Mastering the Pileup

For amateur radio operators looking to sharpen their CW skills, few tools are as revered as Morse Runner. While learning the code is a milestone, applying it in the chaotic, high-speed environment of a radio contest is a completely different challenge. This is where contest simulators come into play.

What is a Contest Simulator?

A contest simulator is a specialized software designed to replicate the intense conditions of a ham radio contest. Unlike standard training apps that send clean, rhythmic code, a simulator recreates the “on-air” experience.

In a real contest, operators face:

• Pileups: Multiple stations calling simultaneously, creating a cacophony of signals.
• QRM/QRN: Interference, static, and overlapping frequencies.
• QSB: Signals fading in and out (fading).
• High Speeds: Rapid-fire exchanges of callsigns and contest reports (like “599 001”).

A simulator generates these conditions artificially, allowing you to practice “running” a frequency—holding a spot and logging as many callers as possible—without leaving your desk.

What is Morse Runner?

Morse Runner is the gold standard for CW contest simulation. Originally developed by Alex Shovkoplyas (VE3NEA), it is famous for its incredible realism. It doesn’t just play Morse code; it simulates the entire acoustic environment of an HF radio band.

The software throws realistic hurdles at you, such as “Lids” (operators with poor sending habits), drifting signals, and varying distinct pitches. It creates a competitive, gamified environment where you compete against the clock to log QSOs (contacts) accurately. It is widely considered the best way to bridge the gap between knowing Morse code and becoming a competent contest operator.

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Resources and Versions

Below are links to different versions and ports of the Morse Runner concept, ranging from web-based tools to community-developed repositories.

• Web Morse Runner (by DJ1TF) A convenient, browser-based port of the classic software. It requires no local installation and is perfect for quick practice sessions on any device.

  View on GitHub: WebMorseRunner ▶ Run it now

• Contest Trainer (by chadsbrown) A repository hosting a contest training tool, offering an alternative approach to practicing contest exchanges and scenarios.

  View on GitHub: Contest Trainer