What Is CW In Ham Radio?

Sharing Options:

Estimated Reading Time: 2 minutes

Rate this post

This post was originally published on February 21, 2024
The latest update to this post was made 1 month ago.

CW, also known as Continuous Wave, is a mode of communication in amateur radio that involves encoding messages through the transmission of on-off tones. CW has a rich history dating back to the early days of wireless telegraphy, with operators using Morse code to send messages across vast distances. Despite technological advancements in digital modes, CW remains a popular choice among ham radio enthusiasts due to its simplicity and reliability.

[A] . –	[G] – – .	[M] – –	[S] . . .	[Y] – . – –	[5] . . . . .
[B] – . . .	[H] . . . .	[N] – .	[T] –	[Z] – – . .	[6] – . . . .
[C] – . – .	[I] . .	[O] – – –	[U] . . –	[1] . – – – –	[7] – – . . .
[D] – . .	[J] . – – –	[P] . – – .	[V] . . . –	[2] . . – – –	[8] – – – . .
[E] .	[K] – . –	[Q] – – . –	[W] . – –	[3] . . . – –	[9] – – – – .
[F] . . – .	[L] . – . .	[R] . – .	[X] – . . –	[4] . . . . –	[0] – – – – –

– International Morse Code Table –

Operating in CW requires operators to be proficient in Morse code, with each character represented by a unique sequence of dots and dashes. This skill adds an element of challenge and nostalgia to the hobby, attracting both seasoned operators and newcomers alike. Additionally, CW offers distinct advantages such as efficient use of bandwidth and improved signal readability under poor conditions, making it an invaluable tool for emergency communication situations. Overall, embracing CW in ham radio not only preserves a traditional form of communication but fosters a strong sense of camaraderie within the amateur radio community.

CW in ham radio refers to the use of Morse code over Continuous Wave signals.
CW transmissions can travel long distances, with low power and low bandwidth making them ideal for extreme emergency situations.
Morse code uses a series of dots (short signals) and dashes (long signals) to represent letters and numbers.
CW transmissions have specific frequencies within the band plans for HF, VHF and UHF.
For a listing of CW frequencies within the various bands, check out [ARRL Frequency Allocations].
CW is a universally recognized code.

This article, also on Ham Encounters, may be of interest: Amateur Radio Licensing And Regulations

Tags: #morsecode #cw #hamradio #amateurradio #radioamateur #hamencounters