Ham Radio Basics: My Journey and Insights

Ham radio is one of those hobbies that blends technical curiosity with the joy of connection. It’s a space where you can learn, experiment, and reach out to others who share your interest in communication. Over time, I’ve built up a setup that works for me, and I’d like to share a bit about what I’ve done so far and what ham radio means to me.

Privacy and Licensing

One of the first things you learn about ham radio is that it’s inherently public. The FCC publishes call signs and licensing details, so there’s not much room for privacy. That’s why I choose to share my call sign only with people I meet personally or talk to over the radio.

Getting started with ham radio requires a license, and there are three levels in the U.S.:

When I got my Technician Class license, I opened the door to all VHF and UHF bands, along with limited HF privileges. With this license, I’m able to use local repeaters, join emergency communications networks, and explore digital modes and even satellites. It’s a solid foundation for anyone new to the hobby.

Beyond Technician, there’s the General Class, which gives you access to more HF bands for long-distance communication, and the Extra Class, which opens up all amateur bands and modes. Each level requires passing a written test, covering everything from rules and practices to basic electronics.

My Current Ham Radio Setup

Mobile Rig

I have a Kenwood 144 MHz mobile radio that puts out 40 watts of power. When paired with my homemade J-pole antenna, it’s a fantastic tool for local communication. Building the antenna was a fun project, and it’s incredibly effective for hitting repeaters and extending my range beyond what a stock setup can do.

If you’re unfamiliar, a repeater is a station that receives your signal on one frequency and retransmits it on another, allowing you to communicate across cities or even greater distances. They’re a cornerstone of local ham radio activity.

Handheld Radios (HTs)

I also own several dual-band and tri-band handheld radios. These little devices are some of my favorites to use, and I’m often experimenting with them. Many of my HTs are unlocked, meaning they can receive a wider range of frequencies than standard models. This flexibility comes with responsibility—you need to know what you’re doing to avoid transmitting on unauthorized bands.

My go-bag always includes a couple of these HTs. I’ll often scan for activity on channels like Green Dot or MURS, waiting for someone to start talking. It’s exciting to see what’s out there, and it’s a great way to stay engaged while I’m out and about.

GMRS Radios

Lately, I’ve also been using GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) handheld radios. These are incredibly capable and affordable, especially with the high-quality options available from Chinese manufacturers. Like ham radio, GMRS can use repeaters to expand communication range, which makes it a practical option for many situations.

Base Station and CB Adventures

I recently took a big step forward by installing a large 10/11-meter vertical beam antenna at home. This setup has been a game-changer, even though my primary radio for now is just a CB.

CB radios can be chaotic, with plenty of interference and people who don’t follow the rules. However, mine has SSB (Single Sideband), which makes a huge difference. SSB splits the signal into an upper and lower band, offering greater range and clarity. With this mode, I’ve been able to make meaningful contacts, despite the challenges of CB radio.

I’m looking forward to upgrading to a proper 10-meter ham radio with 50 watts of power. This will open up a whole new world of contacts, but for now, that plan is on hold while I focus on renewing my license and other priorities.

Closing Thoughts

Ham radio is as much about the journey as it is about the technology. From building antennas to scanning for new conversations, every step offers something to learn and enjoy. It’s a hobby that rewards curiosity and persistence, and I’m grateful for what it’s brought into my life.

If we ever meet on the airwaves, I’ll be happy to share more about my experiences. Until then, 73!