Shows
The 599 Signal ReportEpisode 13: Interview with Stu KM3STUIn this episode of the 5 9 9 Signal Report, host Ron (W2ELS) sits down with special guest Stu (KM3STU), an instructor at the Long Island CW Club. They discuss Stu's journey into amateur radio and Morse code, overcoming "key fright," the supportive LICW community, and the excitement of Parks on the Air (POTA) activations. Whether you're a seasoned operator or just starting out, you'll find inspiration and practical tips for getting on the air and making the most of your ham radio experience. Tune in for stories, advice, and a celebration of the CW community!
2026-02-1422 minThe 599 Signal ReportEpisode 12: Interview with Bruce N9WKEIn this episode of the 599 Signal Report, host Ron (W2ELS) interviews Bruce (N9WKE), the inspiring host of the dit dit.fm podcast and a passionate CW (Morse code) operator. Bruce shares his journey into CW, the impact of organizations like CW Academy and the Long Island CW Club, and offers practical advice for newcomers. The conversation explores the sense of community in amateur radio, the rise of POTA (Parks on the Air), and memorable stories from Bruce’s podcasting adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned CW Op or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights, enco...
2026-01-3129 minThe 599 Signal ReportEpisode 11:Buy Once, Cry Once: Investing in Lifetime CW GearWe all start with affordable, entry-level gear, but sometimes you crave excellence. In this episode, Ron (W2ELS) explores the "Buy Once, Cry Once" philosophy when it comes to building your CW station. We contrast inexpensive keys with investment-grade paddles like the Begali Pearl and Bencher paddles. We also look at the high-end rigs (like the K3) and extensive hardware used by top-tier operators and contesters, examining when and why quality investment equipment is worth the price for maximum performance.
2026-01-1707 minThe 599 Signal ReportEpisode 10: Interview with Cathy W4CMGIn this episode of the 599 Signal Report, host Ron (W2ELS) welcomes his first guest, Cathy (W4CMG), for an in-depth conversation about her journey in amateur radio. Cathy shares how her interest in ham radio began in childhood, her experiences learning Morse code (CW), and her involvement with various radio clubs, including the Long Island CW Club and the Straight Key Century Club (SKCC).The discussion covers Kathy’s progression from learning CW to teaching and mentoring others, her contesting experiences, and a detailed account of her recent DXpedition to Montserrat. Cathy describes the preparation, teamwork, an...
2025-12-3130 minThe 599 Signal ReportEpisode 9:CQ POTA! Your First CW ActivationReady to become a Parks on the Air (POTA) activator? Ron (W2ELS) walks you through the practical steps of setting up and operating your first CW activation. Learn why CW is the most efficient mode for portable, low-power (QRP) operation, how to use simple gear like vertical antennas, and the best strategy for running a fast pile-up. We break down the simple exchange sequence you need to quickly log contacts and achieve activator success!
2025-12-2007 minThe 599 Signal ReportEpisode 8: POTA Hunting on CW: Expert Tips from the ActivatorYou've made your first POTA contact—now learn how to master the pile-ups! Ron (W2ELS) shares expert CW advice from veteran activator Jim, WBØRLJ, whom he has worked over 30 times. Learn the crucial on-air etiquette, including how to avoid the dreaded "blob" by using split frequency (XIT), when to transmit your call sign, and the proper, clean exchange format. Get the insider knowledge you need to be a top-tier CW POTA hunter.
2025-12-0606 minThe 599 Signal ReportEpisode 7:Fast, Fun & Easy CW QSOs: Making Your First POTA ContactCW doesn't have to be intimidating! Ron (W2ELS) breaks down the simple, fast, and formulaic exchange used by Parks on the Air (POTA) operators to prove that you can get on the air today. Learn the minimal information required (your call sign, 599, and your state), the standard three-part sequence for a successful QSO, and exactly what to send when the activator calls you back. If you can send those few characters, you are ready to start logging CW contacts!
2025-11-2208 minThe 599 Signal ReportEpisode 6: Essential Tools for Learning/Mastering CW: Apps, Websites, and SimulatorsYou've got the key and the keyer—now get the training tools! Ron (W2ELS) walks through the essential apps and websites you need to master Instant Character Recognition. We cover gamified learning, structured training, and specialized real-world simulators like. Stop counting dits and dahs and start training like a pro with the right resources!
2025-11-0807 min
This Week in Amateur Radio (1-hour version)PODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio #1391 - Truncated 1 hour versionPODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio Edition #1391 - Truncated 1-hour version
This is a 1-hour version of the weekly podcast for This Week in Amateur Radio. For the full version please visit TWIAR.net
Release Date: October 25, 2025
Here is a summary of the news trending...This Week in Amateur Radio. This week's edition is anchored by Jordan Kurtz, KE9BPO, Dave Wilson, WA2HOY, Steven Sawyer, K1FRC, George Lams, KC2OXJ, Don Hulick, K2ATJ, Ed Johnson, W2PH, Eric Zittel, KD2RJX, Chris Perrine, KB2FAF, Ron Rowe, W2ELS, Will Rogers, K5WLR, George Bowen, W2XBS...
2025-10-2600 minThis Week in Amateur Radio (LPFM)PODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio #1391 - LPFM Version (no commercial breaks)PODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio Edition #1391 - LPFM Version (no commercial breaks)
Release Date: October 25, 2025
Here is a summary of the news trending...This Week in Amateur Radio. This week's edition is anchored by Jordan Kurtz, KE9BPO, Dave Wilson, WA2HOY, Steven Sawyer, K1FRC, George Lams, KC2OXJ, Don Hulick, K2ATJ, Ed Johnson, W2PH, Eric Zittel, KD2RJX, Chris Perrine, KB2FAF, Ron Rowe, W2ELS, Will Rogers, K5WLR, George Bowen, W2XBS, and Jessica Bowen, KC2VWX
Produced and edited by George Bowen, W2XBS
Approximate Running Time: 1:31:34
Podcast Download: https://bit.ly...
2025-10-2600 minThis Week in Amateur Radio PodcastPODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio #1391PODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio Edition #1391 - Full Version (With repeater ID breaks every 10 minutes)
Release Date: October 25, 2025
Here is a summary of the news trending...This Week in Amateur Radio. This week's edition is anchored by Jordan Kurtz, KE9BPO, Dave Wilson, WA2HOY, Steven Sawyer, K1FRC, George Lams, KC2OXJ, Don Hulick, K2ATJ, Ed Johnson, W2PH, Eric Zittel, KD2RJX, Chris Perrine, KB2FAF, Ron Rowe, W2ELS, Will Rogers, K5WLR, George Bowen, W2XBS, and Jessica Bowen, KC2VWX
Produced and edited by George Bowen, W2XBS
Approximate Running Time: 1:36:13
Podcast Download...
2025-10-2600 minThis Week in Amateur RadioPODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio #1391PODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio Edition #1391 - Full Version (With repeater ID breaks every 10 minutes)
Release Date: October 25, 2025
Here is a summary of the news trending...This Week in Amateur Radio. This week's edition is anchored by Jordan Kurtz, KE9BPO, Dave Wilson, WA2HOY, Steven Sawyer, K1FRC, George Lams, KC2OXJ, Don Hulick, K2ATJ, Ed Johnson, W2PH, Eric Zittel, KD2RJX, Chris Perrine, KB2FAF, Ron Rowe, W2ELS, Will Rogers, K5WLR, George Bowen, W2XBS, and Jessica Bowen, KC2VWX
Produced and edited by George Bowen, W2XBS
Approximate Running Time: 1:36:13
Podcast Download...
2025-10-2600 minThis Week in Amateur RadioPODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio #1391PODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio Edition #1391 - Full Version (With repeater ID breaks every 10 minutes)
Release Date: October 25, 2025
Here is a summary of the news trending...This Week in Amateur Radio. This week's edition is anchored by Jordan Kurtz, KE9BPO, Dave Wilson, WA2HOY, Steven Sawyer, K1FRC, George Lams, KC2OXJ, Don Hulick, K2ATJ, Ed Johnson, W2PH, Eric Zittel, KD2RJX, Chris Perrine, KB2FAF, Ron Rowe, W2ELS, Will Rogers, K5WLR, George Bowen, W2XBS, and Jessica Bowen, KC2VWX
Produced and edited by George Bowen, W2XBS
Approximate Running Time: 1:36:13
Podcast Download...
2025-10-2600 minThe 599 Signal ReportEpisode 5: Learning the Right Way: The Power of Instant Character RecognitionWhat's the secret to copying Morse code at high speeds? In this episode, Ron (W2ELS) reveals the most crucial learning technique for any aspiring CW operator: Instant Character Recognition. He breaks down why you should never count dits and dahs and instead train your brain to hear each character as a unique sound. Ron shares a practical guide on how to practice this method, proven in top CW schools, to help you move from a struggling beginner to a confident operator.
2025-10-2505 minThis Week in Amateur Radio (1-hour version)PODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio #1390 - Truncated 1 hour versionPODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio Edition #1390 - Truncated 1-hour version
This is a 1-hour version of the weekly podcast for This Week in Amateur Radio. For the full version please visit TWIAR.net
Release Date: October 18, 2025
Here is a summary of the news trending...This Week in Amateur Radio. This week's edition is anchored by Chris Perrine, KB2FAF, Dave Wilson, WA2HOY, Ron Rowe, W2ELS, Don Hulick, K2ATJ, Ed Johnson, W2PH, Will Rogers, K5WLR, Eric Zittel, KD2RJX, Steven Sawyer, K1FRC, George Lama, KC2OXJ, Jordan Kurtz, KE9BPO, George Bowen, W2XBS...
2025-10-1900 minThis Week in Amateur Radio (LPFM)PODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio #1390 - LPFM Version (no commercial breaks)PODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio Edition #1390 - LPFM Version (no commercial breaks)
Release Date: October 18, 2025
Here is a summary of the news trending...This Week in Amateur Radio. This week's edition is anchored by Chris Perrine, KB2FAF, Dave Wilson, WA2HOY, Ron Rowe, W2ELS, Don Hulick, K2ATJ, Ed Johnson, W2PH, Will Rogers, K5WLR, Eric Zittel, KD2RJX, Steven Sawyer, K1FRC, George Lama, KC2OXJ, Jordan Kurtz, KE9BPO, George Bowen, W2XBS, and Jessica Bowen, KC2VWX
Produced and edited by George Bowen, W2XBS
Approximate Running Time: 1:38:05
Podcast Download: https://bit.ly...
2025-10-1900 minThis Week in Amateur RadioPODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio #1390PODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio Edition #1390 - Full Version (With repeater ID breaks every 10 minutes)
Release Date: October 18, 2025
Here is a summary of the news trending...This Week in Amateur Radio. This week's edition is anchored by Chris Perrine, KB2FAF, Dave Wilson, WA2HOY, Ron Rowe, W2ELS, Don Hulick, K2ATJ, Ed Johnson, W2PH, Will Rogers, K5WLR, Eric Zittel, KD2RJX, Steven Sawyer, K1FRC, George Lama, KC2OXJ, Jordan Kurtz, KE9BPO, George Bowen, W2XBS, and Jessica Bowen, KC2VWX
Produced and edited by George Bowen, W2XBS
Approximate Running Time: 1:42:57
Podcast Download...
2025-10-1900 minThis Week in Amateur RadioPODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio #1390PODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio Edition #1390 - Full Version (With repeater ID breaks every 10 minutes)
Release Date: October 18, 2025
Here is a summary of the news trending...This Week in Amateur Radio. This week's edition is anchored by Chris Perrine, KB2FAF, Dave Wilson, WA2HOY, Ron Rowe, W2ELS, Don Hulick, K2ATJ, Ed Johnson, W2PH, Will Rogers, K5WLR, Eric Zittel, KD2RJX, Steven Sawyer, K1FRC, George Lama, KC2OXJ, Jordan Kurtz, KE9BPO, George Bowen, W2XBS, and Jessica Bowen, KC2VWX
Produced and edited by George Bowen, W2XBS
Approximate Running Time: 1:42:57
Podcast Download...
2025-10-1900 minThis Week in Amateur Radio PodcastPODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio #1390PODCAST: This Week in Amateur Radio Edition #1390 - Full Version (With repeater ID breaks every 10 minutes)
Release Date: October 18, 2025
Here is a summary of the news trending...This Week in Amateur Radio. This week's edition is anchored by Chris Perrine, KB2FAF, Dave Wilson, WA2HOY, Ron Rowe, W2ELS, Don Hulick, K2ATJ, Ed Johnson, W2PH, Will Rogers, K5WLR, Eric Zittel, KD2RJX, Steven Sawyer, K1FRC, George Lama, KC2OXJ, Jordan Kurtz, KE9BPO, George Bowen, W2XBS, and Jessica Bowen, KC2VWX
Produced and edited by George Bowen, W2XBS
Approximate Running Time: 1:42:57
Podcast Download...
2025-10-1900 minThe 599 Signal ReportEpisode 4: The Brains Behind the Key: Keyers and Practice OscillatorsWhat makes your dits and dahs sound so perfect? In this episode, Ron (W2ELS) explains the technology that drives your key. We'll break down the difference between electronic keyers, both standalone and built-in, and the simple but essential practice oscillators, or "noise makers." Ron shares his personal setup, including his use of the CWHotline, and offers practical advice on these critical tools. Learn how to get the most out of your key and begin your journey to a clean, consistent signal.
2025-10-1107 minThe 599 Signal ReportEpisode 3: First CW Key: Straight Key, Paddle, or Bug?What’s the first piece of gear you need to get on the air with CW? In this episode, Ron (W2ELS) guides you through the three main types of Morse code keys. He breaks down the classic straight key, the modern paddle, and the enigmatic bug, explaining how each one works. Ron also shares his personal experience, including his first purchases—a simple PCB straight key and a paddle—and offers advice on what key might be right for you, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned operator.
2025-09-2705 minThe 599 Signal ReportEpisode 2: Journey to the Extra Class and the Allure of CWJoin your host, Ron (W2ELS), for a personal story of discovery. In this episode, Ron shares his journey from a graduate school graduate with no ham radio experience to becoming an Amateur Extra Class licensee in less than a year. He recounts the chance encounter that sparked his interest and the moment he discovered his true passion for Morse code while operating POTA (Parks on the Air). This is an honest look at the learning process, the challenges, and the rewarding moments that make the world of CW so captivating.
2025-09-1304 min
Cliff's Notes on Amateur Radio015 - Portable Go Bag Complete After POTA Equipment FailureThis episode was inspired by a QSO with Ron Rowe, W2ELS. If you’d like to hear another episode of this podcast, there’s only one way to make it happen: hunt me down in the park, mention the show, and request a new one!
In this session, I share highlights from my recent Parks on the Air adventures and a few lessons learned along the way:
Taking First Place at Decker WMA: The thrill of running pileups again and topping the charts in QSOs.
Mic Challenges & Solutions:
My struggles with one-handed operation and transmit butt...
2025-09-081h 08The 599 Signal ReportEpisode 1: The Dots, The Dashes, and The Dash-ing Legacy of Morse CodeWelcome to the very first episode of The 599 Signal Report!In this inaugural transmission, we're going back to basics. Many of you might have heard of Morse code, but in a world of high-speed internet and digital communication, why on earth are thousands of people still enthusiastically sending dots and dashes across the globe?Join your host, Ron (W2ELS), as we demystify Morse code, explore its origins and fundamental structure, and uncover why it remains not just relevant, but a thriving and critical mode of communication for amateur radio operators in the 21st century.
2025-08-3109 min