Getting into HAM radio

[OKCHunter]

It’s fairly easy to get your license now that code is not required. I studied the manuals and took practice tests with iPhone apps. I’m at a General License now and plan to start working on the Extra in the near future. I’ve got a G5RV jr strung in my attic because of HOA restrictions. Contacts with all states except Hawaii is easy. But, I’ve made contact with guys around the world - Europe, West Coast of Africa, Cook Islands, and S. America to name a few. We are at the bottom of the solar cycle now (12 year cycle) so propagation is pretty poor. However, the next solar cycle has started and propagation should be getting better.

 

[jrusling]

I got my general license about 5 years ago and you can spend just about any amount of money. It is a great hobby and if the SHTF you will be glad to have another means of communications. KG5FBO

 

[KOPBET]

I first got the Tech back in 91 and then Tech Plus (code) in 95. Some years later they removed the code requirement and did away with the Tech Plus so I was put back into the Tech class. Didn't do much of anything for years after. Tested for Advance in June last year and the Extra Class test in August. Pretty easy really. Youtube vids and free practice exams online are your friend. I also have ARRL study books I'll sell for cheap!

 

[rawhide]

Don't know much about Ham radio, but you guys are peaking my interest.

 

[docohm]

For those of you who might be interested about Ham Radio, here's a great intro page
http://www.arrl.org/what-is-ham-radio