CW (Morse) Hub

Continuous Wave is radio’s original digital mode — simple, elegant, and weirdly addictive. Fewer knobs, more skill. Let’s get you beeping like a pro.

This page covers: a 3‑minute quick‑start, widely‑used QRP calling spots, FT‑710 setup notes, training links, and a small gallery.

⚡ Quick‑Start (Rig + Key)

Plug your key or paddle into the KEY jack; set mode to CW.
Set sidetone around 600 Hz and speed to your comfort; enable BK‑IN (semi break‑in).
Dial in a narrow filter (≈ 500→300 Hz). Practice with the SPOT/ZIN tone to match pitch.
Find a clear spot in the CW portion and call: CQ CQ CQ DE AI5KP AI5KP K.
Keep exchanges simple: RST, NAME, QTH. If you need slower: send QRS.

Pro‑tip: Learn characters at full speed (Koch method) — don’t “count the dits.”

📡 Widely‑Used QRP CW Calling Spots

These are activity centers — not exclusive channels. Always check your regional band plan and listen first.

Band	Frequency (kHz)	Notes
160 m	1810	QRP CW center
80 m	3560	QRP CW center
40 m	7030	QRP CW center
20 m	14060	QRP CW center
15 m	21060	QRP CW center
10 m	28060	QRP CW center

Tip: CW is permitted across the CW/data segments; stay clear of beacons/automatic sub‑bands.

🛠️ Yaesu FT‑710 Quick Notes (CW)

Keyer: Built‑in iambic keyer with speed & weighting. Use BK‑IN and adjust delay for semi break‑in.
Filters: Narrow to ~500→300 Hz for weak signals; use APF (Audio Peak Filter) to peak tone.
Spot: Use ZIN/SPOT to match your TX to the received tone quickly.
Noise tools: Start with NB off; add DNR lightly if band noise is fatiguing.

If you already run digital modes, your USB‑CAT setup is ready; CW uses the KEY jack for sending.

💻 Practice & Software

LCWO.net — in‑browser Koch/Farnsworth training, progress tracking. LCWO.net
Morse Runner — contest pileup simulator; brutal, effective. DXAtlas
Practice ideas: copy W1AW code practice, beacon IDs near 14.100, and on‑air QSOs at QRS speeds.
USE POTA: POTA uses short brief interactions and exchanges with expected formats and QSOs. They are great for practicing concise communication. POTA.app

🤝 Operating Etiquette

Send your callsign clearly at reasonable speed; match the other station’s WPM.
Use ? for repeats, QRL? before calling CQ, and QRS to request slower.
Avoid auto/IBP beacon segments and remember: nobody owns a frequency.