1939 Film: Morse Code on HF in New Zealand (Historical)
Before modern radio broadcasting, the trails were being blazed both in public broadcast, but also critical links out of the local area. Here’s a side-look back in time…. in this 1939 Film: New Zealand Shortwave Communications; Morse code (CW)
The romance of the radiotelegraph service (in this video, the service in New Zealand) is a fascinating aspect of communication history. The use of shortwave, longwave, and medium frequency spectrum for communication, particularly through Morse code, played a significant role in connecting people across vast distances. This service utilized the high-frequency spectrum known as “shortwave” (from 3 MHz up to 30 MHz) as well as the longwave (30 kHz to 300 kHz) and medium frequency spectrum (300 kHz to 3 MHz).
This short film is from 1939, and captures the essence of communication at that time in history, to and from New Zealand using shortwaves and Morse code. It showcases the importance of the radiotelegraph service in enabling long-distance communication during that era. The transition from Morse code via spark-gap communications to continuous wave (CW) modulation marked a significant advancement in the technology and efficiency of radio communication.
It’s incredible to see how technology has evolved over the years, transforming the way we communicate and connect with each other globally. Films like these provide a glimpse into the past and remind us of the ingenuity and dedication of those who worked in the radiotelegraph service to ensure effective communication across the seas.
This film is a 1939 Government film scanned to 2K from a 16mm combined B/W reduction print.
Hi Guys
Well I found this very interesting
The guys were so good on those straight keys
And to see how the original Telegrams were put togeter.
Wonderful.
From a personal point of view I am 90 now and an
ex RAF Wireless operator. (WOPA )
I always told my XYL . The day I cant remember the code.
I will know I am getting old.
I could still copy it in my head at there speed but noway could
I have wrote it down.
I recon it was the pen I was using LOL
Johnny G3LIV