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GETTING STARTED IN AMATEUR RADIO

If you enjoy using radio to communicate, get started now on earning your FCC Amateur Radio license.   You can have fun designing an effective station, experimenting with antennas, talking with others and meeting new friends.

In addition to using a base station, you can operate portable or mobile from your car or truck.

You can participate in local, regional, national and international networks, or nets, that meet daily or weekly on the air.   Some are aimed toward specific purposes while others are general interest.   Most welcome you to join in.   In addition to analog voice nets, a variety of voice and data digital systems connect operators locally and over longer distances.   If you prefer competitive events, weekend radio contest sponsors welcome your participation.   A variety of operating awards are popular with hams.   See how many countries, states or even U.S. counties that you can contact.   While some operators have tall towers and elaborate arrays, many operate effectively using low profile antennas.   If you live in a restricted development, see our information on home owner associations and simple antennas for tips.   Also, you can assist your neighbors and community by providing public service communications, especially when normal communications and utilities are disrupted.

To earn your entry-level (Technician) license, you must score 75% or higher on a 35-question multiple-choice exam. Formal classes are offered through several sources when justified by a minimum number of registrants. Most earn their licenses without attending formal classes.   The question pool can be downloaded from the FCC web site http://www.fcc.gov or via http://www.arrl.org/tech-question-pool   Online web sites offering sample tests and drills can be located through Internet search engines.   One site is http://kb6nu.com/tech

LICENSE STUDY GUIDES

Detailed printed study guides are available through the American Radio Relay League web site www.arrl.org   ARRL offers a variety of Technician, General and Amateur Extra class study guides in several formats.   Another good source for study material is the www.w5yi.com web site. The W5YI Technician Class Study Manual is a good reference.

NOFARS MEETINGS

All who are interested in Amateur Radio, whether licensed yet or not, are invited.   Meetings are held monthly except August, usually at Hogan Baptist Church; 8045 Hogan Rd.   Meetings begin at 7:00PM.   Informative meeting programs help you understand a variety of operating modes.   If you have a question or problem, NOFARS meetings offer an excellent opportunity for you to seek help and guidance.


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