Getting Started in Ham Radio

[@jerryb19531953]

I knew nothing about Ham Radio. I learned much information from this video. I bought a ham radio license manual and I'm studying for the Technician exam. This video helped me make the decision to get into ham radio. Thanks for an excellent video.

[@varietybacon6969]

That's great! You should head over to a local ham club to get things rolling. When you decide to get a rig, I would get a used icom 718 or 706. Have fun

[@varietybacon6969]

Also, look into the alpha ez military antenna

[@jerryb19531953]

+VarietyBacon why a military antenna?

[@jerryb19531953]

+VarietyBacon Thanks.

[@varietybacon6969]

+Jerry Briggs Its not an actual military antenna - they just call it that, idk why. It is just a good all around and easy to use antenna. Same with the 718. Look up a vid on them

[@mbrady6260]

Hi. I realize you made some of your HAM videos over 5 years ago, but I wanted you to know they are still helping people like me to understand how it works. Thanks.

[@erectlocution]

@Corey Lambrecht Same!

[@kirksfilms]

I passed my Technician test today. Thanks for the good information.

[@kirksfilms]

@Corey Lambrecht Yes. Also am a firefighter, so I am on the radio for public safety all the time too.

[@Thatsmisteroldguytou]

Congratulations

[@Thatsmisteroldguytou]

@@kirksfilms Fantastic!

[@maxstreel]

Thank you. I got my technician license 2 years ago and only used a radio once. I am not a technical person (still working on ohm's law...) Many HAMs are engineers who can talk all day but don't know how to communicate or teach and get frustrated when a non-tech person like myself doesn't understand things after the first go around. Your explanation of FM on up helped me picture much more clearly how it works. I thank you for your video!

[@JerryEricsson]

Thanks, I have planned on getting my Ham ticket for years but never took the test. I have played with radios since I was about 8 years old, simply because we lived on a farm with no electricity and a battery pack radio was our entertainment system. As you can tell I am a true old fart, but have played with electricity for years, I was a radio teletype operator in the Army, also did some time as a switchboard operator as a filed wireman and as a communication chief, but that was in the early 70's so much of that training has been forgotten. Being a disabled cop I did use FM radios for years in the squad car, and dealt with hams on a regular basis, in fact when I was in Nam, a Ham helped me out through the MARS system to call home and speak with my wife when loneliness got to be just too much. So I have tried the practice tests online with out studying and managed to pass with a 76% five out six tries, that said I am again beginning to study and when I am ready, I think I will give it a shot. I have a nephew who lives about 60 miles from here who has his and has for years, his two eldest sons and my niece also have theirs so getting some help along the way may be possible a little driving and perhaps paying for coffee a few times may be in order.

[@Cheesegoose3]

Jerry Ericsson Hope you did it:)

[@Papa-Rah]

I watched this video nearly 8 years ago. Here I am now, commenting on this video while I am chatting with my ham buddies on how far we can extend a handy-talkie's range with cross band repeat. Thanks for the inspiration !

[@vulcan1753]

Some good information. I became a technician back in 1987, when a 5 wpm Morse code test was required. I then took and passed the general written test, but was never able to pass the 13 wpm code test. I finally gave up. Eventually they dropped the code, and I still waited several years to upgrade to general. I had been listening to HF for years. Sadly, there are so many contesters on HF trying to make as many contacts as possible, and doing nothing but exchanging names, call signs, locations, and signal reports. It seems a little silly to me to make contact with someone on the other side of the world in another country, and not have a QSO (conversation) I originally got into amateur radio because I was fascinated by the concept of radio, and the fact that amateurs could build their own radio equipment. Unfortunately now most radio equipment is so complex that even the manufacturers don't even try to work on it, if it becomes defective within the warranty period, they just replace it. When I got my general license, I bought an old Yaesu FT-DX 560 (tube radio) that weighs 80 pounds, fixed it up, and it works fine. Back to VHF/UHF It is possible, depending on where you are, to talk several hundred miles on a handheld radio, if you are close to a repeater that is on a linked system. Works exactly like a cell phone system. Your local repeater is linked to repeaters across several states, so you can communicate with anyone within range of any of those repeaters. To me that takes some of the fun out of it. But, I have heard, and joined in with, a lot of QSOs on 2 meters and 440 (73cm) that were a lot more interesting than what I found on HF. VHF/UHF radio is not exactly off the grid, even if your radio is. It still depends on a repeater, and if something serious goes wrong, the repeater will probably be down. Repeaters are put up by individual amateurs or amateur radio clubs, and they don't have the financial resources the cell phone companies do to keep the repeater going for some time after a power loss. Without the repeater a handheld radio has a range of a few miles at best. In a real emergency, an HF rig, powered by a battery or a generator will still keep going, providing world wide communications. But while radios that use repeaters are pretty much a sure thing if the repeater is working, HF is a whole nother matter. I have lost several contacts on HF that were coming through loud and clear, and their signal suddenly just dropped out. This is usually due to changes in atmospheric conditions. HF radio is kind of like fishing. It is not reliable like 2 meter and up bands are. You never know who you might find. Maybe someone down the street, maybe someone on the other side of the world. And you never know how long the conditions are going to remain good for that contact. People claim amateur radio is so much better now, and in many ways it is. But modern digital electronics have taken a lot of the "amateur" out of it. Instead of building your radio, it's mostly plug and play. You buy a radio, a power supply, an antenna, and some coax, connect it all together, and start talking. But for those who still want to truly be amateurs, there are a lot of old vintage radios out there just waiting to be fixed up/rebuilt and gotten back on the air.

[@wild-radio7373]

Thank you so much for this post! I want to build my own radio!♡♡♡

[@benhaven]

I've wanted into HAM since my 20s. Thanks to these videos I've found an Elmer and I'm doing it. Lucked out having a neighbor with a grandfathered Advance Class. Oh btw, I'm 53 now.

[@wmwardwell]

Welcome to Amateur Radio. KB6PJU-Mark

[@gedisdiop]

Great entry level video. Don't forget that 2 meters is also what the International Space Station uses for communications. I've made contact twice, once while mobile with a Yaesu FT-1500. It was a real rush. 73, Brad Clark, W9BAG.

[@DMFL22]

Dude! What a great video. Most people who are making videos now are so far into HAM that there is no real simple way to understand what they are talking about until you watch a crap ton of videos. Great vid man. Appreciate you doing this video!

[@RHLeshem]

Jack you did very well one thing that I noticed about the video though in your explanation is you called MORSE CODE, MORRIS CODE. Samuel B. Morse developed the dits and the dahs for the letters, numbers, and prosigns and from Washington DC to Baltimore. other than that I think you did an excellent JOB.

[@wadesuhr]

It's nice to see younger people involved in ham radio. Thanks for the video. I live in WI too, near La Crosse.

[@ween97]

In Finland we have 2 licenses. Perusluokka and yleisluokka. Only difference is TX power (120W and 1500W). I got my license 2 months ago at the age of 15. 73 de OH3EXM

[@jlgoins64]

You have explained this the best of anyone I have heard...I've asked several local hams some questions, and have gotten everything except the kitchen sink back for an answer... Thanks for posting.

[@davidg301]

Retired LEO here. Just got my license today ! Excellent video for newbies like myself

[@zweefer21]

Looking to start my Ham journey, and was excited to hear areas around me! I’m in the Eau Claire area.

[@ShatteredZen]

Thanks for putting in the part about smaller handsets, people discount them alot but I got into HAM with a $30 Baofeng handset and using repeaters and networks like WINNET out here on the west coast I have had lots of fun. Also the local HAM clubs are huge, for $15 a year I have access to lots of local mentors and they program peoples radios and help setup new gear for newbies at every meeting. Anyone can get into HAM on any budget. Great vid!

[@boybutingting9156]

This video made me interested in HAM radio way back 2013. Nice video! and now I am a general class license holder. 73!

[@yourfriendlyneighborhoodfi9904]

this was the 1st ham radio video I ever watched and It helped me out alot. 4 years later I finally got my tech. I really wish you'd make more ham videos. hope all is going well

[@eper1875]

Thanks for posting the video. I have been looking in ham radio and was over whelmed of where was a good place in which I would start. This is a great starting point .

[@Sparrowrose]

Thank you for this video! When I was a kid (11 or 12 years old) I built a crystal radio and wanted to get into ham radio but my mom thought that meant putting a huge antenna in the yard and said no way. Still, I taught myself Morse and dreamed about radios for a while before I gave up. Now, at age 46, I'm revisiting my thwarted childhood dreams and I remembered radio, so I'm researching and learning. Your video really gave me a lot of confidence that this is something I can do. Thanks!

[@mangamike6855]

Bro I've been looking into hak the last 2 weeks. This has to be the most understandable video that I've found about explaining everything. This is GREAT. THANK YOU

[@guyice7245]

You are the MAN! I really need the "HAM radio for dummies" version, because I am JUST now getting into this. Mostly for disaster preparedness, and a possible zombie apocalypse. I just picked up a Baofeng UV-5R, and now am getting a car based HAM installed in my truck. Studying for the Tech. lic now. Can't wait to start using these. Thanks for the GREAT video.

[@ThatCleanMT]

Kudos for making a quick and easy explanation on getting started in HAM. I have wanted to get into this for years now and I am finally working on getting started. Your video helped explain some things that I had questions about.

[@patrick_9393]

You must be in Wisconsin? Based on the town names that you showed on your program list.

[@tuckiaki]

Brilliant video mate, Really help ed understand as a complete novice. Can you tell me what make and model HAM of radio you are talk you use in this video please?

[@gatherithb4243]

You can get into the hobby pretty cheap these days. 30 bucks for a dual band HT is cheap. amzn.to/17Pacn2 Also cheaphamradios.com has some other budget radios to look into!

[@JackofallTrades383]

Well Woody the J pole is my fav home brew antenna I've got a 2 meter and a 440 one in my attic hidden from high winds and storms but remember to check the SWR once you get it in the attic mine changed from when I had it outside and there is a performance loss from my roof but I'm hoping there safe. 73!

[@CharlieTheCarpenter]

Wow! That was a much better intro to HAM than the 5 videos above this in the search results.

[@austinvickymoore3656]

I've always loved and wanted to get into hams... and you sir have greatly helped my final choise to do so! I always was intimidated by trying to learn it but now that you explain a bit its just like the military radios that they teach with in basic training thank you sir and great video!

[@rutabagasteu]

I bought a Yaesu FT-60R and used it for my first QSO via a local repeater. Nice little radio, and I bought a few acessories like the programming software and a car charger.

[@jeffkennedy8219]

Thank you for making this video! Currently, I posses the GROL and have been interested in expanding my knowledge/capabilities as a hobbyist. I've passed elements 1,3, & 8, but ham seemed a little intimidating. Thanks to your clarification, it seems that I expected that the required knowledge would be much higher, plus the start up cost..the very reasons you addressed are why I held myself back. Subbed..

[@foxyshazaam3310]

Same!!!! He made me realize tonight that its not a crazy pipe dream! Now I've already signed myself up for a class and license exam is Nov 1!

This is the best video introduction to HAM Radio in my opinion.

[@irnamax9]

Thank you, lots of info & in a positive way. I bought the books but find listening to you makes them more understandable. My father & my grandfather were both Ham operators. My dad was employed in communications. I watched him do Ham, teletype & Morse Code. I have their call sign plaques. I can’t wait to get my own call sign. My dad took a picture of me touching his radio when I was about 3 years old in Okinawa. He said I was saying “CQ”. It’s in my blood!

[@wartrac8810]

the HAM test price has been raised to $15 got my HAM radio callsign a week ago, ive met lots of people already. - KE0IMA

[@wartrac8810]

my HAM radio is a Baofeng UV-5R, got it for 25 bucks and an extra $15 gets you an amazing Nagoya NA-771 15.6 inch dual band (2 meter and 70cm) antenna!

[@wartrac8810]

+Wartrac Gaming also i recommend using the HAM Test Prep app for studying! (app with ARRL logo)

[@usernamemykel]

+Wartrac Gaming Depends - the Boca Raton Amateur Radio Association charges no fee.

[@usernamemykel]

+Wartrac Gaming Add a countrerpoise and you'll really rock 'n' roll. KZbin it.

[@wartrac8810]

+usernamemykel i have put up a base antenna and that is what i use for the house.

[@abubumuobunga6351]

Just bought a book from the ARRL and gonna be studying for my technician license! I've been into cb radio for about 5 years and still love CB but having both will be really good. I understand they are 2 different crowds but I think ill love broadcasting on hams too.

[@JackofallTrades383]

Yaesu FT-2900R its a 75 watt mobile radio for your car or truck. I'm using this one as a base radio in my ham shack. I also have a couple of these as mobiles too.

[@graniteridgegreens6278]

Great explanation, I think it is time I got my Tech ticket. I run my now station off solar and was off grid for 12 years before this place. We are looking to go off grid again and having this would be a great addition. TY

[@MrVernonCampbell]

Great video, thanks for posting. Just bought a Bao Feng UV-5R. something simple to start with. I'm still a beginner so I don't need anything fancy yet...

[@wmwardwell]

When you decide to own an Amateur Radio [part 97 Ham versus 93 commercial] I highly recommend the Yaesu FT-60 handheld. My wife and I both love the ones we use. KB6PJU-Mark

[@nathanlief]

Hey, just bought a Baofeng 2 weeks ago studied for the test and am now a technician took about 14 hours or about one week. This is one of the videos that inspired me to pull the trigger. 73's

[@NRA223Lifer]

Great intro to HAM. Glad you touched on the cost aspect. It can be done for less money than people think. People think that things like Cell Phones and internet based software like Skype are all you need. But if and when a disaster strikes...those are all out of the picture. HAMs are all that are left to gather and exchange info. Appreciate the video!

[@scottedmondson2182]

You are the reason I bought the Two meter I have. Thanks for the demonstration.

[@MrDlt123]

I'm just getting started. Haven't got my tech license yet, but I've already got a cheap radio. - a Yaesu 2980R, and a Power supply. Haven't secured a decent antenna yet, but I got the radio for like $110, so I figured it's a great starter setup to begin with, and I cant legally talk on those bands anyway. I figured listening and just generally fidgeting would boost the learning process. Taking my test in a couple of weeks. Thanks for the video!

[@texasprepper869]

I watched this video about 6 years ago and inspired me to get my license now a general operator

[@mlav7631]

Very good tutorial! I'm checking into getting a technicians license because of your great information, Thanks! Plus very personable and encouraging 😊

[@MrCarlsonsLab]

HEY! Now all you need is a big AM transmitter,... Big enough that you can stand inside.... Like the one behind me! Hope to hear you on 75 one day.....73

[@KKEM641]

ECHOLINK, which is an IRLP over the Internet, would get you out to other repeaters. Also, when studying for your Tech, review and/or study for the General. If you pass the Tech, try your General, if you pass, you can get onto HF.

[@aso6437]

WOW! I think you live near me, as your weather channel is the same in my area. I'm studying for my TECH now.

[@chrisa2351]

One day I just decided I'd get my ham license. I always thought radios were fascinating. I had a CB and had made some basic antennas myself. That's about all I knew about radios. So I did a google search and found out there was an amateur radio club in my county and their club house was like 3 miles down the road from me. I went to their website, they had open testing once month, and their next test date was just a few days away. So I downloaded a free app on my phone that had all the questions and practice tests. I'd run though a test or 2 really quick on breaks at work, sitting on the toilet at home, waiting on something to boil, or laying in bed. After 3 days, I went in, took the test, and passed. It was like 15 bucks or something to take the test and its good for 10 years. Amateur radio gear is cheaper starting than going like legal GMRS, and it's infinitely more useful. FM, AM, SSB, CW, and Digital, and far greater power limits are all open to you. I only have my tech class license, and so far, it's all I've needed. Everything you would need for local communications you can do with your tech. Your General and Extra license gives you access to lower frequencies that are used for very long range communications, but doesn't really give you much else for local stuff. Even with your Tech you get 10 Meter SSB which *UNDER THE RIGHT CONDITIONS* can get you hundreds of miles or even into other countries.

[@xJawsQuickScoper]

Chris A Congrats man. Whats your radio?

[@ericberk4027]

Judging from Osseo, I'm guessing Minnesota; really nice little town. I used to live in St. Michael then Maple Grove. Back in Ga. now and going to take technician exam tomorrow. Like the video, and I've watched it a couple times. Good down to earth info. Thanks,

[@nick14454]

I just ordered the ARRL Ham Radio License Manual. I'm looking forward to getting the book on monday and getting into ham radio and getting my technician license and hopefully going all the way up to extra by the end of the year!

[@kirksfilms]

I just connected with the Balsam Lake club this week to get my Technician license. I pick up a Baofeng UV-5R Plus and am excited to be able to PPT a response instead of just listen. Great video.

[@JackofallTrades383]

Good luck on your up coming test and you will enjoy this hobby There is a lot of options for beginners and a lot of "How too" out there in the world of ham radio and you can make a antenna out of almost anything My first antenna I made and still love to this day is a copper water piper "J pole" easy to make and has good gain I have a buddy that uses a coax dipole and pins it to the wall and talks on the local repeaters with it well. also have seen 1/4 waves made from coat hangers ceiling hung.

[@JackofallTrades383]

I did the same thing I passed my Tech but was unable to get my General that day but it worked out better that way for me because I spent six months learning everything I could about the Tech portion of the band and then moved on from there. You can also get a radio that has more capabilities and you can start listening there but you cant transmit. 73! good luck!

[@JackofallTrades383]

You are right! The way I said that is slightly confusing but the aircraft band is 108 to 136 and to your point they mainly use AM or SSB but the point I was trying to make with their limited interference is they also do very well and is nothing like the misconception that ham radio has buy a lot of people I.E. CB radio or worse. I hope this helps make my point a little clearer maybe as clear as mud? Thank you for fact checking me though I hope you check out the other videos here as well.

[@John_C007]

Hey Jack, I like your straight forward, no BS, way about you. Good Job and great video! I am not a ham yet, but someday I would like to become a ham. I am a pilot and I use commercial band radio everyday for work... So I am very familiar with 2-way radio communications.

[@JackofallTrades383]

You can get a power supply and hook your radios to that and they will operate off the wall. The repeaters are easy to find there is listings for your local area you can find on the Internet or a repeater guild that can be bought. Try searching for repeaters in your area. We have W.A.R. here in Wisconsin and it stands for "Wisconsin Association of Repeaters" and it lists all most everything in are state.

[@JackofallTrades383]

The dtmf keypads or Dual tone multi frequency keypad for long is how you control your radio and input frequencies and other things as well.

[@JesterHellsingborg]

Thanks for the input....hope to hear u some day on the radiowaves...

[@kwuneko]

Finally a good intro video to ham radio without all the super technical jargon. I'm trying to get into ham and eventually get my tech license but all the videos I come across just confuse me more and more. Thanks for this video!!

[@FlamingRobzilla]

This is a very good video. My Grandpa was a HAM (WB6ESH, I think. Tommy Thomas), but he had a true radio shack and a tower. I always thought it was too complex and expensive. $14 and a 35 question test is easy. I had a friend who had a 2meter hand held radio, and I think I could do that. I live in an apartment so an outside antenna is out of the question. But this is a skill I think I need. Thanks again.

[@nesbittjohn]

Very good overview. Thanks for making this video for guys like me. I got my technician license over a year ago and I've been hesitant to get on-the-air except for a couple check-ins. I think part of the problem is that I purchased a very complicated HT. I'm thinking about going to a setup more like yours. I think the initial physical setup with a rig like yours might be a little challenging, but radio setup and operation will probably be easier. I think the physical setup will be fun anyway.

[@providentthinker3777]

we will start working on our general in a few weeks. Still waiting for call signs. Picked up some 2m/440 mobiles used and in good order, and shopping for some Ht's at the moment. getting lined out for my omni base antenna and we will get our feet wet. keep the tutorial/ informational/ tech orientation videos' coming. i like the straight forward approach. Thanks again

[@patriciathompson5900]

Thank you very much. I really appreciate this video. I am overwhelmed by all of the information to study for the test. Here's hoping that I can pass it in June!

[@rodneyclements4386]

Thanks for the video. You covered some great information for the newbies. I've had Technician status since 1989, presently preparing for my General exam...ready to expand my capabilities. Thanks and 73's Rodney (Kansas) KC0CBE

[@ScottMcLinden]

You did a great job explaining Ham Radio.... Thank you

[@walterbeech]

I just got my grandfather's set, I am really wanting to get into it but in my sparsly populated area I don't think I could find another HAM within 100 miles. I have to go that far just to find a Walmart.

[@SICKENEDMAGGOT1]

Thanks a lot for this video...All this positive information about ham radio has really got me wanting to get into ham radio. I'm a 17 year old free band'er on 11 meters, I've been talking on on 11 meters for about four, five years. And I enjoy it a lot. But I think I'm ready to get more serious in radio communication. Thanks for posting. 73's

[@TheAsphaltCowboy47]

Great tutorial......Is the FT-2900 vulnerable to an EMP attack? Or will it still work when everything has been fried. I'm guessing that because of its electronics it too will become operational. That's ok if I KNOW FOR SURE because if it is vulnerable I will just keep it in a galvanized trash can with title fitting lid and use aluminum tape to seal the seam around the can when it joins the lid.

[@glenbruemmer42]

@FU Q Contactin iss is very possible goal. It is just being on the correct frequency at the same time as an operator on the iss is on the air. and there are normally set times that are set up to do this. I hope this answers your question

[@DJChappie001]

Yes it does, thanks for the info! Happy New Year too!

[@JackofallTrades383]

There is lots of good starter radio's for beginning Hams. The radio I talk about here is the one you listed and was my first mobile radio and I have a couple of them now.

[@daveycrockett9447]

Hi - I know this is an older video - but just wanted to say thanks for recording this. Over the last couple of days I have been cramming to study for my HAM Tech license. Really enjoyed watching your video and have subscribed. Look forward to watching your other videos and wanted to say thanks!!!

[@JackofallTrades383]

I also do a lot with computers and found that understanding radio helped me with wireless networking mainly installs and poor coverage areas but I was able to make huge improvements in systems that had been in service for a long time and the on site IT guys could not figure out. I guess this has given me the edge over a lot of other guys! Good luck on your up coming tests and I think you have to take the Tech test first and pass then you can upgrade to general the same day if you pass that

[@danielnapier4501]

wanted to thank you for your video . your video got me into ham radio. i now have my technician license my call sign is ko4bmm thanks again .

[@darthorpheus]

You explain things very well and clearly. I'm testing in a week. Going for tech and general at once.

[@Somethingsomethingthing]

Good information...thanks for posting. One question, I am in Boston and with the Marathon bombing the cell system was overwhelmed, what was the portable radio you had in your hand. Being very urban with repeaters(I assume) in the area, I think something small and portable would be great for alternative communication.

[@1kzrider]

I am just starting out but, with just a old cb. Going to work on ham license next. I appreciate very much you making this vid. Look forward to more vids on these if you could do more.

[@grantfullen9559]

Thanks for this video. I always thought about getting in to HAM radio, but don't know what equipment to get , and Wonder about the cost.

[@MrJimjames28]

I am not a Licensed ham yet but it's been on my mind to prepare for the tech license, I hoping to take the test and as you mentioned have someone to help me out once i relocate, you remind me of myself i am kinda a weather geek, and love radio technology but yes trying to understand and learn the aspects of the ham tech information to pass the test seems overwhelming but hopefully God welling I'll achieve that since it's something i really want.

[@jimmyhu7606]

6 M is also for Technician. This band will extend a technician's reach. I have a Yeasu 602 . KB8QFR .

[@JackofallTrades383]

That kind of distances is best done with HF radios and would be a General class license. One up from a Tec class but this is very doable and yes you would have a pre set time and frequency that you would meet on. I do HF to the east or west coast all most daily. 73!

[@chadlpnemt]

Also to remember, a technician can talk around the world if they want to learn Morse Code, or using some digital modes. Upgrading the license is part of the fun and experimenting in simple antenna making is really fun. Frustrating sometimes but fun especially when you have friends helping out. It really is a great hobby. I'm an Extra Class operator but I still have a lot to learn, I can't build a radio, so don't get discouraged, lots of learning as you go.

[@therobsta]

Awesome video thank you for posting! I ordered a radio for short wave listening to get used to operating a simple radio and finding my way around frequencies. I hope to someday get certified. I look forward to watching some more of your vids!

[@mr.m52]

Great video. 1 question... if there is a a storm or another problem and the cell towers quite working why wouldn't the repeaters also quite. I think it's different towers but not sure.

[@vickiscott8549]

This was really encouraging for me, just getting started. I have been feeling very overwhelmed and thinking it was too big a task. Thanks for the encouragement. I'm doin' it!

[@mfremaux]

Great vid. Could you please address antenna requirements and associated costs.

[@jay-rus4437]

I had already decided that a ham license wasn’t something that I was interested in, although I could see the benefit of having a radio, and even a gmsr license. You may have just redirected me. My initial experience is that many of the ham guys are kind of stuck up acting and dont seem to be very approachable

[@Chumly409]

An Icom IC-718 is new at $744 and is pretty solid, compact for a xcvr, and has a front firing speaker making it pretty versatile. But ya might wanna start with a good dual-band handheld just to get on the air and have the dealer clone some popular channels. Just makes it easier to press the button IMO than a xcvr, setting up a Jpole and all that all at the beginning.

[@JackofallTrades383]

The radio is a 2900R from Yaesu the 1900 is a lower power output and does not have the large heat sink on top of the radio like this on does I think its hard to see though. 73!

[@JackofallTrades383]

I have lots of idea's but when you get your license part of that is learning how all this stuff works and half the fun of ham radio is experimentation that helps reinforce what you learned in the books! 30 miles is nothing for a ham radio and you will look back at this distance and laugh someday at how small of a hurdle this was for you. Good luck and 73!

[@JackofallTrades383]

There is a lot of Ham radio dealers out there you will just have to start looking once you get your license and your call sign. The price of the radios is like anything else they go up and down to find the best deal at that time you will have to do some shopping. Good luck on your up coming test! 73

[@providentthinker3777]

My whole family just passed The tech. Pretty cool, my 13 yr old son passed he is very excited. Q: of the band plan for tech, should we just invest in the 2 meter?70 cm infrastructure, and then expand when we get the general. or should we get into 6 and the other bands as well?

[@sapasiui]

Thanks a million for explaining this in plain english. I wish my instructor was as good as you.

[@allannicho1]

Thank-You I am now fired up to set up a twm meter base and maybe ease my way into HF, thanks again.

[@JackofallTrades383]

No thank you! It means a lot to me when I hear that I get to help someone else fulfill there childhood dreams and help make that a reality! There is a lot of people that are willing to help you its just finding them and you are on the right path! Good luck and let me know if I can answer any questions you have come up with I'll do my best. Let us know what your new call sign is when you get it. You maybe interested in some of my other videos as well. Good luck and 73!

[@jfrtbikgkdhjbeep9974]

good man ✌😷 peace

[@PauliR1159]

yes you can and its a good way to learn how to talk on the radio and proper etiquette. I would get a yaesu handheld or mobile, they seem to be user friendly in my opinion. I can program my yaesu handheld in a flash, some of the cheaper radios you have to link them to computers to get them programmed.

[@uban199]

Thanks For the video. I have my ham radio on order And I’m currently studying for the exam. A lot of this seems so overwhelming but your video put me a little more at ease.

[@pnwrendezvous3751]

What do I order and how much money would I spend?

[@haymannn]

Great intro to ham op.. I was hoping you would pick up where you left off, maybe by going thru the ea frequency after the FM radio, showing the pilot band, police band, working your way up. This would be a good beginning. I got my lic awhile back but never used it because its a bit over whelming. This vid here just about got me going again. The other problem I'm having is getting power thru the firewall on my 02 Tundra. I'm thinking most woul want a radio in there truck or car 4 something to do

[@roberthughes8355]

Great information! What is the brand and model of that small hand held radio you showed?

[@kirksfilms]

Using IRLP, talked to someone in New Zealand and Australia. I'm near Balsam Lake, WI. Thought it was cool to see that repeater on your radio. Kirk - KD9AKU

[@kimcollier9576]

Thanks Jack I would like very much to follow through with this. Personally I am contemplating the general license broad range HF band width so I don't have to resort to looking for Jimmys smoke signals.... Mhmmmmm

[@Somethingsomethingthing]

I suspected that the cell was shutdown but there is a lot of denial going on. As for the repeaters, good to know there are a number around. Time to locate my local group through ARRL. Thanks for replying.