"Vinnie S." wrote in message
...
On Fri, 11 Feb 2005 18:57:35 -0800, "Caveat Lector"
wrote:

For the straight word on ham licensing and requirements -- see URL;
http://www.arrl.org/FandES/ead/classes.html
General and Extra currently require a 5 wpm code test.

Once licensed to General or Extra, a used $350 HF transceiver will get you
on the air (100+ Watts) and if you make your own antenna -- add $3 or $4.

Any specific model?

Take a look at these -- Kenwood TS-520, Yaseu FT-101 series, Heathkit
HW-101, Swan 350
Lots more but these are very popular.
These are all Ham Bands only and have some vacuum tubes
A winner for a few dollars more is the Kenwood TS-830S.

If and when the code requirement is deleted, the use of Morse code will
continue - as it is just another mode of operation, many will continue to
use it and newbies will find the advantages of it, so MORSE WILL live on.

I am not saying they should get rid of it. I am just saying I won't use
it.
Sounds like they will get rid of the test in 2006 or so. I don't want to
wait.
So I will study.

The average person needs about 30 hours of study and practice on the code to
hit 5 wpm.
Morse code practice at URL:
http://www.aa9pw.com/radio/morse.html

The lower bands -- 160M, 80M, and 40M are not dependent on the "skip
cycle".
30m will do well also in the off years but it is a CW and data mode only.

Caveat Lector (Reader Beware) - A Ham
Help The New Hams
Someone Helped You
Or did You Forget That ?


Thanks !!!!

Vinnie S.