a little help from your friend...
Arber Vergara Armobit - KD6ITI
Amateur Radio (n.) Amateur (Ham) radio is a non-commercial radio communication service whose
primary aims are public service, technical training and experimentation, and communication between private persons.
Amateur Radio Operators are commonly called "hams". Hams often communicate with each other
recreationally but also provide communications for others at public events or in times of emergency ordisaster.
While our hobby is technical and has played a key role in advancing communications methods in many ways, hams are
also known for friendliness and an uncommon sense for selfless giving of service wherever needed - regardless of
the conditions!
Global diplomacy via local good will attitudes and actions are at the core of ham radio tradition.
The
assistance supplied to thousands of people in time of disaster and crisis by hams (for free) is legendary. Newcomers
are encouraged to join in the tradition - making hams important watchdogs and potentialemergency communications
suppliers.
You may listen to amateur radio operators with a receiver that tunes bands or frequencies allocated
for ham use. But to transmit requires a license (in the US) issued by the FCC. There are designated volunteer examiners
that can test you after you study and prepare for the class license you want.
Some frequencies allow cross-town communications with walkie-talkie (commonly called "HT" ("handi-talkie")
and thru repeaters for cross-state. Other frequencies and somewhat larger radios allow global communications, depending
on time of day, transmit power, antennas, mode, and operator skill. Many hams enjoy working as far away as possible
and collection "QSL cards" from all over the world.
If you want a hobby that really expands your life experiences and connections, strap yourself in for a
great ride. This is much wider and deeper than you can possibly imagine. Welcome Aboard!
