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.

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 While radiotelegraphy using Morse code is a bit outdated, it can be a very effective way to communicate with other ham radio operators who speak a different language.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.

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).

Though I haven’t used one of these babies myself, I’ve heard from a buddy they’re quite impressive.

Here you go, listings for a slinky dipole:

6-160 SUPER SLINKY Ham Radio HF CB DX Dipole Antenna US $39.95 End Date: Saturday Nov-22-2008 7:58:31 PST Buy it now | Add to watch list

10-80 Meter Slinky Dipole HF DX Antenna New in Box US $24.00 End Date: Saturday Nov-22-2008 19:56:04 PST Buy it now | Add to watch list

STEALTH SLINKY DIPOLE HF,SWL, HAM ANTENNA US $17.95 (0 Bid) End Date: Thursday Nov-27-2008 11:59:45 PST Bid now | Buy it now | Add to watch list

HOT! 10-80 SUPER SLINKY HF HAM RADIO DX Dipole Antenna US $24.95 End Date: Monday Dec-15-2008 13:03:25 PST Buy it now | Add to watch list

10-80 BRASS SLINKY HAM RADIO HF Dipole Antenna w/balun US $54.95 End Date: Tuesday Dec-16-2008 7:50:41 PST Buy it now | Add to watch list

6-160 BRASS Slinky HF Ham Radio Dipole Antenna * $99.95 US $99.95 End Date: Wednesday Dec-17-2008 7:12:07 PST Buy it now | Add to watch list

If you would like listings for anything else, just leave a comment or send me an e-mail!

I don’t see too many of these on eBay, but I’m putting what I have below.