Ham Help

[Skannergy]

I'm really interested in ham, what would be an entry level radio and how would I go about getting my license. Is a license and radio all that i need to talk to people around the world? Thanks ahead of time for the help.

 

[K2KOH]

A good place to start is www.arrl.org You can take the test for Technician Class, which does not require Morse code, and you can operate on VHF and UHF amateur frequencies. The cost of portable radios is low...you can get a 2 meter VHF HT for less than two hundred dollars.
If you want to talk around the world on HF, you would need at least a General class license, which requires copying Morse code at 5 words per minute, as well as another written multiple choice exam.
Check out the arrl website, and good luck!

Kieran
N2MWE

 

[cellblock776]

A good place to start is www.arrl.org

Good advice.

You can take the test for Technician Class, which does not require Morse code, and you can operate on VHF and UHF amateur frequencies. The cost of portable radios is low...you can get a 2 meter VHF HT for less than two hundred dollars.

Try under a hundred in many cases. Two hundred will get you a nice 2 meter mobile too.

If you want to talk around the world on HF, you would need at least a General class license, which requires copying Morse code at 5 words per minute, as well as another written multiple choice exam.

And if you want to talk around the world on VHF/UHF with the Tech license there's satellites, Moonbounce, IRLP and Echolink just to get warmed up.

Check out the arrl website, and good luck!

Kieran
N2MWE

Yep. The ARRL site will have a place where you can find local Ham radio clubs. You can contact them regarding the availability of classes you could attend to help prepare for the Tech test and for help getting on the air. Good luck.

 

[nd5y]

read these threads
http://www.radioreference.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=19482
http://www.radioreference.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=21972
http://www.radioreference.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=10915