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SUPER MORSE Ver. 3.09 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Copyright 1986-90 M. Lee Murrah, WD5CID ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ =============================================== The Original Comprehensive Morse Code Training Program for the IBM PC and Compatibles =============================================== 1-5-90 **************************************** * PLEASE UPLOAD TO YOUR LOCAL * * COMPUTER BULLETIN BOARD SYSTEMS! * * ASK SYSOP TO ERASE EARLIER VERSIONS! * **************************************** ****************************************** * PLEASE SUPPORT SUPER MORSE * * SUGGESTED SHAREWARE CONTRIBUTION - $15 * ****************************************** TABLE OF CONTENTS I. General Information A. Purpose and Goals B. Your Right to Use SUPER MORSE C. The Software D. The Author E. More Information about Amateur Radio II. SUPER MORSE Setup A. SUPER MORSE Program and Data Files B. Equipment and Operating System Requirements C. Installation D. Printing the DOC file E. Hardware and Software Considerations III. Using SUPER MORSE A. Starting SUPER MORSE B. SUPER MORSE Organization--the Main Menu C. The SUPER MORSE Display D. Help E. Configuring the Character Set F. Output via Communications Port G. Timing a SUPER MORSE Session H. Controlling SUPER MORSE I. Setting Program Parameters J. SUPER MORSE Files IV. The Learn Phase A. The <L>earn Command B. Lesson 1 - DITS and DAHS, the Basic Code Sounds C. Lesson 2 - Sound Combinations D. Lesson 3 - Character Length E. Lesson 4 - Character Rhythm F. Lesson 5 - Character Steps G. Lesson 6 - Character Runs H. Lesson 7 - Character Groups I. Lesson 8 - Character Learning Levels J. Lesson 9 - All characters K. <F>lash Characters L. <O>ddball Character M. The ser Group N. Viewing Character Groupings V. The Build Phase A. Building Code Speed B. Receiving Random Groups--the <G>roups Command C. Receiving Random Groups--the <S>tructured Groups Command D. Receiving Random Groups--the <V>ariable Groups Command E. Receiving Complete Words--the <W>ords Command F. Receiving a Simulated Radio Transmission--the <Q>SO Command G. Receiving Text Entered via Keyboard--the <E>nter Command H. Receiving Text in a Disk File--the Disk Command I. Receiving Groups at Increasing Speed--the <Z>oom Command J. Selecting the Character Set VI. The Enhance Phase A. Skill Enhancement B. Sending Code C. <L>ag Copy D. Copying on a <T>ypewriter E. oost Copy F. <Q>uestions & Answers VII. The Measure Phase A. The <M>easure Command B. Exam Sources C. Simulated VEC Exam D. <K>eyboard Receive Test E. <S>olid Copy Test VIII The Operation Phase A. Two Way Practice Via Telephone Modem B. Radio Terminal IX. We Need Your Feedback and Help X. Troubleshooting I. General Information A. Purpose and Goals Super Morse was written to help prospective hams overcome what many perceive to be the biggest obstacle to obtaining an amateur radio license--learning the Morse code. There are several programs available in the public domain which send Morse code via a PC's speaker, but most are very limited and are often written in BASIC, which requires a clumsy interpreter. Super Morse seeks to provide a full-featured program which provides a variety of modes for learning and practicing the code and which takes advantage of the computer as a teaching tool. My goals in writing Super Morse were: 1. Professional appearance and operating characteristics. 2. Comprehensive program covering all aspects of Morse code learning and practice. 3. Create new methods of learning and practicing the Morse code. 4. Provide ample opportunities for customization by the user. 5. Use the microcomputer to teach and learn Morse code. B. Your Right to Use and Distribute Super Morse 1. License As you may have noticed I have retained the copyright in Super Morse, primarily in order to control its orderly development. However, I am granting the right to anyone to use the program for private, non-commercial purposes without further permission from me. That is, you can copy it, use it, and share it (including distribution at hamfests and in ham radio equipment stores) so long as you do not charge any money for it other than the cost of the disk or other transfer medium, not to exceed $2. Please note that you MUST return a completed registration form as contained in the file REGISTER.FRM as a condition of using Super Morse. 2. Suggested Contributions In order to cover expenses associated with the development and distribution of Super Morse, such as equipment, software, telecommunications charges, postage, supplies, and long distance calls to users, I suggest that you make a voluntary contribution of $15 (or whatever if affordable to you) for each copy of the program. If you have already made a contribution for previous releases, you do not need to make an additional contribution. If you cannot afford a monetary contribution, at least give write me a note and give me an "attaboy" or two. C. The Software Super Morse is written in Turbo Pascal version 5.5. The development of Super Morse began in early 1986 under the name "CW" and has gone through a number of versions. New versions will be released as features are added and corrections are made to previously released versions. The latest version of Super Morse can usually be found on GEnie in the IBMPC section and Compuserve in HAMNET. Credit must also be given to users who have made suggestions for improving Super Morse. Many of their suggestions have been incorporated into Super Morse. D. The Author 1. Who Is that Masked Man? The author holds an advanced class license to operate amateur radio station WD5CID. He has a "5" call because he hails from Texas, the home of real chili (red hot with no beans) and real music (with steel guitar and/or fiddle with no synthesizers). He is a registered patent attorney working with Rockwell International Corporation in Cedar Rapids, IA (the old Collins Radio Company). 2. Contacting the Author The author can be contacted on Compuserve (ID No.: 71016,1355), or GEnie (Address: L.MURRAH), or by U.S. mail at the following address: 10 Cottage Grove Woods, S.E. Cedar Rapids, IA 52403 The author likes to receive comments and is happy to answer questions about the program. If you have a problem, please read through this file first! If you would like to receive a reply from the author, you MUST enclose a self-addressed, self-stamped envelope. The author can also be reached by telephone at 319-365-6530. 3. Requesting Program Copies If you cannot obtain a copy of SUPER MORSE elsewhere, the author will be happy to make you a copy, IF you will do the following: a. Send a request to the above address. Make sure the request has sufficient postage so that it does not arrive postage due! b. Include a FORMATTED 360K (5-1/4 inch) diskette. Formatting saves me time. I cannot use 3-1/2 or high density diskettes. c. Include a STAMPED, SELF-ADDRESSED diskette mailer. Use a standard diskette mailer if possible. If you have a U.S. address, do not substitute cash for stamps. Enclosing loose stamps and stick-on mailing label is acceptable. d. Include a Shareware contribution if you can afford it. If you have a foreign address, do not send foreign currency! E. More Information About Amateur Radio 1. National Amateur Radio Association (NARA) NARA is a specialized new organization dedicated to increasing participation in amateur radio, especially by the youth of America. The address is: National Amateur Radio Association 16541 Redmond Way, Suite 232 Redmond, WA 98052 2. The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) ARRL is a general membership amateur radio organization. ARRL publishes a monthly magazine named QST and provides many useful services and publications. The address is: American Radio Relay League 225 Main Street Newington, CT 06111 3. Ham Radio Magazines Following are major magazines dealing with ham radio: QST (published by ARRL for members) 73 CQ HAM RADIO WORLDRADIO These are available at many amateur radio and electronics stores, large newsdealers, and magazine racks at many larger supermarkets. 4. Compuserve HAMNET COMPUSERVE provides a special interest area called HAMNET which is available to any COMPUSERVE subscriber. Most computer stores (Radio Shack, for example) can tell you how to subscribe to COMPUSERVE. 5. GEnie RADIO Roundtable GEnie also has a special interest area for radio and broadcasting interests. To subscribe call 800-638-9636. 6. Amateur Radio Clubs and Individual Hams Most communities of substantial size have an amateur radio club or at least one ham. To find the nearest club or ham contact the ARRL or call businesses who are likely to have a ham on the payroll. Try a local radio dealer (amateur or commercial) or TV or radio station. The author found a ham to help him out by looking for suspiciously large antennas in the neighborhood. Another good tactic is to look for amateur radio call sign automobile license tags and make contact with the driver (leave a note on the windshield). II. Super Morse Setup A. Super Morse Program and Data Files SMnnn.ZIP (where nnn is the version number) contains the following files: Name Description Needed to Run? ---- ----------- -------------- ANTENNAS.SM - Names of antennas for QSO feature Yes BUILD.HLP - Help file for Build phase Yes BYE.HLP - Sign off message Yes CITIES.SM - Names of cities for QSO feature Yes ENHANCE.HLP - Help file for Enhance phase Yes GROUPS.SM - Code groups for Learn phase Yes GROUPS.1 - Alternate code group for Learn phase No GROUPS.2 - Alternate code group for Learn phase No HAMWORDS.SM - List of "ham" words for receive feature Yes HOME.HLP - Help file for control keys Yes JOBS.SM - Name of occupations for QSO feature Yes LEARN.HLP - Help file for Learn phase Yes MAIN.HLP - Main help file Yes MEASURE.HLP - Help file for Measure phase Yes MORSE.HLP - Help file for Morse characters Yes NAMES.SM - Names of operators for QSO feature Yes ONLINE.HLP - Help file for the online feature Yes OP.HLP - Help file for the Operate phase Yes Q&A.SM - Sample question and answer fil Yes QSO1.HLP - QSO1, QSO2 are QSO templates Yes RADIO.HLP - Help file for radio terminal feature Yes README.1ST - Important information about setup No REGISTER.FRM - For user registration and suggestions No. REGWORDS.SM - List of "regular" words for Receive feature Yes RIGS.SM - Names of radio equipment for QSO feature Yes RUNS.SM - Character runs for Learn feature Yes SM.EXE - the main executable file Yes SM.DOC - This documentation file No STATES.SM - States Yes STEPS.SM - Character pairings for Learn feature Yes Versions of Super Morse which have an "N" after the version number are distributed by the National Amateur Radio Association and contain additional files relevant to that organization. B. Equipment and Operating System Requirements Super Morse can be run on the IBM-PC and compatibles having 192K of memory and one floppy disk drive. A hard disk is not required, although you will find that a hard disk will enhance operation of this and any other program. Your CONFIG.SYS file should authorize at least 20 files. This can be done with the following statement: FILES = 20 CONFIG.SYS may be edited using a word processor in the ASCII output mode or a text editor. C. Installation 1. In General In versions of Super Morse prior to 1.04, it was necessary to create a special subdirectory and copy all data files into that directory. That is no longer required! The only restriction on the location of files is that the files having HLP and SM extensions must be in the same subdirectory as the SM.EXE file. Super Morse may be run directly from the distribution diskette, or it can be copied onto another diskette or to a hard disk. If you wish to use another floppy diskette, simply copy all the files on the distribution diskette other than the file having the ZIP extension to the new diskette. If you install Super Morse on a hard disk, you may wish to place the program in a special subdirectory of you choosing. Simply create the subdirectory as described in your DOS manual, and copy all the files from the distribution diskette to the selected subdirectory. If you run Super Morse from a floppy disk, DO NOT write protect the disk! Super Morse periodically writes to the diskette and write protection will cause a disk write error. 2. Upgrading from CW or Earlier Super Morse Versions The structures of the configuration (SM.CFG) and user (SM.USR) files which record the current status of certain program information file have changed several times during the evolution of Super Morse. If you are upgrading from a version earlier than 3.09, you will need to erase the current versions of these files using the following commands: DEL SM.CFG and DEL SM.USR an reinitialize Super Morse. If you fail to do this you will either get a "Disk Read" error or the program will operate improperly. 3. The Archive File If you obtained your copy of Super Morse directly from the author, your disk contains all the files necessary to immediately run Super Morse. Your diskette also contains a an "archive" file named SMxxx.ZIP (where xxx is the program version number) which is a single file containing a compacted version of the same files. Unless you want to upload Super Morse to a computer bulletin board system, you may not have any need for this file. To place Super Morse on a bulletin board system, all you have to do is upload this one archive file. If you do want to use this file for other than uploading, it must be un-archived using an archive utility program such as PKUNZIP (version 1.01 or later), both of which are commonly available on most computer bulletin board systems. D. Printing the DOC File To print SM.DOC (this file) enter the following command: COPY SM.DOC PRN: You can also use the PRINT.COM program which comes with DOS or a word processor program. E. Hardware and Software Considerations 1. Computer Clock Speed The clock speed for your computer will affect the code speed. Therefore, you should calibrate Super Morse code speed for your computer. If you have a multiple speed system, use Super Morse only in the calibrated clock speed unless you wish to recalibrate. 2. Video Display Card Super Morse supports CGA (color), MDA (monochome) and HGC (Hercules) video displays. The proper display adapter can be selected using the ALT-S command. 3. Memory Resident Programs Since Super Morse uses a software loop for timing purposes (the system clock does not provide sufficient accuracy for code timing), you will need to recalibrate the code speed if memory resident programs are added or deleted. Such programs affect the clock operation upon which the loop is based. 4. Disk Cache Programs Super Morse saves changes in the program parameters when user exits the program. If you are using a disk cache program, the parameters may be saved to the cache area in memory and thus may not permanently saved to disk. If you are having this problem, you should try disabling any disk cacheing program which you have installed on your system. III. Using Super Morse A. Starting Super Morse To run Super Morse enter the following at the DOS prompt: SM and press RETURN. B. Super Morse Organization--The Main Menu Super Morse is organized around the five phases of the Morse code learning process: (1) learning the characters, (2) building speed, (3) enhancing skills, (4) measuring progress, and (5) operating. These five phases are reflected in the <L>earn, uild, <E>nhance, <M>easure, and <O>perate commands, respectively, in the main menu as follows: +-----------------------------------+ | | | <L>earn Characters <M>easure | | uild Speed <O>perate | | <E>nhance Skills e<X>it | | | +-----------------------------------+ C. The Super Morse Display 1. The Message Line (Top) At all times while Super Morse is running, the top line of the screen is used to identify the current function and the key necessary to abort that function. Most functions can be exited ata any prompt using the <ESC> key. 2. The Status Lines (Bottom) Likewise, the bottom two lines display important program parameters. The upper status line displays from left to right the currently active character set ("Ch"), whether code text will be displayed ("Txt"), whether the speaker is active ("Spk"), and the elapsed time for the current session ("ET"). The lower status line displays from left to right the code send speed ("SS") in words per minute, the code character speed ("CS") in words per minute, the code word speed ("WS") in words per minute, the U.S. license class represented by the speed ("Cl"), the oscillator tone frequency ("Tone") in Hertz, whether the zoom mode is active ("Zm", whether the DIT/DAH tone split is enabled ("Spl"), and the current status of interference and code jitter effects ("Eff"). The first character in the effects display shows the status of interference and the second digit the status of speed jitter. 3. The Morse Code Character Set SUPER MORSE implements the standard Morse code character set used in amateur radio. This includes the 26 letters, 10 numbers, the comma, period, question mark, the slash mark, and the prosigns. In addition, SUPER MORSE supports the colon, semicolon, left parenthesis, and right parenthesis for modes using the keyboard and disk files. These characters are not part of the character set for automatic sending by the computer. Several Morse code procedure signs ("prosigns") are not printable as ASCII characters. These characters are usually represented as a combination of two printable ASCII characters as follows: Prosign ASCII Representation Meaning ------- -------------------- ------- <AR> @ End of message <SK> $ End of contact <AS> ! Wait, stand-by <KN> # Over-specified station only <BT> = Double dash When prosigns are printed on the screen, they are represented in their double letter form surrounded by pointed brackets. Prosigns must still be entered on the keyboard using their ASCII representations. The ASCII characters used to represent prosigns are chosen to provide at least some association with or suggestion of the double-letter representation of the prosigns. '@' suggests the 'A' in '<AR>', '$' the 'S' in '<SK>', and '!' the staccato DIT DIT DIT of the 'S' in '<AS>'. '#' suggests the run-together combination of 'K' and 'N' in '<KN>'. 4. Visual Cues When most people think of Morse code, they think of "dots" and "dashes." This is unfortunate since the use of dots and dashes slows down the learning process. Morse code should be learned by sound and not by sight. For that reason the only visual cues uses in Super Morse are the characters themselves and the words "DIT" and "DAH" to represent the short and long sounds of Morse code. Unless DIT is the last element in a character, it is usually spelled DI since this is a more accurate representation of its sound under those circumstances. D. Help Help screens for for each menu are available by pressing ALT-H. Help for the control keys is available by pressing HOME. E. Configuring the Character Set The character set to be received may be set by pressing the ALT-D key combination during any menu display. The ALT-D command permits the currently enabled character set to be altered using the following screen: +--------------------------------------------------+ | | | Current Character Set | | | | ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789 .,?/- !@#$ | | xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxx ----- ---- | | | | "x" = enabled "-" = disabled | | | | Key Toggles Character Status | | Toggle: | | "%" = Letters "{" = Group 1 "<" = Group 5 | | "^" = Numbers "{" = Group 2 ">" = Group 6 | | "&" = Punctuation "[" = Group 3 "~" = Group 7 | | "*" = Prosigns "]" = Group 4 | | | | "\" = Clear All SPACE Bar = Default Chars | | | +--------------------------------------------------+ The symbol directly below the character in the above screen indicates whether the character is enabled. The "x" indicates that it is enabled, and the "-" that it is disabled. The default character set has the letters and numbers enabled and the punctuation and prosigns disabled. To change the status of any character, press the corresponding key on the keyboard. To enable the default character set, press the SPACE bar. To clear all characters, press "|". To enable or disable all the letters, press the "%" key. Likewise, for the numbers press the "^" key, for punctuation the "&" key, and for the prosigns the "*" key. The currently active character groups used in the Learn phase can be selectively activated using the indicated keys. Note that the alternate character groups file has only six groups, and the "~" key will thus not be active if that file is used. The current status of the character set is saved at the user's option when Super Morse is exited or when ALT-V is pressed. F. Input/Output via Communications Port The primary I/O for Super Morse code is via the computer keyboard and the PC onboard speaker. Secondary output is provided by toggling either the DTR or RTS pin at the selected RS-232 communications port. Input is provided via either the DSR or CTS pin at the same port. The user can select whether to expect either a high (+) or a low (-) voltage in the key-down condition and the opposite in the key-up condition. Output via DTR/RTS is available whenever code is being sent, but input via DSR/CTS is available only in the <M>anual key function of the <E>nhance phase and in the <O>perate phase. I/O via either COM1 or COM2 can be set using the <ALT-S> (Set Parameters) key combination. With a proper interface DTR/RTS can be used to drive an external oscillator for making high quality code tapes or to key a transmitter Likewise, DSR/CTS can be interfaced with a hand key, electronic keyer, or a receiver. Code output to the speaker and com port can be selected using the <ALT-S> key combination. Code input can be selected from either one of several keys on the computer keyboard or the com port using the <M>anual key command in the <ALT-S> selection. A detailed explanation of how to use the DTR/RTS and DSR/CTS signals for the aforementioned purposes is beyond the scope of this manual and is left to the ingenuity of the user. However, an external key can be connected between pins 4 and 6 (for DSR pin) or between pins 4 and 5 (for CTS pin) of the selected COM port without any other interface circuitry. The author would like to receive diagrams of tested circuits designed by users to take advantage of COM port I/O. G. Timing a Super Morse Session Super Morse includes a session timer which is displayed on the status line as "ET". The session timer is automatically zeroed when Super Morse is invoked, but it may be re-zeroed at any time by pressing the ALT-T key combination. H. Controlling Super Morse 1. The ESC Key At any time code is being sent, the current operation can be aborted by pressing the <ESC> key. In some functions it is necessary to press another key to continue as indicated on the message line. The <ESC> key can also be used to abort any time a user input is requested. 2. The Function Keys The function keys are active at any input prompt, and while code is being sent. They are defined as follows: F1 - Decrease SEND Speed F2 - Increase SEND Speed F3 - Decrease CHAR Speed F4 - Increase CHAR Speed F5 - Decrease WORD Speed F6 - Increase WORD Speed F7 - Decrease Speaker Tone F8 - Increase Speaker Tone F9 - Set SEND, CHAR, and WORD to Same Speed F10 - Hide/Unhide Text The operations performed by these keys are discussed in more detail in several of the following sections. 3. The ALT and Other Control Keys The following ALT and other keys are available: ALT-C - Clear the screen (not active during menu presentation) ALT-D - Define character set ALT-E - Set to Extra class speed (20,20,20) ALT-F - Set to User's favorite speed ALT-G - Set to General class speed (13,13,13) ALT-H - Context sensitive help ALT-I - Set Interference type ALT-J - Toggle code speed jitter ALT-K - Toggle speaker ALT-L - Toggle tone split ALT-M - Show Morse characters ALT-N - Set to Novice class speed (5,13,5) ALT-P - Pause ALT-S - Set program parameters ALT-T - Reset elapsed time clock ALT-V - Save new settings ALT-U - Display user statistics ALT-Z - Toggle zoom mode HOME - Quick key help 4. The Code Speed The code speed can be set at any input prompt, and while code is being sent, using the function keys as follows: F1 - Decrease SEND Speed F2 - Increase SEND Speed F3 - Decrease CHAR Speed F4 - Increase CHAR Speed F5 - Decrease WORD Speed F6 - Increase WORD Speed F9 - Set SEND, CHAR, and WORD to Same Speed You can set the speed at which the character is sent separately from the overall send speed (the Farnsworth method). For example, you can set the send speed at a slow speed but the character speed can be set to send the characters using shorter DITS and DAHS which are equivalent to a much faster send speed. This is a highly recommended way to increase your speed since you will know the sound of the characters at the higher speed from the beginning. This method has been found to help alleviate the "hump" that many people reach at 10 words per minute. You can quickly set the speed to the speeds for the various class of licenses using the ALT keys as follows: ALT-E Extra class (20 WPM) ALT-G General class (13 WPM) ALT-N Novice class (5 WPM) The user can also set his favorite speed with the ALT-F key combination. The favorite speed is set using selection <E> in the Settings (ALT-S) menu. For the Novice class the speed is set for the Farnsworth method. For the other classes the send, character, and word speeds are set to the same value. You can also set the word speed separately from send and character speed. This helps the user to learn the sounds of whole words sent at high speeds but spaced at a slower speed. The minimum code speed is permitted by Super Morse is 3 WPM, and the maximum is 99 WPM (good luck with that setting!). The send speed and character speeds are coupled so that the send speed will never exceed the character speed. Also in the speed test mode, the word speed is automatically set to the send speed so that the test is valid. In addition, upon entry into the Learn phase, the send and word speeds are automatically set to 5 wpm, and the character speed to 13 wpm. 5. The Oscillator Tone The oscillator tone can be set to suit the user's tastes with the function keys as follows: F7 - Decrease Speaker Tone F8 - Increase Speaker Tone The minimum tone is 400 Hz., and the maximum is 2000 Hz. Unfortunately the volume of the PC speaker cannot be changed. Some tones are reproduced by the PC speaker better than others, however, and they seem louder. The default tone is 730 Hz. to approximate the 725 Hz. tone believed to be used for VEC tests. 6. Splitting the DIT and DAH Tones The tones for sending DITs and DAHs are normally the same. However, as an additional aid in distinguishing between the two, Super Morse permits you to split the two tones such that the DAH is 10 Hz. lower than the DAH using the ALT-L key combination. 7. Adding Interference To provide practice in copying code under difficult conditions, the user can add background noise (known as "QRM" to hams) to the code by pressing the ALT-I key combination. Level 0 is no noise, and levels 1, 2, and are noise levels of different types. Background noise is available only in the Build and Enhance phases. 8. Adding Speed Jitter To make code sound more realistic, speed jitter can be added (or removed) by pressing ALT-J. 9. Hiding the Text If you want to hide the text so that you are not tempted to peek while copying, press the F10 key. Pressing F10 again reverses the effect. The current status is displayed on the status line. With some functions the text will be hidden regardless of the setting of the hide subcommand. The hide feature remembers up to 1792 characters sent when the text is hidden. When the text is unhidden, these characters are printed on the screen as they would have appeared if the had not been hidden. 10. Zoom Mode The Groups and Words functions in the Build phase may be exercised using the zoom mode. In this mode a specified number of words or groups is sent at specified starting speed, and then the send speed is bumped up by the specified WPM increment. This process is repeated until a specified end speed is reached. The zoom mode is enabled and disabled by pressing the ALT-Z key combination during any menu display. When the zoom mode is enabled, the following screen is displayed for parameter selection: +------------------------+ | (1) Start Speed : 3 | | (2) End Speed : 14 | | (3) Char Speed : 14 | | (4) Increment : 1.0 | | (5) Num Words : 10 | +------------------------+ Each parameter can be changed by entering the indicated parameter number. The increment parameter specifies the number of WPM the speed is bumped after the specified number of words or groups is sent. Any one of four preset increment values may be selected: 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, and 1.0 WPM. 11. Repeating Characters In the <L>earn phase, characters can be repeated at any prompt by pressing the <SPACE> bar. 12. Clearing the Screen The screen may be cleared any time the screen is active (i.e., no menu is showing) by pressing the ALT-C key combination; 13. Quick Key Help The definitions of the function keys and ALT keys can be displayed at any menu by pressing the HOME key. 14. Pause During the middle of a code exerise, you may wish to pause for some reason, e.g., answer the phone. You may do so by pressing the ALT-P key combination. Note that you will lose a character if you are in the midst of it when you invoke the pause. Note also that pause will affect timed functions. Pressing any key continues the previous function. 15. Displaying User Statistics Several of the features in the Learn and Measure phases record information about the user's progress. In Lessons 6,7,8, and 9 of the Learn phase, Super Morse keeps track of the user's number of consecutive correct answers. When the ser statistics command is selected, a color graph showing the number of correct answers for each character for the last 10 times the character has been sent to the user. Also displayed at the bottom of the graph is a percentage goal figure. The goal referred to is to achieve 10 out of 10 correct for each letter, for a total of 450 consecutive correct answers. A perfect score is 100, but you have to be VERY good to achieve it. Your score starts at 0 and slowly builds toward 100 as you get better. If you can come even close to 100, you KNOW the Morse characters! In the Enhance phase the user's maximum boost speed and keyboard copy speed are recorded and displayed in the user statistics. Also the number of Super Morse sessions and total time spent using Super Morse are shown. The user statistics can be cleared with the <E>rase User command. 16. Saving Current Settings The current values of the program settings (parameters) can be saved with the ALT-V key combination. If the settings have not been saved during the current session, then the user is given the opportunity to save them when exiting Super Morse. Several parameters (zoom status, split tone status, and qrm status) are not saved and must be reset during every session. 17. Exiting Super Morse Super Morse may be exited from the main menu using the e<X>it command. If program parameters have been changed, the user will be given an opportunity to save the new ones. The Morse code exit message can be cut short by pressing ESC (although you would be deprived of the pleasure of hearing WD5CID's call sign yet again). I. Setting Program Parameters 1. The Set Parameters Menu Super Morse may be configured by pressing ALT-S at any menu prompt, which will display a window with the following selections: +---------------------------------------------------------+ | <A> Timing Factor : XXXX <Q> Prompt Sound : XXX | | Auto Calibrate : XXXX <R> Jump File Spaces : XXX | | <C> Speed Test : XXXX <S> Video Adapter : XXX | | <D> Code Weight : XXX | | <E> Set Fav. Speed : XXX <1> Main Background : XXX | | | | <F> Phone Port : XXXX <2> Main Foreground : XXX | | <G> Baud Rate : X | | <H> No. Bits : X <3> Window Background : XXX | | Parity : X | | <J> Keying Port : XXXX <4> Window Foreground : XXX | | <K> Input Keying : XXX | | <L> RS-232 Input : XXX <5> Status Background : XXX | | <M> Input Sense : X | | <N> Output Keying : XXX <6> Status Foreground : XXX | | <O> RS-232 Output : XXX | | Output Sense : X <7> Highlight : XXX | +---------------------------------------------------------+ For all but two of the set commands (B and C), the menu also gives the current status of the affected parameter. The color selections <1>-<7> show the actual color selected (color display only). 2. Calibrating the Code Speed a. Code Speed/Timing in General Code speed is an elusive measure since it varies with the type of material being sent. The average plain text word is 50 units (DIT times) long, which is the length of the standard text word PARIS. On the other hand, the average 5 letter random character group is 60 units long, which is the length of the standard random character group word CODEX. This is easily understood once it is realized that plain English text has a disproportionate number of E's and T's, which are the shortest characters in Morse code. In fact, the Morse code was designed so that the most frequent characters used the shorter code sequences. The net effect of this difference is that the DITS and DAHS in 5 letter random code groups should sound about 20% faster than those in plain text even though the total number of characters is the same. The PARIS method is used for all but the uild/groups functions where the CODEX method is used. As a consequence, that function will seem to be faster than the other functions, but that is the way it should be. b. Determining the Present Code Speed - the <C> Command When you install Super Morse, and when you add or remove memory resident programs, you will need to check the speed calibration and reset the timing if it is incorrect. The timing of the code in Super Morse is initially set assuming a computer clock speed of 4.77 MHz and a NEC V20 replacement for the 8088 microprocessor. To use the <C> command, set the send and word speeds to any desired speed and select the command. Press any key when prompted, and wait while the word PARIS is sent the same number of times as indicated by the send speed (SS). When completed the prompt line will show the number of seconds required to send the indicated number of PARIS's. For correct calibration exactly 60 seconds is required. If the calibration is not correct, you should change the timing factor in the manner instructed on the prompt line using the <A> command, and re-run the <C> command until you get as close to 60 seconds as possible. Continue this process until you are satisfied with the result. You should aim for slightly less than 60 seconds so that any errors are on the too-fast side of the indicated speed. c. Changing the Timing Factor - the <A> Command If the speed determined using the Speed Test is incorrect, the <A> is used to change the Timing Factor. To decrease code speed, increase the value of the timing factor, and vice versa. With a clock speed of 4.77 MHz., a NEC V20 microprocessor, and with no memory resident programs installed, the author has found that a timing factor of around 1270 is necessary. d. Automatic Calibration - the Command You can use the Auto Calibrate feature to automatically set the timing factor to APPROXIMATELY the correct setting. Due to vagaries of the PC clock, this method may be off by several percent. This may be fine for general use, but before relying upon the speed as when preparing for your code test, you should manually calibrate the speed as described in the preceding paragraph. This feature is a good way to start the calibration process described above. You should ALWAYS check the code speed for your computer before relying upon Super Morse. 3. Code Weighting The code weighting can be changed using the <D> command. Normally a DAH is 3 times as long as a DIT. This is called code weighting. In some instances it is useful to change the weighting to some other ratio. Super Morse permits the weighting to be set in the range 2-6 in increments of 0.2. At present changing the weight from the weight used for speed calibration causes a very slight change in speed. Thus, you should always calibrate speed at a weighting of 3, and understand that speeds at other weightings may be off by 1 WPM or so. 4. Setting User's Favorite Speed - the <E> Command The user's favorite speed is set to the current speed parameters shown on the status line. Each time the settings section is entered, the status of selection <E> is shown as "Old". The first time that <E> is selected, the status is changed to "New". 5. Configuring the Telephone Port a. Telephone Port Selection - the <F> Command SUPER MORSE makes use of the PC serial communications ports for the <O>n Line Practice feature in the <O>perate phase. The user can set either COM1 or COM2 using the <F> command. b. Setting Communications Parameters The baud rate for the telephone port can be set at either 300, 1200, or 2400 baud with the <F> command, the number of bits can be set either at 7 or 8 using the <H> command, and the parity can be set at either even, odd, or none using the command. 6. Configuring the Keying Port a. Keying Port Selection - the <J> Command SUPER MORSE provides auxiliary CW signal input and output using a serial port. Either COM1 or COM2 can be selected using the <J> command. b. Selecting Input Keying Source - the <K> Command The Build phase provides the ability to use a PC key as a manual Morse code sender. The ALT key is the default, but since memory resident programs often use the ALT key as a hot key the Super Morse Settings window permits the user to select either the ALT, CTRL, Left SHIFT, or Right SHIFT for the manual key. An EXTERNAL device such as telegraph key, an electronic keyer, or a radio receiver for the <R>adio command in the <O>perate phase can also be selected using the <K> command if the proper interface is available. c. RS-232 Input Either the DSR or CTS pin (6 and 5, respectively) can be used to receive input keying either directly from a manual key or from an interface to a radio receiver. This can be selected using the <L> command, and the sense can be set at either positive (+) or negative (-) using the <M> command. d. RS-232 Output Either the DTR or RTS pin (pins 20 and 4, respectively) can be used to key an external oscillator or a transmitter. This output capability can be toggled on and off using the <N> command, and the desired pin can be selected using the <O> command. The output sense can be set to either positive or negative using the command. 7. Setting Screen Colors The colors of the screen, the windows, and the highlighting can be set to suit your taste using the <1>-<7> commands when the Settings window appears. The current color for each screen area is shown in the menu (color display only). 8. Miscellaneous a. Controlling Prompt Sound - the <Q> Command The prompt sound ("beep")can be toggled on and off using the <Q> command. b. Selecting the Video Type - the <R> Command At program invocation Super Morse will determine automatically determine the video type. However, this can be changed if necessary (e.g., you have two video cards installed) with <Q> command. Screen colors will be automatically set for the selected video card. The new video setting is saved in the configuration file. The three choices availabe are MDS (monochrome), CGA (color graphics adapter), and HGC (Hercules). c. Jump Spaces in Disk Files - the <R> Command This selection permits multiple spaces in a disk file to be skipped. 9. Saving the New Settings When the settings function is exited, the user is given the option of saving the new settings. New settings can also be saved by pressing ALT-V at any menu or by selecting the save option unpon exiting the program. J. Super Morse Files 1. The Configuration File The most recently used values for code timing, code speed, oscillator tone, screen graphics type, screen colors, etc., are contained in the SM.CFG file. If this file is not found when Super Morse is first run, it will be created. The user is given the opportunity to save the new settings when the program is exited using the <X> command in the main menu if changes have been made during program operation. Current settings can also be saved using the ALT-V command. 2. Customizing the Super Morse Data Files The data files having an "SM" extension can be customized to suit the user's tastes using a word processor or text editor. This is described more fully elsewhere in this documentation. IV. The Learn Phase A. The <L>earn Command 1. Introduction To help you learn the Morse code, Super Morse provides a <L>earn feature, which conducts a series of lessons to gradually and logically introduce the Morse characters. The Learn menu is as follows: +------------------------------------------------+ | | | <1> DITS & DAHS <8> Levels | | <2> DIT/DAH Combinations <9> All Characters | | <3> Character Length <F>lash Characters | | <4> Character Rhythm <O>ddball Character | | <5> Character Steps ser Group | | <6> Character Runs <V>iew Groupings | | <7> Groups | +------------------------------------------------+ 2. The Super Morse Teaching Method Unlike standard Morse code teaching methods, Super Morse does not initially introduce characters. Instead Super Morse starts with sounds only -- no characters are taught or displayed in the early lessons. The idea is to emphasize that Morse code is a sound language and to teach the fundamentals of code sounds without the added complication of visual stimuli. Four sound-only exercises are provided. First, the basic DIT and DAH sounds are taught. Second, Super Morse puts the basic sounds together into the four fundamental two-sound combinations. Third, Super Morse teaches the first basic attribute of character recognition, character length, by asking the student to identify the total number of code sound elements in randomly sent but purposely unidentified characters. Finally, Super Morse teaches the second basic attribute of character recognition, rhythm, by asking the student to identify the number of DITS and DAHS in randomly sent characters. Only after the basic sounds, sound combinations, character lengths, and character rhythm are taught does Super Morse start identifying characters. Before the standard code groups are introduced, code "steps", which are groups of two similarly sounding characters, are sent to gradually introduce the characters in pairs. The idea is to teach the student to distinguish similar sounding characters from the beginning, such that those which do not sound so much alike will fall into place by themselves. Also the characters are slowly learned in an indirect fashion in that the student is encouraged to concentrate on the differences rather than the content of the characters themselves. Only when the steps are completed are the standard code groups introduced. The <L>earn subcommands are numbered to slowly build up the user's knowledge of the characters in a very logical way. It is recommended that the <L>earn subcommands be used in the same order as the selections are numbered. 3. Repeating Characters In the <L>earn mode (except <F>lash) characters can be repeated by pressing the <SPACE> bar at any prompt. 4. Feedback in the <L>earn Mode To enhance the learning experience, Super Morse provides feedback after each response in the <L>earn mode in the form of a report of the number of answers correct, the number of answers incorrect, a percent score, and the number of consecutive correct answers for the current session. Also, if an answer is wrong, the correct answer is displayed and a brief review is provided. The consecutive answers report is useful in determining when the user should go on to the next step in the <L>earn mode. 5. Character Speed in the <L>earn Mode Upon entry into the <L>earn mode, the send speed is set to 5 WPM and the character speed to 13 WPM to force learning the characters at the General Class License speed. This is universally accepted as the fastest way to reach that speed. The character speed can be increased, but it cannot be decreased below 13 WPM. Send and word speed can be changed through their full normal range. 6. Response Keys In several of the lessons, the user is asked to press numbered keys rather than the key representing the actual character. Some users have questionned this, but it is done to eliminate the necessity of locating keys on the keyboard. This permits the user to concentrate on the sounds without the additional complication of typing. B. Lesson 1 - DITS and DAHS, the Basic Code Sounds Lesson <1> teaches the basic DIT (short) and DAH (long) sounds. After sending DITS and DAHS in various formats, the user is asked to identify randomly presented DITS and DAHS using the '1' key for DITS and the '2' key for DAHS. C. Lesson 2 - Sound Combinations Since Morse characters are comprised of combinations of DITS and DAHS, Lesson <2> is provided to introduce the four simplest combinations: DIT DIT, DIT DAH, DAH DIT, and DAH DAH. D. Lesson 3 - Character Length Lesson <3> sends a character and asks the user to identify the total number of sound elements (DITS and DAHS) included in it. This forces the to listen for the LENGTH of a character, which is a very important character attribute. E. Lesson 4 - Character Rhythm Lesson <4> forces the user to concentrate on character sound patterns and rhythms. This selection sends a character and asks the user to enter the number of DITS or DAHS in the character. F. Lesson 5 - Character Steps Lesson <5> combines the previously learned DITS and DAHS into complete character sounds. The characters are paired with similar (or confusing opposite) sounds in a series of increasingly harder steps, and the user is asked to identify randomly-selected characters from each step. The user should start with step 1 and learn to distinguish the characters in each step before continuing on to the next higher step. After all 67 steps have been mastered, the user should be ready to start with the group and levels lessons. G. Lesson 6 - Character Runs The character steps idea is extended in Lesson <6>. This lesson forms groups of characters, each successive one of which differs by only a DIT or a DAH from the previous character. H. Lesson 7 - Character Groups Lesson <7> begins the traditional code groups as defined and used by the ARRL and others. This lesson lets the user study each character group separately. The characters from the selected group are presented randomly, and the user is asked to identify them. The groups used in Super Morse are those used in the ARRL publication "Tune in the World with Ham Radio". If materials having a different grouping are used, the groups can be changed by altering the contents of the file named GROUPS.SM using a text editor or word processor (the ASCII output mode must be used so that nothing but printable ASCII characters are stored in the file. The initially installed groups are included in the file GROUPS.1, and a second grouping used in an older ARRL code booklet is included in GROUPS.2. To use either of these groups, just delete the current GROUPS.SM file and copy either GROUPS.1 or GROUPS.2 to the filename GROUPS.SM. Note that only the letters and numbers can be changed, and no more than 8 user groups can be entered. Punctuation and prosigns are automatically added as the last two groups. I. Lesson 8 - Character Learning Levels Lesson <8> permits the user to study the various groups in Lesson <7> in a progressive manner starting with the simple Level 1 sounds and adding characters with each level. Each level is simply a combination of groups 1 as defined above through the group whose number is the same as the selected level number. After the new characters for each level are presented, the user is asked to identify randomly presented characters from that level. J. Lesson 9 - All Characters Lesson 9 permits the user to sum up all he has learned in the previous 8 lessons in that all letters, numbers, punctuation, and prosigns are sent for identification in the same manner as the preceding lessons. Lesson 9 is adaptive in that the more recently missed characters are sent more often that the others. K. <F>lash Characters The <F> selection simulates flash cards by randomly displaying characters from the currently active character group in large display format. No user keyboard response is required in this feature. L. <O>ddball Character The <O>dball character function presents a group of five characters with one different from the others, and the user is asked to enter the differing character. The two characters used in this feature are always very similar or otherwise easily confused and are randomly selected from the STEPS.CW file. M. The ser Group The selection permits the user to practice a customized group of characters. The currently active character set selected by the ALT-D key combination is randomly sent for indentification in the same manner as the preceding lessons. N. Viewing the Character Groupings (Steps and Groups) The character steps and groups used in the preceding subcommands may be displayed using the <V>iew subcommand. V. The Build Phase A. Building Code Speed Once the character sounds have been mastered, speed can be increased by receiving code in the Build phase. The Build menu is as follows: +---------------------------------------+ | | | <D>isk File <S>tructured Groups | | <E>nter Message <V>ariable Groups | | <Q>SO <W>ords | | <R>andom Groups | | | +---------------------------------------+ B. Receiving Character Groups - the <R>andom Groups Command One of the classic ways of practicing code reception is sending five letter groups of random characters. The <R>andom Groups command does this. C. Receiving Character Groups - the <S>tructured Groups Command The <S>tructured groups command is similar to the <R>andom groups command except that the first and second characters of group are repeated in reverse order as the fourth and fifth characters. The third character is always a randomly selected number. This permits the user to receive random code but have the ability to check his answer without looking at the screen. D. Receiving Character Groups - the <V>ariable Groups Command The <V>ariable groups command is similar to the <R>andom groups command except that the length of the groups is variable from 1 to 10. This helps the user become accustomed to copying normal words, which are of differing lengths. E. Receiving Complete Words - the <W>ords Command If the user would rather work with real words, the <W>ords function can be used. A choice of either "regular" words, "ham" words, call signs, or words from a user file is given. The regular and ham words are selected from files of fixed names, but user words are taken from any file entered by the uses when prompted. The file should be prepared with a text editor or word processor in the ASCII output mode, and each word (or short phrase) should be placed on a single line and should be no longer than 20 characters. The call sign "words" are randomly generated and cannot be configured by the user. At 15 WPM and below each character is displayed as sent. Above 15 WPM the entire word is sent before it is displayed. The regular and ham words sent by this command can be changed by editing the files REGWORDS.SM and HAMWORDS.SM with a word processor. Each word must be typed on a separate line followed by a carriage return, and there must be no blank lines after the last entry. A maximum of 500 words up to 20 characters long may be entered into the file. F. Receiving a Simulated Radio Transmission - the <Q>SO Command Use this command if you would like to copy a simulated QSO (radio contact). Random text is sent containing randomly chosen call signs, names, etc., providing a variety of QSO combinations. The call signs are randomly selected from all the possible call signs, which means that some unissued calls signs will be used. The names, antenna types, city names, and rig types can be changed to reflect your desires by editing the files ANTENNAS.SM, NAMES.SM, CITIES.SM, RIGS.SM, and JOBS.SM with a word processor or text editor. Simply place a new entry on a single line followed by a carriage return. Make sure there are no blank lines in the middle of the file or after the last entry. The maximum number and length of the entries are as follows: File Max. No. Entries Max. Length Each Entry ---- ---------------- ---------------------- ANTENNAS.SM 50 15 CITIES.SM 200 15 JOBS.SM 100 20 NAMES.SM 200 10 RIGS.SM 100 15 STATES.SM 100 15 If the QSO is sent in the text hide mode, the user is given the opportunity to review the QSO before exiting. G. Receiving Text Entered via Keyboard - the <E>nter Command With this command the user can have a helper enter test messages via the keyboard, and then attempt to copy it. The maximum length of the message is 255 characters. The last message can be repeated by pressing RETURN without entering any characters. This command differs from the <K>eyboard Send command in that nothing is sent until RETURN is pressed. H. Receiving Text in a Disk File - the <D>isk Command This command sends the contents of a disk text file in Morse code. At the prompt enter the name of the file (including the drive and subdirectory) to be sent. If you do not know the name of the file you wish to receive, you may enter a carriage return to obtain a disk directory. At the prompt enter the file specification in the form D:\SUBDIR\FILENAME.EXT, where "D:" is the drive designator, "SUBDIR" is the subdirectory name if applicable. If all files are desired, enter "*.*" in place of FILENAME.EXT. Disk files can be sent either normally or in reverse by entering proper character when prompted. You can practice by having someone create a text file of unknown content. Another idea is to exchange disks with a friend who is also studying the code and carry on a "disk QSO". The disk file required for this command can be any ASCII text file created with a text editor or a word processor. If a word processor is used, make sure it is in the ASCII store mode so that only ASCII characters are stored in the file. Unprintable characters are ignored. Multiple blanks may be skipped if desired in the Settings window. To familiarize yourself with the use of this command, you can enter the name of the words file (WORDS.SM) or any of the other data files having the SM extension, although this will not provide very useful code practice. Disk files can be "scripted" by placement of the "~" (tilde) character in the file. When Super Morse encounters the tilde character, it pauses and waits for the user to press any key. This feature may be used, for example, to to prepare code tapes which have voice instructions intermixed with the code. For proper spacing the tilde should be placed at the end of a line of text. I. Receiving in the Zoom Mode Either the <R>andom groups, <S>tructured groups, <V>ariable groups, or <W>ords can be sent in the "zoom" mode. The zoom mode is enabled and disabled by pressing the ALT-Z key combination during any menu display. The current status of the zoom mode is shown on the bottom line of the screen. When the zoom mode is active and either of the groups functions is invoked, the user is asked to enter the start speed, the end speed, the speed increment, and the number of characters to be sent at each speed. After the specified number of characters is sent, the code speed is increased by the specified increment until the end speed is reached. Increments of 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, and 1.0 WPM are available. J. Selecting the Character Set The character set to be used in the <R>andom Group, <S>tructured Group, and <V>ariable Group functions can be set using the ALT-D key combination during any menu display. VI. The Enhance Phase A. Skill Enhancement The Enhance phase includes modes which are designed to "put the icing on the cake" by putting the user's code knowledge to work in advanced ways. The Enhance Phase menu is as follows: +-------------------------------------+ | | | oost Copy <M>anual Send | | <H>ead Copy <Q> & A | | <K>eyboard Send <R>andom Lag Copy | | <L>ag Copy <T>ypewriter Copy | | | +-------------------------------------+ B. Sending Code The send-related commands in the Enhance phase permit the user to practice sending Morse code either from the keyboard or manually using a designated keyboard key or an external device as a straight key. 1. Sending from the <K>eyboard This function permits the user to enter individual keys to hear how they sound. You can type ahead of the Super Morse sender by 80 characters maximum. Unlike the <E>nter command, you do not have to press RETURN to start sending characters. 2. Sending with a <M>anual Key You may also wish to practice your "fist", i.e., your manual sending ability, by using the a designated key as a telegraph key. The default designated key is the ALT key, but this can be changed using the <M>anual Key function in the Settings window to one of several keyboard keys or to an external key. In this function SUPER MORSE decodes the character sent and displays it on the screen. SUPER MORSE is initialized to the character speed displayed on the status line. However, SUPER MORSE automatically adjusts to your sending speed as it changes. Since this adjustment takes place slowly, you may have to send several characters before SUPER MORSE determines your speed and displays the correct character on the screen. The external key is accessed via the DSR or RTS pin of the designated port. A hand key can be interfaced by simply connecting the key to pins 4 and 6 of the selected COM port. This interface has been tested by the author! Comments are on other interfaces is requested. C. Copying Behind In order to learn to copy Morse code at high speeds, it is necessary to remember several characters before the one presently being sent. Super Morse has several <E>nhance exercises to help you develop this ability to "copy behind". In all the copy features, the characters used are selected using the ALT-D command described above. 1. <H>ead Copy The <H>ead Copy function helps you learn to copy "in your head" by developing your memory for a string of characters. In this function a character sequence of increasing length is sent, and the user is asked to enter the sequence exactly after it has been sounded. A new sequence is started each time an incorrect answer is entered. The current sequence length and the best length for the session are reported after each correct answer. The maximum sequence length is 50 characters (Good luck!). 2. <L>ag Copy The <L>ag copy function helps you learn to record a previous character while remembering a later sent character. Instead of entering the character that was most recently sent as in all other functions of Super Morse, this function asks the user to enter the character sent a specified number of characters ago. The default lag is 1 character, but the user may enter a lag of up to 10 characters at the prompt. This exercise is very hard at first, and you may have to use pencil and paper to get the hang of it. 3. <R>andom Lag Copy This function tests the user's ability to remember a sequence of 3 randomly sent characters. After the group of 3 characters is sent, the user is asked to enter either the first, second, or third character. D. Copying on a <T>ypewriter The military services train their Morse code operators to use a typewriter to record incoming messages since it is much faster than copying by hand. The <T>ypewriter Copy permits the user to use the keyboard for "copying on the mill", as that method is termed. In this function only the characters typed by the user are displayed on the screen--the code being sent is not displayed--and the sending of code does not depend upon typing the correct response (or any response at all) on the keyboard. E. oost Copy Boost copy automatically boosts the user's speed to his maximum copy speed. The send speed starts at 3 WPM and automatically adjusts upwardly in 0.1 WPM increments as long as the user maintains a 90% copy rate. If the rate drops below 90%, the speed stays constant until the 90% level is again attained. F. <Q>uestions and Answers The <Q>&A feature sends questions stored in a user-created file in code without screen presentation and asks the user to enter the answer on the keyboard. This feature may be used to ask trivia questions or other easily answered questions. Files for this feature can have any name, but they must be constructed in a special way. The odd numbered lines contain questions (no question mark required) and the even numbered lines contain answers. Since the emphasis is upon correctly copying the questions and not upon the answers, the questions should be easily answered and the answers should preferably use only one word without punctuation. Number answers should be in number form and not written out in text. A short sample file Q&A.SM is included with Super Morse. As each question is sent the user should copy it on a piece of paper and enter the answer when prompted. The question may be repeated by pressing the space bar at the prompt. After the answer is entered, the full text of the last question is shown on the screen. VII. The Measurement Phase A. The <M>easure Command The <M>easure command provides several ways to test the user's Morse code progress. The Measure menu is as follows: +------------------------------------+ | | | <A>uto Exam <M>ake Exam | | <S>olid Copy Test <R>un Exam File | | <K>eyboard Test rint Exam | | <D>isplay Exam | | | +------------------------------------+ B. Exam Sources Several of the Measure functions use examinations based upon simulated radio contacts, or QSO's. The format and content of these QSO's are determined either by an internal QSO generation routine or an external template. The internal routine is used exclusively in the <A>uto Exam function and is the default selection in the <M>ake Exam function. The external template may be selected in the <M>ake Exam function. The external template is contained in a disk file named QSOn.SM where "n" is a number from 1 to 99. The file QSO1.SM is provided as an example, but other files must be created by the user using a text editor or word processor in the ASCII output mode. An exam QSO template file comprises any desired text built around up to 20 pieces of randomly selected data. When data is desired in the QSO file, the user inserts the identifying number of the data type surrounded by curved brackets ("{" and "}"). The identifying numbers are as follows: 1 - calling station 11 - countries worked 2 - responding station 12 - band 1 3 - rst report 13 - band 2 4 - name 14 - job 5 - city 15 - rig type 6 - state 16 - antenna type 7 - age 17 - antenna height 8 - years a ham 18 - power (watts) 9 - license class 19 - weather 10 - states worked 20 - temperature (Degrees F) The following is an example of a line in a QSO template: My name is {4}, and I live in {5},{6}. Super Morse randomly generates a name and substitutes it for {4} and a city and state and substitutes them for {5} and {6}. An example of the result is as follows: My name is Joe, and I live in Northfield, KS. At least 10 pieces of data should be used in any exam file to support the 10 questions that are asked in the exam. The <A>uto exam function generates C. Simulated VEC Exam This group of commands permits the user to take a simulated code test much like the one he would take when sitting for the license exam given by the FCC-approved Volunteer Examination Coordinator (VEC). All VEC exam-related functions are based upon the simulated contact used for the <Q>SO command discussed above. In the exam functions the student is asked to set the exam speed either at novice, general, or extra class speed. If novice is chosen, the user is further given the opportunity to select either regular or Farnsworth spacing. 1. <A>uto Exam This is a fully integrated self-test for the student. All exam questions are displayed on the screen, and the exam is automatically graded. After the test has been taken, the user is given the opportunity review the text of the test QSO. 2. Exam from File An exam may be prepared in advance and given using the <M>ake exam file and <R>un exam file commands. These commands are intended primarily for use by an instructor to create and give a simulated test to a student or students. The <M>ake command generates an exam QSO either internally or from an external template as selected and stores it in a special file on disk. The <M>ake command also permits a new set of questions to be created for the existing exam. The <R>un command loads the exam previously created using the <M>ake command and sounds it at the exam speed selected by the user. The <D>isplay and rint commands permit the user to either display on the screen or print on a line printer the text of the most recently created exam, the related exam questions, or the exam answers. These commands also operate for the exam most recently created using the <A>uto exam command. D. <K>eyboard Receive Test This command lets the user test his approximate receive speed. The computer sends a character and waits for the user to type in the correct key. When this function is exited using the ESC key, the computer prints out the approximate send speed, approximate receive speed, and copy accuracy rate. If the incorrect key is typed, the character is printed in reverse video (color monitors only) and sent again. The computer also remembers wrong characters and sends them more often than the other characters. The character set used in the test can be configured using the ALT-D key as described elsewhere. E. <S>olid Copy Test This function tests the user's ability to copy random characters without a mistake. A sequence of characters of increasing length is sent, and the user is asked to type in the sequence exactly as sent. When a mistake is made, the test ends and the user is given a report of the number of consecutive characters copied correctly and the number of minutes and seconds during which "solid copy" occurred. VIII. The Operation Phase A. Two Way Practice Via Telephone Modem 1. The <O>line Command The <O>nline command provides a simple terminal program which permits a user with a telephone modem connected to his computer to call another similarly equipped user and carry on a real time QSO in Morse code. A modem using the Hayes AT command set is assumed. 2. General Description of the <O>n Line Command When <O>n Line is selected, the computer's selected communications port is initialized to the parameters stored in the configuration file, the default values of which are COM1, 1200 baud, 8 bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit. The modem is initialized to automatically answer calls from another computer on the first ring. In order for a connection to be successfully made, both computers must be set to the same baud rate and communications parameters. The On Line commands may be displayed using the usual <ALT-H> specific help key. All On Line commands are invoked using the <CTRL> key in combination with another key. For example, the Morse mode is initiated by pressing the <CTRL-C> key combination. Initially, the On line function is in the "Terminal" mode, which means that it will act just like a normal modem program and will not sound Morse code. The terminal mode should be used to make a connection with the other computer, and then you should switch to the "CW" mode by pressing <CTRL-C>. You can switch back to the terminal mode by pressing <CTRL-T>. Initially Super Morse will sound both the received and sent characters. This can be selectively changed using the <CTRL-R and CTRL-S> commands. Super Morse also adds line feeds to all carriage return characters. If received lines are printed double-spaced, this can be changed with the <CTRL-L> command. If you would like to see characters sent to the modem during the time that Super Morse is not connected to another computer, use the <CTRL-E> command. To dial another computer, use the <CTRL-D> command. To disconnect the phone, use the <CTRL-H> command. In either mode characters can be sent from the keyboard, or a disk file can be sent using the <CTRL-F> command. In addition to these commands, all the Hayes "AT" commands can be used. 3. Making a Connection with Another Computer To connect with another computer you should prearrange the call with the other operator. Both copies of SUPER MORSE should be in the On Line function, and both should set SUPER MORSE On Line to the terminal mode with <CTRL-T>. Both must set their communications parameters, other than the communications port, to the same values. Decide who who will initiate the call and who will receive it. Since both modems are already initialized to answer a call on the first ring, it does not matter which computer is chosen. The call initiator presses <CTRL-D> and enters the telephone number of the call receiver and presses <RETURN>. He then selects either tone (if he has a touch tone phone) or pulse dialing (if he has a rotary dial phone) and presses <RETURN>. He will hear the call receiver's telephone ring and the his modem answer the phone, followed by a brief carrier tone. Both screens should indicate "Connected to Remote SUPER MORSE." Both users should then enter the CW mode by pressing <CTRL-C> and proceed with the landline QSO. 4. CONTROL Commands Following is a summary of the CONTROL commands used in the <O>nline function: <CTRL-C> - Activate CW (Morse) mode <CTRL-D> - Dial a number <CTRL-E> - Echo/No echo of characters sent to modem <CTRL-F> - Send a disk file <CTRL-H> - Terminate telephone connection (hang up) <CTRL-L> - Add/remove linefeeds from received text <CTRL-M> - Hang up modem <CTRL-O> - Online HELP <CTRL-P> - Set baud rate and other communications parameters <CTRL-R> - Enable/disable Morse mode for received characters <CTRL-S> - Enable/disable Morse mode for transmitted characters <CTRL-T> - Activate Terminal (non-Morse) mode 5. Problems with <O>nline Command Experienced modem users will recognize that some of the above commands can be duplicated using the standard Hayes "AT" commands. If you have any difficulty with the online mode, just remember that it is nothing more than a simple terminal program which has the capability of sounding transmitted and received characters in Morse code. If you need help, check with a friend who understands the operation of Hayes and compatible modems. If the screen shows "Character Not Sent - Check Modem and Port Selection", either the power to your modem is not switched on or the wrong port has been selected. To correct the latter use the <ALT-S> command to set parameters. Correct the problem and try again! B. Radio Terminal The <R>adio Terminal command provides a very simple terminal for sending and receiving Morse code via a radio, if an appropriate interface circuit is used. The same COM pins are used in the other Morse input-output function as discussed elsewhere in this documentation. When the <R> function is entered, Super Morse in in the receive mode. To change to the send mode, press CTRL-S. To return to the receive mode, press CTRL-R. IX. We Need Your Feedback and Help! A. Feedback It is my goal that Super Morse be absolutely the best Morse code training program available anywhere, commercial or otherwise. If it is not the best, I will endeavor to make it so. To achieve this I NEED YOUR INPUT! Please let me know what you like about Super Morse, what you don't like about it, any bugs or cosmetic defects you have discovered, you would like to see changed or added, etc. If you have used another Morse code program that you like better, tell me the name of the program and why you like it better. Please take the time to answer and return the questions in the registration form contained in the file REGISTER.FRM to me. If the registration form is inadequate, write me a letter. If a letter won't do the job, give me a call! I particularly need feedback from those who use Super Morse to train novices. If I know your needs, I will endeavor to add those features to Super Morse. Your help would be much appreciated. Remember Super Morse is for you! So tell me what you want it to do for you. Please give me your constructively frank opinion. B. Help Others Learn about SUPER MORSE If SUPER MORSE is helpful to you, you can help others learn about it in the following ways: 1. Give a copy to your friends. 2. Upload SUPER MORSE to your local computer bulletin board system. 3. Leave a message on your computer bulletin board recommending SUPER MORSE. 4. Tell your ham club about it, especially the person in charge of license classes. 5. Write a letter to a ham radio magazine recommending SUPER MORSE. 6. Write a review of SUPER MORSE for a ham radio or computer magazine. C. Send Me Your Good News! If Super Morse helps you obtain your license or upgrade to a higher class of license, I would love to hear about it! Please take the time to drop me a and let me hear your good news! D. Correspondence with Author The author is happy to correspond by mail with users, but PLEASE send a SELF-ADDRESSED, STAMPED ENVELOPE!!! X. Troubleshooting A. Read the Instructions! Most problems are caused by a failure to read the installation instructions! So go read the section on installation and make sure the program is installed correctly! B. Code Speed Problems 1. Code Speed Is Too Fast or Too Slow Calibrate the program as described hereinabove and in the README.1ST file. For best results disable memory resident programs since they steal clock cycles which Super Morse depends upon for proper timing. 2. Random Characters are Faster than Plain Text This is NOT a problem. Due to the way code speed is calculated, random characters sound faster than plain text. For an explanation see the discussion of code speed earlier in the documentation. C. 'File Not Found ' or 'I/O Error 02' Message 1. Make sure that all files with an HLP and an SM extension are copied to the same subdirectory or diskette containing SM.EXE. 2. Make sure all the required files listed early in this documentation are on the program disk. 3. If Super Morse is distributed in ARC format, de-archive only with ARC 5.12 or later, or PKXARC. 4. Make sure the program disk is in the currently active drive when run. 5. Make sure that SM.CFG is present and is not shown with 0 bytes. If the latter happens, erase SM.CFG and start the program again. D. 'I/O Error 100' Erase the SM.CFG file. If that does not work, erase the SM.USR file. The current version of one of these files is longer than the previous version. E. 'I/O Error 150' Remove the write protect tab from your diskette! Super Morse must be able to write to the diskette to create the configuration and user statistics files. F. Strange Values on the Status Line and Other Weird Happenings Erase the SM.CFG file and start over! G. 'Disk Read Error' Erase SM.CFG or SM.USR and start over.