There are approximately 675,000 ham radio operators (often referred to as simply “hams”) in the United States alone, and an estimated 2.5 million worldwide. Many people prefer it over more modern methods of communication such as cell phones or the internet, due to its hands on feel and contrasting affordability.
With the proper amateur radio equipment, operators can easily communicate with other users all around the globe, without paying for anything other than their equipment. In some cases it is even possible to communicate with astronauts who are outside of the Earth’s atmosphere! By using Morse code, hams may communicate with people in other nations who may not necessarily speak the same language, as Morse code is a universal language in the sense that users who do not speak the same language may communicate by using prosigns and Q codes, which are systems of abbreviation that can be used to bridge language barriers, as well as communicate more efficiently.
Although becoming a licensed ham radio operator requires testing, the test is relatively easy to pass if you have studied the basic principles of amateur radio communication. Non-hams may participate by listening in to ham communications with receivers or radio scanners.
There are several great online retailers of ham radio equipment. The most important aspect of any system is the ham radio antenna. The antenna will determine the range and the strength of the signal you produce as well as the quality of signal that you can receive.
Amateur radio is a great way to communicate with people in your community and all around the world without having to involve complex and expensive modern technology. To learn more about amateur radio or to get information about how to become a licensed ham radio operator, call the American Radio Relay League at 1-800-32-NEW-HAM.
