I haven’t yet learned morse code but I have my radio hooked up to my computer and DM780 (part of Ham Radio Deluxe) supports the KY command function which allows the same RS-232 connection between the PC and the Kenwood TS-2000 to also key CW. DM780 also converts morse code to text on the screen. Yesterday, I tried my first computer assisted CW contact and it was to contact the K5D DXpedition on Desecheo Island.
I already have logged 3 SSB contacts with K5D on 17m, 20m and 40m. Yesterday I made CW contacts with them on 30m and 17m. On 17m they came back on my first call! This morning I was able to confirm, via the http://k5d.us web site that they are both in their logs. That is one heck of a way to start off with a CW contact!
Now if I could just get them on RTTY. It should be easy but the problem is that there are so many operators and they aren’t used to or don’t know how to operate split that they are transmitting on the receive frequency and it is hard enough for me to copy K5D without the QRM that it is nearly impossible for me to do it with all the QRM. Add on top of the ops not xmiting properly are all the self appointed policeman which then come on top of the K5D frequency and start yelling at them. Hopefully I’ll catch them at a good time so I can get one RTTY contact in with K5D.
73,
K2DSL
Hey, congratulations on the first CW contact! I finally broke down and started using CW when I realized that it was just too darn hard (and in fact, in some cases, impossible) to get some DX, and CW was a better way for a little pistol station like me to get through.
As for RTTY, I’ve had a tough time as well, though I haven’t had quite as much of an issue with the QRM you’ve had. Mostly, I think they just aren’t hearing me, and I haven’t been able to get through yet.
Keep trying, good luck, and congratulations again.
73,
David, K2DBK