BG TECH.
VERSION III
2001/2/28
INTRODUCTION TO AMATEUR RADIO
Your transceiver is the perfect first radio for anyone entering the exciting world of amateur radio, s well as a
great additional transceiver for the experienced amateur radio operator. Your transceiver opens a door for you
to the world from almost anywhere! All you need is an Amateur Radio Operator’s License (Technician Class
or higher) issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). If you do not have a license, it is easier
than ever to get one, and help from licensed operators is available. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
You can turn on your transceiver and scan the entire band to hear what is going on; however, do not attempt to
transmit until you get your license. If you transmit without a license, you are in violation of federal law that
can lead to severe penalties. Note that ham operators take the FCC rules very seriously and want nothing to do
with “bootleggers ” – their term for people who operate without a license.
Find out if there is a ham radio club in your area. Most clubs welcome new transmissions, write to the
American Radio Relay League (ARRL) at the following address to find out how to cntact a local affiliate. The
ARRL is the national organization representing amateur radio in the United States. The league has more than
150,000 members. Most are ham operators, or members in the process of obtaining their license.
The American Radio Relay League
225 Main Street
Newington, CT06111
http://www.arrl.org
Starting for the license exams. Do not be intimidated by the word “study” because most people can go from
knowing absolutely nothing about amateur radio to passing the Novice and Technician written exams in less
than a month.
The exams test your knowledge of basic radio regulations and elementary radio theory. Many clubs hold
license classes which can be a fun and easy way to learn about amateur radio. There are good books, cassette
tapes, computer programs, and many other study aids available. Your local RadioShack store sells FCC
License Preparation study guides for amateur radio operator licenses . While you are no longer required to
