First Class CW Operators Club (FOC)

The FOC was first formed in 1938. Its' aim is to foster and encourage a high standard of CW operating and behavior on the amateur bands and to observe the principles of band planning. Membership is limited to approximately 500 and is obtained through a process of nomination by club members. FOC activity is usually found 25 khz. up from the lower band edge, i.e. 14025.

The FOC Code of Conduct

Members are expected to:

1. Foster and encourage a high standard of operating and behavior on the bands.

2. Observe the license conditions and principle of band planning.

3. Be considerate to other amateurs at all times and in particular by:

1. a. Ensuring that the radiated signal conforms to good technical level

1. b. Avoiding interference to other band users by thoughtless tuning or by use of unnecessary high power levels

1. c. Recognizing that it is inconsiderate to break-in to a contact unless there is a reason relevant to both of the participating stations

4. By example, promote exemplary operating standards by:

1. a. Sending at a speed that is considerate of the other station's ability

1. b. Giving signal reports that are, where appropriate, honest

1. c. Ensuring a frequency is clear before transmitting, preferably by listening

1. d. At the end of a contact, moving away if it is not "your frequency"

1. e. In DX pileups, observing the calling instructions of the DX station and never "policing" the frequency

1. f. If you are a DX station, ensuring good management of your frequency by sending your callsign at appropriate intervals. 'Anonymous operating' does nothing to control a pileup or increase rates, and leads to chaos

1. g. Always remembering that many others may be listening to your contacts - refrain from bad language or derogatory comments

5. Protect the future of the hobby by:

1. a. Being active on a regular basis on as many bands as possible

1. b. Giving encouragement to newcomers

1. c. Supporting a national society

"A man should keep his friendship in constant repair" - Samuel Johnson (1775)

Some CW Related Links

• The OFFICIAL FOC web page - more FOC information!
• PA3BWK's Ultimate CW Website
• Maritime Radio Page
• The Telegraph Office
• The Vibroplex Co., Inc
• PA3BWK Ultimate Morse Site
• Fists - The International Morse Preservation Society
• Grupo Argentino de CW - GACW
• Whiterook Products
• The Vibroplex Collector's Page
• Morse Enthusiasts Group Scotland
• Morsum Magnificant!
• Scandinavian CW Activity Group
• A nice drawing (32K) of a hand key
• Picture of my Mercury paddle! (38K)

This page last updated - 13 August, 2001

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