Posted on 09/24/2022 4:15:27 AM PDT by tired&retired
Lots of good advice on this thread. I have been in amateur radio for quite a few years. It’s a great hobby that will literally last a lifetime. Most areas of the country have ham radio clubs that welcome newcomers, hold classes and give tests. Ham radio has many areas of special interest from long distance (DXing), and local repeaters (VHF and UHF) to moon bounce and satellite communications. There’s something for everyone with an interest in standard radio or digital communication modes. Good Luck.
That is no longer a requirement, but an option.
Careful, one buys just a ham radio in the same way a little boy buys just one model train. You are getting into an entire lifestyle with endless places to sink your time and money...
... bass fishing, hunting, golf, boating...etc.
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You can add astronomy to that list!🙄🔭
Well it varies in different areas. In Oklahoma we have over 40 DMR repeaters and very few DStar or Fusion repeaters.
Already have my Mead telescope. Used to travel to Star Parties.
A fundamental question is whether you intend to offer help to others or ask for help from others when the need arises.
Both are legitimate stances and usually overlap.
Being in a position to offer help to others in emergencies is what started me on the journey.
Being able to ask for help if needed is a major benefit!
I taught a seminar at Alleghany many years ago. Taught at Penn State main campus for many years.
I have a home near State College.
There are several YouTube series teaching everything you need to know for tech, general and extra. Got my Extra using this and the online test review questions on ARRL and other sites.
When I was in high school, I was at the ARRL shack(W4GG) near the airport and we set up a phone patch from Antarctica to Kansas. We were able to keep the signal long enough for them to exchange info but it wasn’t for long.
I too share your interest in helping others. Also getting my EMT certification.
It’s about community, sharing, and sustainability, not stockpiling and isolation.
I am not worried at all. Total Peace. Actually looking forward to the changes as people will reach despair and turn to God.
🙏🙏🙏
I said it before, and I’ll say it again, CB radio is going to make a big come-back.. :)
Join a local Ham Radio club, take a Technician license class, study and pass the Technician test. Then spend about $2,000.00 on a Icom-705, an antenna tuner and a few different antennas and you’re set!
My name explains it all.
Don’t care for the extreme weather anymore, and love to travel, internationally and USA.
Love meeting different people and cultures.
For the most part, life is fun and meant to be lived to the fullest extent. If I lose my intellectual curiosity, let me check out and go home to Heaven, again.
Best equipment by far is anything by Palstar. It is the choice of military, embassy and top technophiles like Joe Walsh. I know the owner and he makes quality latest technology equipment.
My recollection was that Morse had been dropped.
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You wouldn't but practicing radio communications after the SHTF wouldn't be the easiest thing to do.
You will quickly discover that the radio is probably the lesser cost of setting up your station. You will immediately need a power supply. Then, you'll want a good microphone and headphones. At some point, you'll invest in an antenna tuner. Finally, there is the antenna. Endless amounts of cash can be poured into this, as it makes the biggest difference. I was very. very lucky. I put up three Double Bazooka antennas in an inverted V configuration, and they are outstanding. I have no idea exactly why they are so good for my location, but I can boom into Europe and Scandinavia on 100 watts.
“arrl.org sorry good luck.AE2DX”
I like the DX part of your call sign :)
NU4J
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