What is Amateur Radio

Amateur radio operators, also known as "Hams" are licensed by their governments to develop radio skills, improve radio science, provide disaster and public service communications, and build international goodwill. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has issued such licenses to more than 700,000 individuals who have earned this privilege by studying for and passing a series of examinations showing proficiency in many areas related to radio communications, electronics theory, and practice. Hundreds of thousands of citizens in other nations are similarly licensed by their governments.

Hams have an historical reputation for using the Morse code to communicate. Over the years they have experimented with and innovated many modern communication techniques such as voice communications, radio teletype, television, facsimile, satellite and even computer-to-computer communications on the radio over long distances. Space shuttle astronauts communicate with classrooms worldwide via ham radio to educate elementary and high school students on space travel. The new International Space Station will include a ham radio station as well.

If you are interested in finding out more detailed information on this fascinating avocation, please visit The National Associtation for Amateur Radio

Cheers!

�1999 Ray Garraud