How to Break the “Code”
After 60 years away from ham radio, in late 2018 I decided to give it another go with the hopes of finally operating in CW. Along with the purchase of my ICOM 7300, I included a beautiful shiny Vibroplex straight key.
As a Novice license holder back in 1959, I had to pass a 5 words per minute code test. So, I assumed it would be no problem teaching code to myself to meet the new recommended minimum CW standard. I struggled with this and through fits and starts, I finally retired the Vibroplex to my underwear drawer. A few months ago, I decided to part with the key, sold it, and said sayonara to ever learning code.
All that changed last November. I happened to watch a YouTube video on the Long Island CW Club. It motivated me to give it one last try. I purchased an inexpensive paddle key and joined the club in December. Last week I made my first CW QSO in over 60 years!
I can’t say enough about the attributes of this club. They offer over 65 Zoom classes a week. You can jump into any class, at any level, at any time. It is a beautifully structured program. If learning code is on your to-do-list please take a look at their program above, and feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
_ _ … …_ _, Tom W4ID
I have also joined the same outfit and it is all Tom says it is.
JK