Wondering what to do with your new amateur radio license?
This email provides you with articles and advice from experienced hams to help you get active and on the air.
Setting up a Workbench
Even if you’re not planning to build kits or wire up circuit boards, it’s likely that you’ll need a workspace for ham projects. Read “Setting up a Workbench” for a list of essential tools, as well as advice on lighting, organization, and more.
Most new hams could use someone to help them navigate he hobby’s wide variety of activities, equipment choices, setup configurations, and operating scenarios. When a local mentor can’t be found, however, some hams find help online. Check out “Finding a Ham Radio Mentor on YouTube” for an overview of the many channels that hams of all experience levels find helpful.
For many new operators, nets are one of the easiest and best ways to connect with other hams. In the December 2022 On the Air podcast episode, titled “Running an Amateur Radio Net,” Ginger Wilder, KI5TJE, discusses her first time running the McKinney Amateur Radio Club (MARC) net and how she prepared to take on the challenge.
A VHF/UHF handheld is many new hams’ first radio, and knowing how to program that handheld is one of the first challenges a new ham faces. “Programming Your VHF/UHF Radio” outlines the most important settings to program, and offers a few tips for how to make the process easier.
The ham radio community holds dozens of hamfests every year. These events draw hundreds, or even thousands, of hams to meet up with, talk to, and learn from. Read “Get to a Hamfest” to find out what else to expect (Forums! Demonstrations! Raffle prizes!) and how to make the most of your visit.
If you’re interested in using ham radio to serve your community, training is all-important. There are many ways to train – you can participate in exercises and nets, and even radiosport can be a form of training. You can also take courses offered by FEMA to gain the necessary background. Read “Training Courses for Amateur Radio Public Service” to find out more.
The ARRL Operating Manual is one of the most trusted resources for amateur radio operators. It’s a complete guide to getting active, involved, and on the air. Get your copy today, plus check out other must-have station resources online at arrl.org/shop.
If you still have questions after viewing the On the Air resources, please email us at members@arrl.org.
Reminder: The Big Island Amateur Radio Club will meet Sunday, 12 March 2023, at the Kamana Senior Center in Hilo. Executive Board meets at 1200 HST, followed by the General Membership Meeting at 1400 HST.
