Fun is not obsolete
I have (as usual) been rather busy with work and school, so I have not had much time to actually operate (vs listen to while I’m studying) the radios. I do occasionally have time to consider that I still haven’t learned the code, and I still don’t think I’ll ever find the time. I’m more interested in rewiring the microphone that arrived from MFJ so it works with my IC-735.
Side note: My experience with buying online direct from MFJ was great, and I have zero complaints. I wasn’t sure when I ordered it if the mike I bought would definitely work, but it’s much easier to rewire one that’s already got the right connector than have no mike in the first place. And, just as important, it gives me an excuse to get out the soldering iron.
Anyway, I came across this description of Morse Code skills on obsoleteskills.com:
Now that Morse skills are optional, the Code is increasingly popular on the Amateur Bands simply for relaxation and enjoyment.
Which is an answer to a lot of things that deal with amateur radio; there are a lot of reasons to buy certain types of equipment. You need emergency power so you can pass ARES/RACES traffic during a widespread power outage. You need a TNC so you can send and receive digital traffic; but these types of things are tools. A lumberjack needs a saw. A radio operator volunteering his/her services to an emergency management agency needs a VHF/UHF radio. No one needs to operate CW. Honestly, if an emergency situation is bad enough that CW is your only option, you probably should have bugged out 24 hours ago. People hang onto CW because they enjoy using it. And maybe that’s just the answer… Morse Code is just one of those things that some people like to do, because it’s unique and they enjoy it. I don’t need to learn Morse Code, but it’s there if I ever want to play with it.
I have made some purchases because I feel I need certain items; to be at all effective in ARES/RACES, you honestly need a certain amount of communications gear (and what that level is exactly, is a tough thing to pin down). Lately, I’m considering that I should make some purchases of equipment that’s meant to be used for fun. Specifically, I’m looking at 6 meter gear. No practical purpose for ARES/RACES, not useful for Skywarn, just a radio and band that’s there to play with when I do have time.
Cause yeah, it’s supposed to be fun.
