Morse

Free on Demand Morse tests for the RSGB Certificate of Competency

The intention of the Certificate of Competency is to provide a form of recognition for those who wish to have something to record their achievement in learning Morse code. It is not intended that it should be a national standard of proficiency similar to the licence examinations. It can fairly be compared with many other awards in the hobby which some enjoy and others do not see the need for. The proposed Morse certificate is no different—some will wish to obtain the award and some will not. (This Award does not have International Recognition)

The lowest speed for which the Certificate will be issued is 5 wpm. This has been chosen as the threshold to encourage learning the Code, and as a step towards inspiring and achieving confidence and moving forward to higher speeds. It is specifically designed for those who are most comfortable with this rate of progress.

There will, however, be no barrier to those who wish to enter the scheme at a higher level of (say) 12 wpm.

The initial Certificate of Competency Morse test will therefore:

• be at a speed of 5 wpm
• require receiving and sending text, including some punctuation, for 3 minutes with no more than three uncorrected errors; and
• include some figure groups (receiving and sending).

Success in this test will merit issuing the Certificate of Competency, after which endorsements (or a further certificate) can be obtained at 12, 15, 20, 25, and 30 wpm. To obtain an endorsement (or new certificate) further tests will additionally include:

• Showing receiving and sending proficiency in a basic rubber-stamp type QSO.

For those who wish to commence at a higher speed the initial test will:

• require receiving and sending text, including some punctuation, for 3 minutes with no more than three uncorrected errors
• include some figure groups (receiving and sending); and
• showing receiving and sending proficiency in a basic rubber-stamp type QSO.

A requirement of every test taken (regardless of speed) will be that all sending must be pre-recorded at guaranteed speeds to ensure integrity of the testing process and thus prevent appeals in this regard. (The tests at the National Hamfest 2013 will be computer generated at the speed required)

Any test may be taken using equipment chosen by the candidate and appropriate for the speed being examined including straight keys, paddles, bugs and semi automatic keys, etc (Paddles, Bugs and Semi Automatic keys will not be provided at the National Hamfest 2013 but we will have a keyer so bring your own key)

A problem was found at the National Hamfest 2011 when faster operators who were used to taking the faster Morse in their heads, were unable to write it down at the speed they were taking the test for. From experience it is better to type the Morse onto a keyboard than try and write it down and learning to touch type would be beneficial for tests above 20wpm. There will be a keyboard available for tests this year.

The tests at the National Hamfest 2013 will be organised by The Lincoln Short Wave Club RSGB registered assessors.

Ian G4XFC founder of the Morse Crusade will also be available to discuss any problems you have with learning Morse or increasing your Morse Proficiency. (He will be available at the Morse Crusade stand, where you can also book your Morse Tests)

Ian G4XFC 12 TO 30 wpm tests
James G0EUN 5 to 12 wpm tests
Peter M0EJL 5 to 12 wpm tests

On Demand tests can be booked at the Morse Crusade Stand