Can anyone teach me about buying a ham radio?

Question

Hi, I'm a 14 year old male, and I would like to get into the hobby of using a ham radio. I have no training whatsoever, no ideas where to start, and would truly like some help.

Answer 1

Try your local Radio Shack store. Often that will directly lead you to an amateur operator.



While you're their, ask about a receiver that will let you listen to local operators. You won't be able to talk, but you can learn a lot by listening.



If after all this you're still interested, it's time to get a license and a transceiver and start participating in on-air discussions.



From there things will just progress naturally.

Answer 2

Just wanted to start off by saying I'm really glad to hear that people of our age (I'm 17) still have an interest in a dying hobby. Once you start transmitting you will never want to put the mic down! Before you go out and spend money on a radio, you need to be licensed by the FCC. This test will quiz you on the rules and regulations with Amateur Radio, along with repeaters, propagation, ect. The ARRL (American Radio Relay League) will tell you everything you need to know about getting your license. (http://www.arrl.org/licensing-education-training)

I'm assuming you're going to remain a technician for a while. Here are some tips:

Transmitting: Always listen before transmitting! One of the things that helped me become a good operator was listening to see how people talked, the "language" they used, and their techniques. Keep in mind, just because you don't hear anybody talking, doesn't mean there aren't people listening. DON'T EVER SAY 10-4

Radio: My first radio has an ht (Handheld radio) It was a Realistic HTX-202. That thing was bulletproof! I think switched to a dual bander (2 frequencies in one radio) which was a Yaesu FT-470. Then, I got my mobile radio that I hooked up to a power supply. That radio was a Kenwood TR-7800. Research radios before you buy them! Read reviews, specs, and other information. Don't go to Radioshack because now a days they don't have anything to do with radios! (If you're into scanning like I am, they have good deals on scanners)

Antennas: If you own a house, antenna arrangements are endless. If you're renting a place then you might want to talk to them before setting up a tower or something. (My family is renting a house so I am using a 2 meter magmount antenna) Don't worry if you don't know what I'm talking about, the ARRL will clarify.

Good luck with becoming a HAM Radio operator! If you need help with anything you can email me at [e-mail]



73 (That means goodbye)

KB1SBR (Call sign)



ALSO! Take a look at the links that were posted before mine. They can help you out a lot!

Answer 3

amateur radio is an interesting hobby for all ages. my recommentation would be to start with the ARRL (Amateur Radio Relay league), website ARRL.org there is a lot of information available. second, try and find a local club, there are many and you should be able to find one near where you live and a member that is interested in helping you (for whatever reason he will be your "elmer"). third, take a technicans course and pass the licensing exam, fourth buy some basic equipment and get on the air, fifth, upgrade to general and/or amateur extra, expand your horizons. it is helpful but not mandatory that you have an interest in science and mathematics. ask lots of questions.

Answer 4

Start here;

http://www.arrl.org/getting-licensed

or here;

http://www.eham.net/newham/



then find a club and meet people who can help you get your license;

http://www.arrl.org/find-a-club