Every day, thousands of people all over the world enjoy keeping alive the traditions of Morse Code.
In some ways, Morse Code is similar to 'texting' on a mobile phone, or 'chatting' on-line. With a few well-known abbreviations it is possible to exchange simple messages with people who speak a different language and live in a different country.
Throughout the year, small groups of volunteers travel to exotic locations and set up temporary radio stations. A week later, they will probably have made 10,000 or more contacts with other Morse Code enthusiasts on all Continents.
Compared with modern technology, Morse Code is still the most efficient way to send a message by radio. For the same transmitted power, messages in Morse Code can be exchanged over a greater distance than any other type of signal.
Even a tiny transmitter can send out worthwhile signals. Many people build their own from a handful of basic components, available from many websites. Inexpensive morse keys are also readily available from the used-equipment marketplace. A whole section of the hobby is devoted to working with such low-power equipment. It can be operated from batteries and is is easily carried to hilltops.
Others have a different approach, and prefer to use commercial equipment from the comfort of home. Many established manufacturers of communications equipment have part of their range dedicated for amateur use. The price range is broadly the same as digital SLR cameras. You can start with a modest facility or pay the price of state-of-the-art equipment.
Most enthusiasts operate somewhere between these extremes. International contests take place throughout the year and anyone from 8 to 80 can join in. Everyone finds the hobby a refreshing distraction from the demands of modern life.