It's official and it's here. Amateur Radio is now without a code requirement for licensing. Whatever we may feel about the subject, this is now our reality like it or not. One thing we know for sure, this change is going to bring about change primarily in the number of licensed amateurs.
Sales of manuals and other resources at ARRL Headquarters seem to point that a significant increase in licensing is going to take place.To meet this challenge, the ARRL has produced a great little introductory handout that would be helpful for anyone interested in obtaining a license or just now getting on the air. The booklet was included as a "tear-out" in the March issue of QST but also can be downloaded here. I encourage you to download and print out a number of copies of this brochure to give to anyone interested.
On the whole no-code required issue, after reading posts on the Internet and in QST, as well as just talking to other hams, two things readily stand out in my mind as clear criteria for our future as Radio Amateurs.
First, new operators need to be accepted. The "no-code" ruling was made by the FCC not by any of these new hams currently being licensed. Every licensed amateur must do their part to warmly welcome those who are newly licensed and now a part of the Amateur Radio Fraternity. On Internet Forums, in QST's Letters to the Editor, and other publications I have heard to many people indicate that they will not give these new operators the same respect. This is not right nor is it fair. I had to serve in VietNam under the draft system. I wasn't drafted but enlisted knowing that I would be called any day. Later, the draft was by lottery number. What a difference it made but those who did not need to serve could not be blamed for being born later! We can't place any burden on new hams for the actions of a Federal agency.
Second, new opportunities need to be activated. Amateur Radio has always prided itself on being self-policing. While there are exceptions to be found, we have done a fairly good job of trying to watch for bad operating practices that need to be corrected and good operating practices that need to be applauded. With the influx of new and inexperienced operators on the ham bands, our responsibilities for policing will increase signficantly. If we want to see the Amateur Radio Service continue to flourish, self-policing is going to be critical. When you hear a new operator and he needs help with procedures, etc. come to his aid. My guess is that, most of the time, you assistance will be greatly appreciated.
Not only is ham radio self-policing, but it is self-perpetuating. Through classes, websites, activities, and, above-all, "elmering" new and potential hams, we will be able to assure a bright and enduring future. If we want good operating practices on the bands, let's work with the less experienced operators to make them better operators. The new hams in your club, in your town, or in your area can sure use the help of an elmer to inspire and encourage good operating and strengthening of Amateur Radio in general. Invite to see your shack, show them your QSL collection, call them deeper into this great hobby and public service.
Remember "no-code required " does not mean "no-code allowed." Personally, I am going to be a stronger CW advocate that ever before. To be honest, even though I received my license when code testing was required in front of an FCC examiner, having the knowledge didn't make me into a CW operator. For many years I spent much more time on voice. The difference was a few hams who were head-over-heels devoted to CW and who passed along their love for this expression of the hobby. In many ways CW fever is caught not taught.
See you on the bands!
Randy Sly W4XJ
Public Information Coordinator
Virginia Section American Radio Relay League
When all else fails... Amateur Radio!