[CW] Removing the written test

[N2EY at aol.com]

In a message dated 7/24/05 8:55:50 PM Eastern Daylight Time, 
ken.d.brown at verizon.net writes:


> Supposing the all the electronic theory and technical questions were 
> removed leaving only regulatory questions, AND hams were no longer 
> allowed to build and operate their own transmitters (except if they went 
> through a complicated equipment certification process that required an 
> expensive application fee, along with a processing fee, a waiting list, 
> etc. etc.)
> 
> How would you like that?


I wouldn't like it at all. I'd oppose it strongly.

But the fact is that practically all of the arguments being used against the 
Morse Code test can be used against the written tests. 

Look at the "Amateur Radio In The 21st Century" paperand the NCVEC petition - 
they already proposed such to FCC.

> 
> Remember there are already several FCC sections which define  radio 
> "services" (I'm not sure they use that word) which don't require 
> technical knowledge, don't allow homebrewing transmitters, and don't 
> require operating skill of any kind. In case you don't know what I'm 
> referring to, it is CB, GMRS, FRS (and perhaps cell phones could be 
> included) Is this what you want ham radio to devolve into?


Not me. But others seem to think that's OK. Did you know Canada has a license 
class that requires use of approved equipment only?

> 
> >>just don't see why the FCC 
> >>emphasizes electronic theory on the tests, when it is just another form of 
> knowledge.  
> >>Homebrewing a rig is so stuck in the past, and this idea probably drives 
> off 
> >>lots of teenages from seeking a ham license.  
> >>    
> >>
> 
> >>There are almost certainly far more hams using Morse Code on the air today 
> 
> >>than there are hams using homebrew rigs. Most other radio services do not 
> even 
> >>*allow* the use of home-made radio equipment. 
> >>


73 de Jim, N2EY