Plus, Resources for Learning Morse Code
In the March 2022 edition of this column, I talked about two ways for Technician Class licensees to get involved with HF (High-Frequency radio waves between 3 and 30 MHz), which opens up the possibility of long-distance amateur radio contacts. There are two options for Techs on HF: CW only on 80, 40, 15, and 10 meters (Photo A), or CW/SSB/digital on portions of 10 meters. See Figure 1 for a chart of Tech HF CW privileges.
In March, I focused on 10-meter activities, including voice (SSB) and digital (FT8, RTTY, etc.). This month, we will focus on CW operations for Technicians and all license classes. But before we start, just a heads up that sitting in my shack in October 2022, 10 meters is full of SSB signals from around the world. So, get on the air NOW and don’t miss 10-meter openings over the next few years.
Morse Code, a.k.a. CW
For those who have been around amateur radio for a few decades, you may wonder why I would be bringing up CW in a column about exploring new activities in amateur radio. Before 1990, all amateur radio licenses required at least some code knowledge. Until 2007, code proficiency was required
