[TriLUG] OT: amateur radio bug has bit again

[David Black]

Here's a good place to start:

http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/club/clubsearch.phtml

Find a club near you and ask them about available classes and nearby VE
(volunteer examiner) sessions.  Another great resource are hamfests -
basically ham-oriented electronics flea markets, regularly held at the
state fairgrounds in Raleigh, among other places.  There you'll also
find info about classes, study aids and testing.

If you're new to ham radio, a book like this one can be helpful:

http://www.amazon.com/Arrl-Ham-Radio-License-Manual/dp/0872599639/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1215456305&sr=8-1

For people with EE/CompE/CS backgrounds, the technical part of the exams
can be relatively easy.  The rules 'n regs deserve rote memorization, in
particular the frequency allocations by class and band plans:

http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html

I used to be fascinated with VHF/UHF and built and operated a solar
powered 440 repeater, but more recently am getting back into HF with the
intention of playing with some of the new digital modes and even dusting
off the CW paddles and keyer.  The Durham FM Assoc. happens to set up
for Field Day in a pasture down the street, and this year (June 28-29)
were happy to put me to work helping set up/tear down and for a couple
hours man the 20m phone operating position.  If you're into weather
spotting, during inclement weather Skywarn activity on the area 2m ham
repeaters can be informative and exciting, especially if you participate.

All around, Lots of fun to be had - good luck and hope to hear you on
the air!

Dave
AD6Q

Greg Brown wrote:
> About four years ago I started down the path to gain my amateur radio
> license but had to abandon the quest after my work travel schedule
> interfered too much with classes.  Now I'd like to finish that process and
> obtain my license.  I haven't found any classes available during my brief
> search.  For all the hammers out there what are my best options?  Do you
> have any links you could provide?
> 
> Thanks!
> 
> Greg