Ham Radio For Dummies

An ideal first step for learning about ham radio Beyond operating wirelessly, today′s ham radio operators can transmit data and pictures, use the Internet, laser, and microwave transmitters, and travel to places high and low to make contact. This hands–on beginner guide reflects the operational and technical changes to amateur radio over the past decade and provides you with updated licensing requirements and information, changes in digital communication (such as the Internet, social media, and GPS), and how to use e–mail via radio. Addresses the critical use of ham radio for replacing downed traditional communications during emergencies or natural disasters Provides updates to all documentation of the American Radio Relay League Explains recent changes to picking your own call sign Places a special emphasis on the major reasons people get into amateur radio: emergency communication, digital communication, and do–it–yourself science Looks at online mapping and charting of websites Whether you′re just getting turned on to ham radio or already have your license, Ham Radio for Dummies, 2nd Edition helps you with the terminology, the technology, and the talknology.

Introduction 1 Part I: Getting Started with Ham Radio 5 Chapter 1: Getting Acquainted with Ham Radio 7 Chapter 2: Getting a Handle on Ham Radio Technology 19 Chapter 3: Finding Other Hams: Your Support Group 31 Part II: Wading through the Licensing Process 53 Chapter 4: Figuring Out the Licensing System 55 Chapter 5: Studying for Your License 65 Chapter 6: Taking the Test 73 Chapter 7: Obtaining Your License and Call Sign 79 Part III: Hamming It Up 91 Chapter 8: Making Contact 93 Chapter 9: Casual Operating 123 Chapter 10: Operating with Intent 155 Chapter 11: Operating Specialties 173 Part IV: Building and Operating a Station That Works 215 Chapter 12: Getting on the Air 217 Chapter 13: Organizing Your Shack 255 Chapter 14: Housekeeping (Logs and QSLs) 271 Chapter 15: Hands–On Radio 277 Part V: The Part of Tens 297 Chapter 16: Ten Secrets for Beginners 299 Chapter 17: Ten Secrets of the Masters 303 Chapter 18: Ten First–Station Tips 307 Chapter 19: Ten Easy Ways to Have Fun on the Radio 311 Appendix A: Glossary 315 Appendix B: The Best References 325 Index 337