As part of my interest in Radio I have discovered that one of the most efficient communication methods uses Morse. CW is the name of this mode and it works by emitting morse at a particular frequency, typically 800hz. This very narrow bandwidth mode enables remote stations to hear the message further away than most other methods. Also the human brain is able to process single tones amongst noise quite efficiently and so the signal can be heard even at low signal/noise ratios.

I am currently learning to decode Morse and using the Koch method. This involves building reflexes rather than thought processes which are faster. I am learning at 15wpm and although very challenging, will allow me to speed up easily to the more typical ~20wpm used by most operators.

You can see my Kent twin paddle in the picture above. I have been using a dummy load attached to the radio to practise sending Morse. I have found that sending is many times easier than decoding.... (as my friend Mike keeps reminding me!)