Click here for information and resources regarding Ham radio licensing and applying.
No. Morse Code (the original texting) is no longer required. However, you might find it fun!
You will pay about $15 when you take the exam, and $35 when your license is ready.
Similarities: They are both two-way radio systems. They can both be used for emergency communications.
Differences: You must pass an exam to use a Ham radio. Ham allows for more transmit power, modes (ways to communicate), and experimental freedom.
It depends on what you'd like to do. A $30 radio will allow you to talk across town. A $3,000 radio will allow you to talk around the world!
You can talk to any other licensed Ham! Use Simplex to talk with someone nearby, a repeater to reach 50 miles or more, or set-up to circle the world!
Mostly anything you like! Discuss your mobile set-up, newest "HF" rig, or the antenna system you are making. The topic might turn to grilling out, car tires, the baseball game, or the population of Denmark!
As in any social setting we use etiquette and respect
Also, Ham is NOT for commercial use, so you may not use Ham for business-related purposes.
Fun Fact: Music cannot be played over the air. You can't even sing Happy Birthday to someone on the other end!
Click here to view the FCC Code of Regulations. It's an amazing resource and something you should familiarize yourself with.
No, Federal Law states that we cannot accept compensation for our services. It is strictly volunteer.
The 2-meter band would be a great starting place. I suggest that you find a local repeater(button) and set up your radio. Then, LISTEN to see if anyone is talking (we call it "traffic"). Then, during a moment of silence, transmit your call sign. Someone will say "go ahead breaking station." Then announce your name and join the conversation.
If you do not hear traffic then simply transmit your call sign. More likely then not, you will get a response. Tell them that you are new and the conversation is underway!
A repeater is an unmanned transceiver, usually located at a tall building, that receives on one frequency and then re-transmits it on another frequency. This ability allows a Ham to talk greater distances. Repeaters are usually owned by Ham clubs.
A Net, or Network, is like a meeting on the air that uses netiquette similar to Rogers Rules of Order. One person, "Net Control", oversees the Net and all traffic goes through them. Nets are usually held weekly by Ham clubs to help Hams ensure that their equipment is working properly, practice Net procedures(as Nets are used during emergency situations), learn more about the hobby/service, and enjoy time with fellow Hams.
Especially when using Morse Code (more often called "CW"), using 3 letter codes offers faster and easier communication. Q-Codes are used to achieve this. Don't be surprised to hear them during voice (or "phone") transmissions. Q-Codes can be questions or answers. For instance, "QSL" can mean Do you understand Or I understand.
Click here for the extensive list of Q codes.