Jun 24

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.

Jun 15

While cell phones have become a popular method of communication in recent years, amateur radio has been thriving since the 1920s. Sometimes referred to as ham radio, it’s both a service and a hobby that allows for communication over radio frequencies. Don’t be fooled by the name, amateur radio enthusiasts are often times very advanced and knowledgeable users. The term “amateur radio” simply implies that communications are being conducted for the sake of public service or recreation. More specifically, amateur radio users may not use the airwaves for any commercial purposes.

There are several different modes of transmission utilized by amateur radio operators for communication. The most popular method is voice transmission, but ham radios may also be used to transmit Morse code messages. While radiotelegraphy using Morse code is a bit outdated, it can be a very effective way to communicate with other ham radio operators who speak a different language. Prior to 2003, amateur radio users have to demonstrate a proficient understanding and capability of using Morse code in order to obtain licenses to use the high frequency bands.

Although there are various types of equipment used for amateur radio, no ham radio is complete without an inductor, a ground, and of course a ham radio antenna. Several companies sell ham radio antennas and equipment worldwide, including HamAntenna in Canada and HamRadioFun.com in the United States. Amateur radio is not just popular in the North America; transmissions are regularly made all over the world. Certain satellites called OSCARs (Orbiting Satellite Carrying Amateur Radio) can be accessed from virtually anywhere in the world.

No matter what nation you call home, you’ll need to pass licensing exam in order to become an officially licensed ham radio operator. Passing the exam will demonstrate that you have the necessary knowledge and understanding of the key concepts associated with amateur radio.

Jun 5

Ham Radio is also often referred to as Amateur Radio. The reason that it is referred to as ham radio is that often the participants
are referred to as “hams” themselves. I know that there are a few good meanings and reasons for using ham radio’s such as:

see how far you can broadcast and make a connection with others in other states or even countries
help when it comes to emergency relief and/or disasters
broadcast just as a hobby and talk to new and exciting people.

One of the reasons that I created this site is that as many of you already know, the main “backbone” to broadcasting
a far distance is the size of your antenna. Whether this is a huge antenna that spans 60 feet, or a 32 inch whip on
the top of your car, they come in all shapes and sizes.

A few of my friends actually have antennas that have to be set up in their back yards due to their size. Personally,
I still only have a few handhelds until I’m able to further myself and my bank account (of course).

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