So I passed my ham technician test this weekend, now what?

[poseidon]

Hello All,

Well I passed my test this last weekend. I realized after I took the test that I really don't know a damb thing about ham radio! I don't know basic radio etiquette. I don't know about the different radios or which one to get. I don't know about the different frequencies. I of course don't have a radio and don't really know what kind of radio or antenna to get. I want to learn but don't know where to turn.

Is there anyplace online that has good information for the total beginner.

It seems like most folks around here are using 2meter radios. So I am starting looking there.

E

 

[e9999]

did a thread on starting out, mentioned some books...

 

[poseidon]

this one?
https://forum.ih8mud.com/electronic-toys/173207-interested-starting-out-ham-radios.html

 

[nuclearlemon]

get the arrl book for technicians, it will help you with basic etiquette, then hook up a radio and just listen in. you'll get the hang of it.

 

[1911]

+1 on getting a 2m radio and listening. Scan for the local repeaters and program them in your radio and you should have plenty to listen to. Also look for a local amateur radio club - there will be lots of helpful folks there.

Congratulations on your ticket!

 

[knorrena]

You could move onto this thread and answer my question about ham radios and side bands:

https://forum.ih8mud.com/electronic-toys/269870-can-someone-explain-side-bands-4-me.html

 

[Kofoed]

Buy a radio and start listening. And when you do key up, let everyone know yo are a newb--you will get alot of help

 

[poseidon]

The folks that put on the class have a club here in the next county and the people there taking the test were very helpful. I was actually thinking I may try to get ahold of the main one of the 3 test providers and talk to him about an antenna setup at my house. I am sure there is a group here in my county as well. To answer my own question about some basic info I did find 2 good resources.

rgis one seems to have a lot of the info I wanted:
Guide to Amateur Radio for New Hams

For a forum section for beginners QRZ has: Elmers Corner - How to Become a Ham:
Elmers Corner - How to Become a Ham - QRZ Forums

I hope this helps others. I am also considering if some wants to make some ham sticky threads on stuff like test prep, getting started....

hope this helps other

 

[e9999]

there are quite a few sites on the Web about Ham etiquette. Good reading. Useful.

 

[mkfour]

If you're new to HAM and have a license, you can use http://www.echolink.org/Echolink. Echolink allows you to use your computer as a radio. All you need is a computer, the software (free), internet connectivity, and a mic/speaker. You can pick up a mic/speaker at Radioshack or just about anywhere for $5. You might even have one laying around the house.

You can familiarize yourself with HAM while listening to Echolink repeaters.