Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Morse Code dead? Never!

Back in 1967 is when I first got my ham radio license. I was only 14 years old, and it was quite the big deal. Especially when I upgraded to my Advanced class at 16 years of age. Back then, you had to go in front of an FCC official, and it was very scary! But in order to pass, you had to be able to copy (or receive) one solid minute of Morse code at a speed of 13 words per minute without error, which is pretty fast.

I didn't get my Extra class license until much later, but I have always enjoyed using Morse code, or CW, as it is referred to in the ham radio world. Unfortunately, it has been a while for me since I have actually talked to anybody using Morse code.

The other day, I stumbled on to an interesting site, lcwo.net. Which is a site for learning Morse code, as well as allowing you to practice online. Being curious, I tried a couple of the tests, and was surprised at my score! I was able to copy Morse code at 28 words per minute! Wow!

But then Mike, don't get too cocky! (yes, I talk to myself) Because my ranking was 235 on words and 769 on call signs. Yeah, there are lots of guys that are way better than me, but that's ok, I'm just glad that I still remember Morse code!

If you want to learn Morse code, lcwo.net is the place to do it.

By the way, I should also mention that if you are interested in getting your ham radio license, you don't need to know Morse code anymore. But just so you know, Morse code is still cool!

-- Mike