The debate over Morse code requirements

Canada is looking at dropping how much Morse code amateur radio operators need to know to get an operating licence – Gazette Notice No.DGRB-007-00. Several other countries have already dropped the present requirement of 12 wpm CW (continuous wave) to 5 wpm.The issue has prompted more than 100 people to write in to register their support or opposition to the idea, including the two radio operators featured here. While most operators like the idea and see it as a way to revitalize interest in this hobby, some worry that lowering the bar will open the airwaves to the ‘great unwashed’. Easing the rules will revitalize ham radio The notice is most timely and if it does nothing other than stop the senseless arguments and rants which pollute "letters to the editor sections" of amateur radio magazines it will have done all of us a big favour. While the arguments about Morse qualifications, both pro and con, continue unabated, there regrettably seems to be a paucity of common sense applied in many instances. Simply put CW is a mode not an entry qualifier, it is a code that is able to overcome poor propagation conditions not a way to ensure amateur operator good behaviour... The CW issue is one of inclusion, community, and survival of amateur radio… We can’t do much about history but we can do something that ensures the growth of the hobby and maximizes the enjoyment of those involved. Increased usage of bands that are under-utilized will also help to ensure that external attacks on some current amateur band allocations can be met with something more than rhetoric. If it is necessary to take steps to address amateur operator behaviour on HF … then meet the challenge with better education and enforcement programs. You can’t control speculated operator behaviour problems with restrictions based on bad logic or restrictive entry. The problems are already there.Arguing that CW proficiency is a measure of potential behaviour is silly at best and just plain illogical. Terry SpurgeonWhat’s wrong with higher standards? I do not support the proposed change. I believe that the ability to communicate in CW is a worthy skill and that it is important to have a pool of people in our society who are proficient in CW. I am also concerned about the deterioration in behaviour and operating practice on the HF bands. The 20 meter band is sounding more and more like Citizens Band every day. I believe that this proposal would only make this situation worse. I certainly recognize that there is a trend around the world to going to 5 wpm for full HF privileges. And I have no doubt that there will be a lemming-like urge to follow this trend. But I don’t think that there is a really pressing requirement to go this route. What is wrong with having a higher standard than the rest of the world? What is wrong with having better radio operators, with a greater range of skills, who will be better radio ambassadors for our country? However, this is Canada and … compromise is generally sought. How about reducing the 12 wpm requirement to 10 wpm? I know it doesn’t seem like much, but that 2 wpm in speed can be a significant obstacle. With 10 wpm, we would have a requirement that is easily achievable, but will probably be a higher standard than many other countries. I like the idea of having a higher standard for full HF privileges. I don’t think we should join the rush to the bottom. Bill Hood

The debate over Morse code requirements

News | April 3, 2001

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