From a Newbie's Point of View
Jason (KB3FZN)
on
January 31, 2004
View comments about this article!
Well no matter what Ham Radio site that I surf to there always seems to be an article regarding how much this hobby is slowing winding down.
I earned my technician class license in January of 2001. I went and bought a radio and it was a single band 5 watt HT. I got it and that was about the extent of it.
I kept asking myself now what do I do? I can operate between 144 and 148 MHz and what does that mean? I have a local repeater and I can hit it but then what?
There is so much information regarding this hobby but nobody to sit down and guide you where to go and I think that's the problem they need more teachers.
I sold the radio and that was it! I now bought a new radio and I am hoping to get more involved this time around and teaching myself and learning the ropes.
It is fine and dandy listening in on the local repeater and hearing all this lingo being spoken but as a newbie you sit and wonder what this all means. I know I do and it gets frustrating trying to take in this wealth of information.
From what I read there is a lot you can do and have fun doing it you can talk to the space station, you can go on these foxhunts and QSO parties and you can advance your license class but as new Hams come into this world and as long as there is nobody there to guide them, yes this hobby will wind down.
Most of the Hams I know are much older than me; I am 23 now but most are twice as old they have been around a really long time.
On top of all this radios before were big and easy to operate with; now they are so compact you need a college degree to figure them out alone!
This is just my opinion and I don't mean to offend anyone at all.
Thanks for listening.
This article has expired. No more comments may be added.
|
From a newbies point of view
|
|
|
by K4JSR on January 30, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason, what do you mean the old radios were big and
easy to operate? Have you ever lugged one of those old radios around? Try it sometime, you'll soon
respect your elders for what they went through!
Try to operate one of those true boatanchors while
you are suffering from a hernia! :-D
You youngsters! Sheesh! We had to haul those monsters around through rain, snow and sleet.
Barefoot and uphill bothways! You youngsters have it
made! You got umbrellas, shoes, warm clothes and
no hernias! How about a little more respect for us
old geezers! A BC-669 was called a "Portable" radio
in the days of yore. Operate that thing after moving
and the power supplies, etc. Now you'll *KNOW* why
we grouse and groan! :-P
73 Cal K4JSR Troglodyte Central
|
| |
|
RE: From a newbies point of view
|
|
|
by RobertKoernerExAE7G on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
You have my sympathy; I thought repeaters were pretty boring. Hence, my VHF/UHF experience was limited to a HT, which eventually found good use on a DX cluster system, and for a while, 2 meter FM.
But, my first ticket enabled me to get on HF and have TONS of FUN, in sub bands that were full of other novices.
As you’ve seen, someone at The League also thinks HF will be more FUN for people getting their first ticket.
For now, you need to upgrade, to get on HF.
Maybe you’ll find someone locally who can get you into satellites?
73
Bob
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KD5SFK on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason,
While operating on HF is fun, it is by no means necessary to enjoying the hobby. I know plenty of people who are just technicians, most of whom have no intention of upgrading. I admit that I got into the hobby specifically to operate on HF, the majority of the people whom I have met in person and am now friends with, I met on local repeaters--and I could have done it with only technician privileges.
When I was first licensed a couple of years ago, the way I really got to know the people I was talking to on the repeaters was to go to a Saturday morning breakfast. In my area, there are several groups, some of them clubs, and some not, that regularly meet at certain restaurants early on Saturday mornings to eat breakfast, see each other face to face, and talk about radio. At the breakfast I attend, there are Technicians through Extras. CW operators down to guys who only have HTs. There are guys who operate mostly digital modes, to guys who only operate SSB. The ages range from the 60s to the teens.
While showing up at a table of a dozen or more strangers might seem a little intimidating, I guarantee you that you will be welcomed. It isn't much different than keying the PTT on the local repeater. And within the group you will certainly find someone to talk to, and something to talk about. If you get lost in the conversation, you can either just listen and learn, or you can ask questions. Inevitably, someone in the group will be putting up a new tower, antenna, or working on an antenna that weekend, and will ask if anyone can help. If you can, try to go lend a hand. For your hour on so of your free labor, you will learn much. You may also make a friend who will invite you back to operate his or her station, and show you a new aspect of the hobby that you didn't know about. You'll also learn about what everyone is doing for local club events, and especially field day in June.
If you live in a really small town and can't seem to find a gathering, is there a larger town within 20-30 miles of where you live? Perhaps a short drive will yield more repeaters, more hams to meet, and more gatherings to attend. While you can learn a lot about the hobby and the people in it from just QSOs, you can learn a lot more by meeting some people face to face.
73 and good luck!
KD5SFK
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by K9MI on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Hi Jason
Do you have any local clubs in your area? If so, joining the club and being around other hams will probably help you more then anything. There is a lot to learn, and nothing beats having an elmer. When you attend the meetings, don't be shy. Try and get involved in club activities and I think you'll enjoy the hobby quite a bit more. I can see how you might feel limited in what you can do with your ht, but work on upgrading to get on the hf bands, and you will find out what all the different modes are out there, and all the sub-hobbies we have. You may become interested in cw, digital modes, ssb, sstv, dx'ing, contesting, etc. Also, with your current license you have access to 6 meters, several of the locals are really into. Welcome to amateur radio!
73 - Mike K9MI
|
| |
|
RE: From a newbies point of view
|
|
|
by K0IZ on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason, we need more newcomers like you. I'm an old-timer, but started out at age 13. Had a couple of hams within blocks that could help me. Also the local radio club was a great icebreaker. I just rejoined the radio club (after 40 yrs absence) that I first joined in 1957.
Go to www.arrl.org and check out the section on clubs. Likely there is one near you. If you do go to a meeting, make a point of introducing yourself, that you are new, and would appreciate some help from time to time. The reason I mention this is visitors to a club might not say much, and the members may not be observant enough (or outgoing) to make the first contact - so don't be shy!
Good luck, and welcome. John
|
| |
|
RE: From a newbies point of view
|
|
|
by W3NRL on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason; hi there i am not to far from you (fm29iv), southeast pa just west of phila. If you get into 2m ssb or 6m ssb or any digital mode (psk vhf.uhf) we can try these modes when you explore these modes, just give me email be glad to help (w3nrl@arl.net).
you get out what you put into the hobby. I am still a tech, i did take my written and passed now studying my code....(tying to). There is plenty to do as a tech, of course there is more when you upgrade.
have fun
best of 73 de w3nrl nick
|
| |
|
RE: From a newbies point of view
|
|
|
by W0UCE on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason:
There are various operating activites you can enjoy with nothing more than a handheld VHF rig. Activities include public service nets, technical nets, traffic nets, on the air forums etc. Some or all such activities may be available on local repeaters in your area. Find a local Amateur Radio Club and start participating in area activities. It won't take long for you to find operating activities and events of interest. As with any hobby, once you get to know people you will find others with similar interests. Making and keeping in contact with friends is a benifit of Amateur Radio you will soon enjoy. Welcome to the wonderful world of Ham Radio.
73,
Jack - W0UCE
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KC0CEG on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Hello Jason
The name is Bill new call is k0wcm...I know what you mean when it come's to someone trying to get help. I've been a ham for quite a while now and all the elmer's I had around here don't even talk about radio anymore so if I need help I have to drive at least 70miles or more. I have been trying to build stuff from scratch and their are a few thing's I don't understand so I have to wait till I hear someone I know used to build and that is very seldom any more.But don't let it get you down. I didn't learn very much in the way of technical stuff till I got my gen. lic. I got on HF and found a freq. that has a lot of what you call old timer's on it that are more than glad to help. Get you an HF rig and tune to 3.875 any night of the week and you'll hear them talk about building stuff of working on it and they'll be glad to help. I just checked in one time with a question and they came right back with plenty of help and now I consider myself I guess you would say a member of the group I've came to know quite a few of them and I hope I can somewhat carry on the tridition of building our own rig's from scratch cause that's what it's all about----fun----freindship---and knoldge----even if I have to drive 120 mile's I still like to get whih them and visit they have taught me alot and I'm still learning and hope to never stop learning...as I say
REMBER THE PAST AND YOU'LL NEVER STOP LEARNING
FORGET THE PAST AND YOU'LL GET KNOW WHERE
73's it takes a while but stick with it and you'll have fun
Bill k0wcm
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KA3RFE on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Yes, indeed! Mic fright is a terrible thing to have. A friend of mine from another hobby who got his license and bought an HT over a year ago and he still hasn't found the courage to push the PTT button. I offered to meet him on the air numerous times and he's still too chicken to push that key in.
But just about everyone has that hurdle to overcome, and once you do the first QSO things become easier.
I'm sorry you sold your radio. You invested a lot of time and money into getting your license and buying the radio with no results. It's a shame you couldn't locate an Elmer to help you. That would have been one good reason to trasmit...to find someone to show you the ropes.
It took me two weeks before I got the courage to call a CQ on CW in the Novice band and a station from AFRICA came back to me. I was so scared I turned the radio off! And have yet to log an African station! Sheesh!
73, Pete KA3RFE
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KZ1X on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
This was the problem many of us "old timers" forsaw with the entry-level license being the no-code Tech.
With that ticket, practically all new hams in the past 10 years or so got corralled into a VHF FM ghetto, never exposed to the rest of the hobby.
THAT is why everyone is bemoaning the state of things today, and it is also why the ARRL "gave in" on no-code HF.
What do you do?
Others have mentioned participating in local clubs. That's a great idea. Our local club would LOVE to have you aboard.
I'll add some advice to that:
Upgrade to Advanced -- ASAP -- put the HT in a box, and get a used HF rig.
Your Advanced will become an Extra if the ARRL proposal is adopted, your HT will fetch more on the used market if it's in good condition, and you'll have a lot more fun in the hobby.
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by N9AVY on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Hi Jason ! --- Well, you've taken the first steps towards getting more out of ham radio. Hopefully, you'll find someone in your area who can get you aimed in the right direction. The majority of hams (old & new) are willing to share their knowledge to help you be a better ham and get more out of this hobby. It's a real thrill for the teacher/elmer to explain something to a 'student' and actually see "the lights go on" when the student grasps the subject. Hope you will find yourself in both positions in the future. Ignore all the negativity you hear about in ham radio as they are a very small, insignificant percentage of the ham population.
Most of the advice that has been passed on to you is good stuff... find a club or group and get active, upgrade by all means, and do spend time listening.
If you were in my area, you'd have an invitation to stop in for some "elmering " sessions.
Good luck !
Jerry, N9AVY
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by D0NUT on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Welcome to the wonderful world fo amateur radio!
When I first got on the air (radio shack htx-202) I did not even know about repeaters! Offsets and PL? Whats that? I stayed on simplex for a while, listened to the high level repeater, and when I did try to use the repeater a kind soul (local) told me I was on the output! He also had a 202, I met him in town and he explained how to do the offset and pl.
Hang in there, have a sense of humor and don't let the grumps get you down. It just takes time. Get a mobile unit with a little more power and a decent antenna - once you do, there is no going back to a HT.
Joe
|
| |
|
RE: From a newbies point of view
|
|
|
by G3SEA on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
VHF/UHF Repeaters boring ? Not with IRLP and EchoLink capabilities ! :)
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by N3EVL on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason,
Welcome to the hobby! Stick with it and I'm sure you'll soon meet some interesting folks on your local repeaters. You'll soon feel at home and find out that you're learning as you go. If the crowd in your area is anything like I've experienced (oringinally in 3-land, now in 1-land) you'll find plenty to interest you and hopefully meet some other hams face to face, get to see their shacks etc. Repeaters and 2m vhf shouldn't be a dead end for you unless you're really unlucky and there is nobody to talk to, which I doubt. Please report back and let us know how you get on.
73, Pete, N3EVL
|
| |
|
RE: From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by K1CJS on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
>>>I'll add some advice to that:
Upgrade to Advanced -- ASAP -- put the HT in a box, and get a used HF rig.<<<
Sorry to burst your bubble, KZ1X, but I thought there were now three classes that licenses were still being issued for, Tech, General, and Extra. The others were only being renewed. Also, why put the HT in a box?? By all means get a HF rig, but the HT can also still be used--especially for local contacts, and especially if Jason found and joined a local club.
Ham radio isn't just limited to HF, Jason, although some hams would have you think so. Also, explore the other modes, not just FM, but SSB and CW. It will take you a while, but you'll be able to find something to interest you on almost every band Amateur radio has to offer. Welcome to the hobby!
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KB9WBM on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason, THANKS!! Your words expressed my thoughts too.
Got my Tech in April 2000, bought a used HT and hit some local repeaters. Tuned into some local repeater nets, read a little in books and in QST and went dormant for a while - just hitting the repeater every now and again. I needed more challenge than hitting the same repeaters I knew I could hit but was not too quick to invest money in HF gear and time in upgrading when not sure I'd find it any more fun than VHF and the local repeater.
My advice - follow the advice of KD5SFK!! I kept signing into the same local net each week, got more comfortable with their style and began meeting on Saturday for breakfast. Seems like HAMs really enjoy getting together on the weekend for breakfast.
Wasn't sure what to expect but found the group very interested in helping a new guy. I began to pickup on who was interested/expert in different areas. Then I'd email questions to them (our club roster includes email addresses) or would direct my questions at breakfast to the guys interested in that topic. Keeps me from wearing out my welcome with the same elmer for everything.
With their encouragement and support, I took the code and written elements last week and upgraded to General. The interest level that these guys helped spark in me and the confidence of knowing there were folks nearby that I could ask question of was an important factor in my pursuit of the upgrade.
Books don't convey the entire message, there is knowledge that is best past from one to another and you have to seek out good HAMs and trust that they are interested in helping. THEY ARE!!
Good luck and realize others share your experience and are willing to help you along just as someone helped them along.
73 de KB9WBM
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by N6AJR on January 31, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
|
get a ssb rig like an ft 847 or a ts 2000. work psk 31, rtty or packet off the sound card in the computer, work 2 meter moon bounce or 6 meter tropo to brazil , or was on 440 mhz cw. do satalite communications through the leo birds or get a down coinverter from k5gna and work the world on dx on AO 40. there is more to a tech ticket than 2 meter fm repeters. do a google search on sidewinders on two. really there is a bunch to do.
|
| |
|
RE: From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by K6BBC on February 1, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Excuse me, but the old radios were no easy to operate. If you moved more than 20 kcs you had to “tune them up.’ Peak the grid, dip the plate – then do it over a couple more times. And the radios drifted. And they had tubes that burned out.
My advice, upgrade anyway you can to get on HF. Working DX can be a lot of fun and when the new Novice Class License is created, there will be a lot more activity. Ham Radio’s best days are still ahead.
Good Luck,
K6BBC
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by N5XM on February 1, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
|
Jason, I've been very lucky to have a wonderful old-timer as an Elmer. Not everyone is so lucky. In my opinion, the most important factors are patience and persistence. No one starts out as an experienced op, and you have to earn the skills over time. There is just no other way to do it. It was important for me to upgrade for several reasons. I wanted to get on HF, yes, but I also wanted to become the best Ham I could become for those who came before me. The thing I shared with other members of Ham Radio was a love for radio period. It is more than mere electronics, it is an emotional gratification, at least for me. I wanted to learn everything I could learn and I wanted to be as skillful as I could eventually be. HF CW is where it is at for me, and I came in as a No-Code. Go figure. If you take the first few steps, are patient and persistent, you CAN become whatever you want to in this great hobby. Your sincerity and honesty are refreshing.
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by K3NG on February 1, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
>I kept asking myself now what do I do? I can operate between 144 and 148 MHz and what does that mean? I have a local repeater and I can hit it but then what?
>There is so much information regarding this hobby but nobody to sit down and guide you where to go and I think that's the problem they need more teachers.
Jason,
Come to one of our meetings and we'll show you ! :-)
K3NG
"Goody"
Anthony Good
President, Carbon Amateur Radio Club
Jim Thorpe, PA
(P.S. I'm still a "young" age 34 :-)
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KB9ERU on February 1, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason,
I have to agree with the others on an HF rig. You could alternatively find a SSB capable shortwave receiver and listen to QSO's on the bands. I was thinking of trying some new antenna ideas, and while listening on 80 meters one night, I learned more about antennas in 1 hour than paging through the ARRL Antenna Book. From broadcast towers to the simple dipole, it was a QSO jam-packed full of real world info.
I also ask the fine hams that help here on eHam, if I cannot scour the Web, and local library for info. I have found hamfest forums are a GREAT source of info. Take your time, NO ONE can learn it all in one day :)
One last plug is Field Day. From setup to take down, you will gain valuable knowledge.
Good luck in advancing your knowledge!
Mick KB9ERU
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KI4CRA on February 1, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason,
I know all too well what you mean. I too am a relatively new ham. I was first licensed in 1995 as a no-code tech, was active for a couple of years, then some old injuries forced me to set aside my hobby while I tried to cope with a career ending injury. Then I got out my old Alico HT fired it up, didn;t work well so I got a new one, got active again started going to the club meetings, joined the club. A very dear friend and elmer GAVE me my first HF rig! He said when I passed my general class exam he would give me the mike for the rig, that gave me some incentive to upgrade. In between studying for general I had 2 surgeries. I passed my general in Oct 2003, if it hadn't been for all the friends I had met on the air and at our local resturant I probably would've given up. They said Mark you can do it, it might take you a little longer, but don't give up.
Well some where a long the way my stubbornesss kept me going and it gave my daughter the incentive to study for and pass her Tech test last week. As for me, well I took and passed my Extra exam on the 15th of last month. I'm 46 years old and disabled. Its like all the other great advice you've been getting, get out and go to some club meetings go to a breakfast. If I were still living in Pa. I would be glad to have you over and let you experience some of the fun. This hobby has a LOT to offer, please, please don't let it go, theres a lot more to ham radio than just 2m, which by the way Iam very active on. Check out QRZ.com for some used HF rigs, I've done quite a lot of business on qrz, and have not been disapointed.
This is just my 2 cents worth from an old new timer or is it a new old timer? Oh well Just have fun.
73 Mark KI4CRA
|
| |
|
RE: From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KB6NU on February 1, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Boy, it sure seems like the guys that need help are never near the guys that want help! My club (ARROW - www.w8pgw.org) set up an Elmer program a couple of months ago and recruited some experienced hams to be Elmers. No one has asked for any help yet, though! If there are any new hams out there (and even not-so-new hams) near Ann Arbor and need some help with things, send me some e-mail and we'll hook you up with the right guys.
Other than that, I'll just reiterate what the other guys have said about joining a local club if you haven't already and upgrading and getting on HF. There are a bunch of fun things you can do with only VHF priviledges, but the real action is on HF.
73!
Dan KB6NU
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KB9YKG on February 1, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
I don't have much to add except to say that I found myself in the same position when I first started. I passed the test and ran to radio shack and bought a 2 meter rig. Now what? I don't know any other hams. They all seemed to know each other and none of them knew me. Fortunately, after several months I found someone who had very similar interests as me, and an Extra ticket. He had pretty much been there and done that and was more than willing to teach me what I wanted to know. Without his help and support I may have abandoned amateur radio (thanks Leroy). Now it's my turn. Even though I have only been a ham for 3 or 4 years, I still have plenty to offer to those just starting out, and I am more than happy to help if I get the chance.
73's
|
| |
|
Try This...
|
|
|
by K4III on February 2, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
I'm 26 and fairly new at the hobby too. However, you gotta get involved. This isn't a hobby like coin collecting where you can participate without social activity or put your hobby on the side and pick it up randomly and expect to be the "talk of the town".
If you are in a "stagnant" area or club that only meets one day a month a few months a year, this is no fun and doesn't provide any challenge or socialization besides Field Day(in my opinion). HF is one way to go on your own (if the club and local ham socialization isn't your thing and/or contesting and global communications peek an interest.) However, you still need to be a somewhat active participant. Unless you have acquaintences or hams interested in sharing the hobby, local repeater talk soon becomes unbearable, whether the users are Extras, Generals, Techs, or in-between.
We started a group locally to get some social activites going. We meet every week at the beach for a BBQ and HT testing/HF operating. We also hold monthly dinner meetings to have fun discussing whatever interests us, and we simply create events like tower parties and/or propose operating challenges available to everyone to keep us all busy and active while having fun and meeting other hams at the same time!
If nothing is around like a club or group that fits your needs, you might dare to start something yourself. Remember, many clubs have the "old-business" mentality. We do this, you join and do too. Remember, you can do whatever you want! (as long as the FCC permits it with your license) A club or group should cater to its members. Try attending all the clubs and see whether any fit your needs closely. If not, seek out others who have similar interests and views and start something up yourselves. Going to meetings and/or getting together with other hams you meet on air can quickly inform you about the local scene and work as an elmering opportunity.
I know it is a lot simpler to pick up a phone and call a relative or friend, but it takes time and effort to seek out new acquaintenances on the ham bands. I believe with all the issues and service costs today, new and younger generations have less socialization skills, unless it is with a video game. How much is that Game again? A $400 game system and games that are $50+ a piece? Wow! I think kids may have trouble affording this without parental assistance or jobs. I see this as a turnoff for many entrants nowadays because they only want to see money and financial opportunities outside the video arena to afford these mindless expensive toys which can include cell phone bills if used for mindless chatter and online use. The only people they'd spend their free time talking with are relatives or close school friends, if even this! Good Luck with your endeavors... I hope you find a way to see "outside the box" and can get active and enjoy the hobby more.
(This is one hobby where "He who dies with the most acquanitences wins") Why else would they offer certificates and host contests along these lines? HiHi...
Link - k4iii
|
| |
|
RE: Tech privileges aren't only 2m FM repeaters.
|
|
|
by K7IHC on February 2, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
There are a lot of thing you can do with *just* a Technician amateur license. Linked repeater systems are fun to use, as you can talk to quite a few people over a large area. *Odd* VHF/UHF bands, such as 222 MHz and the 23cm (1200 MHz) band in some areas have repeaters that don't usually have the average VHF/UHF hams on them (=more interesting ragchew topics). IRLP/Echolink is also facinating, as you can talk (via an H/T) to another ham across the country who's on another H/T. There's also 2m SSB. With a good antenna setup, 2m SSB DX-ing (especially when tropo ducting is happening) can be great. 6m SSB or CW is one of the Tech's mainstay for DX contacts. When the band's open, 6m can be much like HF. 70cm and higher SSB DX takes more patience, but it can be fun, too. ATV (amateur TV), APRS, packet, and satellite ops are other challenging things a Tech can do. Homebrewing VHF/UHF antennas and radio equipment is another Tech privilege. Volunteering and assisting with public service duties (RACES, ACS, etc.) can be rewarding for a Tech licensee.
So, upgrading your license and going straight to HF isn't necessarily a panacea for boredom with local 2m repeaters.
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KB1GMX on February 2, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
OK, Jason that's one view.
Now try this. What do you want to do?
Seriously, anyone acting as an elmer (mentor) will not grab you by the nose and insist you try this or that. They will ask the first question.
What you you like to do or try?
Then help you down the road to execution of that goal.
If there is any problem to the tech license it's that there still too much available to the new opeerator. Consider that as a tech:
You can operate on any band from 6m all the way to
the higest experimental frequencies. At any power
up to the legal limit.
You can operate any mode, for example.
Some modes allowed on VHF and up are not
even permitted on HF.
slow scan tv
fastscan tv
EME
CW (really!)
SSB
FM (both simplex and repeaters)
AM
Any one of several digital modes
Then there activities the operator can participate.
You can do public service.
Contesting.
DXing, even at VHF it's possible to work the
world.
Satelites
Local nets
Traffic nets
Ragchew with friends.
Fox hunts (hidden tranmitters)
Mountain topping and Roving
This is only a sample. But the question remains,
What do you want to do or try?
Allison
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by NJ0E on February 2, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
i have a few suggestions.
o try monitoring the 2m fm simplex frequency, 146.52
mhz, sometimes. see what you can work without going
through any repeater. try it from nearby hilltops,
the upper floors of nearby public buildings, etc.
o check regularly into a local ares net (amateur
radio emergency service) or nts net (national
traffic system). to find one in your area, use
the arrl net directory at:
http://www.remote.arrl.org/FandES/field/nets/
o try a simple hf receiver construction project.
there are some available from ten tec that are
not expensive:
http://tentec.com/rcvrkit.htm
vectronics and ramsey offer some receiver kits also.
http://www.vectronics.com
http://www.ramseyelectronics.com
these will introduce you both to the world of amateur
operation on the high frequency (shortwave) bands,
and home-constructed equipment.
if you encounter any problems, seek out some help
from any homebrewers or qrpers (low power/homebrewing
enthusiasts) in your area.
73 and best of luck,
scott nj0e
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by N8WCE on February 2, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Hi Jason, first and foremost, HANG IN THERE. I wish I could talk to every new tech. before they just run out and buy an ht. HT's are fine, I owne 5 of them, but; A moble rig and a power supply is a much better choice for all types of talking except when you are on foot. The only real diffrence in cost is the power supply, the radios are about the same price give or take $20 or $30 bucks. Don't forget to try the simplex channels:146.520 is the national calling freq. Also listen on 146.415 146.430 146.445 146.460 146.475 146.490 146.505 146.535 146.550 146.565 146.580 147.420 147.435 147.450 147.465 147.480 147.495 147.510 147.525 147.540 147.555 147.570
Also, if you have not yet figured this out, you NEED an outside antenna up in the air at least as high as the roof of your house. this will greatly increase the range over which you can talk/hear. Plenty of plans on the net for j-poles and 1/4 wave ground plane antennas. The easyest one is the 1/4 wave made from an so239 connector.
Hope this helps, 73 Willie
|
| |
|
RE: From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by WB2WIK on February 2, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Well, I guess perhaps times really have changed.
I got my Novice ham ticket at age 13, and there wasn't anyone around to guide me in any way at all -- nor to guide any of the friends I met almost immediately after receving my ticket and making local contacts. We were a bunch of kids pretty much guiding each other through millions of mistakes, some of which were potentially deadly.
Our "Elmer" was the local Public Library, and its shelves full of books; after we exhausted those, we started visiting the local college libraries, which had better selections of more technical books. This is where, in 1967, I first stumbled across the ITT Book, "Reference Data for Radio Engineers," a wonderful text that actually describes almost everything hams need to know about two-way radio technology. That was really cool. My teenage friends and I took turns with that book until we pretty much wore it out. Since we were only 14 or so at the time, we weren't registered college students and therefore could only read the books in the library, and not check them out.
Perhaps today it's different because of the Internet. Problem with the 'net is that there are literally *millions* of resources on every subject imaginable, and the search engines will find every single one of them, whether they're complete boloney or not. There's no way to easily distinguish very bad advice from very good -- it's all right there. Libraries weren't that way. To get a non-fiction book published, an author had to have reasonable credentials: Publishers wouldn't take a chance on publishing just anything. But today, everyone's his own "publisher."
So, now we have this infinitely expanding resource of both truth and mythology without distinction. It's no wonder kids are confused.
WB2WIK/6
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by WA6TRP on February 2, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Several good sugestions have been made about checking into nets and looking into local clubs. Another thing you might do is to look into ARES activity in your area.
By all means put up an external antenna as has been suggested; nothing fancy is required. Look on the ARRL website for ideas.
Don't be intimidated by "old timers". Age does not mean someone is knowledgeable and has good operating skills.
|
| |
|
RE: From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by WA1KWA on February 2, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason,
Take Goody's (K3NG) invitation to heart. That will probably be the best way to jump start your interest. This is a great string, and it's guys like these that represent the best in Amateur Radio. When I was a new ham, my dad would take me up to the top of a local hill or small mountain in the car & I would set up my 6 meter AM LaFayette HA-460, or as we called it, the "Four Drifty", Take the Halo off the mount & put a 3 element Hilltopper on it & work quite a long way on 20 watts of 6m AM using the "Armstrong" rotator. You could do something similar with your HT & the simplex frequencies, get yourself a 2m beam & have all kinds of fun. That's what KB1GMX referred to earlier as "Hilltopping". Real fun & real cheap. You can do all kinds of stuff with a Technician license as others have pointed out. I love VHF weak signal work. Let us know how you make out.
73,
Colin WA1KWA
|
| |
|
RE: From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by WILLY on February 3, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
"by KA3RFE on January 31, 2004
Yes, indeed! Mic fright is a terrible thing to have. A friend of mine from another hobby who got his license and bought an HT over a year ago and he still hasn't found the courage to push the PTT button. I offered to meet him on the air numerous times and he's still
too chicken to push that key in.
[...]
73, Pete KA3RFE "
This is what happened to me, many years ago. Maybe you can use some variation of it, on your friend, to get him going.
I had earned the license, but had not yet installed antennas at home.
I'd also purchased a used 2 meter FM mobile radio.
Since I didn't have a VHF SWR meter, a local ham kindly used one of his meters to tune my mobile antenna.
Unknown to me, he noted the frequency that the radio was tuned to, before I drove away. He knew that I had never been on the air.
I hadn't made it half a block, before I heard my callsign, coming out of the speaker! Full quieting FM is very clear.
I had to either answer him, and make that first contact, or be rude and pretend to ignore him. Of course, I answered the call.
That was the beginning of meeting a lot of very nice people.
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by N6PEH on February 3, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason,
Welcome to Ham radio and I am really glad you have taken an interest in this hobby. I have a few suggestions for you that might help you to enjoy and grow with the hobby.
1. Don't be a wallflower. You have to be aggressive in developing your contacts. I know young Hams that are interested but do nothing beyond getting their ticket and buying hardware. Shy=selfish, don't be selfish.
2. Always be friendly to, and interested in, the person you have a QSO with. Ask them to tell you about their station, their family, pets, cars, other hobbies. You will make more friends that way.
3. When people talk to you, listen. When possible, write down their info. It is a sign of respect, that you can recall things they have told you. Remembering their call and name and other facts is impressive. It is also a good practice.
4. Be helpful to others when the opportunity arrises. Remember, it is better to give, than receive.
5. Have fun, there is nothing serious about Ham radio, until you're assisting someone in an emergency. All other times are for fun. Don't let people try to convince you that this is more than a hobby for fun. FUN!!!!!!!
|
| |
|
RE: From a newbies point of view
|
|
|
by N3QT on February 4, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason:
As a fellow PA Native, I want to help. I suggest you visit one of the four HAM clubs in your area listed below. State your case at each meeting. I suspect, if you visit all four clubs, you'll be invited to visit at least 2 shacks to see what it's all about.
You should find people that love the hobby, love radio, and will bend over backwards to help you.
It becomes what you make of it. Engage the hobby and you shall see what true pioneering and madd scientisting there is to be done in life. There is something for everyone. One simply has to make the effort and take a look.
~~
John DE N3QT
73
ref: <www.arrl.org> and your zip code.
Name: CARBON ARC
Specialties: General Interest, Contest, DX, Repeater, Digital Modes, School/Youth, Public Service/Emergency Comms, VHF/UHF
Call sign: W3HA
Services: Help for newcomers, Entry-level classes, RFI help, Other
Address: P.O. BOX 622 LEHIGHTON, PA 18235
Contact: ANTHONY E GOOD, K3NG
Phone: (800) 946-1191 (D) (610) 377-9703 (N)
Web: http://www.qsl.net/w3ha
Name: WHITE BEAR MOUNTAIN ARC
Specialties: General Interest, Contest, DX, Digital Modes
Call sign: KB3IAF
Services: Help for newcomers, Entry-level classes, Higher-level classes, Other
Address: 75 E MILL ST NESQUEHONING, PA 18240-1302
Contact: DONALD L SCHLIER, KB3DYI
Phone: (570) 669-9888 (D)
Web: http://www.pvnet.org/radioclub
Name: LEHIGH VALLEY ARC INC
Specialties: General Interest, Repeater, Digital Modes, Public Service/Emergency Comms, VHF/UHF
Call sign: W3OI
Services: Help for newcomers, Other
Address: 5814 LINDBERGH ST
PAUL RYAN OREFIELD, PA 18069-2250
Contact: PAUL F RYAN, N0KIA
Phone: (610) 758-5852 (D) (610) 530-9021 (N)
Web: http://www.w3oi.org
E-mail: w3oi@arrl.net
Name: TAMAQUA WIRELESS ASSOCIATION
Specialties: General Interest, Contest, DX, Repeater, Public Service/Emergency Comms, VHF/UHF
Call sign: W3CMA
Services: Help for newcomers, Entry-level classes, Higher-level classes, RFI help, Other
Address: 212 RACE ST
TAMAQUA, PA 18252
Contact: ALLEN R BREINER SR, W3TI
Phone: (570) 668-3098 (D) (570) 668-3098 (N)
E-mail: w3zrq@losch.net
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by K7VO on February 4, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Hi, Jason,
I'd like to add my voice to those that are encouraging you to try different things and find the niche in the hobby that's right for you.
You started on 2m FM which is a common place to start. It's a great utility mode and it's very important to emergency communications, so by no means give up on it. OTOH, it is, as some have suggested, kind of dull. I think those that are advising you to try other things are right on the mark.
You mentioned people being twice your age. I was 24 when I started in the hobby and it was the same way back then. When I got my Novice license (the entry point when I started out) I had only CW priveleges at 75W or less. I had picked up an old Heathkit HW-16 and sent out a shaky CQ on 15 meters immediately after getting my license and callsign. Something terrible happened: I got an answer. The words that came out of my mouth were "Now what do I do?" Somehow, though, I managed to get through a QSO despite being scared out of my wits.
I upgraded to Technician a month later. I picked up a used Yaesu FT-221R 2m all mode rig and a Tempo S1 handheld. I got on the local club repeater and some crusty old guys gave me nothing but grief. If I didn't have a great elmer and a really thick skin that would have been the end of my interest in the hobby right there. Fortunately the club included some people of all ages (and I mean some up into their 80s) who really wanted to help and encourage me. I quickly learned that they outnumbered the crusty sort of ham by a huge number. Don't ever let the curmudgeons get you down. They don't run the hobby.
Some have suggested HF. I do enjoy HF QRP (low power) operation very much but it requires a license upgrade on your part. I'd like to suggest a few things that you can do with the license you have now that may spur your interest and won't cost you much should you choose to try them.
1. 6m SSB operation. I know for a fact that there is activity in your part of the world. Even with an inexpensive, older, low power radio you should be able to talk to people 100 miles away with a dead band and all across the continent when the band opens. The one thing you will absolutely need, though, is an outside antenna. It can be a small loop on a pole stuck 30' up in the air or out an apartment window, but you gotta have that antenna.
2. 2m SSB. Yep, there's more than FM on 2m. Yep, SSB goes farther. I could go into a technical explanation of why but that isn't important here. Again, another loop or small beam. Stick it on the same pole as the 6m one :)
3. ARES. It stands for "Amateur Radio Emergency Service" and it means helping your community and your neighbors. I was in a shelter during Hurricane Isabel. We had no power, phones were down, and cell phones were out. My radio worked fine on battery power. I don't know how many "thank yous" I got for providing communications for a few hours but I know for sure people appreciated ham radio and my part in it.
4. CW. Yes, I'm serious. Old fashioned Morse Code. No, it isn't a form of torture, and yes, people use it -- and not just to pass a test. During a band opening you will find plenty of it on 6m and 2m. I'd bet some people in the local club will be happy to meet you on 6m and/or 2m to help you practice it. Why should you want to do this? CW gets through when nothing else does. I would never have worked Japan on 6m (impossible now because of the sunspot cycle) or New Mexico on 2m without it. Talk about a thrill!
I could go on and on with suggestions. I think you get the idea that there are lots of options open to you. Join a club, make friends and don't worry about age differences. Us old folks don't bite. (I'm in my 40s, BTW.) Try out different things and find what's right for you.
Good luck!
73,
Caity
K7VO/4
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by SEAN-SAGE on February 4, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
I am brand new into Ham Radio, in fact, I am still without a liscense. I am 14 years old, and I think that people should have a basic concept of the radio works. That way, they can understand the fundamentals behind the controls. That would make it easier to learn the function of all the special features. My first HF rig I plan to homebrew. I have taken a few pointers from other designs and put it into my own design. Whether or not it works is another story..... Anyway, I guess there's no real point to this post other than to share an opinion about understanding the newer radios...
73,
Sean Sage
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KG4LMU on February 5, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
|
I found the same problem locally in several locations across the country. I received alot of help just recently until some bad things happened personally in my life, everything was going good with a good group of hams in Northern michigan. But until then I had a hard to time to find anyway wishing to help. I did find help though via echolink. I found that locally you may find someone wishing to help but in the long run it all turns out to be a game of politics. Which is a shame. Being a fairly new ham myself. I have had to learn through my own mistakes and just wing it in most cases. Sometimes unforseen events put a total damper on things,but ham radio is fun and expensive and it may take a while to get what you want then you decide it isnt enough go figure! anyway good luck and try echolink the more hams you can talk to the more the chance of getting the information you need,just a thought...
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KD7KGX on February 5, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Hmmm... how do I say this without causing unintended offense? How about... "ham radio is a hobby that attracts highly-motivated individuals who are interested in learning more about radio and electronics."
By it's very nature, ham radio is not a hobby where newbies will be taken by the hand and shown the 'tricks of the trade.' The hobbyist/newbie has to make the effort to find the information he needs. It's out there, if you look for it.
One of the best investments I made as a new ham was to pick up the ARRL's Operator's Manual. It has short chapters on many ham radio activities, such as FM repeater use, the NTS, HF DX-ing, EME, propagation and frequency characteristics, and basic QSO procedures. I'm not going to explain all of these acronyms... if you don't know what they mean then go buy the book! It's an enjoyable read into most facets of ham radio, it's a great reference, and it would answer most of your questions.
One of the best decisions I made as a new ham was to earn my General as quickly as possible -- I never operated as a Tech. I realized (as does the ARRL and numerous others) that the Tech license is really limited and doesn't allow one to really experience the fun of amateur radio, and I didn't want the limitations. I agree that operating a 2m HT off of a repeater gets boring very fast... like a cell phone but a lot more limited. But there is so much more to ham radio IF you have the motivation and ambition to dig it out.
My best elmering advice: pick up a copy of the Operator's Manual PLUS the General License Study Guide, and spend an hour or so a day over a month studying the Guide and Morse Code, and earn your General license. It only requires a little time (it's not hard), and that license really does open up the world of ham radio to you.
73 OM DE KD7KGX
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by WB9NJB on February 5, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
|
Wow, what a difference. After reading the CW/NO CW rants for months, I am really pleased that so many people responded so positively to this young ham's article. This is the ham radio I know, and have been involved with all these years (first licensed in 1963). Good luck Jason. I see several hams in your location have offered help and support. I hope to work you on 20m some day soon. 73 WB9NJB.
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by N3TVV on February 6, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Hey Jason
If you want some pointers,or some help upgrading, or whatever,you can give me a call, I'll gladly help you out.
Or come up to a Club meeting, we meet on the 3rd thursday of each month and I'm quite sure the club members could help you out,with whatever questions that you have.
73's
See you on the local machine
Eric
N3Tvv
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by W8KPH on February 6, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
My suggestion, short and sweet is to get involved in a good club.
I took the liberty of performing a 20 miles radius search of your zip code and found the following four clubs listed below.
Notice that they all say "Help for newcomers". That's you too. Not just those without a ticket.
You'll reap a fine harvest in this field of amateur radio only if you'll take the effort to get out and plant those seeds.
W8KPH
Name: CARBON ARC
Specialties: General Interest, Contest, DX, Repeater, Digital Modes, School/Youth, Public Service/Emergency Comms, VHF/UHF
Call sign: W3HA
Services: Help for newcomers, Entry-level classes, RFI help, Other
Address: P.O. BOX 622
LEHIGHTON, PA 18235
Contact: ANTHONY E GOOD, K3NG
Phone: (800) 946-1191 (D) (610) 377-9703 (N)
Web: http://www.qsl.net/w3ha
Name: WHITE BEAR MOUNTAIN ARC
Specialties: General Interest, Contest, DX, Digital Modes
Call sign: KB3IAF
Services: Help for newcomers, Entry-level classes, Higher-level classes, Other
Address: 75 E MILL ST
NESQUEHONING, PA 18240-1302
Contact: DONALD L SCHLIER, KB3DYI
Phone: (570) 669-9888 (D)
Web: http://www.pvnet.org/radioclub
Name: LEHIGH VALLEY ARC INC
Specialties: General Interest, Repeater, Digital Modes, Public Service/Emergency Comms, VHF/UHF
Call sign: W3OI
Services: Help for newcomers, Other
Address: 5814 LINDBERGH ST
PAUL RYAN
OREFIELD, PA 18069-2250
Contact: PAUL F RYAN, N0KIA
Phone: (610) 758-5852 (D) (610) 530-9021 (N)
Web: http://www.w3oi.org
E-mail: w3oi@arrl.net
Name: TAMAQUA WIRELESS ASSOCIATION
Specialties: General Interest, Contest, DX, Repeater, Public Service/Emergency Comms, VHF/UHF
Call sign: W3CMA
Services: Help for newcomers, Entry-level classes, Higher-level classes, RFI help, Other
Address: 212 RACE ST
TAMAQUA, PA 18252
Contact: ALLEN R BREINER SR, W3TI
Phone: (570) 668-3098 (D) (570) 668-3098 (N)
E-mail: w3zrq@losch.net
|
| |
|
RE: From a newbies point of view
|
|
|
by KA2QIK on February 7, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason:
I agree with those who suggest you get involved with an Amateur Radio Club. Back when I got started in high school, it all seemed very intimidating to me. When I went to college I joined the radio club. That opened up the WORLD of Amateur Radio for me. I learned about traffic handling, learned how to check into CW nets, learned how to participate in contests, and so much more. The best thing about Amateur Radio is the other Amateurs. I recommend making the effort to seek some of your fellow Amateurs out. It is well worth the effort.
Best 73,
-Phil, KA2QIK
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by KG4OFC on February 8, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
|
You are so "right on". I have only had a license for a month or so, but its like getting a drivers license but not knowing what to do with your car.
|
| |
|
RE: From a newbies point of view
|
|
|
by HAMPHARMER on February 10, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
unlike Jason, I am even greener when it comes the the ham hobby. don't have my license yet.
been interested in radio since I was a kid but never serious until now (48 years old).
i have been studying for tech and also purchased the General exam book. I am trying to go for General at the same time....just about have the code part down pat too.
went ahead and about a used (1985) Kenwood T430 from a local ham, set it up for listening (for now) with just a simple 11 meter antenna clipped to the kitchen table.
i am just sick about the results I'm getting since TVA power lines run thru the lot right behind my house.
getting much background static. took apart the whole rig and carted it to a buddy's house 2 mile away and sset it up. ...made a world of difference.
has anybody got any ideas of successful filters, etc?
is powerline interference worse on HF then UHF or VHF?
I know i need to join my local (West Tennessee Am Radio) club and that's my next step. Just thought I would throw this question out there.
thanks for any info.
Dave
Jackson, Tennessee
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by W5IDN on February 10, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
|
Yes, being new on the repeaters is frustrating. Join a club and get involved. I got my license in the 60's both novice and general. Yes, I am one of those. I droped my license, then got it back in 2000. Now I listen to all of the older croud talk about how much they had to go through. Get involved with clubs, RACES, ARES, and public service. Teach others to get their license. This will help all of us. There are some good guys & girls out there to help with your questions. Seek them out, you will not be sorry. They will enjoy helping you out also. Stay in and get the General and get on HF. There are some nice people out there also. You need to make the effort. Good Luck W5IDN
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by N8XN on February 10, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jason,
Just from the relies alone your outlook on the hobbie has hopefully changed. I have read alot of good suggestions here. Get out and meet people, don't be shy, most Hams welcome newcomers with all the wealth of knowledge you can handle. I enjoy mentoring as often as I can, whether it's basic antenna construction, how to use that new radio all the way up to radio or repeater building. Sometimes radio can be frightening, but after a while it will become second nature and very enjoyable. Our club has Hams that have stories of the old days of 160 with broom stick antennas and some of our new Hams are as young as 13. Get out and meet people, hang out at the local radio shop, show up at a meeting, trust me you don't need an invitation.
|
| |
|
From a Newbie's Point of View
|
|
|
by NJ6F on February 18, 2004
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Jayson,
See how many responses your getting because your broadcasting...even though you only did it out of frustration because you did not have a mentor close at hand.
The more you broadcast the more friends your age you will make and the more you will learn off some of the older guys which just look older....they are basicly your age inside :-)
Go to field days, go to meetings in your area...that's the way you will feel more comfortable. I used to be a shy kid in high school but ham radio snapped me out of it.
All I can say is your one lucky guy to have rigs like these multiband FT100-D's around versus these big box boatanchors. VX7's with 4 bands out in the palm of your hand at 5 watts with batteries that actually last and a frequency range of DC to light is amazing....
I am having more fun today than I had in the past due to all this new smaller technology.
73 Rich
|
| |
|
Email Subscription
You are not subscribed to discussions on this article.
Subscribe!
My Subscriptions
Subscriptions Help
Related News & Articles
My Perspective as a Newcomer
Need Help Choosing a New or Used Radio?
Broadband Provider to Drop BPL in New York Trial Community:
Ambient, FCC Failing to Address New York BPL Complaints, ARRL Charges:
Attitudes Toward New Hams
Other General Articles
eHam.net - server performance issues
USS Indianapolis CA-35 Radio Room
Lecher Wire Follow-Up
eHam Hiccup
Icom HM 98 or HM 133 Hand Mic Project
|
