Introduction to Amateur Radio

This transceiver is a great intermediate-level tool for the experi- enced amateur radio operator. The transceiver opens a door for you to the world from almost anywhere! All you need is an Ama- teur Radio Operator’s License (Novice Class, or Technician Plus, or higher) issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). If you do not have a license, it is easier than ever to get one and help from licensed operators is available. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

You can turn on your transceiver and scan the entire band to hear what is going on; however, do not attempt to transmit until you get your license. If you transmit without a license, you are in violation of federal law. That violation can lead to severe pen- alties. Note that ham operators take the FCC rules very seriously and want nothing to do with “bootleggers” — their term for people who operate without a license.

Find out if there is a ham radio club in your area. Most clubs wel- come newcomers and are glad to help you get your license. There are thousands of clubs across the country, so there is prob- ably one in or near your own community. Often, the staff at your local RadioShack store can help you locate a club.

If you do not hear anyone talking about a local club in your area as you listen to local transmissions, write to the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) at the following address, to find out how to contact a local affiliate. The ARRL is the national organization representing amateur radio in the United States. The league has more than 150,000 members. Most are ham operators, or mem- bers in the process of obtaining their license.

The American Radio Relay League

225 Main Street

Newington, CT 06111

http://www.arrl.org