Why is Morse Code Still Used?
Many people now enter the ranks of Amateur Radio without learning Morse code, only to pick it up later and enjoy its many benefits. Morse code was developed in the early 1800’s for the first land-line telegraph systems, as a means of sending messages via electrical impulses over long distances. Morse Code is named after it’s inventor, Samuel F B Morse. A modified version of that code is in use today by ham radio operators world-wide. This version is commonly known as “International Morse” (or sometimes, as “Continental Morse”). In the beginning days of radio, no one understood how to construct equipment capable of sending and receiving signals using voice, so Morse code was the only means available. Morse code remains the simplest and most efficient way known to send messages via radio. It is easier to construct a Morse code transmitter and receiver than any other communications apparatus, and messages can be sent with very low transmitted power. Morse code signals (also known as CW, f
