So you've learn Morse Code (CW)! Now What? Part 2

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I received a few comments from my recent post "So You've Learned Morse Code (CW). Now What? Some operators say they are having difficulties finding operators sending at a speed they could copy.  Over a few days I took time to listen across the bands and did find their comments to be fairly accurate in comparison to the amount of total CW signals I heard. There were not many operators sending at speeds less than 15 WPM. Just might be a little daunting for a someone stepping into the Morse Code world.

It is definitely not like the days when I was first licensed in 1963 or when I was relicensed in 1983 when Morse Code was required by the FCC.  In those days of yore, Novices were restricted to CW on 3.7 - 3.75 Mhz, 7.1 - 7.15 Mhz, 21.1 - 21.2 Mhz , 28.1 - 28.2 Mhz.  I look back now and tremendously appreciate my days as a Novice during those days.  

There was no internet or spotting networks then. There were though regular daily and weekly CW nets and of course CW contests.  I pulled out some of my paper logs from those days and just as I remembered no matter the time of day I operated; I could always find someone who answered my SLOW SPEED (5 - 7 WPM) CQ.  Not only would other Novices answer my CQ, but oftentimes General, Advanced and Extra class operators would come down to the Novices frequencies to help.  One of the drawbacks in restructuring the U.S. Amateur Radio Bands and No Code requirement, today's operators learning Morse Code don't have the convenience I experienced of turing on my rig any time of day and finding someone to answer my 5 WPM Morse Code CQ.

In 2021, after a relative 30 year absence from Morse Code, I went with the same attitude I did when I learned the mode in the early 60's. That is, I knew I would make mistakes, I knew the BEST way for ME to improve was to get on the air and more than anytime, not fear making mistakes (learn from them) and not be affected by others brutal non-constructive criticism to a newly Morse Code licensed teenager.

Here's what a 30 year absence from Morse Code sounds like.


Parks on the Air became MY Go-To venue to reintegrate back into Morse Code. I purposely looked through POTA Spots for operators who were sending at speeds above my comfort level.  Like riding a bicycle it slowly all came back to me.

All that being said; I have found some other references I use almost daily in my Morse Code activities. I hope references will help those learning Morse Code or other sending operators to find those who may match their LISTENING speeds.



Here are a few references I've used over the years which may assist you in finding operators who will lower their speeds to match your comfort level.

First is the CW Club RBN Spotter Network.  This site is LOADED with information of CW operators with real-time updated information of Frequency, Callsign, Active Time, Club Member, WPM and RBN info. If you are looking for someone who is sending at a speed that matches your comfort level, this the GO-To site.

https://rbn.telegraphy.de/






Here's a link to the FULL info of CW Club RBN Spotter Network     https://rbn.telegraphy.de/info





I'm a BIG fan of the SKCC Group. Simply because they offer a FREE invaluable source of content, information, support from new to seasoned Morse Code operators.  In addition to the groups main activities, they have a list of Morse "ELMERS" who unselfishly volunteer to assist those on their Morse Code journey.

https://www.skccgroup.com/



Plus the group has a SKED Page, where you can log into and setup a time, frequency for a QSO. You can let others know what speed you feel comfortable operating at.  How easy is that?





Another group North American Quarter Century Club has (NAQCC) has a list of CW Buddies ready to help you on your Morse Code journey.



https://www.naqcc.info/




Finally, suppose you find a CW operator who matches your speed and skill level but can never find a convenient time to have a QSO.  Set up a match on Ham Alert to be notified when they call CQ.  That way you can catch them when it is best for you if they are on the air.


https://hamalert.org/



I hope this helps you Find Out Where You Fit!

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