"Mike Coslo" wrote:

(snip) I would challenge the NCTA's to show some
proof that those who believe that the morse code
test should be retained are in a technical backwater.


I think you're focusing on the wrong issue, Mike. When discussing the
retention of code testing, the real issue is how doing so futhers the basis
and purpose of Amateur Radio. The FCC has framed this several times. For
example...

"We are persuaded that because the amateur service is
fundamentally a technical service, the emphasis on Morse
code proficiency as a licensing requirement does not
comport with the basis and purpose of the service. We
note, moreover, that the design of modern communications
systems, including personal communication services, satellite,
fiber optic, and high definition television systems, are based
on digital communication technologies. We also note that
no communication system has been designed in many years
that depends on hand-keyed telegraphy or the ability to
receive messages in Morse code by ear. In contrast,
modern communication systems are designed to be
automated systems. Given the changes that have occurred
in communications in the last fifty years, we believe that
reducing the emphasis on telegraphy proficiency as a
licensing requirement will allow the amateur service to, as
it has in the past, attract technically inclined persons,
particularly the youth of our country, and encourage them
to learn and to prepare themselves in the areas where the
United States needs expertise." - FCC WT Docket No.
98-143 RM-9148 RM-9150 RM-9196

As you can see, none of this focuses on the individual people opposing or
supporting code testing. Instead, it focuses on what furthers the basis and
purpose of Amateur Radio. If others focused on the same, there would perhaps
be far less hostility in the discussion.

Dwight Stewart (W5NET)

http://www.qsl.net/w5net/