to be desired. #They do. That's not a personal attack. #That's called criticism; and there IS a difference between the two. #
Nobody on this thread was debating Code versus No Code, nor was anyone interested in debating it;but we were offering input and advice on getting people to use CW. #All of the responses, except for those of OBNs have been extremely positive. #I would suggest that if OBN has anything to add germaine to the learning and use of the code, he go ahead and add it. #If he came here to ruin a thread and to pick a fight over code/no code, that he go somewhere else. #This thread is about improving and using the morse code. It is for those interested in the morse code. # Not about the stupid assenine code/no-code debate which has been debated literally hundreds of times on this board, and which the FCC will decide and none of us anyway. # #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif
Totally agree! I would rather see positive posts instead of the negative ones.When I log onto this website,I use it to learn something from other amateur radio ops who would like to share their knowledge.Not negative posts,which gains me nothing at all.
You have to learn to ignore some of the posts (OBN's in particular) in negative reply regarding CW. " All of the responses, except for those of OBNs have been extremely positive." That has been true for just about everyone on this thread. I learn to "notch" it out. Hi hi.

However, some just won't learn it and as such, will complain about it when mentioned.

I think the original post (remember that??) is a good idea. And, don't worry if your speed isn't much past 5 wpm. Practice and use will increase your speed over time. Many of us that respond (in cw) will gladly slow it down accordingly. You will find some of your nicer ops on CW BTW. GL in getting your speed up and glad to work you if I hear you!

[W0LC]

KB6NU:

I think that your original post is a very good idea. There is no reason anyone cannot participate, unless of course, they don't know CW. Hi.

There is a lot of interest in CW and many use it contrary to some of the inane posts about how "obsolete" CW is. I have made many a contact on VHF SSB when aurora flutter was predominant and voice wouldn't or couldn't be copied. CW worked very well in those situations. In fact, most of the really good DX ops use it to maximize the QSO rate and log entries. Having a "Get on CW" contest, activity, special event, etc. would be great. It would help enhance code skills even further for those that may be a bit rusty. With use, comes proficiency.

Thanks for the excellent posting!

[N8CPA]

Opinions about Morse's vitality from people who don't know it are as valid as illiterates' critiques of classical literature.

[WA2ZDY]

Indeed, if we really want to discuss antiquated modes, most of the ones we use are, not just CW. AM? Goodness, that went out in the 50s. SSB? Been surpassed. FM? Well, it does serve a purpose. If we were all required to leave the antiquated modes behind, we'd all be back on CB and the cell phone.

No, CW is for those interested. If you're not interested, you shouldn't have read this thread this far. If you CLAIM you're not interested but still are reading, you are either a hooligan like . .. (insert call here) or you're wish you knew the code and/or were good enough to get on and just don't know how to admit it.

Good luck to all. Even the hooligans.

[wr1tx]

Quote[/b] (k0ews @ Aug. 02 2004,09:12)]Nobody attacked OBN. #W6EM stated that his grammer and spelling skills leave something to be desired. #They do. That's not a personal attack. #That's called criticism; and there IS a difference between the two. #
Nobody on this thread was debating Code versus No Code, nor was anyone interested in debating it;but we were offering input and advice on getting people to use CW. #All of the responses, except for those of OBNs have been extremely positive. #I would suggest that if OBN has anything to add germaine to the learning and use of the code, he go ahead and add it. #If he came here to ruin a thread and to pick a fight over code/no code, that he go somewhere else. #This thread is about improving and using the morse code. It is for those interested in the morse code. # Not about the stupid assenine code/no-code debate which has been debated literally hundreds of times on this board, and which the FCC will decide and none of us anyway. # #http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif
[QUOTE]Nobody attacked OBN. #W6EM stated that his grammer and spelling skills leave something to be desired. #They do. That's not a personal attack. #That's called criticism; and there IS a difference between the two. #
Nobody on this thread was debating Code versus No Code, nor was anyone interested in debating it;but we were offering input and advice on getting people to use CW. #All of the responses, except for those of OBNs have been extremely positive. #I would suggest that if OBN has anything to add germaine to the learning and use of the code, he go ahead and add it. #If he came here to ruin a thread and to pick a fight over code/no code, that he go somewhere else. #This thread is about improving and using the morse code. It is for those interested in the morse code. # Not about the stupid assenine code/no-code debate which has been debated literally hundreds of times on this board, and which the FCC will decide and none of us anyway. # # [QUOTE]


W5HTW pretty well has it right. No one was debating code/no code, just a different way of promoting opportunities of using code.

As for myself, I just got back into using code and I think a Get on CW station is a great idea! And, it should be something that the ARRL should look at as well. Why the heck not? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

As far as OBN is concerned...what is your problem??? No, wait...I already know from this thread and your QRZ bio. Get your head out of the sand, boy, and get with reality! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif

Meanwhile, I'll be working on my code speed on HF...hope to work some of you there!

73 to all except the OBN sandman...

[W0LC]

CPA, HTW and EW.
Very well stated! I thought the original post to generate activity with the younger crowd was excellent.

It always seems to digress though when posters like that throw a rock into the pool. Have to wonder what is the purpose? Totally unrelated to the posted topic.
Borderline trolling?

[k5jzo]

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif After reading all of the post is great to see so many of you all to be in favor of the good all CW.
In my case is being hard to learn, I have a lot of work to be able to learn it. # My biggest problem is that I don’t find friendly hams in my town that will lend a hand, but don’t blame it on no one but me, I know that if I put more effort on it I will learn it. But I don’t give up some day sooner than lather I will be contacting some of you using CW.
Well, you all that can use the HF bands have fun I will be contacting you all soon.
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif

[W0LC]

Julio,

Don't give up!

I learned it I suppose the old fashioned way. Repetition!
Get on the cw portions of the bands and just sit back and copy individuals that you hear, work your way up to the faster senders over time. Also, study the code tapes, W1AW practice runs, etc. I found by simply just "sending" and listening, I found myself over a short time, being able to copy faster then I imagined. You don't translate the dots and dashes in your head. You actually begin to "hear" the letters and numbers as they are sent.

Believe me. If I could have learned it, so can you. When I did 5 WPM, I thought "oh my gawd!".

Now, I can easily do anywhere from 25-35 WPM. Depends on my frame of mind at the time!

GL and let us know if we can help by sending you some practice code on one of the bands. Be glad to do it sometime!

Take care and again, GL!