For the ham radio people out there

My cousin's son received his FCC Technician license today. He's like in fourth grade. I need to get him playing with cars soon, too.

I know adults that couldn't pass the test.

Get him spinning wrenches.

VA3 COT

That's cool. Now teach him Morse Code.

I'm guessing he's the one who'd be teaching me Morse Code. He's sharp.

I've been learning Morse Code. Good stuff. It has been my "code" lately for working late at work. I am about half way through the alphabet.

NGTD, I BARELY passed the test. I leave the radio in the big truck that I don't drive much.

Funny you brought it up, David, because on Facbook I just posted that I snagged this dinosaur of a radio at the surplus shop. It wouldn't sell for more than $5 there, so I'm going to play.

It's very cool the kid got the license and I hope he keeps up with it. If he is interested in Morse Code, I suggest Morse Code Teacher on Android devices. If I can learn it, anyone can.

Now off to find a DOS emulator to program this thing.

Y'all want me to teach you Morse Code?

-. ---

Dr. Hess wrote: Y'all want me to teach you Morse Code?

I have the app. :)

N Sperlo wrote: -. ---

See, N, that's why you will have problems. That is not how you learn Morse Code. That is how you get frustrated and give up.

In reply to Dr. Hess:

Honestly. How would you suggest learning? I'm doing well so far, but I've been trying to test myself different ways while I use this app. The app has you type in the letter it sends you, so to make sure I wasn't learning patterns, I decided to start writing it. I want to challenge myself along the way.

In reply to David S. Wallens:

That's awesome news! What sparked his interest in ham at such an early age?

73

He did it for the plates.

My 2 meter rig has a cw trainer.

My 5th grader has passed online practice exams. Been after him for a while to review and take the test. Not sure he's got enough in the interest department right now.

In Canada morse code is no longer a test requirement.

In reply to NGTD:

I believe QSL was eliminated from the US tests in 2004. That doesn't prevent me from wanting to learn it. I COULD spend my time reviewing for the general exam, but nahh... No need.

In reply to N Sperlo:

Good to know. I didn't know if it was still a requirement in the US.

I use my 2m rigs to help out at rallies, so I am not that deep into the HAM world.

I just play on them time-to-time. I've got a good rig in the F150, but want a cheap rig in the Ranger. Maybe I'll build a good port for it.

Longest 2m contact, 700 miles. 350 to the repeater, 350 to the contact. All mobile. BOOM!