Neil Smith (VE6AZA) wrote this great article on what amateur radio is all about. Enjoy!
How can you describe a hobby that has dozens of facets? How do you explain a hobby whose devotees take part in a pastime that is enjoyed, in a personal way, by kings and commoners, game players and scientists, and by rich and poor? A hobby that is a delight to people all over the world – people both distinguished and world-renowned– and by us ordinary people?
It’s radio, and it’s inhabited by Radio Amateurs (otherwise known as “Hams”) in the short , very short, and ultra short radio waves. What Hams do with these “waves” makes a long list of fascinating miracles.
For only a few examples, they can:
……….Talk directly with people all over the globe, using only their own personal equipment, (you’ll be surprised by who you’ll meet— even, for example, television and movie stars). They can also bounce signals off the moon, and keep track of the activities of the sun.
…………Build radio and computer equipment, (it can be very simple or extremely sophisticated)
………….Have contests, to compete with other “Hams” in timed races to make contacts between “Hams” worldwide to see who wins the most points.
…………..Sometimes, using radio, reach people who are in emergency situations, help them save both lives and property, and assist the civil authorities and charities.
……………As “Amateurs” (some of whom happen also to be scientists, engineers, and technicians or just “handimen”, or “handiwomen”), be instrumental in making worthwhile discoveries, and advancing science and engineering.
……………..Using computers and radio together, make contributions to the science and practice of computing.
……………..Enjoy the company of a very interesting and varied assembly of people at home and around the World, who can become very sociable “Hams”. (Many astronauts are “Hams”)
YOU can join in the fun and games of“Ham” radio, and make the world friendlier.
Just click on “CONTACT US” on this website.
(Your age doesn’t matter — and we do training, for free!)