What is Ham Radio?
Amateur radio, also known as ham radio, is the use of radio frequency spectrum for purposes of non-commercial exchange of messages, wireless experimentation, self-training, private recreation, radiosport, contesting, and emergency communication. The term “amateur” is used to specify “a duly authorized person interested in radioelectric practice with a purely personal aim and without pecuniary interest;” and to differentiate it from commercial broadcasting, public safety, or professional two-way radio services.
On the Island
About 30 of your fellow islanders have obtained a license from the FCC to operate in the Amateur radio frequencies. Other radios, such as MURS and GRMS walkie talkies do not require a license to operate, and generally are limited to VHF or UHF frequencies at very low power levels. You can decipher all the acronyms by going to the ARRL (American Radio Relay League) website for those and many more answers to your questions – www.arrl.org
Local Clubs
Most counties have one or more clubs that support the hobby of Ham Radio. Our nearest is in Ferndale, the Mt Baker Amateur Radio Club – www.mbarc.org
You’ll find lots of information for all sorts of activities including DX (talking worldwide from your station), Emergency Operations (both local and countywide), and where you can get your license.
The hobby has something for many interests, for young and old alike, so enjoy your search or call me for a chat on the subject
Mike Skehan, KF7OKJ
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Updated: 2022/06/13 @ 1:38 pm Tark Henderson