What is amateur radio communication?

Amateur radio, also called ham radio, noncommercial two-way radio communications. Messages are sent either by voice or in International Morse Code. Amateur radio is allocated frequency bands across the radio spectrum, from medium frequency (e.g., 1.8–2 megahertz) to ultrahigh frequency (up to 1300 megahertz).

What do amateur radio enthusiasts do?

Amateur radio is a popular technical hobby and volunteer public service that uses designated radio frequencies for non-commercial exchange of messages, wireless experimentation, self-training, and emergency communications.

How do you become an amateur radio operator?

Step 1: Choose the Level of License. There are three classes of licenses that are offered by the FCC (The Federal Communications Commission, the branch of government that controls ham radio licenses).
Step 2: Study For The Exam.
Step 3: Take Your Exam In-Person or Remote.

Is Amateur Radio Legal?

Since 1912, a federal license has been required to operate a ham radio legally—a seemingly reasonable mandate since operators make use of public airwaves, which are under FCC regulation. …

Are Baofeng radios illegal?

While it’s true many of the Baofengs are wide open on any frequency in the 136–174Mhz and 400–520Mhz range, and it is illegal to import, market and sell these devices, it is not illegal to own or operate these devices if you are a licensed Amateur radio operator and you are operating only on amateur radio frequencies.

Do I need a license to use a Baofeng radio?

Without a license, it is legal to use for receive-only. A license is needed for transmitting. Be careful. Reportedly, that radio is able to also transmit out-of-amateur-bands, for which you will not be licensed, and for which there are penalties.

Where did the name ham radio operator come from?

The term “ham” as a nickname for amateur radio operators originated in a pejorative usage (like “ham actor”) by operators in commercial and professional radio communities, and dates to wired telegraphy. The word was subsequently adopted by amateur radio operators.

How many radio operators are there in the world?

There are about three million amateur radio operators worldwide. Amateur radio operators are also known as radio amateurs or hams. The term “ham” as a nickname for amateur radio operators originated in a pejorative usage (like “ham actor”) by operators in commercial and professional radio communities, and dates to wired telegraphy.

How old do you have to be to be a ham operator?

Sometimes the wife of a ham operator is called a YF (wife). Although these codes are derived from English language abbreviations, their use is common among amateur radio operators worldwide. In most countries there is no minimum age requirement to earn an amateur radio license and become an amateur radio operator.

What do you call the wife of a ham operator?

Sometimes the wife of a ham operator is called a YF (wife). Although these codes are derived from English language abbreviations, their use is common among amateur radio operators worldwide.