The Philip B. Petersen Collection Broadcast March 6, 1991

     I would like to become a radio amateur but why do I have to pass a Morse code test?  I tried to learn the code but I am not able to do it.  Why do I have to know the Morse code anyway?  I only want to use voice and packet with my home computer on the air.  Well, you don't have to know the Morse code any more to pass a Technician class amateur radio exam.
     The Federal Communications Commission has dropped the code tests from the Technician class license, but you are required to pass the comprehensive written tests.  Then you will be fully qualified to operate on all amateur radio frequencies above 30 megahertz.  These are the VHF/UHF and microwave amateur bands where you can go on the air with television, voice and your home computer using packet radio.  You also can operate through amateur radio satellites and talk all over the world in this way.
     Since the beginning of amateur radio regulations in 1912, all amateurs were required to know the Morse code.  This still is the simplest and most reliable means of communications.  International regulations with many countries require that on frequencies below 30 megahertz, radio amateurs must know the Morse code.
     There are five grades of amateur radio licenses starting with the Novice, Technician, General, Advanced, and Extra class.  This is called incentive licensing.  Each succeeding class of license allows more radio privileges.
     A beginner generally starts with the Novice license, which requires a very basic written test and a very slow speed, five word per minute, code test.
     The Technician license only has a comprehensive written test and allows operation only on frequencies above 30 megahertz.
     Now a person has a choice; he or she can start with either the Novice or Technician license.  In any case, we hope to see you on the air and, as you pass succeeding license grades, enjoying to the fullest the world of amateur radio.
     For more information about amateur radio license requirements, write to the:
  American Radio Relay League
  225 Main Street
  Newington, CT 06111

March 6, 1991

** Broadcasts recordings preserved and presented here by Mr. Robert Buss and Mr. Bernie Ricciardi, Phil's friends and fellow Marconi Chapter 138 QCWA members **

Page updated January 24, 2004  page created June 11, 2001