Amateur Radio

Amateur Radio is probably one of the most interesting hobbies ever invented. There are 'hams' from every walk of life and Amateur Radio has affected everyone directly or indirectly at some point in time. We much more than just talk to each other on our radios. We have several modes of communication including television and packet; a form of communicating through our computers hooked up to our radios. There are many ways to get involved in ham radio. One way is with your kids at schools. Now, there is nearly always a ham on Space Shuttle missions. And there are hams onboard the Russian Space Station MIR. Yes you can talk to outer space! And it will answer! Some shuttle missions are designated as SAREX mission in which they go out of their way to contact amateur radio clubs in various schools across the country. But our hobby isn't always fun. Hams are the eyes and ears of the National Weather Service during times of severe weather throught the SKYWARN program, and we are called upon to assist the police and fire departments during times of natural or man-made disasters. We also provide communications during such public events as marathons, bike-a-thons, fun runs and such. Another way to get the most out of ham radio is to join a club. A lot of clubs are family-oriented so that everybody can benefit from the knowledge and have a god time. Statistically we are not the source of interference to cordless phones, TVs, home stereo equipment and such. Hams try to run a 'clean' station and if there is interference they are more than anxious to help correct the problem.

Now that you know a little about the hobby, I've provided some links to take you to different places the have info. regarding Amateur Radio.

To learn more about SKYWARN, click the logo.

As promised, here is my scanner page.

Be sure to visit the site of our national voice, The American Radio Relay League:

You got the guy's call but the address got lost in the QRM. No need to worry, go here and get it.

This page has over 600 links to Amateur Radio related sites.

For you HF operators, there are a few pages you might want to check out. This one has DX information in real-time. KA9FOX has a page with links to DX info. and contesters. To find out exactly where they are, click here for Lat's and Lon's.

Be sure to check out Ham Radio Online

If you would like to take a sample test or generate satellite pass predictions go here. And speaking of satellites, if you need the latest Keps, go to the page.

Here are a few pages that belong to local hams. Dave, KB5YLG, is with the Tri-County ARC. And Russ, KW5KW, who is a good friend of mine here in Ft.Worth. Gary, N5XED, also has a nice page.

Intersted in packet? Check out W2XO's page. If you don't have a TNC, you can use his page as your packet mailbox!

Last updated on 16 Aug 99