Ham Radio

What is Amateur Radio?   Who Are Hams?   How can I become a Ham?   Links to Amateur Radio Resources on the Net. What is Amateur Radio? The question is not an easy one because the hobby of Amateur Radio is different to different people.  The following two paragraphs do as good a job as any I have been able to find on the subject.  They are from the Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL) handbook.  You can learn more about the ARRL from the links at the bottom of this page. "People who pursue the hobby of using a personal radio station to communicate, purely for noncommercial purposes, with other radio hobbyists call it ham radio or Amateur Radio. They call themselves Amateur Radio operators, ham radio operators or just plain “hams.” "You already know a little about the hobby—hams communicate with other hams, around the block, on a distant continent—or from an orbiting space station! Some talk via computers, others prefer to use regular voice communications, and enjoy using one of the oldest forms of radio communication—Morse code. Some hams help save peoples lives by handling emergency communications following a natural disaster or other emergency. Some become close friends with the people they talk to on the other side of the globe—then make it a point to meet one or more of them in person. Some can take a bag full of electrical parts and turn it into a station accessory that improves their station's reception of distant radio signals". Top of Page  Who Are Hams?  Just about anyone can be a ham, there are no age limits. Many people with disabilities find a door to the world in amateur radio. Some famous people are hams, but most are people from all walks of life who like making friends around the world.  Anyone with an interest in computers, satellites, electronics, or communications will find many opportunities in ham radio.  Many people use ham radio to keep in touch with friends and family members.  Listed elsewhere are testing opportunities and hamfests. If you plan to test for an amateur radio license please call and let the contact person know in advance of the test.  Hamfests provide the opportunity for amateur radio operators to meet, face to face, for swap meets, seminars, and friendship.  Most of the activities at the hamfests and swap meets begins early morning and are over by early afternoon (if not earlier). If testing is offered, it is usually given early morning.  Top of Page    How can I become a Ham?  Getting a ham radio license is easier than you may think. In the U.S. there are two ways to get your first ham radio license.  The Novice license requires passing a 35 question written exam on basic electronics theory and FCC rules and regulations, along with copying Morse code at a rate of five words per minute.  The new codeless Technician class license requires passing two written tests with a total of 65 question on theory and regulations.  Tests are conducted for the FCC by volunteer examining groups. There is a small test fee (in 1998 it was $6.35) that covers the cost of the testing materials, processing and postage. There is no fee for the license itself.  Here are some comments from people who recently became hams:  "I'm not going to tell you that my life has changed completely since I got my amateur radio license because it hasn't. I have many interests and hobbies and keep up with all of them; it's just that I've added another dimension to my world through the wonders of radio."  "I meet many people who want to get licenses, but are apprehensive or lack confidence, as I did. They are relieved when they learn about me, a 59 year old housewife, and how easy it was. Maybe I can be the inspiration for other people who have put off getting amateur radio licenses. Try it - you'll love it!" Hams are helpful people and somewhere near you is a club that offers classes in the theory, rules & regulations and morse code needed to obtain an Amateur Radio license.  The links below will help you find a local club and provide more information on "getting started".  The American Radio Relay League is the U.S. hams national organization.  Membership in their organization is not mandatory but I personally think very important.  You don't need to be a member to check out their home page and see what they have to offer.  Check the Commercial Retailers link page.  You may be able to find a commercial retailer near you and they are always helpful in pointing you toward the local club.  This page can also help you find the best price on any piece of equipment you may need/want.  Top of Page  Links to Amateur Radio Resources on the Net How to get Started in Ham Radio American Radio Relay League Home Page Local Radio Clubs across the US Commercial Radio Retailers/Catalog Sales Top of Page

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Last updated: 11/6/2002