On Tue, 26 Jul 2011 17:00:05 -0700 (PDT), Gary
wrote:

I hope he enjoys Ham Radio, in spite of my questionable advice.
Gary N4AST

Think of the experience in a different way. If ham radio propagation
were predictable and consistent, it would not be any fun. Just pickup
the microphone, set the controls, and talk to anyone in the world.
Kinda like a cell phone. It's the vaguarities of propagation, the
magic of sub-optimal antennas, and the mysteries of operation that
make ham radio fun. Considerable expense and effort, on the part of
major players and governments, to obtain reliable HF communications
has not been very successful over the years. Possibly "reliable HF"
is an oxymoron. Welcome the "kid" to the magic part of ham radio and
suggest that he adjust his expectations accordingly.

Incidentally, I usually carry a folded wad of aluminum foil for
improptu RFI/EMI shielding, probably because I don't drink beer.


--
Jeff Liebermann
150 Felker St #D http://www.LearnByDestroying.com
Santa Cruz CA 95060 http://802.11junk.com
Skype: JeffLiebermann AE6KS 831-336-2558