News
How Does Ham Radio Become a Vital Communication Network During Disasters?
by AB7RG 2024-10-27Koraput: Ham radio, a two-way radio communication method dating back to the early 20th century, continues to remain a crucial tool for emergency communication during natural calamities. Known for their resilience, ham radio operators -- or "hams" -- use radio frequencies to send and receive messages, often when conventional communication infrastructure fails. However, for cyclone Dana, the network was not put to use given that the communication network was functioning for a large part during and after the landfall. "It comes to use when all other channels of traditional communication networks fail," said Sunil Biswal, a ham operator in Sunabeda, Koraput district. Amateur Radio popularly called ham radio is a popular hobby and service that brings people, electronics and communication together. People use ham radio to talk across town, around the world, or even into space, all without the Internet or cell phones. It's fun, social, educational, and can be a lifeline during times of need.
Qatar Amateur Radio Society Participates in International Contest:
by AB7RG 2024-10-27Doha, October 26 (QNA) -- The Qatar Amateur Radio Society (QARS) has joined the prestigious International Amateur Radio Contest (CQ World Wide DX Contest 2024), which launched today and will span two days, drawing radio enthusiasts from across the globe. In preparation, QARS has established an international station at its headquarters, equipped to operate on all frequencies designated for the contest. Towers, antennas, computers, and other critical equipment have been meticulously set up to ensure optimal performance. In addition, several QARS members will participate remotely via their personal stations, with the Society represented globally by its official call sign, A73A. Held annually, the CQ World Wide DX Contest is considered one of the foremost global amateur radio events, attracting top talent and marking an essential date on the international radio hobbyist calendar.
County is in Need of Licensed Ham Radio Operators:
by AB7RG 2024-10-25Ham radio enthusiasts from throughout the region were at the Polk County Fairgrounds on Saturday, drawn by the lure of the semi-annual swap meet. For some, ham radio is a hobby. Something they do for fun. For others, it's a necessity. But for Kjell Lindgren, it was an out-of-this-world experience. Lindgren is an American astronaut. One mission took him to the International Space Station (ISS). While orbiting, he called ham radio operators in the United States. Lindgren wasn't at Saturday's event, but Scott Rosenfeld was. According to Rosenfeld, section manager for the American Radio Relay League of Oregon (ARRL), Lindgren was a ham radio operator before he became an astronaut. So, he took advantage of his high-flying opportunity to reach out and touch a few people.
Unsung Heroes: Radio Club Connects People During Helene:
by AB7RG 2024-10-23POLK COUNTY -- When Hurricane Helene knocked out power, Internet and cell service to much of the region, including Polk County, the Thermal Belt Amateur Radio Club stepped in. They provided a valuable means of communication for people needing to connect in the crisis. Amateur radio operators, known as hams, use what are called radio repeaters to receive and send VHF and UHF signals for communication. "The radio repeaters provided a critical pathway for other hams to contact appropriate resources and personnel for aid, whether it be for health and welfare checks of loved ones that were unable to be contacted, tree removal, emergency supplies and essentials, road clearance, and a myriad of other needs when the cell service disappeared," says Gary Wells, the club's treasurer.
Amateur Radio Fans Gather in Joplin for Annual Hamfest:
by AB7RG 2024-10-27JOPLIN, Mo. -- A popular hobby -- and old form of communication -- is happening in Joplin. The Joplin Amateur Radio Club is hosting "Joplin Hamfest" at the Joplin Family Worship Center off East 7th Street. It's the 35th year for this event, which attracts commercial radio vendors and radio enthusiasts. Ones showing up to buy, sell, and/or trade equipment, but also come together with the radio community.
2024 SEQP (Solar Eclipse QSO) Contest Results Announced:
by AB7RG 2024-10-26The complete results for the April 8, 2024 running of the SEQP have been published. They contain participants' scores and a sampling of photos, soapbox comments and station diagrams. Finally, credits appear for those who helped make the SEQP possible.
National Amateur Radio Association Assists in Scout Activities:
by AB7RG 2024-10-24The Brunei Darussalam Amateur Radio Association (BDARA) collaborated with the Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association (PPNBD) to support the Jamboree on the Air/Jamboree on the Internet (JOTA/JOTI) 2024 event held at the scout's headquarters in Beribi.
Amateur Radio Plays Critical Role in Emergency Management:
by AB7RG 2024-10-23ROCK SPRINGS -- Individuals who would like to earn their technician license will have the opportunity to join a group of amateur radio enthusiasts while learning to connect with others around the world. According to Rock Springs resident Zach Gunyan, president of Sweetwater Amateur Radio Club (SARC), they focus on facilitating communication during various events, most commonly deploying amateur radio operators under the direction of an Incident Command (IC) Leader during major incidents such as hurricanes. "Our members play a vital role in supporting first responders and communities during these crucial times," Gunyan said.
