How to become involved in Amateur Radio

Amateur Radio, commonly known as Ham radio is still popular and the licenses are now easier to obtain.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Study materials and License manuals which are easily obtained from Amazon or ARRL (Amateur Radio Relay League). All can be ordered online.

1. Amateur Radio, or as it is more commonly known, Ham radio, is still popular and the licenses required for operation are now easier to earn. The early operators were required to learn and pass tests on Morse Code as well as a written technical test.
   A few years ago, the Morse Code requirement was eliminated in accordance with international standards. Now in order to get a ham radio license, all that is required is to pass a written test. The tests become more technical and difficult as the level of licensing increases.

2. The first level of licensing is called the Technician license which gives the operator permission to operate radios on a few frequencies with restrictions. The Technician license test is based more on rules, regulations and FCC (Federal Communications Commission) laws, with some technical questions regarding allowed frequencies. There are many licensing manuals available with the best ones being offered by the ARRL (Amateur Radio Relay League). These manuals have all the questions and suggestions for learning as well as passing the exams.

3. The license exams are no longer given by the FCC, but by groups of volunteer examiners who have passed rigorous testing requirements which allow them to administer the license exams. The tests are often offered by local ham radio clubs who also offer classes to prepare for the exams. The cost of the exam is minimal, currently only $15.00 US.

4. Once the exam is passed, the licensee is given a call sign by the FCC and can operate within the range of the license. Higher levels of licensing allow operation on other frequencies and bands which may allow the licensee to communicate around the world with other licensed hams.
   The ham radio hobby offers many creative opportunities to learn and use radio communications. One of the most important aspects of the hobby is considered to be community service, which often translates into helping in emergencies from natural disasters to community events such as providing communications for races and other community events.

Tips & Warnings

• The Technician license is the first and lowest level of license available and has the fewest areas (frequencies) allowed to licensee. Next is the General Class, which not only includes frequencies available to Technician licensees, but also more frequencies and bands. The highest current license class is the Extra Class which allows operation on all Amateur frequencies.
• There are many Amateur radio clubs around the US. Often easily found on the internet through location of the club website.
• Ham radio operators by nature, are talkative and wish to be helpful in encouraging new licensees to expand knowledge and skill.
• If you wish to communicate with other countries and learn about other cultures via radio, the world of amateur radio is a good choice.
• Once you have received a ham radio license, you must abide by the FCC rules and regulations or risk not only large fines but loss of license.
• The purchase of radio equipment is necessary to pursue this hobby. The cost can be considerable, however, many times local radio club members can assist in not only finding good used equipment, but also advising the beginner as to what is good or bad to purchase.
• The other piece of equipment needed for ham radio operation is, of course, antennas. Some areas of the country have restrictions as to antenna installation. Once again, the local ham club can assist and advise on what can and cannot be done.
• NOTE: You must pass each license exam before you can progress to the next license class. You cannot simply take the highest class license and receive all operation privileges.