In a world dominated by instant communication, satellite networks, and fiber optics, I chose a different path—one that relies on skill, patience, and a deep understanding of signals.
My callsign is BA7MTH, and this is my journey into amateur radio.
The First Signal
Like many others, my journey didn’t begin with equipment—it began with curiosity.
There is something fascinating about sending a signal into the air and having it received by someone miles—or even continents—away. No internet. No infrastructure. Just physics, antennas, and human skill.
That idea alone was enough to pull me into the world of amateur radio.
Why Amateur Radio Still Matters
At first glance, amateur radio might seem outdated. After all, we already have smartphones, messaging apps, and global connectivity.
But amateur radio is not about convenience.
It’s about:
- Resilience – communication when everything else fails
- Skill – understanding propagation, electronics, and signal theory
- Independence – building and operating your own communication system
In many ways, it’s one of the few remaining technologies where you are part of the system.
Discovering CW (Morse Code)
Among all modes, one stood out to me: CW (Continuous Wave).
CW is minimalistic, yet incredibly powerful. With very low power and simple equipment, you can reach across the world.
More importantly, CW forces you to slow down and think.
It becomes less about talking—and more about listening, timing, and precision.
Building, Modifying, Experimenting
As my interest grew, I naturally moved beyond just operating.
I started exploring:
- Customizing Morse keys
- Modifying hardware
- Testing portable setups
- Improving ergonomics and usability
This hands-on process changed everything.
Amateur radio stopped being just a hobby—it became a craft.
Sharing the Journey
I also began documenting my journey and experiments on Bilibili.
Instead of just consuming knowledge, I wanted to:
- Share real-world setups
- Show practical modifications
- Connect with others who think the same way
Because in amateur radio, the community is just as important as the technology.
What I Believe
Through this journey, I’ve come to believe something simple:
The future may be digital—but the skills of radio will always matter.
When systems fail, when networks go down, when simplicity becomes critical—radio remains.
And CW?
That might be one of the last true communication skills worth mastering.
What’s Next
This is just the beginning.
I’m currently working on:
- Better CW tools and accessories
- Practical gear improvements
- Exploring training methods for beginners
- Building something bigger around the CW community
If you’re on a similar path—or just getting started—you’re in the right place.
Final Words
Amateur radio is not just about making contacts.
It’s about:
- Understanding the invisible
- Building something with your own hands
- Connecting across distance in the most fundamental way
And for me, it all started with a simple question:
What happens if I send a signal into the air?
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