Quote:
Originally Posted by boomergeek
So if we agree that Morris code is a technology whose applications still include the practical as well as the nostalgic: Can we make the same judgement about smoke signals?
I wonder if FIRST participants are more or less likely than the general public to have:
1) cellphones
2) texting on their cellphone (that they use)
3) picture capability on their cellphones (that they use)
My bet is "more likely".
If we limit it to the FIRST participants that practice Morris Code, then I wonder it the percentages would change. Should I start a poll?
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Spelling note: I don't know who this Morris character is, but Samuel Morse is the inventor of Morse code.
As for the history, you're correct. Also note that in terms of speed, it was the fastest way to get a message coast-to-coast; seconds/minutes instead of the 10 days-6 weeks that you'd otherwise get, until the telephone came around.
Smoke signals are a different ball game. You can't compare apples and oranges.
As for the question, I have a cell phone, but I only use it for voice communications (as telephones and cell phones were originally designed). I have texting capability, but I don't use it; I have a camera and use it, but don't send picture messages. I don't know much Morse code, but I do know this:
Cell phones lose to flashlight (Morse code optional) signals between mountains when there isn't cell service! If I don't have cell service and I need emergency help, I will probably use a dot-dot-dot dash-dash-dash dot-dot-dot pattern with a signal mirror or a flashlight until I get somebody's attention.
Yep, cell phones have one disadvantage: they're useless if you can't get a signal. Telegraph had that, but they also had messengers to take the message to you from the station.
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