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The Ins and Outs of Becoming a Licensed Amatuer Radio Operator
Let's take a quick look at how to get involved in ham radio. If you are
just beginning your quest to become a ham operator, then you are at
the right place. It is not terribly difficult to become a licensed ham operator,
contrary to many people's beliefs and public misconceptions. In fact, today,
it is easier than ever. There are 3 basic levels of licensure for ham here in the
United States.
They are:
- Technician Class
- General
- Extra Class
Here is the lowdown on each.
The Technician Class is considered the beginner
level. Each license level has designated frequencies, with the Extra Class having
the most available of the three. The Technical Class is basically restricted to
VHF and UHF frequencies that are typically short range and are normally
handled via local repeaters or IRLP nodes. However, don't let the beginner
status fool you, the Technician Class and the VHF/UHF frequencies can
be enjoyable and you can get on the air fast ! Additionally, once you earn your
Technician Class, you quickly get a taste for the HF frequencies that are available
to the General Class and Extra Class. The Technician Class no longer requires
Morse Code as a part of the requirements for licensure. Additionally, all of the
questions on the test are published along with answers, so studying and preparing
is greatly simplified. The test questions and answers are available in a booklet form
for a nominal fee at your local radio shop or over the internet. The outlay of money for
equipment is also minimal for the Technical Class license. With only a small handheld for
under $200.00, you are off and running on local repeaters and IRLP nodes. Using
IRLP, you can take your small hand-held radio and talk around the world - it really does
work and it is amazing how clear and readable distant stations can be using the IRLP
system. The bottom-line: it's not that difficult to get your Technician Class and
it is indeed a learning experience - you learn new skills and the payoff is enormous.
It is well worth your time and your effort!
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