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What does CW refer to in amateur radio operating?

CW is another name for a Morse code transmission.

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  1. A Morse code transmission ✔
  2. A 2-meter FM digital mode
  3. Digital error-correcting code words

Why: CW means continuous wave, but operators use the term for on-off keyed Morse code transmissions. The keying forms dots and dashes.

Huh, didn't know that: A steady carrier becomes information when it is switched on and off in Morse patterns.

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Morse code opened the door because someone had the right key.
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References

Answer: A Morse code transmission. CW means continuous wave, but operators use the term for on-off keyed Morse code transmissions. The keying forms dots and dashes.

  1. NCVEC 2026-2030 Technician Question Pool www.ncvec.org/downloads/2026-2030%20Technician%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%20Public%20Release%20Feb%2019%202026.pdf
    D. Another name for a Morse code transmission
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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