"JB" wrote in message
...
Back in the day when I got my Advanced, my Tech class Elmer pointed out
that
if you don't know the code, how do you know what repeater you're on?

Most automated identifications are still Morse code and it is still legal.

It is sad that Morse code is so under utilized. It is a testimony to the
lack of interest in the greatest tool for weak signal work. If you have
no
interest in learning Morse code, than you affirm that your communications
capabilities should be limited to voice capabilities. Who in emergency
communications believes that their capabilities should be limited by a
lack
of expertise? Perhaps they believe that emergency commumications should
be
restricted to FRS? Rediculous!

Still, we see even avid DXers throw in the towel on a weak one when Morse
code would have cut through the pile-up in a heart beat. A friend in High
School made DXCC in 2 years on CW only, with a 100 watt radio and dipoles!

The fact remains that those who hate the code are clueless to its
effectiveness. Their only defense is ignorance. Sad!

AC6TK

You made good points until your last paragraph. I do not have the time nor
desire to learn the code. If I were to learn it long enough to pass the test
and never use it from day to day, then it will soon be forgotten. I think
that if a person wants to advance, code should be part of the process and
tested on a regular basis, but also have restrictions for those that do not
or cannot use code or the hobby will fade away. To do away with the code
would be wrong as it has it's uses, but to expect everyone to learn it keeps
fresh blood from entering into a noble but dying hobby.