Ham Radio
Ham Radio
This is a back to basics introduction on ham radio and its point of origin, designed to explain simply what goes on in the world of ham radio!
Amateur radio (also called ham radio) is the use of designated radio frequency spectrum for purposes of private recreation, non-commercial exchange of messages, wireless experimentation, self-training, and emergency communication.
The term “amateur” is used to specify persons interested in radio technique solely with a personal aim and without monetary interest, and to differentiate it from commercial broadcasting, public safety (such as police and fire) or professional two-way radio services (such as taxis, etc).
Amateur radio operation is coordinated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and licensed by the individual national governments that regulate technical and operational characteristics of transmissions and issue individual stations with an identifying call sign.
Prospective ham operators are tested for their understanding of key concepts in electronics and the host government’s radio regulations. Amateurs use a variety of voice, text, image and data communications modes and have access to frequency allocations throughout the RF spectrum to enable communication across a city, a region, a country, a continent or the whole world.
The origins of ham radio can be traced to the late 19th century though amateur radio, as practiced today, did not begin until the early 20th century. The first listing of ham radio communications receivers is contained in the First Annual Official Wireless Blue Book of the Wireless Association of America in 1909.
Ham Radio
This first radio call book lists wireless telegraph stations in Canada and the United States, including 89 amateur radio stations. As with radio in general, the birth of ham radio was strongly associated with various amateur experimenters and hobbyists. Throughout its history, ham radio enthusiasts have made significant contributions to science, engineering, industry, and social services. Research by ham radio operators has founded new industries, built economies, empowered nations, and saved lives in times of emergency.
Ham Radio
Ham radio operators use various modes of transmission to communicate. The two most common modes for voice transmissions are frequency modulation (FM) and single sideband (SSB). FM offers high quality audio signals, while SSB is better at long distance communication when bandwidth is restricted.
Many people start their involvement in ham radio by finding a local club. Clubs often provide information about licensing, local operating practices, and technical advice. Newcomers also often study independently by purchasing books or other materials, sometimes with the help of a mentor, teacher, or friend. Established ham operators who help newcomers are often referred to as “Elmer’s” within the ham community. In addition, many countries have national ham radio societies which encourage newcomers and work with government communications regulation authorities for the benefit of all radio amateurs.
Today an estimated two million people throughout the world are regularly involved with ham radio and the market for radio products and accessories have grown hugely with products available on most good shopping sites.