Communications

According to the FCC, Amateur or “Ham” Radio is a voluntary, non-commercial, radio communications service. Amateur Radio” has nothing to do with knowledge or skills. It implies that Ham radio cannot be used for revenue generating purposes. It allows licensed operators to improve their communications and technical skills, while providing the nation with a pool of trained radio operators and technicians who can provide essential communications during emergencies. Amateur radio operators generally use radio transmitters and receivers to communicate with each other in several ways such as: Voice (phone), Radio Teletype (Rtty), Morse code (CW), television, and digital modes such as Packet. Ham Radio is also a Social Network. It allows operators to make connections with other radio operators around the world.

There are three Levels of Ham Radio:

Technician: Local Communications

General: Local Communications + Some High Frequency Privileges for long distance communications.

Extra: Full access to all Ham frequencies, including many less crowded portions of the bands.

Amateur Radio has consistently been the most reliable means of communications in emergencies when other systems have failed or were overloaded. Telephones, cell phones, Internet and satellite phones all have complicated and vulnerable networks. Even when these systems are functioning, they can be easily overwhelmed when more than 5-10% of its users attempt to make calls during an emergency. Why is Ham Radio more reliable than other forms of communications? While Hams may use the Internet or a repeater system, they do not have to. Hams can "go direct" and talk straight through to each other because each station is fully independent. Hams can operate just fine without other infrastructure. By selecting the right frequencies, Hams can talk across town or around the world.

Upcoming Ham Radio Exams in Your Area

ARRL - The National Association for Amateur Radio

Ham Radio