TWIAR News Feed

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Ham Radio: Definition, Origins, Goals

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 04:38 PM PDT
http://bit.ly/2ev2T8C

Do you really know what ham radio is? Are you aware of amateur radio
operators’ activity? Would you like to know more about this global hobby?
Do you want to get involved in the DX process? If the answer is “yes�, this
article is the best bet for you. Today we are going to answer some of the
most important questions related to the topic as well as reveal essential
DX information that you will hardly find anywhere else. Have you ever
heard the term “ham�? You certainly have in case you are interested in the
field of radio communication. The ham actually stands for operators who use
DX radio stations to make remote contacts with each other. Pay attention
that DX is not the same as CB. It means that you need to be licensed in
case you want to use a ham radio. Otherwise, you will not be allowed
receiving or transmitting signals in spite of the frequencies and bands.
Nriworld http://nriworld.net/2016/10/ham-radi...ition-origins/

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FCC Airwaves Auction Fails to Draw Enough Bids, Again

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 04:33 PM PDT
http://on.wsj.com/2dxpVP3

The latest stage of the U.S. government’s massive airwave auction
unexpectedly ended Wednesday after a single round of bidding, triggering a
new stage of the complex process that aims to free up spectrum for wireless
services.

Bidding for the airwave licenses closed Wednesday after two hours because
of lack of demand, according to the Federal Communications Commission
website. This is the second time the FCC has failed to draw enough interest
from cellphone operators like AT&T Inc., Verizon Communications Inc. and
Comcast Corp. in buying the licenses it agreed to acquire from television
broadcasters.

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Amateur radio operators ready to ham it up in Maricopa (Arizona)

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 04:33 PM PDT
http://bit.ly/2eFz3Pd

It may not cross everyone’s mind anymore in today’s technological world,
but many people still use ham radios to talk across town, around the world
or even into space — and all without the internet or cellphones.
Amateur, or “ham,� radio operators can still communicate even if there is
no electricity — a good mental note to make in preparation of that
all-too-possible disaster scenario.
For the first time, the Maricopa Amateur Radio Association is hosting the
American Radio Relay League’s Arizona State Convention this Friday and
Saturday at UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle.

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My First Ham Radio License

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 04:26 PM PDT
http://bit.ly/2etyVGy

You are a professional only in case you are certified to be a professional.
In spite of the operation field, only a license is the only evidence of
your qualification and skills. The same thing is with amateur radio. If you
want to use special techniques, you firstly need to learn how to use it and
provide your knowledge. Passing the FCC test is the major and the easiest
way to do so.

Obtaining the FCC license is obligatory for every DX enthusiast or
professional. No matter if you cooperate with emergency series, take part
in ham contests and fairs or simply keep in touch with your friends from
just around, you need to get a license. This is the only chance to get a
permission to use radio gear as well as DX radio stations in spite of your
purpose.

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Taking Part in Ham Radio Contest

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 04:26 PM PDT
http://bit.ly/2f3HNBx

Ham radio is all about fun and entertainment. Professional and novice hams
are returning visitors of numerous theme fairs that take part around the
country and the globe. Ham radio contesting is an essential part of those
gatherings. It is a perfect chance to show off your skills as well as boast
new transmitter or receiver. Although such competitions never deal with
commercial support, you always have a chance to win some great prizes.
Moreover, it will certainly be a great practice and experience. You can
learn much from professional and even legendary hams featuring endless
contacts at any length and distance.

Everyone is allowed taking part in ham radio contesting. All you need is to
have a valid FCC license. Moreover, you need to enter a proper category as
there are several competitions in various classes. If you enter a wrong
category that is not prescribed by your license, all your results and
contacts will be eliminated. In spite of fun and entertainment, DX contests
also have specific rules like any other type of competition. Our tips will
let you easily get involved in this remarkable process and eventually
become a proven leader in your category.

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Ham Radio Buying Tips

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 04:26 PM PDT
http://bit.ly/2dKvaK4

Here you are with the FCC license. This is the starting point of your
successful career as an amateur radio operator. All you need is to purchase
necessary gear, which is no hardly a problem. Modern hams may benefit from
numerous digital shops and online auctions where it is possible to buy
great equipment at the most reasonable price. If you are an old school and
devoted ham. You can still visit fairs and flea markets to bargain used but
still efficient components for DX radio stations.

We have gathered some of the most efficient shopping tips for both
categories. We hope you will find them handy and purchase the station of
your dream. For some operators it will become an everyday communication
tool, while others will add another great item to their collection. Many
novice operators come with the same mistakes when buying their first DX ham
radio. Some are overwhelmed with the variety of models and components while
others simply do not know what to start with.

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Benefits of Using Amateur Radio

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 04:24 PM PDT
http://bit.ly/2dKw8Wx

We all know many interesting things about ham radio. Internet is full of DX
information and facts that attracts millions of radio enthusiasts around
the world. Is that the only thing that attracts so many fans? Why is it so
great to become a fan? What is all that fuzz about? We are going to find
that out. Join us and check some of the best features in favor of becoming
a DX radio operator. Who knows, maybe this will be a defining point in your
entire life! Becoming a ham has nothing in common with prestige or wealth.
On the other hand, every year thousands of rookies pass FCC tests and exams
to obtain their first licenses. The answer is very clear. Like any other
communication tool, amateur radio lets people communicate in spite of their
geography and location. Moreover, you do not need to buy expensive gadgets
and device connected to the global web. All you need is a set of components
and gear to keep in touch with any person who also has DX radio stations.
That person can be from your native town as well as from space!

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Steps to get A Ham Radio License

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 04:24 PM PDT
http://bit.ly/2exZh6A

Becoming an amateur radio operator is rather easy. There are many ways to
obtain necessary knowledge. Experienced hams often arrange special classes
for rookies and tell them everything they may need at their first stage.
However, some things you are supposed to do on your own. Obtaining the FCC
license is the must for everyone who is eager to get involved in this
exciting action. In other words, you will need to pass a test before you
get started. Many websites contain all necessary DX information on
questions and requirements established by the commission.

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Amateur Radio VS Emergency Radio

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 04:24 PM PDT
http://bit.ly/2eFAqgE

We all know that a ham radio comes with so many fun things to do. They
range from ham radio contesting to fests, flea markets and more. Others get
involved in the amateur radio for other reasons. This type of communication
has proved to be reliable and efficient in emergencies. For this reason,
many operators start their career as hams to help other people who have
their backs against the wall due to critical situations. Many public
services cooperate with ham radio operators on regular basis. However, you
should not think that amateur radio is the same as emergency radio. They
differ in many ways though having some common features.

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Apparent ARISS Radio Failure Prompts Shift to Russian Service Module Ham
Gear

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 04:05 PM PDT
http://ift.tt/2dSxnAN

The VHF handheld transceiver that the Amateur Radio on the International
Space Station (ARISS) program has used to connect students worldwide with
astronauts on board the International Space Station (ISS) for more than 16
years has begun to display an error message and is unusable at this time.

While the ARISS technical team evaluates the best path to restore operation
from the ISS Columbus module, ARISS contacts will be supported using the
Kenwood radio in the Russian Service Module.



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IARU Region 2 Emergency Communications Workshop Covers Wide Range of Topics

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 04:05 PM PDT
http://bit.ly/2euXf6f

The second IARU Region 2 (IARU-R2) Emergency Communications Workshop on
October 11 focused on international issues facing Amateur Radio in
emergencies and disasters. ARRL and IARU Region 2 sponsored the workshop,
held in Viña del Mar, Chile, in conjunction with the IARU Region 2 General
Assembly. ARRL Emergency Preparedness Manager and IARU Area B Emergency
Coordinator Mike Corey, KI1U, and IARU Region 2 Emergency Coordinator Dr
Cesar Pio Santos, HR2P, co-chaired the event. Region 2 President Reinaldo
Leandro, YV5AM, represented the IARU-R2 Executive Committee. Presentation
topics reiterated and expanded upon themes discussed at the first Region 2
Emergency Communications Workshop, held in Mexico in 2013, and raised some
new issues.

“The IARU Region 2 Emergency Communications Workshop provides a
one-of-a-kind opportunity for Amateurs involved in emergency communications
in the region to come together, share ideas, network, and improve response
capability within their respective national societies,� Corey and Pio
Santos said in a joint news release.

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via the RSGB: New terahertz band NoV

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 03:28 PM PDT
http://ift.tt/2dsXUZa

Frequencies above 275 GHz, the terahertz bands, are a new area for
experimentation and propagation research.

Ofcom have generously enabled low-power NoV access for Full licensees in
order to facilitate innovation at the cutting edge of RF technology.

The NoV includes a number of conditions related to frequency bands, and
protection zones around key UK radio astronomy sites for which guidance is
available.

To find out more and apply for the Above 275GHz NoV, go to www.rsgb.org/nov

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via the RSGB: 60m for Luxembourg

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 03:28 PM PDT
http://ift.tt/2er3uZ0

Since 10 October 2016, the new WRC15 60m band has been released for amateur
radio use in Luxembourg.

The update to the national frequency plan allows the use from 5351.5 to
5366.5kHz on a secondary basis with an effective radiated power of 15W.

The Luxembourg LX0HF CW beacon presently operates on 5205.25kHz.

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K1ZZ is new IARU Secretary

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 03:28 PM PDT
http://ift.tt/2enVieL

Rod Stafford, W6ROD has retired as IARU Secretary after seven years and the
ARRL Board of Directors has designated David Sumner, K1ZZ as his
replacement.

Dave Sumner has served in this capacity twice previously, from 1982 to 1989
and from 1999 to 2009.

IARU President Tim Ellam, VE6SH has appointed Rod Stafford as Emergency
Communications Special Advisor, where he will represent the interests of
the IARU and the global amateur radio community in the Development Sector
of the ITU.

He will also offer advice and counsel on matters relating to emergency and
disaster response communications.

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Georgia Section Manager Changing on November 1

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 03:28 PM PDT
http://ift.tt/2ea9pDM

Georgia Section Manager Gene Clark, W4AYK, of Albany, has announced that
he’s stepping down at the end of October, after serving since October 2009.
David Benoist, AG4ZR, of Senoia, has been appointed as Georgia Section
Manager, effective November 1, to complete the current term of office,
which extends until September 30, 2017.

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ARES/RACES Featured at Joint Tribal Emergency Management Conference

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 03:28 PM PDT
http://ift.tt/2e1GnVz

For the third year in a row, the Amateur Radio Emergency Service and the
Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (ARES/RACES) were a featured
component of the largest gathering of tribal disaster preparedness,
recovery, hazard mitigation, and homeland security professionals in the US.
The annual conference, held in mid-September, was organized by the National
Tribal Emergency Management Council and hosted by the Tachi-Yokut Tribe at
their Santa Rosa Rancheria in Lemoore, California. Radio amateurs were
prominent among the conference presenters. Two ARRL San Joaquin Valley
(SJV) Section groups, Fresno ARES/RACES and Tulare County ARES pooled
resources and set up special event station N8V, with multiple operating
positions on the lawn adjacent to the conference hotel.

“Many conference attendees stopped by to view the display,� SJV Section
Emergency Coordinator Hal Clover, AD9HC, recounted. “Radiograms home were
offered with several being sent via operators at the event.�

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MARS-Amateur Radio Interoperability Exercise to Test "Very Bad Day" Scenario

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 03:28 PM PDT
http://ift.tt/2ekJFH9

From October 30 through November 1, members of the Military Auxiliary Radio
System (MARS) will conduct a quarterly US Department of Defense (DOD)
Contingency Communications Exercise (COMMEX). The quarterly exercise will
offer training on the ability to provide communications following a “very
bad day� scenario, when traditional forms of communications will likely be
unavailable. The exercise will involve interoperability between MARS and
Amateur Radio participants and is open to all members of the amateur
community.

“While the simultaneous loss of all communications nationwide is not
likely, we are assuming there has been a massive nationwide outage, for
training purposes,� Army MARS Program Manager Paul English, WD8DBY, said.
“One objective of the exercise is to continue the partnership with the
Amateur Radio community to help provide information about local
conditions.� Information gathered will be forwarded to the DOD to provide a
better picture of what is happening around the country, he said.

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Antenna Fire Puts SAQ Alexanderson Alternator Station Off the Air

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 03:28 PM PDT
http://ift.tt/2e3t7RG

An early October fire in the SAQ Alexanderson alternator long-wave antenna
is under investigation by the Grimeton World Heritage Foundation, which
owns and manages the station in Grimeton, Sweden. The fire, attributed to
arcing, was quickly extinguished, and no injuries occurred. The Foundation
said that determining the extent of damage and completing repairs could
take a while.

“There is a risk that the incident will affect the planned transmissions
with the long-wave transmitter SAQ for some time to come,� a Foundation
announcement said. The fire will keep SAQ off the air for a scheduled UN
Day transmission on October 24. SAQ, which operates on 17.2 kHz, also
typically schedules transmissions on Christmas Eve and other occasions.

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Electromagnetic Pulse: Pure Hollywood?

Posted: 22 Oct 2016 03:28 PM PDT
http://ift.tt/2ee1WUP

Imagine you’re in charge of a major heist. Right as your crew is about to
rob the main vault, you need all of the electronics in the building to fail
at exactly the right moment with no other collateral damage (except, maybe,
to your raggedy panel van). Obviously you will turn to one of the
entertainment industry’s tired tropes, the electromagnetic pulse! The only
problem is that if you were to use a real one rather than a Hollywood prop
either there would be practically no effect, a large crater where the vault
used to be, or most of humanity would be in deep trouble. After all, the
real world isn’t quite as convenient as the movies make it seem.