resources

QSL info

arrl website

links

event photos

Interested in becoming a Ham?

Amateur Radio, or "Ham" radio is a fascinating hobby with many avenues to explore. I remember when I got my license, my good friend and Elmer (Mike Hansgen AA8EB), told me, "Tom, welcome to one of the most diverse and rewarding hobbies on earth. No matter what you want to do, amateur radio has something for you."

It's true! Amateurs do everything from design radios that will communicate across the world on a 9 volt battery to communicate via amateur television, build remote controlled airplanes and talk to astronauts. Believe me, there's something in it for everyone.

Getting your ticket
With new license restructuring, it's now easier than ever to get into amateur radio.

To get your first license, or "Technician Class" ticket, all you need to do is pass a 35 question multiple choice examination. This ticket opens up the World of VHF, UHF and microwave communications. You even get privileges on the 6 Meter "magic" band--a radio band that, under certain conditions, lends itself to world-wide communications.

The Technician exam is rather simple. It's main focus is to teach you good amateur radio practices--how and where to operate. It goes into very basic electronic theory--enough to teach you how radio communications work. In fact, after you study for this exam, you'll know why your cell phone doesn't work well in mountainous areas and why at night you can here radio broadcasts from far way on the AM radio band.

In essence, the Technician exam gives you the tools you need to pick up that mike or morse code key for the first time and make contact!

If you're intersted in becoming a ham, please take a look at some of the links I have provided below--please take special note of the ARRL (Amateur Radio Relay League) web site and AA9PW's amateur radio exam practice page. These two internet sites alone will give you all of the resources you need to get your amateur radio license!

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Links:

ARRL - The ARRL is a one-stop information site for ham radio. If you're a ham, consider joining the ARRL.

qsl.net - These guys graciously host my site as well as many other ham radio operators. I would probably not be on the web were it not for these guys. If you are a licensed ham, you too can sign up for a free web site.

AA9PW's amateur radio exam practice page - If you are thinking about getting your license or simply upgrading, you must visit AA9PW's site. His practice exams are invaluable. This is a wonderful free service for everyone.

eham.net - This site also has a wealth of information for the radio amateur. I especially like the section of subscriber reviews for radio equipment.

WD8RIF's Homepage - Eric McFadden (WD8RIF) is not only a friend and Elmer of mine, but has an incredible, content-packed, web site. He also has a wealth of information related to QRP operation.

Google - In my opinion, the best web search tool out there. I especially like them because they do not shove thousands of banner adds down your throat.

If you have comments or suggestions, email me at [email protected]