[Fists] More thoughts for those working hard on becoming CW ops.

[Karl]

I do hope that "PATIENCE" is still the watch word and you are all having fun
learning the different way to express yourself in English.  From a FISTS
Friend, he says Morse code is not a new language, but just another way to
communicate in English.  Good thought, as me saying it was learning a new
language might be scary to some.

Again, it doesn't matter what program or method you might be using to get
your copying down.  Just stick with it.  Progress to copying slow CW QSO's
on-air then faster ones.  Try the W1AW Code practice on-air sessions, they
are in varying speeds.  Do not get frustrated if you miss letters or
numbers, practice improves your copying.

One gent replied that he used the road sign/billboard idea when he went
through a military communications school.  Says it really worked, but to
definitely do it in your head.

Now, that itch to start developing your "fist" has to be getting pretty
strong.  You have a variety of possibilities, all are off-air.  You can hook
your key to an oscillator.  A dummy load hooked to your rig, with the power
turned down is another way.  You should still be able to hear the audible
sound of your sending.  If you have a tape recorder you can record your
sending.  Play it back and listen to how you sound.  You want to work on
smooth sending of a letter/number/punctuation/prosign.  Work on your spacing
between them and words.  Write up a script of info you would exchange during
an on-air QSO and practice that.  Working to send smooth and accurate is so
much better than speed.

I am investigating another off-air way to do code practice using an internet
based QSO program called CQ100.  Working on finding sources for interface to
hook a key/paddles to pc or laptop via a USB port.  When I have some sources
will post them. Or, if others know if some, please share.  CQ100 is
currently set to use your pc keyboard for sending.  This may be a way to
actually do off-air QSO's as you get your ear and "fist" in shape.

Stick with it, keep to your schedule and have fun.

Experienced CW ops please share your tricks and thoughts with this folks so
we can help them get on the air.

73's Karl, KB1DSB