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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
Jim "Elvis" Seifert (AD6WL)
on
March 14, 2006
View comments about this article!
You have just passed your code test and now what? You may try listening on the bands and find that the speeds are just to fast for you to even think about trying to copy. This can get very discouraging for a new ham. Many new hams want to operate CW but often find the speeds they hear on the air to be very intimidating. You can just listen to the ARRL CW practice on the air but that gets boring after awhile. There is another option. There is a Yahoo group devoted to QRS CW. This is a great opportunity for new hams to get together with other hams who operate at the same speed and for some of you experienced CW ops to share information with the group and QRS to make contacts with these new hams. I have found the best way to enjoy CW was to make contacts with other hams. After operating QRS for a while you will notice that your speed will start to increase. The website for the group is:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/QRS-CW/.
Here is a list of the unofficial QRS CW operating frequencies. These frequencies are only a guideline as a place for the group to meet and are not part of any band plan. If you hear a slow speed CQ out there then answer the call and enjoy a relaxed QSO at a slower speed.
1.850
3.700
7.124/7.050
10.125
14.050
21.150/21.125
24.8915
28.160
Most QRS activity seems to be on 7.050 & 14.050.
73, Jim
AD6WL
This article has expired. No more comments may be added.
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by W2RDD on March 14, 2006
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Nice article. I think FISTS has a QRS net sked. Possibly some CW QRP nets, also. Don't forget the old Novice frequencies, bless 'em. There may be more.
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by K4SFC on March 14, 2006
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It's a shame so many folks don't understand. I'm a Southern boy, I talk slow, I listen slow, and my CW is slow. It's been that way all my life and it's not going to change. Why? 'cause I'm happy with the way I am. I have no desire to go fast. I have no desire to "break a sweat", doing something that is supposed to be FUN!
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KC9HVN on March 14, 2006
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An evil (and personally, I think illegal) winlink robot lurks around 10125, 10115 to 10120 is a much better place to find an easy going QSO without getting crushed. Also, I've had a couple of nice, slower DX Qso's around 18085.
73's
Mark
AB9LZ
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by K8AG on March 14, 2006
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For those of us who cherish CW, we need to welcome new operators into the ranks. I try to pick ot a slower op every time I sit down to operate CW. At least one QSO with a new "coder" is a small price to pay to have CW continue.
Good post, 73.
JP, K8AG
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KR4OW on March 14, 2006
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Well another thing to do is work the cw contests.
By sitting there long enough making contacts on a search and pounce you will find your speed does increase. you may have to listen to the call sign 3-10 times but you will get it and after a while the speed just naturally picks up.
Also
1.850 is a SSB frequency your best bet would be around 1.812 that is where I here most of the slow code.
David KR4OW
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by WR8Y on March 14, 2006
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Contests work real well for increasing CW speed. Both sending AND receiving.
Another secret I have used is this: http://www.arrl.org/w1aw/morse.html
Go there, and copy to your hard drive all the CW practice files you want. (Click the "Archive of past files" at the bottom of the page - you will see OODLES of practice files.) THEN, burn them to a CD and listen to them while driving! This will teach you to copy in your head AND to works to increase speed.
The longer your commute, the better your CW will be.
It worked for me...
Mark
WR8Y
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by K8XF on March 14, 2006
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The concept of improving ur code speed is easy. Practice practice and more practice. If you copy the cw with a pen or in or head find a opr that sends well and a little faster than you may easily copy. The problem with a lot of guys is the fact that they get on the air once a week and complain that they cant improve their speed. Work harder, there is no substitute. Also, when sending think about three words ahead of what you are about to say. This might help sending better. Less fumbling and mistakes.
No gain without some pain.......
Viva CW
73
Mike, K8XF
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KA4JQZ on March 14, 2006
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K8XF is right on the money, after being out of the hobby for ten years it took me a couple of months to get back to a good speed (for me) and I wasnt trying that hard. At least one QSO a day 5 days a week really got me back in into the game.
I always try to slow down for the new comers but sometimes I have trouble judging speeds below 15 wpm. There is no shame in asking the other op to QRS. We all will.
Just don't send at a speed faster than you can copy and keep asking the other op to QRS.
73, Frank KA4JQZ
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by K6JEB on March 14, 2006
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This last weekend I was cleaning up the shack and had most of my station disassembled. My Bencher paddle sat there on the desk, still connected to the keyer, only the paddles were more oriented to my left hand. I've been right-handed all my life, have always sent CW with my right hand, and it finally dawned on me that I could try sending CW with my LEFT hand for once.
So I set the keyer to reverse the paddles (Dih = right paddle, dah = left paddle) and tried sending. Guess what? I can send clean code at almost the same speed as my 'regular' fist!!!
The advantages of this would be easily recognized by most any traffic net operator, or contestor, or anyone who would like to be able to write AND send at the same time (all these years I've been just holding the pen in between my thumb and forefinger while I used the paddles).
So if you hear me QRS, it's me practicing with my left hand (and of course I would encourage anyone to give it a try, it also gives you a pretty neat demonstration of how the brain works as far as reversing direction for motor skills). Never forget how useful this might become if you ever lost use of one of your hands!
Reading so many posts about how CW is dying or how no-code folks are somehow a bane to the existence of the old-timers, it's VERY refreshing to see someone posting about how to be part of the solution rather than part of the problem.
THANK YOU!!!! And very 73!
Jack
K6JEB
www.k6jeb.com
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by N4OI on March 14, 2006
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Great comments and advice all -- I have been a ham for about three years now and work all CW. My speed became limited by how fast I could scribble QSOs - and my hand was getting really tired! So I made a commitment to learn to copy at least 25 wpm in my head. It has been an effort -- just as it was to get past that 10 wpm barrier a couple of years ago. I am now beginning to experience short periods of effortless QRS head copy that are so encouraging. In fact, when I get "in the zone", the speed becomes less of an issue and I can understand words (not so much characters) to 30 wpm and beyond. So -- I will keep practicing -- copying on air, downloading W1AW practice files, and listening to the news reports from the AA9PW Web site (http://www.aa9pw.com/radio/morse.html) -- all at at least 25 wpm. One day, I will be truly fluent in this "new language" -- but for now, it is still a lot of fun! 73 de Ken N4OI
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by WF7A on March 14, 2006
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With CW being a language, some of us just don't have the ability to transcribe it in our heads; we're "language challenged" and just aren't right- (left?)-brained enough to do that. Instead, we have to jot down on paper incoming messages. So, that leaves us two options: write faster or write better. For the latter, when I hear the letter, "e", I just put down a hyphen "-" on paper for it--since it's a character that's sent quickly, it doesn't make sense to write it in longhand or in cursive/script--just a quick, little character will suffice. So, you might want to develop your own shorthand to make copying code a little easier.
With the former, however...aye, there's the rub for those of us who lack fine motor skills with our hands for one reason or another (i.e., arthritis, Parkinson's, a stroke, or some other physical disability.) I've always wondered if we should add a prosign of /D after a callsign--"D" for Disabled. That way, you let the other Op know that you can't copy fast code because of a disability so he or she would be cued to send slowly to you. As an Extra, I'm often chided when communicating by CW so slowly--"You're an Extra and can only send/receive at 12 WPM?" It's only after I explain my disability and send QRS that the other Op understands why I'm in the slow lane. That, and I'm just dense.
Ciao,
Rich
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by WA4DOU on March 14, 2006
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Isn't it just amazing how the human mind rises to challenges when its not hobbled with an "I can't" mindset?
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by N3AIU on March 14, 2006
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Back in the days of iron men and wooden radios, I got my code speed up by handling traffic on NTS CW nets. In eastern Pennsylvania, there were two section nets, PTTN (slow) and EPA (fast). My speed went from 10 wpm to 25 wpm on paper within a year (and ~35 wpm in my head). With the advances in digital modes, CW nets are becoming outdated dinosaurs that handle very little traffic, so other speed increasing techniques are required.
May I suggest the G4FON CW software? It is ergonomic (the interface will not hurt the user) and very flexible. If you are a CW newbie, you can learn one or two letters at a time. The Farnsworth factor can be set to whatever you want. You can include QSB to "keep it real". I run this software during my lunch breaks to keep myself sharp.
73, Nick N3AIU
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by N6AYJ on March 14, 2006
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The title of this article is nonsensical. In effect, it reads, "How To Improve Your CW Speed - AD6WL Provides Information on How to Send Slower": A contradiction in terms. I thought the thread was going to be about QRQ operation. I am not interested in QRS CW. Oh, well, I should have known better than to expect that a ham could write a coherent sentence. Also, pal, learn the difference between "to" and "too", will you?
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by N6AJR on March 14, 2006
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I too am a firm believer in the G4FON software. first you learn it at 20 wpm, a useful speed, and don't have to relarn it from 5 to 10 to 20 , just start at 20 and when you can recogniuse all the characters , you actually know it at 20 wpm..
G4FON.net.. and the companion program for typing in the letters is there also, and FREE!!!
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by WA4DOU on March 14, 2006
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As quickly as possible, after you have learned enough to pass the 5 wpm test, get on the air on cw. If you can't find slow ops, call cq. Almost all cw ops, recognizing your slow cq, will answer you at a similiar speed. Moving away from the "learning' cw experience, as quickly as possible, to the "using cw" experience will take your mind off trying to increase speed. Speed increase will take care of itself in due time. Regular use of cw will build proficiency.
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by NN6EE on March 14, 2006
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The original poster was right, the upper reaches of the major CW bands are excellent places to hang out for SLOOOOW SPEED CW!!!
Though apparently the EXTRA-LITES don't hangout @ 5wpm or there abouts in their OWN EXCLUSIVE CW bands because they don't care to be embarrassed???
:-)))
Jim/ee
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KC9HVN on March 14, 2006
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NN6EE:
Sounds like a bit of license envy from a mere Advanced ;)
Btw doesn't bother me one bit to go slow... I can't help it, only been a Ham for nine months, not my fault they made Extra so easy to obtain. And yes, I do go below 25, no problems there.
73's
Mark (a real ee)
AB9LZ.
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by NN6EE on March 14, 2006
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KC9HVN,
Hiya Marky!!!
When the FCC wises up and goes back to TESTING @ 20wpm then I'll get that EXTRA!!!
But since there's detractors like yourself seem to think that I'll lose out on anything you're not very SMART!!!
Licensed since 1962
Full privileges for WHAT I NEED!!!
SO BYTE ME HVN!!!
Jim/ee
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by NN6EE on March 14, 2006
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AB9LZ aka "Troller"!!!/HVN
It's too bad that you had to WAIT just for the FCC to LOWER the CW requirements so that your LAZY BRAIN could comprehend 5WPM!!!
Jim/ee
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KC9HVN on March 14, 2006
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NN6EE;
LOL!
"Full privileges for WHAT I NEED!!!"
I thought you only needed to be a general to yak on the 75m "Jack Daniels Net". Seems like you are over qualified.
73's
Mark
AB9LZ
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KC2ISO on March 14, 2006
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Nice article! Tnx for sharing the info with the rest of us.
2 more weeks till my upgrade, and all i can think about is using CW. the phone, just doesn't interest me all that much, except for 2m.
Side note...
I've been practising CW with the G4FON software for about 2 months now, at 5 wpm. Latly I've stepped up to 7 wpm.
So a week ago I go and pick up my new station, take afew hours, to set-up, ect. Copy some slow code on the air when I can find it.
My radio has a none broadcast function that allows you to practise sending. So as I'm messing with it, am now at 10 wpm on rxing. Seems like sending helps with your copy.
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by NN6EE on March 14, 2006
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KC9HVN/Amateur EXTRA??? LITE!!!
SORRY BUBBA,
I DON'T WASTE MY TIME THERE LIKE YOU DO TALKING TO "BRAIN-DEAD" MORONS!!!
GET A REAL LIFE AND YOU'LL BE A BETTER MAN FOR IT!!!
Jim/ee
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KC9HVN on March 14, 2006
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NN6EE:
Pretty classy Jim, first you insult the author of this post...
"Though apparently the EXTRA-LITES don't hangout @ 5wpm or there abouts in their OWN EXCLUSIVE CW bands because they don't care to be embarrassed???"
then all of the folks that need the advice put forth in this post... (including myself)
"It's too bad that you had to WAIT just for the FCC to LOWER the CW requirements so that your LAZY BRAIN could comprehend 5WPM!!!"
nice going, you make us all proud to be Hams...
73's
Mark
AB9LZ
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Attack of the Blue Meanie
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by K6JEB on March 14, 2006
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Ummm Jim (NN6EE),
Since you seem to be such a wise and expert ham; enough to make a blind generalization about someone who is actually TRYING to improve his CW speed, I am wondering, did you get your rig fixed?
The FCC was wondering too:
from: http://www.arrl.org/news/enforcement_logs/2002/0810.html
Mr. James H. Davis
3174 San Ramon Road
Concord, CA 94519
RE: Amateur Radio License NN6EE: Warning Notice
Dear Mr. Davis:
On approximately 23 occasions since February of this year, the transmissions from your station have exhibited what appears to be alternator "whine" when mobile, and power supply noise or "hum" when operating from your base. Information before the Commission indicates that you have been notified several times about these problems but have neglected to take action.
We note that, as an Advanced Class licensee, you should have sufficient knowledge to correct this relatively simple problem and should also be familiar with the Amateur rules as set forth in Part 97. Please contact a local Amateur Radio club, however, if you are uncertain how to proceed.
Pursuant to Section 308(b) of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, you are requested to notify this office within 20 days of the date of this letter as to what action you have taken to correct these problems. Failure to respond, or failure to take corrective action, will result in enforcement action against your NN6EE station and operator licenses.
cc: FCC Western Regional Director "
Perhaps if you'd avoid being a troll,
our eyes wouldn't, at you, roll
your comments will definitely take their toll
because it seems when it comes to piss and vinegar,
you are FULL.
Admittedly this was way back in 2002, and I would guess/hope that Jim has taken care of this 'little' issue.
:)
Jeez, I really wonder why you would make such a blatantly unfriendly statement towards anyone who is working CW. Seems like many folks here love to judge others without regard for what they're doing to the hobby. We see people being judged for being no-coders, then once they pass the code element you slam on them for not sending it at 35 wpm. Then I suspect you'd probably insult anyone who didn't get their license before 1962. And hey, if those things passed, then you'd get on their case for not using the same rig as you.
What gives Jim? A simple search of your comments on this web site shows you're not often in a good mood.
Ever think maybe sometimes some of the folks you hear sending CW slow might just be doing so because they enjoy it? Or perhaps they're some old-timer whose hearing isn't as good as it used to be? Or perhaps arthritis has taken its toll? Maybe they're using a straight key for old time's sake (like Straight Key Night)! There are a myriad of reasons someone might use CW QRS. SOme say it's the only way they can beat QSB. I know that down in the VLF range, people send QRS for that exact reason.
So Jim, get that rig fixed and then maybe instead of judging others for something as silly as when they got licensed, or whether some FCC clerk gave them their exam or a licensed Amateur Extra quizzed them; you'll realize you may be insulting people who can run circles around you in RF engineering, or maybe something else. I personally know a ham who has the Technician license. His day job is a position as an antenna engineer for one of the leading aeronautics firms in our area. The man can answer ANY question regarding antennas. But he simply doesn't have the desire to learn Morse Code. Would you classify him as a CBer? As part of his job he regularly takes part in on-the-air tests of his designs (on their allotted frequencies of course). Would hamdom be better without him? I think not!
Another guy in our area who is also a Technician class operator works for NASA. And yes, you guessed it, he's a rocket scientist. His excuse for not having a higher class ticket: time. He's simply too bogged-down with family and work and whatever time he has left for his community. But hey, he regularly teaches us about satellites and orbital drift, and was a very valuable resource during the short life of SuitSat.
All I can say is try and understand rather than just judging blindly. I'm sure you're a nice guy and a great ham in person. But you come off as a real troll in type.
You belong to any East Bay Clubs? I make my rounds. Maybe we can discuss this sort of thing in person.
Talk to the hand,
Jack, K6JEB
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When it rains, it pours
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by K6JEB on March 14, 2006
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I wonder if this had anything to do with changing the call (again). This was back in 2001, people change, times change, and no one is perfect. But gee, maybe if someone would spend less time harassing/judging others, they'd find time to study for an upgrade. After all, it's "SO easy now!" I seriously doubt it's just 'principle' that keeps Jim from upgrading to be an "Extra-Lite" (his words not mine). After all, I found the Advanced exam was the hardest of all of them. Come take your exam Jim! Then we can see if you can keep up with all of us "Extra Lites" down in the 'lower 25.'
from: http://www.arrl.org/news/enforcement_logs/2001/0215.html?nc=1
"CONCORD, CA: The FCC on February 8, 2001, sent a Warning Notice to Advanced licensee James H. Davis, W6IBD, advising the licensee that it expects him to abide by the request of the Mt Diablo Amateur Radio Club to refrain from using the W6CX repeater. According to the FCC, the letter resulted from the licensee's "failing to follow operational rules set forth by the licensee/control operators of the W6CX repeater for its users." The FCC said Davis received the letter January 18 but had not adhered to the request. FCC Special Counsel for Amateur Radio Enforcement Riley Hollingsworth said repeater control operators "may take whatever steps are appropriate to ensure compliance with the repeater rules, including converting the repeater to a closed repeater or taking it off the air entirely." Hollingsworth warned the licensee that if he uses the repeater again, it will initiate enforcement action, up to and including revocation, fine or restriction. The FCC requested that Davis respond to the letter within 20 days."
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RE: When it rains, it pours
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by NS6Y_ on March 14, 2006
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"Extra Lite" haha, that's what you get when you pass the Extra test (easy as pie these days) but only passed the basic 5WPM code. I guess I'm an "Extra Kinda Lite" myself, since I passed the 13WPM code at the FCC office and probably could have passed the 20WPM with just a little more effort, and never quite got around to it. When I wanted a nice short call, I discovered all I had to do was take this test, which was very, very easy with a little help from Gordon West and In-N-Out burger, that was my study hall.
Now I wish I'd taken the Extra test way back when, but I didn't. What we really need is more CW of all speeds on the air and more friendliness to new hams. I know some of you guys like putting the ouch in grouch but being nice once in a while provides some contrast.
My dream of the future: Cellfones that come with that walkee-talkee feature also come with CW paddles for practice.
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by AD5TD on March 14, 2006
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by N6AYJ on March 14, 2006 Mail this to a friend!
The title of this article is nonsensical. In effect, it reads, "How To Improve Your CW Speed - AD6WL Provides Information on How to Send Slower": A contradiction in terms. I thought the thread was going to be about QRQ operation. I am not interested in QRS CW. Oh, well, I should have known better than to expect that a ham could write a coherent sentence. Also, pal, learn the difference between "to" and "too", will you?
What a prick!
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by G4VGO on March 14, 2006
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As a Top Band operator for these many years, CW has been my mainstay in amateur radio. Back in the dark ages (steel men and wooden radios???) I started as a novice and spent a year with a J-38 enhanced with a poker chip on the bottom to act as a finger rest and managed to get the speed up to the 13 wpm that was required for the general class license. Every day a few QSO's with fellow novices on 80 and 40, occasionally a trip up to 15 for a really long haul contact. Slowly, very slowly speed increased. Years later passing the 20 wpm exam at the FCC office in NYC came easily.
As some have said, it is a new language. Back in the beginning it was like Spanish class in junior high school that I was taking at the same time, tough but not impossible. Now, 40 years later CW is second nature, 40+ wpm contest QSO's are easy, reading it 'in the head' at almost any speed is a breeze. But, I struggle to get through a sentence in Spanish. The CW has not and hopefully never will go away.
Guess the whole idea of this comment was to say it looks almost impossible the first time you try a CW contact or even attempt to copy a call sign....but stay with it, and you WILL get there. It gets to be fun, a whole lot of fun.
73
Bob G4VGO - 9V1GO - YB5AQB
PS - there is a QRS net here in Indonesia on 7025 every night and it is a pleasure to work new friends and help them build the code speed along with the confidence that it takes to jump into the deep end and make a few contacts with the CW pileups that nearly always follow their first CQ from YB.
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by K6JEB on March 14, 2006
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Back to the original topic: How to Improve Your CW Speed
Obviously the best way to improve your CW speed is to use CW as often as you can. And the frequencies given in the original article are a great start.
There seems to be a few 'plateaus' each of us hit with the code. One thing that helped me was to try and find operators who would send the characters themselves fast, but space them further. This way you avoid the trap of translating 'dihs' and 'dahs' into letters.
Another thing that helped was just leaving the radio turned on when I'm putzing around in the shack. Usually there are some good fast ops having a real QSO on whatever band is open. This of course varies with the day and time. What you want is to be able to hear both stations. Sometimes you'll get lucky, and sometimes you won't. This is how I think I started hearing words instead of just individual characters. With time, this leads to phrases and sentences that you hear, just like when you hear someone speak in your native tongue . . . no translation, just meaning.
Sending CW correctly is not without some work too, at least at first. Make sure you have your spacing ratios correct; though as I said earlier, it's not uncommon for hams to send characters fast, and spacings between the letters gets spaced further. There's a lot of sloppy code out there! Don't become one of those lousy fists! Sure the intention is there, but if you can't be understood, why bother?
If you use a straight key, relax your arm and hand as much as possible. Make sure you can place your arm, from the elbow down to your wrist, in a relaxed position leading up to the key. This applies to paddle keys as well. Before you go on the air, make sure you're sending good code. And of course don't send any faster than you can copy. OK, maybe a little bit . . . the person who comes back to you might challenge you a bit and hey, you might be able to copy faster than you think you can!
AC6V has, as usual, a great collection of links on the topic:
http://www.ac6v.com/morseaids.htm
Something I would strongly advise against, at least during a QSO, is just making up abbreviations. Use only standard ones. This isn't IMing! (instant messaging). Well, actually on Jay Leno, they proved CW ops could out-pace self-proclaimed IM gurus:
http://www.oarc.org/Jayleno.html
So that's my $0.02 on upping your CW speed. May I also suggest checking into CW traffic nets? No, it's not going to be a busy time with moving traffic around, but it gives you a regular schedule on which you will be building your CW (and traffic handling) skills. It will also do wonders to learning proper procedure! Hey, maybe you'll even meet a few folks who use CW and are NOT cranky!!! :)
Once I got to around 30 wpm, I hit another 'plateau.' For this I have been having some good success with the CW Hypnosis CDs at:
http://www.qth.com/cweasy/
Is it placebo? I really don't know for sure. If that's all there is to my being able to comfortably copy almost ANYTHING tossed at me in a contest, and being able to have nice long meaningful (well maybe) QSOs at high speed (>35-40wpm) with other stations, well hey, it was worth my money. But I will add that I also try not to let a day go by without at least another CW QSO in the log. That regularity thing, in many aspects of life, hehehe, will always help.
Finally, take a stake in CW! It's actually quite an interesting mode of communication! Some say Morse Code was the real beginning of the Information Age. How about the fact that one of the American Air Force Pilots shot down in Viet Nam signalled in Morse Code, using his eyelids, during a forced TV appearance put on by his captors (it always surprises me that someone was out there to realize he was indeed sending a message via Morse Code). How about the fact that Morse Code is possible one of the only modes that can be read/sent by both humans AND/OR machines/computers!? Man, I lost track of how many songs I've heard out at the clubs or at parties that have actual Morse Code. I've won more than a few free drinks for actually 'decoding' it for my inebriated friends.
Have fun with it! Don't let the dogs of fear and anger chase you away. It's fun, and hey, we've been waiting for ya! Welcome!!!
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by AE6RF on March 14, 2006
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Another program that I use for practice is Morse Runner.
It's a contest simulator.
You can set up QRN, QRM, QSB, flutter, LIDs and how likely you are to get a pile-up.
I like it a lot because its on the air simulation is pretty good and is LOTS better than copying the nice, clean, unsulleyed tape/CD/computer generated CW signals.
Oh... And it's FREE!!!
73 de Donald
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by W6SN on March 14, 2006
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As much as it pains me to say it, I've only held one CW QSO in my time as a ham. Yes, I'm what some would call an extra-lite. Does that matter to me? No. Does it matter to me that some people can probably pound circles around me? No. Do I regret not getting on the air to do CW much? Not really. Do I wish I had time and place to get on to practice CW? Yes.
Why don't I? I tend to spend most of my time at work, on the phone with customers, or in the car on the way to or from work.
Why don't you practice mobile CW? I value my life, much more than my ability to send and/or receive morse code. While it may be "easy" for someone who is well seasoned in using morse, trying to concentrate too much on learning it while driving would probably be quite hazardous to my, and possibly other people's around me, health.
Why don't I do CW from home? Only have a 2/440 FM rig, and an ATV rig at home.
All this being said... I do own a straight key, and would love to get it out reset the screws to the right tension, and practice QRS code. Maybe these QRS freqs will allow me to practice sometimes at lunch. Then again, maybe not. It's all still unknown for me.
I'll probably hook up the key and listen/call cq down on 40m, so if you hear the slow straight key fist on around 7050, it might just be me.
...
Incidentally, wrt NN6EE, last I heard, he got the call sign he got to "sound" like another fellow from the area, who is actually fairly well liked by the club that runs the W6CX repeater. This is all second-hand knowledge, so I'm not exactly sure, but his attitude here seems to reaffirm the stories I've heard locally.
73,
Jason
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by NS6Y_ on March 15, 2006
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Truth is, I'm in about the worst situation for emitting radio waves I've seen, short of some friends of ours who lived in a lead-lined bomb shelter! We knew 'em when I was a preteen, and even AM radio didn't get through, they had to listen to old KKUA by setting the radio outdoors on a stump.
Anyway, the one mode I have a decent chance to work from home is the digital modes, and I'm considering building a Warbler or three. Anything else will have to be portable if not mobile. The "most" rig I can realistically deal with is a Norcal 40a, i'm considering getting one of those kits WITH the college-course book. The digital modes may be fun, along with CW, I can't resist throwing some 31337-speek into the digital ether though.......
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by N5XM on March 15, 2006
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Get on the air as much as you can. Practice sending off the air at least twice a week. Spend 30 minutes working on pure speed, then spend 30 minutes working on absolute accuracy. Ponder accurate character formation, good rhythm, tempo and timing so they becomes a basic goal. Tape your practice sessions and critique them. Listen to them on the way to and from work. Listen to the w1aw runs as often as you can. Realize that becoming a good CW op doesn't happen overnight. Be patient but persistent in your efforts.
Get on the air as much as you can, and if there is any doubt...
Get on the air as much as you can. Furthermore,
Get on the air as much as you can.
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by K3EY on March 15, 2006
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Get on the air as much as you can, and if there is any doubt...
Get on the air as much as you can. Furthermore,
Get on the air as much as you can.
----------------------------------------
Ditto
Anything else is a waste of energy and precious time...
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KC9HVN on March 15, 2006
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Get on the air as much as you can, and if there is any doubt...
Get on the air as much as you can. Furthermore,
Get on the air as much as you can.
-------------------------
...and don't be shy, no one really cares how slow or bad you might think you are. Consideration for those putting forth the effort usually carries the day.
AB9LZ
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From Copying Letters to Copying Words
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by N2OBY on March 15, 2006
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Thanks to all of you for the great tips here. I'll be taking the element 1 & 3 tests this weekend, and feel pretty confident. I've gone from viewing CW as an obstacle to overcome in order to work HF phone to something I look forward to pursuing for it's own enjoyment.
After many false starts with tapes and other software, I started using "Code Quick 2000" and that did it for me. I'm copying pretty solidly now at 9 wpm, and can send at about 6-7, albeit not as neatly as the software. I've also been copying W1AW's slow speed stuff, which has helped by giving more of a "real world" flavor to what I'm hearing.
One question: I understand that while I'm still listening for and recognizing letters, the goal should be to recognize entire words. But what happens when you encounter words that you don't recognize? It has to happen more often than one might think, unless the majority of QSO's are mere "contest-type" exchanges rather than real conversations. Just curious.
Thanks again. Looking forward to working all of you who welcome "new-coders" and those of us licensed after the advent of solid-state rigs.
73 all,
Ken N2OBY
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RE: From Copying Letters to Copying Words
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by K6JEB on March 15, 2006
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Ken,, N2OBY writes:
"One question: I understand that while I'm still listening for and recognizing letters, the goal should be to recognize entire words. But what happens when you encounter words that you don't recognize? It has to happen more often than one might think, unless the majority of QSO's are mere "contest-type" exchanges rather than real conversations. Just curious."
If you're copying CW by hand, with a pen/cil, just write the letters down and don't get hung-up on the word. Same with copying to a keyboard. If you're copying in your head, and you're fairly sure the other station is using QSK (full-break-in), just send a quick "BK" or even a "?" (but most of the time, even just a quick 'dih' will cause the other station to pause) and then you can ask for a repeat or ask 'what is _____?'
Probably a lot of times these mystery words are an abbreviation. There are some standard abbreviations, such as:
http://www.ac6v.com/morseaids.htm#CW
and of course the "Q" signals, which are something you really should make sure to learn:
http://www.ac6v.com/morseaids.htm#QSIG
But of course you will see some abbreviations people just make up on the fly. Like any language, if you copy the surrounding words, you will derive the meaning from the context. Main thing is to just stay relaxed, dropping a word happens. And hey, sometimes you'll have to deal with QRM (interference) or QRN (noise, such as static crashes) or QSB (fading); and these will probably affect your copy more than anything. Just hang in there, don't be afraid to ask for a fill.
Obviously if you're workiong a really rare DX station and there's a big pile-up, you'd better be able to copy everything the DX station is sending before getting into the mix. Asking for fills when dozens of people are waiting to contact that station might earn you a bit of ire on the band. hehehehe
There are actually some pretty good procedures in CW for getting fills on text. These are mostly covered on web pages such as:
http://home.earthlink.net/~k7bfl/cwguide.html
It's great to see someone getting motivated to learn CW despite some of the QRM one finds directed toward newer hams.
Hey one thing I want to add about CW is that it's probably the best mode for DXing. Using CW, a small station can usually do better than Phone with the same output power. And another thing that makes CW great for DXing is you can 'speak' with someone despite the language barrier (within limits). A combo of Q-signals and abbreviations will generally get most stations through even the thickest of language barriers. No accents to decipher! :)
Here's an odd fact: did you know the value/price of Morse Code keys doesn't go down? OK, don't trade in your 401(k) for a bunch of Bencher paddles, but apparently the value of Morse code keys has only gone up. At the moment I can't find the URl to support that claim. But just wander over to EBay and see what I mean. I haven't started collecting yet, but perhaps I will.
During the weeks leading up to the bigger contests, I usually will sit down for fifteen minutes every night, grab a piece of paper with either random text, or with a mix of numbers and letters (phone books are good for this, there are many others) and just practice sending. As one gentleman said earlier, split it into working on just speed, and then work for pure accuracy. I also write out character groups that tend to get 'sticky' when sending: d b 6 7 z g etc etc etc
73 de K6JEB
Jack
www.k6jeb.com
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RE: From Copying Letters to Copying Words
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by NN6EE on March 15, 2006
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by NN6EE on March 14, 2006 Mail this to a friend!
The original poster was right, the upper reaches of the major CW bands are excellent places to hang out for SLOOOOW SPEED CW!!!
Though apparently the EXTRA-LITES don't hangout @ 5wpm or there abouts in their OWN EXCLUSIVE CW bands because they don't care to be embarrassed???
:-)))
Jim/ee
********************************************************
Since when is this a SLIGHT??? it is a acknowlegement to the original poster!!! What do you not comprehend HVN???
Ah the FCC "Warning Letter" it's always posted when someone like yourself or JEB is trying to turn attention away from yourselves and your rather banal comments!!!
Gee BOYS you can post that "Warning Letter" until your "Blue-in-the-face"
as far as I/m concerned as it does ABSOLUTELY NOTHING, NOTHING AT ALL to my Amateur status!!! Old news is just that especially something that happened 4 YEARS AGO!!!
GET A REAL LIFE BOYS AND MOVE ON!!!
Oh by the way we got our General in 1963 @ 13wpm and can out-perform any of you MORONS now at 35wpm!!!
So to HVN & JEB kiss my "YOU KNOW WHAT!!!"
Am I angry? not when I deal with INTELLIGENT individuals, so that leaves you guys OUT for sure!!!
SK es CL!
***************************************************
PS,To all the others out here who are trying to improve your SKILLS I & everyone else applaudes you efforts which eventually will PAY OFF!!!
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RE: From Copying Letters to Copying Words
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by K6JEB on March 15, 2006
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Jim,
I think it was all fun and games until your follow-up that included a statement that seemed to go beyond mere humor/teasing (I think I can handle being called an "Extra Lite", but we don't have to endure being called stupid or whatever) and into the realm of mammalian fecal tossing.
NN6EE wrote:
"But since there's detractors like yourself seem to think that I'll lose out on anything you're not very SMART!!!"
We have you outed as the troll you are being when you make statements like that. If you have something to CONTRIBUTE to the topic, rather than judging and name-calling, maybe we also would shy away from digging up the past. I mean, I feel that having the FCC write you even once is kind of troubling, but twice? How are we supposed to ignore this when you are insulting people on this site?
Considering the fact that you've been licensed for as long as you have, you should know better than to be such a stick in the mud. Jeez, it's just a hobby! What happened to being friendly and courteous? What happened to welcoming newcomers, or even old-timers who want to improve their skills? Whatever happened to recognizing that we each have something positive to contribute to this hobby?
If you read the whole thread, you'll see that I've done my best to try and bring the discussion back on track with what we were originally talking about. And the funny part is you and I probably agree on most of this stuff Jim! Only I don't feel I'm somehow superior to someone because I got my license before them, and I hope I'm just mis-reading your attempts at trying to be funny.
How is it that so many hams who cut on the government (and in many cases, they have VERY valid points, when they are well articulated and supprted with FACTs, not just emotions) think that the FCC tests given by some FCC clerk are somehow superior to what the VECs give? That era had its woes too. It's really up to us now, to work with newcomers to learn what a great hobby this can be.
By the way Jim, I spent time in the Army Infantry. You want me to kiss your ass? I eat people like you for breakfast. :) (note that smiley, that's MY being humorous) However, it doesn't have to degrade to this sort of talk. But hey, I'd rather you pick on me, rather than the newbies. They need our encouragement.
So where exactly in the book of manhood does it say that operating CW at speeds over 30wpm are somehow the makings of a real man? Does the same apply to typing? or what about the "stupid" folks who actually will upgrade their license and may well one day be out-doing you in November Sweepstakes?
Be nice to people, you might have to depend on them some day!
Anyway, your closing statement seemed to pretty much bring things back into line and it's nice that you DID offer that up. If someone puts some effort into CW, they will find it was a good investment.
Lastly, we all should keep in mind that in this digital age, many people first learn about ham radio via the Internet. If we come off as a bunch of in-fighting folks who are splitting hairs over code proficiency, how are we going to attract future hams? How does thatc ome across as fun? Let's try instead to nurture the "newbies" and if we want to show our competitive spirit, there are many ways to do so that help, not tear down, the hobby we are here to discuss. I'd rather see a heated discussion over what is the better antenna, or people getting worked-up over how to improve receiver sensitivity. Use that energy for a larger good! We are all friends, we just don't all realize it yet.
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Getting back on the positive CW Track!
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by KG6TT on March 15, 2006
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The Good:
When I saw this very useful topic at the top of the list my thought was that I may find some new slants on this age old hobby concern. I'm a fairly active VE so I hear a lot of CW learning concerns from new and older hams and consequently I look for info that may be useful to them. Some great tips here that I will pass along. I am also a long-term casual CW enthusiest who is also looking to improve my own CW sending and receiving abilities. Thanks again! And adding my two cents.... Practice, Practice, Practice! Get on the air! Be consistantly consistant! You will get there and being 'there' is a very interesting and fun place to be regardless of your speed.
The Bad:
However, my second thought about this topic was wondering how far down in the tread I'd have to read before the 'anger' stuff appeared. (sigh) I guess there always has been and always will be apparent discontents/malcontents who are always looking for any excuse to 'vent'. Maybe there are some folks who are actaully out of control? But seriously I hope not. Anyway, before "striking a blow for a cause", why not take a really big step back and see if what you are feeling the urge to express is something you would take pride in... building... or perhaps latent with frustration/anger/disappointment or other negatives that ultimately undermine or distroy. If you aren't adding to the solution perhaps you are (yes, I am going to write it) become a part of a problem. A thought here is why not pause and give some space... give some consideration. Everyone one of use has the ability to choose... something called "free will." Anyway I have to wonder what is behind all this anger stuff and why some of us seem so unable to control themselves.
The Ugly:
I realize that in expressing my own concerns about these continually repeating patterns of anger and negativity that I have, myself, moved towards that which I find fills me with such sadness... that I so much dislike... and maybe for some I just became a part of that very problem I am protesting. I aplogize if that is the case. Moving on....
Comic Relief:
"Why can't we all just learn to get along?"
-Jack Nicholson, "Mars Attacks"
(spoken moments before the Mars leader,with tears in his eyes, embrasses and stabs President Nicholson in the back)
Jerry, KG6TT
Fairfield, CA
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RE: Getting back on the positive CW Track!
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by WA6CDE on March 15, 2006
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Out here on the west coast... their is a group that has started to cater to the new ham who wants to improve his CW skills...
On 7.084 Every Saturday morning starting at 0830 local time is the W6MTC (morse telegraph Club) net... it goes till around 0915 or so... (KS6CW also has a web site that you can go to to get more info on the clubs activities... use your browser to find it)
SLOW SPEED NET....
Then starting around 0930 till about 1045 they have the slow speed net. Here you can get on and actually work someone down in the 5 wpm or faster speed group... have no fear if you need to move slower... they will make time for you too...
Its open and free... to all who want to come and join in...
Most high speed hams resort to the use of the streight key... which gets interesting also... but, no computers... no fancy readers... as you will find they don't work with slurred or off weighted code.
So their is a place that you can go to join in and build your code speed up at...
73's WA6CDE
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RE: Getting back on the positive CW Track!
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by K4JF on March 15, 2006
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"I don't get it! What is an Extra-Lites?"
Nothing. There is no such thing.
... unless you're talking about spare matches....
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KC0TXO on March 15, 2006
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Thanks for the information. I am always looking for ways to improve my CW proficiency.
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by WS4Y on March 16, 2006
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Nice article Jim. Also I suggest learning to copy
several characters behind. Do this at speeds you
are comfortable with. Once this technique is
mastered it will enable much faster copy speeds.
73, Bill WS4Y
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KD5QJA on March 16, 2006
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I'd like to thank AD6WL for his thoughts. Whether or not you agree with him, it's important to recognize how worthwhile his motive: encouraging the use of CW. I'd bet all of us have struggled (and, in my case, continue to struggle) with increasing our cw speed. Or even slowing down for newcomers. Not all techniques work for everyone, so I applaud Jim for his post.
By the way, one of the attractions of cw for me is the courtesy that's inherently part of a cw QSO (with a very few exceptions). That's why I'm surprised by the tone of several comments on this topic. Amateur radio--and especially cw operation--is supposed to be INCLUSIVE. Let's keep our priorities straight!
73,
Darryl
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by N0AH on March 16, 2006
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Go with the computer and/or ARRL practice copy and copy until you start hearing words vs. just the letter or number. Learn your Q-codes, etc......and when calling CQ or answering, just say pse QRS, VVV tu de K8S.....easy- You have to know the CW language via all the abbriviated Q-codes and words. Learn this, and speed will naturally just go up-
The bill is in the mail, hi
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by VE6HF on March 17, 2006
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If you have a home PC you can use CW Communicator over the Internet for practise. There are people with varying speeds :)
http://www.mrx.com.au/d_cwcom.htm
It's FREE!
73 de VE6HF
Jeff
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KJ7BS on March 17, 2006
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I operate CW 99% of the time and get tired of working hard to copy the speed demons running 25+ WPM. I think it is great that there are CW operators that can do that, but I can’t and I find it very difficult and tiring to copy. My comfortable speed is around 18-20 WPM.
I have a special place in my heart for the newly licensed or upgraded ham that is getting on the air. My first CW contact as a newly upgraded Tech+ was on 40 meters with an operator, who I found out later was an Extra class ham, who took his time to listen to my shaky fist and operating skills. He was very patient and sent very slowly. That QSO lasted over an hour all the while I was encouraged to keep going. I was so impressed that an Extra would slow down and spend that time with me that I decided to follow his example. Today, I routinely tune through the bands, especially the Novice sub-bands, listening for a slow CW to pass my good fortune to.
I am a member of FISTS and they have a Code Buddy program where an experienced CW operator works with a new or slower CW operator. It is a great program to help an operator build confidence and proficiency through on-air practice in sending and receiving of CW. I highly recommend the FISTS organization.
Don’t forget our slower CW friends during contests either. Go looking for them and give them a few points, too. It will make their day!
Mark Saunders, KJ7BS
Glendale, AZ
FISTS - http://www.fists.org
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by K4JF on March 17, 2006
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"Don’t forget our slower CW friends during contests either. Go looking for them and give them a few points, too. It will make their day!
Mark Saunders, KJ7BS "
True, but don't forget to send in that check log if you do.
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by K3PI on March 17, 2006
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Sounds like everyone here needs to listen to the QRS Song
http://www.acidplanet.com/artist.asp?PID=411714&t=3488
Just press play.
Enjoy de k3pi
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KK7UE on March 17, 2006
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Greetings,
I also wonderd how long it would take the trolls to surface and I was surprised they came up so quickly. Must be a slow night at the local bath house for those guys (sorry, I must be frustrated with them as well).
Reading this thread and others has reignited a smoldering ember in me for the code. I originally got up to 13wpm, then let the 'muscle' atrophy due to other life concerns. I also have the G4FON software and plan on utilizing it as well as copy over the air to get my head back to speed. Thank you for the push I needed to get back into it. I'm sure it will drive the YL nuts again, sorry honey :}
I would also like to thank Jerry, KG6TT, for putting it so very eloquently. So much better than I could. Thanks dude, and dittos...
CUL and thanks. 73 de kk7ue, QRS for now
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KE4ZHN on March 25, 2006
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Simple, get on the air and work cw.....alot of cw. Your speed will improve very quickly.
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by KI4ENY on March 29, 2006
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"Ummm Jim (NN6EE),
Since you seem to be such a wise and expert ham; enough to make a blind generalization about someone who is actually TRYING to improve his CW speed, I am wondering, did you get your rig fixed?
The FCC was wondering too:
from: http://www.arrl.org/news/enforcement_logs/2002/0810.html"
-----------------------------------------------------
"Jeez, I really wonder why you would make such a blatantly unfriendly statement towards anyone who is working CW. Seems like many folks here love to judge others without regard for what they're doing to the hobby. We see people being judged for being no-coders, then once they pass the code element you slam on them for not sending it at 35 wpm. Then I suspect you'd probably insult anyone who didn't get their license before 1962. And hey, if those things passed, then you'd get on their case for not using the same rig as you."
"What gives Jim? A simple search of your comments on this web site shows you're not often in a good mood."
"Ever think maybe sometimes some of the folks you hear sending CW slow might just be doing so because they enjoy it? Or perhaps they're some old-timer whose hearing isn't as good as it used to be? Or perhaps arthritis has taken its toll? Maybe they're using a straight key for old time's sake (like Straight Key Night)! There are a myriad of reasons someone might use CW QRS. SOme say it's the only way they can beat QSB. I know that down in the VLF range, people send QRS for that exact reason."
"So Jim, get that rig fixed and then maybe instead of judging others for something as silly as when they got licensed, or whether some FCC clerk gave them their exam or a licensed Amateur Extra quizzed them; you'll realize you may be insulting people who can run circles around you in RF engineering, or maybe something else. I personally know a ham who has the Technician license. His day job is a position as an antenna engineer for one of the leading aeronautics firms in our area. The man can answer ANY question regarding antennas. But he simply doesn't have the desire to learn Morse Code. Would you classify him as a CBer? As part of his job he regularly takes part in on-the-air tests of his designs (on their allotted frequencies of course). Would hamdom be better without him? I think not!"
Another guy in our area who is also a Technician class operator works for NASA. And yes, you guessed it, he's a rocket scientist. His excuse for not having a higher class ticket: time. He's simply too bogged-down with family and work and whatever time he has left for his community. But hey, he regularly teaches us about satellites and orbital drift, and was a very valuable resource during the short life of SuitSat."
"All I can say is try and understand rather than just judging blindly. I'm sure you're a nice guy and a great ham in person. But you come off as a real troll in type."
"You belong to any East Bay Clubs? I make my rounds. Maybe we can discuss this sort of thing in person."
-----------------------------------------------------------
K6JEB-If there's anyone who could shut this guy up, it is you. VERY well said.
My hat's off to you, Jack.
73,
de Chris, KI4ENY
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by N8QBY on April 1, 2006
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To NN6EE: Other than you being the most negative person on the planet, you obviously have a most definate inferiority complex. The most good intended topic can put you into a frenzy. It is most comical but sad at the same time. Maybe some good therapy might be in order for you. You also need to get over this Extra Lite condition of yours. Not knowing you, I wonder if you can even hold a cw conversation.
Get over it. I realize that these forums ARE the extent of your life but time to move on and get some help.
Pat N8QBY
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How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by N3VJA on April 8, 2006
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Back when I first got my -PLUS add-on, I had a bear of a time doin' CW. On the next Field Day run by the local club, I stayed up all night on 80 and 40 doing what started off as slow-speed CW. After a couple hrs sleep and a cup of coffee the next morning, I was back on 40 doing QSOs at around 15wpm.
Now, I won't lie and say I copied every letter sent to me, b/c I didn't. I listened for the important information (callsign, region, etc). But it still got my speed up to the point where I needed to be.
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RE: How to Improve Your CW Speed:
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by NN8Y on April 28, 2006
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I don't get it! What is an Extra-Lites?
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Nobody has really answered the question.
Back in the day, a person had to copy 20 wpm code in order to get the Amateur Extra class license. And the test probably required a more in-depth understanding of theory.
Now you can be an extra at 5wpm, and if you have a good memory, take practice tests and pass without really having more than a cursory understanding, hence, "Extra Lite". Not that that makes you stupid to use a tool like practice tests, I took them between study sessions.
I'm an extra "lite", and like the other poster, I didn't make the rules. I went as far as I could, will always keep learning, and practicing code when I can.
I do respect the old Extras, and people who can copy at blinding speeds, but apparently it takes more than that to make a decent human being in some cases.
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