[Elecraft] CW ZERO-BEATING WITHOUT BUTTON PUSHES

[K9ZTV]

As a adjunct to the recent posts on using the Spot and CWT features . . .

There is a third capability that many long-time CW operators intuitively 
possess.  It is the immediate recognition of the correspondence of an 
incoming signal's pitch to that of the operator's longtime /preferred 
/sidetone pitch.

Just as well known voices of loved ones and friends are instantly 
recognizable when their faces can't be seen, so also one's preferred 
sidetone pitch is likewise instantly recognizable when a signal is being 
tuned in and "hits" that pitch.  This feature of the human brain 
requires no button pushes other than the initial setting of the sidetone 
pitch frequency.  Once this is set, neither the SPOT nor CWT buttons 
need be used (on any rig).  This "cerebral feature" is always there, 
regardless of the brand or model of rig being operated.

Several of us used this capability on Straight Key Night when operating 
a friend's FT-2000 with it's myriad of buttons, switches, and 
multi-layered controls.  Once we set the sidetone pitch to our 
individually preferred frequencies, zero-beating was intuitive.

However, hearing impairment is a whole different issue and may well 
require the CWT visual aid.


73,

Kent  K9ZTV

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