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Amateur Radio – How to Get Started Today
By Avery Parker
Amateur radio is a high-tech hobby that attracts people from different walks of life. It is better known as ham radio. Amateur radio enthusiasts and operators are popularly known as hams. The term dates back from the beginning of amateur radios in the early 1900s. The more legal term “amateur radio” should not be taken literally. It merely implies that ham radios must not be used for commercial or profitable purposes. Hams use radio transmitters and receivers to communicate with each other. Using this equipment require a license. There are three major licenses given to hams, each level provides a certain privilege on ham bands. As the requirements get more challenging, more privileges are also in store for enthusiasts. Such privileges allow them to enjoy the hobby in a more fulfilling sense. There is a separate licensure exam for every level. Preparation should include connecting with the neighborhood amateur radio club that usually conducts theory classes. There used to be a Morse code requirement, but that is no longer the case. You will study the important information about operating safety that is needed for the exam. If you want, you may also obtain study materials, handbooks and manuals to learn the basics on your own. Nonetheless, the easiest means of acquiring knowledge is by taking a course. Aside from the lessons learned in class, you can also meet up with other hams and eventually create a network of contacts among fellow novices. Licensing of amateur radios is regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Operating amateur radio without a license may pose legal sanctions against violators. (In the event of an emergency ANYONE may use amateur radio equipment to obtain the help they need.) The first level granted by FCC is for the Technician Class. It is granted to hams that pass a 35-question test on basic ham regulations, operating practices and electronic theory focusing on VHF and UHF application. Technicians are promoted to the General Class once they pass another set of 35 questions on regulations, operating practices and electronic theory. Obtaining a General Class license allows operators to use high-powered transmitters. The final level is Extra Class which allows operation on all authorized frequencies. Upgrading to Extra Class requires passing a 50-question exam on regulations, specialized operating practices, advanced electronic theory and radio equipment design. No Morse code knowledge is required in any licensure levels. Anyone who obtains a license will receive a call sign you are able to use to identify your station on air. There are several things you can do with an amateur radio. The most common of which is the ability to make friends and get in contact with them over radio waves using a hand-held transceiver. You may also communicate digitally with packet radio. The flow of information through amateur radios may range from the more personal to those of vital public importance. The various things you can do with an amateur radio are boundless. Communication, after all, is one fundamental need inherent to every human being. From discussing on a relevant topic or sheer mutual interest to saving lives through emergency and disaster volunteerism, hams seem to find this hobby more satisfying and enjoyable compared to the many other means of communication available in this information age.
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