Operating Techniques

Putting a ham radio in your car turns dead commuting time into airtime. This guide covers what to buy, where to stick the antenna, how to wire it without cooking your electrics, and how to operate safely once it’s all in. Fair warning: once you’ve had a decent chat while […]

You can learn a lot about ham radio from a screen. But the fastest way to get good at it is to stand next to someone who’s been doing it for thirty years while they show you what you’re doing wrong. That’s what local ham radio clubs are for, and […]

There’s a mode on the ham bands that lets you work stations on the other side of the planet using a wire antenna and less power than a kitchen light bulb. It’s called FT8, and for a lot of newcomers it’s the fastest route from “licensed” to “look at all […]

Your first time listening to a busy band, ham radio lingo sounds like a private language. People are trading numbers, throwing around three-letter codes, and calling each other “OM” like it’s completely normal. It is normal, and it’s easier to pick up than it sounds. Here are 30 terms you’ll […]

If you’ve ever wondered how two hams chat across a whole city using little handheld radios you could clip on your belt, the answer is almost always one thing: a repeater. Once you understand them, the hobby suddenly feels a lot bigger. Think of a repeater as a friend on […]

You’ve got your licence, your radio is programmed, and the only thing standing between you and your first conversation is a wave of nerves. That’s completely normal. Almost every ham froze the first time they keyed up. This guide walks you through how to make your first ham radio contact, […]

Tune across a busy band for the first time and it sounds like everyone’s speaking in code. That’s because they kind of are. Ham radio Q codes are short three-letter shortcuts operators use to say a lot with very little, and once you know the common ones, the chatter suddenly […]

A dummy load is a vital tool for ham radio operators. It lets you test and adjust transmitters without sending signals out into the world. It absorbs radio frequency energy safely, so you don’t risk interfering with others or damaging your gear. That’s why it’s so useful for checking your […]

Understanding ham radio band plans is essential for anyone interested in amateur radio. These plans outline the specific frequency ranges that operators can use, helping to avoid interference and ensuring smooth communication. By knowing where to operate, amateur radio enthusiasts can connect better with others and enhance their overall experience. […]

Ham radio, also known as amateur radio, offers a world of communication possibilities for enthusiasts around the globe. Whether you’re new to the hobby or an experienced operator, understanding the essential procedures is key. Operators must follow specific protocols, like identifying themselves with their call sign every ten minutes and […]

Ham radio enthusiasts employ an array of specialized communication methods, and one of the critical tools in their linguistic arsenal is Q-codes. These are standardized sets of three-letter message encodings that originated in the early 20th century. While initially designed for Morse code communications, Q-codes have transcended their original purpose, […]

Ham radio, or amateur radio, has been a popular hobby and a crucial communication tool during emergencies for decades. Becoming a ham radio operator in the USA involves understanding the importance of this communication method, learning the basics of radio technology, and obtaining a license from the Federal Communications Commission […]

Ham radio enthusiasts understand the importance of having a functional and organized desk layout. A well-planned desk setup can improve operator efficiency, reduce strain during extended periods of operation, and provide a visually appealing workspace that reflects the individual’s personality and preferences. Several factors come into play when designing the […]

Ham radio, or amateur radio, is a popular hobby and communication medium that has attracted countless enthusiasts worldwide. With its ability to create long-distance connections and transmit a wide range of information, ham radio offers users various modes for different communication purposes. These modes allow operators to send and receive […]

Ham radio, also known as amateur radio, is a diverse and fascinating hobby that connects people from all around the world. Encompassing a wide range of communication modes and frequencies, ham radio operators can engage in various activities, such as satellite communication, contesting, and emergency preparedness. As with any hobby […]