A Newbies View On Things
 

Hi folks.

Please allow me to give a "newbies" view on the current state of amateur
radio, and also ask a few questions.

I recently took my Technicians License exam and passed with a perfect score.
(I bring up the score just to indicate that I studied hard, and took the
exam seriously). I am now studying to take the 5wpm mores code test. I have
not yet purchased a radio, or even been "on the air". More on this is a
moment.

I have also joined a local radio club, whose first meeting I attended last
night. This club owns and maintains the local 2m repeater, and even though
it is an open repeater, if nothing else, I feel as though by joining, I am
helping to support a service which I plan on eventually using.

But what disappoints me is the fact that I left this meeting knowing
absolutely no more than I did when I walked into the door. I had been led to
believe that one of the best ways for a new guy just becoming involved in
this hobby to get practical advice on things like your first purchase of
equipment, which bands are best for what, and the different applications of
amateur radio, was to join a club. Well, unfortunately, the majority of the
meeting I attended was, in my opinion, controlled by a group of 7 or 8 ham
"veterans" trying to impress one another with their technical knowledge.

So, I guess what I would like to do here is give my views on what I have
seen so far, and invite anyone who is more informed on these matters to
correct me.

1) The Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element in our society.
Even in times of emergency, there is nothing you can do with a ham radio
that you can't do with an internet connection, fax machine, land line
telephone, or cell phone in similar circumstances. Ham Radio is a hobby, and
like golf, gardening, bird watching, or any other hobby, it could cease to
exist tomorrow, and nothing would really change.

2) To me, the most appealing aspect to Ham Radio is the gaining of
knowledge. Learning the "in's and out's" of all that encompasses Ham Radio o
peration is the true fun, whether it is dx'ing, satellite, CW or whatever.
But, like building a boat in a bottle, or even doing a crossword puzzle, the
satisfaction comes in the steps taken to accomplish the task, not the end
result itself.

3) From all accounts that I have heard, the number of new Amateur licenses
issued has been declining for years. This would tell me that the best way to
save the hobby was to open new Hams with open arms, instead of clinging
white-knuckled to the past (packet radio, morse code etc.) look to the
future, and make it fun.

Thanks for letting me rant folks. Now for some questions.

1) Can anyone point me towards any resources to assist someone brand new to
the hobby? (Stuff like recommendations on the type of equipment to get for
the first time buyer)?

2) Also, any sources to purchase used equipment. I think I would rather buy
more functional used stuff, than new equipment that has less "bells and
whistles".

3) One more thing...I am looking for information on antennas that is geared
to the novice.

Thanks folks.

Welcome to the hobby.

You are on the right track - the best way to learn is by finding
someone experienced who can answer your questions as they arise. I'm
sure that there are some folks at your club who would be happy to work
with you - just ignore the fossils and talk to the others - there is
probably someone with similar interests to yours in there somewhere
(and equally tired of listening to the 'experts' - look for bored
facial expressions, or snoring :) )

Brief answers to your questions are below.

On Fri, 16 Jan 2004 09:06:00 -0600, "Scott"
wrote:

snip

1) Can anyone point me towards any resources to assist someone brand new to
the hobby? (Stuff like recommendations on the type of equipment to get for
the first time buyer)?

This depends a lot on what area of amateur radio you are interested
in. 2-meter operation is quite popular - all you need is a
handi-talkie and a list of local repeaters, and you're ready to go!
OTOH, if your interests lie towards experimenting with the digital
modes or DXing on HF (if you're studying Morse, I suspect that the
prospect of shortwave operation interests you), then it gets more
complex.

What would you like to do?


2) Also, any sources to purchase used equipment. I think I would rather buy
more functional used stuff, than new equipment that has less "bells and
whistles".

I have two preferences here.

Local hamfests are my favourite place for finding used equipment - the
prices can be lower than anywhere else, and you may be able to try
before you buy. Caution is required, though, as there are no
warranties - equipment is as-is.

Find one near you using this ARRL web site:

http://www.arrl.org/hamfests.html

Another possibility is a local ham radio store's traded-in equipment -
not cheap, but they will usually give you some warranty with it. You
can also shop by mail order or over the Web if a store isn't near you.
Most of the big shops advertise in QST or CQ - have a look, and check
out their web sites for what you need.

Online auctions such as eBay can be a good source of equipment as well
- but again, no guarantee that the equipment will work properly, and
the prices are considerably higher than at a hamfest.

3) One more thing...I am looking for information on antennas that is geared
to the novice.

The type and complexity of your antenna will depend heavily on what
you want to operate in the amateur spectrum - do a search on Google
for "Ham Radio Antennas", and you will find quite a few offering plans
for pretty easy-to-build ones to start with.

An example:

http://www.packetradio.com/ant.htm


Thanks folks.

Good luck!

73, Leo

Scott wrote:

Hi folks.

Please allow me to give a "newbies" view on the current state of amateur
radio, and also ask a few questions.

I recently took my Technicians License exam and passed with a perfect score.
(I bring up the score just to indicate that I studied hard, and took the
exam seriously). I am now studying to take the 5wpm mores code test. I have
not yet purchased a radio, or even been "on the air". More on this is a
moment.

Congratulations!!


I have also joined a local radio club, whose first meeting I attended last
night. This club owns and maintains the local 2m repeater, and even though
it is an open repeater, if nothing else, I feel as though by joining, I am
helping to support a service which I plan on eventually using.

But what disappoints me is the fact that I left this meeting knowing
absolutely no more than I did when I walked into the door. I had been led to
believe that one of the best ways for a new guy just becoming involved in
this hobby to get practical advice on things like your first purchase of
equipment, which bands are best for what, and the different applications of
amateur radio, was to join a club. Well, unfortunately, the majority of the
meeting I attended was, in my opinion, controlled by a group of 7 or 8 ham
"veterans" trying to impress one another with their technical knowledge.

Did you introduce yourself as a newcomer to ham radio? Did you seek out
any of these experienced hams for advice? Did you expect them to
automatically know you were a newbie with little experience and rush to
your assistance? I think basing your opinion of the club on only one
visit is a bit hasty. Continue to go to the meeting and get to know some
of the other hams before you pass judgment.


So, I guess what I would like to do here is give my views on what I have
seen so far, and invite anyone who is more informed on these matters to
correct me.

1) The Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element in our society.
Even in times of emergency, there is nothing you can do with a ham radio
that you can't do with an internet connection, fax machine, land line
telephone, or cell phone in similar circumstances. Ham Radio is a hobby, and
like golf, gardening, bird watching, or any other hobby, it could cease to
exist tomorrow, and nothing would really change.

You haven't participated in any disasters yet have you? What happens
when all power is down, phone lines down, cell networks jammed to the
point of being totally useless for any emergency. I will give you an
example.
In 1979 a mile wide tornado ripped through Wichita Falls, Texas taking
out the main power lines serving the city. The entire city was without
power, most phone lines were down. What few circuits were working were
so overloaded it was nearly impossible to get a call into or out of the
city. Little good the internet, fax machines, would have been. If there
had been cell phones like there are now, most of the towers would have
been down or damaged and what of the cell phone network might have been
working would also have been overloaded. Hospitals were on emergency
power, filling stations could not pump gasoline, most business were
closed, the area the tornado ripped through look like a war zone. Police
and fire and other emergency services antennas were down. The major
reliable communications came from amateur radio. Clubs from around the
area brought in VHF repeaters and HF stations, powered by generators.
Two meter base stations were set up at stratigic locations, such as
hospitals, police and fire departments, and the red cross. Hams with
handhelds accompanied emergency officials to provide communications.
Until some of the public services were restored, the major traffic in
and out of the area was handled by amateur HF communications.
In the 1980's an earthquake hit San Francisco with similar results. What
phone circuits were operative were so overloaded it was next to
impossible to call in or out of the city. Amateur radio provided
communications with VHF and HF capabilities.
Ask those who participated in the 9/11 disaster and you will hear
similar stories.
So saying that the internet, fax machines, cellsphones ect., will always
be able to handle communications in any disaster is ignoring the facts.
The Office of Homeland Security recgonizes the ability of amateur radio
to emergency communications and is incorporating that into their plans.

2) To me, the most appealing aspect to Ham Radio is the gaining of
knowledge. Learning the "in's and out's" of all that encompasses Ham Radio o
peration is the true fun, whether it is dx'ing, satellite, CW or whatever.
But, like building a boat in a bottle, or even doing a crossword puzzle, the
satisfaction comes in the steps taken to accomplish the task, not the end
result itself.

And you can get a lot of help in that area from fellow hams, but don't
expect others automatically know your needs and to stumble over
themselves to rush to your aid unless you seek their help.


3) From all accounts that I have heard, the number of new Amateur licenses
issued has been declining for years. This would tell me that the best way to
save the hobby was to open new Hams with open arms, instead of clinging
white-knuckled to the past (packet radio, morse code etc.) look to the
future, and make it fun.

Thanks for letting me rant folks. Now for some questions.

1) Can anyone point me towards any resources to assist someone brand new to
the hobby? (Stuff like recommendations on the type of equipment to get for
the first time buyer)?

Check your library, they usually have books on amateur radio and may
also have QST.

2) Also, any sources to purchase used equipment. I think I would rather buy
more functional used stuff, than new equipment that has less "bells and
whistles".

See the other rec.radio.amateur groups, particullarly the .swap groups.
Also check ebay.


3) One more thing...I am looking for information on antennas that is geared
to the novice.

Check you library for some of the ARRL antenna books, or the Amateur
Radio Handbook.

Good luck in your new hobby.

"Scott" wrote:

(snip) The Amateur Radio Service is
not an essential element in our society.
Even in times of emergency, there is
nothing you can do with a ham radio
that you can't do with an internet
connection, fax machine, land line
telephone, or cell phone in similar
circumstances. Ham Radio is a hobby,
and like golf, gardening, bird watching,
or any other hobby, it could cease to
exist tomorrow, and nothing would
really change. (snip)


I won't say Ham radio is essential, but you downplay it too much. Perhaps
you live in an area where major disasters are fairly uncommon, or your local
public service agencies are better prepared, but emergency communications
(supplemental communications) is fairly important in this part of the
country. During a major disaster, the normal communications systems
(internet, fax, phones, and cellular) fail very quickly. Dring a recent
hurricane, even the police, fire, and medical, communications system
suffered major damage. The role ham radio, and ham radio operators, played
during the storm was really amazing. A number were out in the middle of the
night during the storm trying to repair downed antennas for the police and
fire departments. Several manned local radio stations, feeding storm
information from other area hams to the broadcasters. Others manned
evacuation shelters. Following the storm, still others helped to repair
antennas at hospitals (or set up batteries to power their communications
systems). Others manned aid stations. Was any of this essential? Perhaps
not, but I do think it was helpful.


Dwight Stewart (W5NET)

http://www.qsl.net/w5net/

"Scott" wrote in message
...
Hi folks.
1) The Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element in our society.
Even in times of emergency, there is nothing you can do with a ham radio
that you can't do with an internet connection, fax machine, land line
telephone, or cell phone in similar circumstances. snip

As experience has shown -- oft times internet connection, fax machine, land
line
telephone, or cell phone services are dead or totally overloaded.


3) From all accounts that I have heard, the number of new Amateur licenses
issued has been declining for years. This would tell me that the best way
to
save the hobby was to open new Hams with open arms, instead of clinging
white-knuckled to the past (packet radio, morse code etc.) look to the
future, and make it fun.

See Ham populations at URL:
http://www.ah0a.org/FCC/Licenses.html

Shows some dips but slow growth overall. 1997 678,473 2004 681,466

1) Can anyone point me towards any resources to assist someone brand new
to
the hobby? (Stuff like recommendations on the type of equipment to get for
the first time buyer)?

Like Ford, Chevy, Dodge -- but for user reviews see URL:
http://www.eham.net/reviews/



3) One more thing...I am looking for information on antennas that is
geared
to the novice.

Tons of antenna projects at URL:
http://ac6v.com/antprojects.htm

--
73 From The Wilderness Keyboard

But what disappoints me is the fact that I left this meeting knowing
absolutely no more than I did when I walked into the door. I had been led to
believe that one of the best ways for a new guy just becoming involved in
this hobby to get practical advice on things like your first purchase of
equipment, which bands are best for what, and the different applications of
amateur radio, was to join a club. Well, unfortunately, the majority of the
meeting I attended was, in my opinion, controlled by a group of 7 or 8 ham
"veterans" trying to impress one another with their technical knowledge.

Hunt around for other clubs. Some will be "old boy" frats, others more
technically
minded.


So, I guess what I would like to do here is give my views on what I have
seen so far, and invite anyone who is more informed on these matters to
correct me.

1) The Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element in our society.
Even in times of emergency, there is nothing you can do with a ham radio
that you can't do with an internet connection, fax machine, land line
telephone, or cell phone in similar circumstances.

True for some situations, but when a bigger disaster takes out the
infrastructure that
the land lines, faxes, internet and cell phones depend on, enough ham
stations usually
survive the disaster that emergency communications can still happen.
Ham radio
requires no infrastructure other than the radio, mic or code key,
antenna and a power
source (battery or a car) to function.

Cell phones work pretty well if you need to report a car accident, but
an earth
quake will likely take out the system the cell phones need to function.

"Scott" wrote in message
...
Hi folks.

Hello Scott and congrats on the pass. I am always glad to see new new blood
in the service. Our no-code tech course for our club started on Monday and
we had 10 people sign up. Very gratifing ....

Regarding the club .... I'd go for an few more meetings just to make sure
as sometimes first impressions are not true. If you are are not comfortable
then turn and walk away. I have done that in the past .... there is
nothing wrong with utilizing your energies as best you see fit.

Equipment .... like posterior orifices ....everybody has one and I am surely
not going to bore you with mine. Talk to someone regarding you operation
desires and then they can steer you the right way. I would be glad to talk
to you one on one if need be via Echo-Link.

Just remember Scott that hams are a cross section of the populace .... I
have known hams that approach sainthood and those that are convicted
murderers. You will have plenty of stories to tell over the years via this
"hobby" and thankfully the preponderance of them will be positive.

In closing Scott ....don't be afraid to give your call .... I don't think
many ax murderers hang out here.

God Bless ... 73 KI3R Tom Popovic Belle Vernon Pa.

"Scott" wrote in message ...
Hi folks.

Please allow me to give a "newbies" view on the current state of amateur
radio, and also ask a few questions.

I recently took my Technicians License exam and passed with a perfect score.
(I bring up the score just to indicate that I studied hard, and took the
exam seriously). I am now studying to take the 5wpm mores code test. I have
not yet purchased a radio, or even been "on the air". More on this is a
moment.

I have also joined a local radio club, whose first meeting I attended last
night. This club owns and maintains the local 2m repeater, and even though
it is an open repeater, if nothing else, I feel as though by joining, I am
helping to support a service which I plan on eventually using.

But what disappoints me is the fact that I left this meeting knowing
absolutely no more than I did when I walked into the door. I had been led to
believe that one of the best ways for a new guy just becoming involved in
this hobby to get practical advice on things like your first purchase of
equipment, which bands are best for what, and the different applications of
amateur radio, was to join a club. Well, unfortunately, the majority of the
meeting I attended was, in my opinion, controlled by a group of 7 or 8 ham
"veterans" trying to impress one another with their technical knowledge.

So, I guess what I would like to do here is give my views on what I have
seen so far, and invite anyone who is more informed on these matters to
correct me.

1) The Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element in our society.
Even in times of emergency, there is nothing you can do with a ham radio
that you can't do with an internet connection, fax machine, land line
telephone, or cell phone in similar circumstances. Ham Radio is a hobby, and
like golf, gardening, bird watching, or any other hobby, it could cease to
exist tomorrow, and nothing would really change.

2) To me, the most appealing aspect to Ham Radio is the gaining of
knowledge. Learning the "in's and out's" of all that encompasses Ham Radio o
peration is the true fun, whether it is dx'ing, satellite, CW or whatever.
But, like building a boat in a bottle, or even doing a crossword puzzle, the
satisfaction comes in the steps taken to accomplish the task, not the end
result itself.

3) From all accounts that I have heard, the number of new Amateur licenses
issued has been declining for years. This would tell me that the best way to
save the hobby was to open new Hams with open arms, instead of clinging
white-knuckled to the past (packet radio, morse code etc.) look to the
future, and make it fun.

Thanks for letting me rant folks. Now for some questions.

1) Can anyone point me towards any resources to assist someone brand new to
the hobby? (Stuff like recommendations on the type of equipment to get for
the first time buyer)?

2) Also, any sources to purchase used equipment. I think I would rather buy
more functional used stuff, than new equipment that has less "bells and
whistles".

3) One more thing...I am looking for information on antennas that is geared
to the novice.

Thanks folks.

Noise level. Give it a 0.1.

Hey Bubba, trolling is obviously not one of your skills, try some other "activity".

You're welcome.

Scott wrote:
Hi folks.

Please allow me to give a "newbies" view on the current state of amateur
radio, and also ask a few questions.

I recently took my Technicians License exam and passed with a perfect score.
(I bring up the score just to indicate that I studied hard, and took the
exam seriously). I am now studying to take the 5wpm mores code test. I have
not yet purchased a radio, or even been "on the air". More on this is a
moment.

I have also joined a local radio club, whose first meeting I attended last
night. This club owns and maintains the local 2m repeater, and even though
it is an open repeater, if nothing else, I feel as though by joining, I am
helping to support a service which I plan on eventually using.

But what disappoints me is the fact that I left this meeting knowing
absolutely no more than I did when I walked into the door. I had been led to
believe that one of the best ways for a new guy just becoming involved in
this hobby to get practical advice on things like your first purchase of
equipment, which bands are best for what, and the different applications of
amateur radio, was to join a club. Well, unfortunately, the majority of the
meeting I attended was, in my opinion, controlled by a group of 7 or 8 ham
"veterans" trying to impress one another with their technical knowledge.

So, I guess what I would like to do here is give my views on what I have
seen so far, and invite anyone who is more informed on these matters to
correct me.

1) The Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element in our society.
Even in times of emergency, there is nothing you can do with a ham radio
that you can't do with an internet connection, fax machine, land line
telephone, or cell phone in similar circumstances. Ham Radio is a hobby, and
like golf, gardening, bird watching, or any other hobby, it could cease to
exist tomorrow, and nothing would really change.

2) To me, the most appealing aspect to Ham Radio is the gaining of
knowledge. Learning the "in's and out's" of all that encompasses Ham Radio o
peration is the true fun, whether it is dx'ing, satellite, CW or whatever.
But, like building a boat in a bottle, or even doing a crossword puzzle, the
satisfaction comes in the steps taken to accomplish the task, not the end
result itself.

3) From all accounts that I have heard, the number of new Amateur licenses
issued has been declining for years. This would tell me that the best way to
save the hobby was to open new Hams with open arms, instead of clinging
white-knuckled to the past (packet radio, morse code etc.) look to the
future, and make it fun.

Thanks for letting me rant folks. Now for some questions.

1) Can anyone point me towards any resources to assist someone brand new to
the hobby? (Stuff like recommendations on the type of equipment to get for
the first time buyer)?

2) Also, any sources to purchase used equipment. I think I would rather buy
more functional used stuff, than new equipment that has less "bells and
whistles".

3) One more thing...I am looking for information on antennas that is geared
to the novice.


A troll perhaps?

- Mike KB3EIA -

On Sat, 17 Jan 2004 00:14:13 GMT, Mike Coslo
wrote:

Scott wrote:
Hi folks.



A troll perhaps?

- Mike KB3EIA -

As I was reading his post, I thought that it might be....

His three points regarding what he'd seen so far were a tad
contentious, and could well fuel a flame war in this group. When I
read his three questions, though, they seemed quite legitimate, and
were in line with the things that I wanted to know right after I got
my licence. And, his radio club experience seemed pretty plausible
too.

That got me thinking that it may not be a troll after all? So, I
snipped out the contentious stuff, answered the questions, and figured
that we'll all find out soon enough...

He seemed interested enough in learning the basics - and I'm pretty
sure that he is very new to Amateur Radio, as he didn't ask a single
question about Kim's callsign :)

sorry bout that....

73, Leo

In article , "Scott"
writes:


Hi folks.

Please allow me to give a "newbies" view on the current state of amateur
radio, and also ask a few questions.

I recently took my Technicians License exam and passed with a perfect score.
(I bring up the score just to indicate that I studied hard, and took the
exam seriously). I am now studying to take the 5wpm mores code test. I have
not yet purchased a radio, or even been "on the air". More on this is a
moment.

Scott:

Good work, keep it up.

I have also joined a local radio club, whose first meeting I attended last
night. This club owns and maintains the local 2m repeater, and even though
it is an open repeater, if nothing else, I feel as though by joining, I am
helping to support a service which I plan on eventually using.

But what disappoints me is the fact that I left this meeting knowing
absolutely no more than I did when I walked into the door.

That is not entirely unusual, and nothing to be worried about for now.

I had been led to
believe that one of the best ways for a new guy just becoming involved in
this hobby to get practical advice on things like your first purchase of
equipment, which bands are best for what, and the different applications of
amateur radio, was to join a club. Well, unfortunately, the majority of the
meeting I attended was, in my opinion, controlled by a group of 7 or 8 ham
"veterans" trying to impress one another with their technical knowledge.

You have just described virtually every meeting of every amateur radio club
ever organized on this planet. Again, nothing unusual.

So, I guess what I would like to do here is give my views on what I have
seen so far, and invite anyone who is more informed on these matters to
correct me.

1) The Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element in our society.

Definitely not, but it does serve a useful purpose. After you've been a ham
for a number of years, gained some knowledge and experience, and seen
for yourself what is possible, you will realize that.

Even in times of emergency, there is nothing you can do with a ham radio
that you can't do with an internet connection, fax machine, land line
telephone, or cell phone in similar circumstances.

Not necessarily true in all cases. There have been virtually thousands of
documented cases in which, during severe emergency conditions, amateur
radio operators have been the only practical communications link to "the
outside world" available to a community experiencing a situation which
caused a widespread breakdown of primary communications resources.

Ham Radio is a hobby, and
like golf, gardening, bird watching, or any other hobby, it could cease to
exist tomorrow, and nothing would really change.

Again, not necessarily true. If amateur radio were to cease to exist tomorrow,
then, on the next day, it would have to be re-invented in order to regain the
practical backup communications capability it provides.

2) To me, the most appealing aspect to Ham Radio is the gaining of
knowledge. Learning the "in's and out's" of all that encompasses Ham Radio o
peration is the true fun, whether it is dx'ing, satellite, CW or whatever.
But, like building a boat in a bottle, or even doing a crossword puzzle, the
satisfaction comes in the steps taken to accomplish the task, not the end
result itself.

I vehemently agree.

3) From all accounts that I have heard, the number of new Amateur licenses
issued has been declining for years.

Actually, the total number of licensed amateurs in the U.S. is growing, but at
a pitifully slow rate of approximately 0.003 percent.

This would tell me that the best way to
save the hobby was to open new Hams with open arms, instead of clinging
white-knuckled to the past (packet radio, morse code etc.) look to the
future, and make it fun.

While I don't disagree that we need to be open to more new hams, the simple
fact of life is that the old communications technologies we "cling to with
white-
knuckles," i.e. the Morse code, RTTY, packet radio, and even Single Sideband
voice, all serve a very practical and useful purpose in carrying out our
primary
mission which is to be capable *backup* communicators under conditions where
primary communications systems become unavailable for whatever reasons.
Everything we've ever known about radio technology is always going to be
applicable to practical and effective communications, and we need to retain the
basics in order to understand and create the advances.

Thanks for letting me rant folks. Now for some questions.

"Ranting" is what this newsgroup is all about. Carry on.

1) Can anyone point me towards any resources to assist someone brand new to
the hobby? (Stuff like recommendations on the type of equipment to get for
the first time buyer)?

Yes. That club you joined, but didn't learn anything from on your first
meeting.
Go back to the next meeting, and the next, and slowly get to know the people
there and let them get to know you. Eventually you will find someone there who
can help to steer you in the direction you want to go. However, keep in mind,
that radio amateurs are essentially "self training," which means that it is
primarily
up to you to dig in to the available books, magazines, web sites, and other
information resources. That's what I did, that's what virtually every
successful
radio amateur did. Nobody can beat you over the head with a "knowledge
stick" and thus fill your head with things you didn't know a minute before. It
will take an investment of time and money on your part to acquire knowledge
and the equipment you need to create an effective and efficient amateur radio
station. That should be your goal.

2) Also, any sources to purchase used equipment. I think I would rather buy
more functional used stuff, than new equipment that has less "bells and
whistles".

Try eBay for starters. Also, check out the ARRL web site (www.arrl.org) for
hamfests in your area.

3) One more thing...I am looking for information on antennas that is geared
to the novice.

I'd suggest that you invest in the ARRL Antenna Book. It has something for
virtually every possible application.

Bottom line: Nobody can help you become an amateur radio operator better
than you can your own good self. You need to open books and read them,
then open some more books and read some more. I'd suggest some simple
electronics projects you can build yourself, in order to get some basic
experience with electrical theory and electronics principles. I'd also suggest
that you give top priority to investing in a good HF transceiver with general-
coverage receive capability. The Yaesu FT840 is around $600 brand new,
and could be your main HF rig for years to come.

One more thing: Resolve to learn the Morse code and to use it on the air.
Decide from the start that you are going to be a proficient CW operator, and
don't give in to any of the frustrations normally associated with learning to
use this uniquely practical, effective, efficient, and universal communications
mode. We have all experienced them, and people from all walks of life have
overcome them and become proficient CW operators. It's not that big a deal,
and the only problems you'll have achieving success are those you make
for yourself.

Thanks folks.

Your welcome. You will find more good advice from other regulars in this
newsgroup. Start reading; the learning process starts now.

73 de Larry, K3LT

"Scott" wrote in message
...
Hi folks.

Please allow me to give a "newbies" view on the current state of amateur
radio, and also ask a few questions.

I recently took my Technicians License exam and passed with a perfect
score.
(I bring up the score just to indicate that I studied hard, and took the
exam seriously). I am now studying to take the 5wpm mores code test. I
have
not yet purchased a radio, or even been "on the air". More on this is a
moment.

Sounds like you're off to a great start.

I have also joined a local radio club, whose first meeting I attended last
night. This club owns and maintains the local 2m repeater, and even though
it is an open repeater, if nothing else, I feel as though by joining, I am
helping to support a service which I plan on eventually using.

Makes good sense.

But what disappoints me is the fact that I left this meeting knowing
absolutely no more than I did when I walked into the door. I had been led
to
believe that one of the best ways for a new guy just becoming involved in
this hobby to get practical advice on things like your first purchase of
equipment, which bands are best for what, and the different applications
of
amateur radio, was to join a club. Well, unfortunately, the majority of
the
meeting I attended was, in my opinion, controlled by a group of 7 or 8
ham
"veterans" trying to impress one another with their technical knowledge.

Sad, truly sad. In the antique car club I belong to we always introduce
new members at the meeting, we also go around the room at least once
so anyone can ask a question, offer a bit of advice, etc. That fosters
even more 1 on 1 conversations after the meeting ends.

So, I guess what I would like to do here is give my views on what I have
seen so far, and invite anyone who is more informed on these matters to
correct me.

1) The Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element in our society.
Even in times of emergency, there is nothing you can do with a ham radio
that you can't do with an internet connection, fax machine, land line
telephone, or cell phone in similar circumstances. Ham Radio is a hobby,
and
like golf, gardening, bird watching, or any other hobby, it could cease to
exist tomorrow, and nothing would really change.

Wrong. Amateur radio can and has been the ONLY emergency
communications available in many emergencies. Think for a minute
about the scenario of an emergency. No electricity, no internet,
no fax and in many cases no landline if you don't have a plain vanilla
phone that is powered by the teephone line...and even if the
phone is line powered, many times even basic phone service is
out.

2) To me, the most appealing aspect to Ham Radio is the gaining of
knowledge. Learning the "in's and out's" of all that encompasses Ham Radio
o
peration is the true fun, whether it is dx'ing, satellite, CW or whatever.
But, like building a boat in a bottle, or even doing a crossword puzzle,
the
satisfaction comes in the steps taken to accomplish the task, not the end
result itself.

Different strokes for different folks. Some like the steps, some
the end result. There is no "norm" in my obinion.

3) From all accounts that I have heard, the number of new Amateur licenses
issued has been declining for years. This would tell me that the best way
to
save the hobby was to open new Hams with open arms, instead of clinging
white-knuckled to the past (packet radio, morse code etc.) look to the
future, and make it fun.

Not declining at all...but not growing significantly either.

Thanks for letting me rant folks. Now for some questions.

1) Can anyone point me towards any resources to assist someone brand new
to
the hobby? (Stuff like recommendations on the type of equipment to get for
the first time buyer)?

You need to tell us more about what type of on-the-air
you want to do.

2) Also, any sources to purchase used equipment. I think I would rather
buy
more functional used stuff, than new equipment that has less "bells and
whistles".

There's always EBAY plus the amateur magazines like QST and CQ.

3) One more thing...I am looking for information on antennas that is
geared
to the novice.

Check out the ARRL web site for the books and
publications they have available.

Cheers and welcome.
Bill K2UNK

Leo wrote:

He seemed interested enough in learning the basics - and I'm pretty
sure that he is very new to Amateur Radio, as he didn't ask a single
question about Kim's callsign :)

sorry bout that....

And that is unforgivable here in rec.radio.amateur.kim.callsign!

- Mike KB3EIA -

On Sat, 17 Jan 2004 16:18:39 GMT, Mike Coslo
wrote:

Leo wrote:

He seemed interested enough in learning the basics - and I'm pretty
sure that he is very new to Amateur Radio, as he didn't ask a single
question about Kim's callsign :)

sorry bout that....

And that is unforgivable here in rec.radio.amateur.kim.callsign!

- Mike KB3EIA -

Awww - give the kid a break this time - he's new! :)

73, Leo

He seemed interested enough in learning the basics - and I'm pretty
sure that he is very new to Amateur Radio, as he didn't ask a single
question about Kim's callsign :)



He mentioned birdwatching in the orginial post, so he likely figured that
Kim was abird watcher. A tit is a kind of small bird, if you thought
of something else, well.... ;-)

On Sat, 17 Jan 2004 19:42:03 GMT, Robert Casey
wrote:




He seemed interested enough in learning the basics - and I'm pretty
sure that he is very new to Amateur Radio, as he didn't ask a single
question about Kim's callsign :)



He mentioned birdwatching in the orginial post, so he likely figured that
Kim was abird watcher. A tit is a kind of small bird, if you thought
of something else, well.... ;-)

Hmmm - he did, didn't he!

LOL es 73, Leo

In article , ospam
(Larry Roll K3LT) writes:

One more thing: Resolve to learn the Morse code and to use it on the air.
Decide from the start that you are going to be a proficient CW operator, and
don't give in to any of the frustrations normally associated with learning to
use this uniquely practical, effective, efficient, and universal
communications mode.

Absolutely! Morse code is at the heart and soul of U.S. amateur
radio!

Morse is so #$%^!!! good that every other radio service continues
to use it for communications! [Larry thinks...without having any
experience in any of them]

Without proficiency in morse code, amateurs are not really
amateurs.

Those who cannot do morse code or care to do morse code are
not recipients of Larrah's Blessings.

We have all experienced them, and people from all walks of life have
overcome them and become proficient CW operators.

Vital, important, mandatory for amateur radio.

Forget everything else and concentrate solely on morse code.

That is all that is needed to be a "good" amateur.

It's not that big a deal,
and the only problems you'll have achieving success are those you make
for yourself.

Yes, failure to become proficient in morse code will result
in a continuing repost of Larrah's skills, nobility, and
accomplishments in the field of radio communications...
resulting in endless peans of self-praise for his unswerving
loyalty to the Beliefs of Hiram.

See the hoops. Jump through the hoops, Larrah. That's a good boy!

Sit.

LHA / WMD

A heart felt thank you to all that replied.

I guess my opinion that "Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element
in our society" was incorrect. I appreciate all that took the time to show
me where I was wrong. I stand corrected.

Re-reading my origanal post, I seem to have come off as a bit of an idiot. I
think maybe I should have taken things a little slower.

And once again, thanks for the gerat advice.

On Sun, 18 Jan 2004 09:06:09 -0600, "Scott"
wrote:

A heart felt thank you to all that replied.

I guess my opinion that "Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element
in our society" was incorrect. I appreciate all that took the time to show
me where I was wrong. I stand corrected.

Re-reading my origanal post, I seem to have come off as a bit of an idiot. I
think maybe I should have taken things a little slower.

Not at all, Scott. There was absolutely nothing wrong with any of
your comments or the way that you said them. Anyone new tends to be
viewed somewhat suspciously in this group - until their intentions are
clear. No big deal!

The unsociable amateurs that you met at the club are the idiots!

In fact, it's good for some of the long time hams here to see what the
views and impressions are of those who are new to the amateur radio -
it shows where improvements are needed to generate more interest in
the hobby. Your club, for example, could use someone in charge of
meeting with new members or visitors and introducing them around -
making them feel welcome.

And once again, thanks for the gerat advice.

Keep asking questions, Scott! When you get on the air for the first
time, you will meet lots of hams who will patiently guide you through
the mechanics of communicating with them - that's where the real fun
(and learning) begins! An example:

My first QSO on HF was with an informal net on 40 meters that I had
been listening to for a few days - and learning how it worked.
Finally, I got up the courage to push the button and say "Contact"
(like I'd heard the others do). The net controller invited me to call
in, I identified myself and told them that this was my first HF
contact since I passed my Morse Code test - and was promptly welcomed
in personally by over 20 other hams, several over 1000 miles away!
Best contact that I have ever had, and the friendliest bunch of people
that I have ever met. Still talk to most of them whenever I have the
chance.

Good luck, and have fun!

73, Leo

In article , "Scott"
writes:

A heart felt thank you to all that replied.

I guess my opinion that "Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element
in our society" was incorrect. I appreciate all that took the time to show
me where I was wrong. I stand corrected.

Only in THIS venue, Scott.

In THIS venue, all the pro-code newsgroupies require all to think,
act, do, behave, and moralize as they do.

To them, amateur radio is NOT a hobby, not a normal recreation.

It is a Way of Life. Comes complete with a rigid moral code.

Pro-coders RULE amateur radio (in here).

All who deviate from an inflexible code of ethics established in 1928
shall be punished (in here) by contant, unremitting pejorative
pummeling by the pro-coders for even daring to say one unkind
word about the Sacred Olde Ways of amateurdom.

Not only are they rigid and inflexible while marching in unified ranks,
they are generally without humor since they are near-absolute
literalists who demand (if not dictate) all following their Orders.

I've been trying to get a word in on the SUBJECT of morse code
testing and have been a constant target of character assassination
by these pro-code newsgroupies. No "civil debate" possible in that
cacophony of code.

Never mind that I got into big-time HF communications at a young
age (much more so than any other in here) and that led to a
career choice of electronics engineering (a decided major change
in education).

No matter. Heil says that is not enough "interest in radio," I must
learn morse code and become an amateur (NOT a professional) to
"show interest in radio."

The resident gunnery nurse spits on professionalism AND night
classes in EE, arming his slingshot with slimy spit and trying to
get down and give him 20 for talking against "superiors." Weird.

An olde-tymer of 48 going on 84 who lives in the past keeps
saying I am always "mistaken" and "incorrect" in another ploy of
perverse character assassination.

This is NOT anywhere close to a venue for "discussion of issues"
in amateur radio. It is a place for newsgroupies to gather and try
to turn into some kind of ARRL-south, to stir stock myths and
old ideas into a stew of meaty morse just like what HAD to be
done in the 1920s and 1930s.

Rigid, inflexible, all march to the same drumbeep.

Re-reading my origanal post, I seem to have come off as a bit of an idiot. I
think maybe I should have taken things a little slower.

No. I don't agree.

If any "error" was committed it was merely in underestimating the
vehemence of the pro-code Life Stylers, the worshippers of the
Church of St. Hiram, the Believers who take all their Life Guidance
from a single membership organization.

In Their view of ham radio, They say what "fun" is in The Service.


And once again, thanks for the gerat advice.

Amateur radio is an interesting, fascinating hobby, a recreational
pursuit involving an intriguing technology.

I'm coming up on my 51st anniversary of putting a 1 KW transmitter
on the air trans-Pacific. Radio and electronics is still fascinating
to me and I've explored a lot of it in the course of a half century.
Been in lots more of the EM spectrum than nearly all of these
rigid pure moralists in here. Never used morse code in all that time,
never had to. Used many more modes and modulations than are
allowed to amateurs. That's not enough!

According to all the pro-code newsgroupies in here, none of that is
"good enough for them." All must do as they did, learn morse code
and pass a morse test, for "morse code gets through when nothing
else will" (expletive deleted).

There can be NO talk or even a hint about changing the morse code
test regulation. Morse code testing MUST remain in the USA for
all radio amateurs. That is the only way to "real" U.S. ham radio.
Those who do not follow the dictates of the moral majority of
pro-code newsgroupies shall be banished from human society!

If the pro-coders had to do it, by darn, EVERYONE has to!

That's what it boils down to...a battle of newsgroup wills.

Those who haven't made out their "will" properly are to be
destroyed. [by any means possible...]

Hang in there, Scott. Pander to the would-be "authority wanna-bes"
if you have to...but GO YOUR OWN WAY. Be your own man, not
a puppet of those who dictate what you can do, what you shall
enjoy, what you must do to please them.

Independent thought is GOOD!

Leonard H. Anderson
retired (from regular hours) electronic engineer person

In article ,
(Steve Robeson, K4CAP) writes:

(Steve Robeson, K4CAP) wrote in message
. com...

those who praticipate in it.

Ooooops. Made a new word!

...and a mess on the newsgroup floor. Bad doggie. Go sit in corner.

LHA / WMD

In article ,
(Steve Robeson, K4CAP) writes:

(Len Over 21) wrote in message
...
In article , "Scott"
writes:

A heart felt thank you to all that replied.

I guess my opinion that "Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element
in our society" was incorrect. I appreciate all that took the time to show
me where I was wrong. I stand corrected.

Only in THIS venue, Scott.

In THIS venue, all the pro-code newsgroupies require all to think,
act, do, behave, and moralize as they do.


Radio and electronics is still fascinating
to me and I've explored a lot of it in the course of a half century.
Been in lots more of the EM spectrum than nearly all of these
rigid pure moralists in here. Never used morse code in all that time,
never had to. Used many more modes and modulations than are
allowed to amateurs. That's not enough!

Your "exploration" has been as a paid employee, never being
allowed to use the "radio" as AMATEURS use thiers.

That's the way it is done in professional work. :-)

However, for casual "ragchews," I've used CB...perfectly legal to
do so without any morse knowledge or needing a ham license.

Tsk, tsk, tsk...Stebe, with all the wealth of "engineering
experience" as a paid employee (purchasing agent, less than
half a year total) thinks that "exploration" at work (usuall
known as R&D or Research and Development) is not really any
"exploration." That may be because all of his vaunted amateur
experience has used modes and modulations and equpment
already done? :-)

That you never used Morse Code is not germane. Millions of other
radio users never use it either. So what?

Test element 1 is still present in the U.S. amateur radio license
examination regulations. That requires demonstration of morse code
proficiency.

Hang in there, Scott. Pander to the would-be "authority wanna-bes"
if you have to...but GO YOUR OWN WAY. Be your own man, not
a puppet of those who dictate what you can do, what you shall
enjoy, what you must do to please them.

Independent thought is GOOD!

Independent thought IS good, as long as it is LENNIE'S
independent thought.

Incorrect. When I said "independent," I meant it in the complete
sense, not some inappropriate, semantically-incorrect, emotionally-
loaded form by Stebe the wonder marine.

The "regulars" of this forum are, for the most
part, life long Amateur Radio operators with the experience in AMATEUR
RADIO to know of which they speak.

Yes, all must do as those olde-tymers say. They ARE the "amateur
community" and run it, morals and all. :-)

All of them got into amateur radio so long ago that only anthropologists
can find the applicable radio regulations of their day. :-)


Leonard H. Anderson, retired from regular hours engineer, is a
known pathological liar and newsgroup antagonist.

Tsk, tsk, tsk...Stebe froths at the mouth and does the personal-
insult bit again. :-)

His rage and anger might qualify as one of the wonders of the world!

Perhaps in Stebe's never-never fantasyland, his "medicine" defines
"pathology" as the study of a "disease" and that anyone who does
not think as Dr. Killgore thinks is thus suffering a disease? Must be.

Here in the present reality, there are differing OPINIONS, not "lies."

I don't have to lie about anything in my electronics-radio career. It's
all open and referencible (except for things covered by industrial
trade secrets and non-disclosure agreements). I actually worked IN
HF communications beginning nearly 51 years ago...and have been
in communications with another member of my Battalion who does
have a current amateur radio license. What was done in HF comm
a half century ago is still being done today.

That he felt compelled to post this "defense" of HIS "career" in
this forum without having actually been a part of the thread is only
further evidence of his own self-appreciating, "me first" personality
and his total arrogance towards the very CONCEPT of Amateur Radio and
those who praticipate in it.

Poor baby. Tripped on his own drool and fell down...pounding on the
floor with his fists, unable to get up.

All that rage and anger and hate just from wanting to eliminate the
morse code test requirement?

Strange to associate "concept of amateur radio" as being all about
morse code testing.

Stebe's alternate reality must be a strange one indeed. Let's not go
there.

LHA / WMD

In article ,
(Stebe, suffering yet another Powerful Marine Syndrome attack) writes:

(Len Over 21) wrote in message
...
In article , "Scott"
writes:

A heart felt thank you to all that replied.

I guess my opinion that "Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element
in our society" was incorrect. I appreciate all that took the time to show
me where I was wrong. I stand corrected.

Only in THIS venue, Scott.

In THIS venue, all the pro-code newsgroupies require all to think,
act, do, behave, and moralize as they do.

I'm coming up on my 51st anniversary of putting a 1 KW transmitter
on the air trans-Pacific.

It wasn't YOUR station, Lennie...It was a facility of the United
States Army.

Tsk, tsk, tsk...still sore and pished because I had the opportunity
while in my military service yet you did not?

ADA was operating in liason to the Far East Command Hq that
served all U.S. forces in the Far East of the time. Established in
1946 as the 71st Signal Service Battalion, my Army unit operated
(and was entirely responsible for) the primary communications of
the FEC. Yes, it was an ARMY station...the USMC was too small
to handle the task.

However, when the new Income Tax laws were passed to apply to
military service members, I became about as direct a taxpayer as
possible to "own" a part of that station. :-)

[Stebe is guaranteed to pick up on that paragraph and reply to it
with as much vitriol and spite that his few neurons can conjure up]

They could have just as easily made you a diesel
mechanic...Perhaps then you would have been harrassing the
professional truck drivers.

No, the Army could NOT "do that as easily." I was sent to the
Fort Monmouth Signal School for several months of microwave
radio relay training after Basic. Diesel mechanics were trained
in several other school locations.

ADA did have several "diesel mechanics" for the emergency
electrical power generation (old site) and continuous electrical
power generation (new site at Kashiwa). Normal for 24/7
operation.

Several of the ADA transmitter team were licensed to drive Army
vehicles, myself included...Jeep, 3/4 ton truck, 2 1/2 ton truck.
No problem since all those already were licensed to drive in the
various states and only required familiarization courses on the
military vehicles. The Battalion did emply "professional vehicle
drivers," all Japanese nationals, but none to my knowledge every
"harrassed them."

Army manuals and a Senior NCO told you what to do and how to do
it. They gave you an FM or TM (or the equivelent of the period) and
said "do this".

"FM" is still the common term for Field Manual which covers large
subjects. "TM" is still the common term for Technical Manual which
goes into specific detail on equipment.

ADA had only one complete copy of the TM on the (standard
pre-WW2 design) BC-339 and some reproduced schematics. That
was the basic "1 KW" transmitter in RTTY service. The 339 was a
sturdy machine and simple to operate, easy to maintain, even if
built on "battleship style" (heavy, about 7 feet tall) with many
designed-in safety features. Neither the BC-339 nor the BC-340
(10 KW amplifier and power supply for 339) nor the Press Wireless
PW-15 (15 KW RTTY) nor the Western Electric LD-T2 (4 KW PEP
SSB, commercial) were taught in Army Signal Schools. All of us
at ADA learned "on the job" since none of the equipment was taught
in any signal schools, any branch.

Yes, "senior NCOs taught us" and said "do this." This is normal in
a work environment were supervisors also teach and say "do that."
Somehow you find that deplorable?

Biggie wow. We are soooooooooo impressed that YOU were able to
follow instructions "putting a 1KW transmitter on the air
trans-Pacific".

Considering that none of us newbies at ADA had operated an HF
transmitter at 1 KW, there was only the on-the-job-training to do
and follow instructions. Took my particular newbie group about an
hour of M/Sgt Ouye's time in February, 1953, including questions
and answers, and review of procedures for the station.

The BC-339 was about as "complicated" as any amateur radio
transmitter got in 1953 (it have been designed before 1940) and
included an antenna tuner. Not a biggie, true, but none of us
needed any "license" to operate it nor did we have to know morse
code. :-) It is a personal biggie when it hasn't been done before.
Keeping everything operating 24/7, knowing procedures for QSYs
and confirming frequencies, upping and downing circuits,
confirming the TTY signal quality, setting the FSK exciters,
doing maintenance on equipment, keeping the radio relay (VHF,
UHF) equpment running, keeping the wireline/radio "carrier"
equipment running was all part of the job...learned on-site since
we could not "go to school" on it nor read about it in QST for an
"education." :-)

I learned all that was required (and more) on-the-job and later
became an "NCO" who said "do this (or that)." :-)

That was all before Stebe was born. It must make him very angry
and furious that anyone actually did those things before his life
experience began.

I've omitted any previous mention of Stebe's fury and indignance that
I should ever honor the men of my Battalion. He demanded that I
stop, saying it was all for personal glory in this newsgroup. Tsk, tsk.

I still honor the men and women of my Battalion, knowing the history
from first unit formation to changes through today. I am proud of
what I did, of my fellow signalmen for "getting the messages
through." We did it. It's on record, including two Presidential Unit
Citations. Callsign ADA still exists, now that of U.S. Army Pacific
Headquarters at Fort Shafter, Hawaii.

LHA / WMD

In article ,
(Stebe Robeson, still in the throes of PMS (Powerful Marine Syndrome) writes:

(Len Over 21) wrote in message
...
In article , "Scott"
writes:

A heart felt thank you to all that replied.

I guess my opinion that "Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element
in our society" was incorrect. I appreciate all that took the time to show
me where I was wrong. I stand corrected.

Only in THIS venue, Scott.

In THIS venue, all the pro-code newsgroupies require all to think,
act, do, behave, and moralize as they do.


And I do not spit on "professionalism" Lennie.

Of course you do. Everyone has seen it in this free, open,
unmoderated forum.

You "knew everything about electronics engineering" after working
less than a year as a purchasing agent in a company making
set-top boxes and modems. :-)

You've consistantly tried to equate college night courses with some
kind of alliterative low-grade "night school."

You've consistantly said I was a mere "bench technician" rather
than a design engineer...yet you've never tried to check with any of
the past employers I've listed nor contacted any of the U.S. radio
amateurs I've listed as references.

That assertion is yet ANOTHER lie from somone whio finds it EASY
to lie. I have nothing but the highest regard for professionals in ANY
field...It's just that I have absolutely ZERO respect for YOU since
you've made such a mockery of the title.

"Mockery?" From the expert Dill Instructor with hardly any work
experience in ANY engineering? :-)

Tsk, tsk, tsk...all you do is vent hatred and bile against another
because that is your nature in here...always insulting the person
who has opinions rather than tackling the subject matter...and,
when there is no possibility of a valid response to the subject, just
more heaping of insults against a person.


As for "going on 84", I will gladly jog around the block a few
times with you or see how well you do carrying a full field pack on
the rescue team. NOW who is involved in another "ploy of pervase
character assassination"...?!?!

Tsk, tsk, tsk...Stebe reacting as if He were the only one mentioned.

:-)

Unless Stebe moved (again?), He does not live in Pennsylvania
nor is he a renowned amateur historian.

Stebe should pack and rescue his "team" in order to carry more
insults and pejorative phrases to the masses to avenge his
wounded psyche.

This is NOT anywhere close to a venue for "discussion of issues"
in amateur radio. It is a place for newsgroupies to gather and try
to turn into some kind of ARRL-south, to stir stock myths and
old ideas into a stew of meaty morse just like what HAD to be
done in the 1920s and 1930s.

Since YOU seem to be the only one who deems it important to
interject arguments about Morse Code into threads that don't even
adress it, I'd say the fixation is yours, Oh Putzy One.

Absolutely. I interject comments about the beloved smartness of
the morse code test at any opportunity.

Contrary to your personal (weird) beliefs, just getting into U.S.
amateur radio on HF allocations requires a morse test. [see subject
title "A Newbies View On Things"]

Some of us desire to change the amateur regulations and eliminate
the morse code test. Being a "member of the amateur community"
through licensing is not required to change federal laws [see the
U.S. Constitution in regard to who may communicate with their
government].

Rigid, inflexible, all march to the same drumbeep.

That's what YOU would have us doing...One license...everyone the
same...no challenge, skill or functionality...Just a corral of lambs,
beying to the Word of Lennie the Professional.

Tsk, tsk, tsk. Are lambs kept in "corrals" and do they "bey?" :-)

Tsk, tsk, tsk...once again on the "no challenge, skill or functionality"
by having a single amateur license? That's a mind-boggler but it
does explain Stebe's own claim of "skill and function" represented
solely by an amateur radio class designation.

If "challenge, skill, or functionality (?)" are achieved only by passing
a CLASS test, then all Amateur Extras can "stop learning" on
receiving that class grant. There's NO "challenge or skill" left for
them once that has been done. :-)

All amateur learning STOPS after achieving Extra in Stebe's World.

That explains much of Stebe's output... :-)

LHA / WMD

In article ,
(Stebe Robeson, in his period and needing attention) writes:

(Len Over 21) wrote in message
...
In article , "Scott"
writes:

A heart felt thank you to all that replied.

I guess my opinion that "Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element
in our society" was incorrect. I appreciate all that took the time to show
me where I was wrong. I stand corrected.

Only in THIS venue, Scott.

In THIS venue, all the pro-code newsgroupies require all to think,
act, do, behave, and moralize as they do.

A blatant lie from someone who finds it easy to lie.

I've been trying to get a word in on the SUBJECT of morse code
testing and have been a constant target of character assassination
by these pro-code newsgroupies. No "civil debate" possible in that
cacophony of code.

Another lie. The subject has been "debated", discussed and
dissected until all are nauseous of the topic anymore.

Tsk, tsk, tsk, still the unoriginal non-debate non-technique. Such
is beyond trite and worn-out.

Stebe once more indicates intense hatred and rage against one
person. He needs Anger Management Therapy. Immediately.

Opinions not in line with Stebe's Beliefs in his fantasyland are,
in his mind, "lies." Strange stuff.

Unfortunately, there are no dictionaries published on definitions
of Stebe's unreality.

That Lennie has nothing else to discuss as it pertains to Amateur
Radio should be a clue to those new to this forum that would be swayed
by his "debating style".

Tsk, tsk, tsk, still trying that old ploy, senior gunnery nurse?

A reminder: In THIS reality, this newsgroup is open, unmoderated
and there are no raddio kopps at the doorway to check for
proper credentials of amateurism. Stebe is a mighty amateur in
radio...as well as in human society.

You've taken grand liberty with the term "literary license" and
have grossly abused any sense of social propriety so many times that
your name is synonomous with "liar" and "antagonist".

Tsk, tsk, tsk...there you go again, confusing your unreality with the
rest of the world.

No "literary license" is required in here, amateur or professional.
Acknowledging the existance of true reality (as opposed to your
fantasyland) is a requirement for rational discourse. You do not
exhibit rational discourse, therefore you've lost your "license."

Ergo, Stebe is just (vainly) trying to sugar-coat very ordinary
personal insults of the hatred kind. That doesn't work...except
that Stebe is too wrapped up in his personal fantasyland to
acknowledge that others think differently.

AMATEUR Radio, Lennie...You have exactly zero-point-zero minutes
of experience in AMATEUR Radio. No one, repeat NO one in this forum
denies that the technology and propagation of radio waves is any
different in any other radio service.

Tsk, tsk, tsk...in Stebe's fantasyland, those who want to get into
amateur radio must also "have experience in amateur radio?" That
would make their experience illegal. The FCC would not grant
amateur licenses to those who have done illegal radio operation.

Perhaps's Stebe thinks the amateur radio "service" is like the USMC.
One does not need to know anything as a "recruit." The Dill Sergeant
will explain all to them, spit insults in their faces, give them extra
punishment for misbehavior (such as sassing the Dill Instructor).
All to break them down first, then "rebuild" them into patriotic robots
"for the corps, God, and country."

Amateur radio is a technical hobby, a recreational pursuit (for fun)
that requires licensing due to the nature of transmission of RF
energy. It is not a military service. It is not a government service.

Reminder reprise: This newsgroup is open, unmoderated. No
authoritiy is automatically granted to the enraged, hysterical, or
upset fantasylanders attempting something like squatter's rights.
All they end up doing is squatting.

It's the PRACTICE and the APPLICATION of the technology that
makes the difference.

Of course it does, senior amateur gunnery nurse. Simply making
a number of legal regulations and calling it something else changes
the technology into a glorious wonderland of physics that needs
long, arduous study and much time in grade to comprehend. No.

You are exhibiting an erroneous false Belief System again. The
nature of RF transmission energy requires (by law) regulation. In
the USA this is done (by a law of Congress) through the FCC for
civil radio. The FCC grants amateur radio licenses (not the
"amateur community"). An FCC-granted amateur radio license is
not an academic accreditation, not a diploma, not a certificate of
some excellence in radio. A license is just a regulatory tool.

You are wrapping yourself in imaginary glory by winding that
license around your personna, falsely puffing up patriotism of
a federal license as somehow enobling yourself. You are not
"better than non-licensees" for having an amateur license, you are
simply authorized by the federal government to transmit certain
RF energy at certain frequencies using certain modes and
modulations all given in federal regulations.

You WANT (desperately) to be "better than others" for having that
federal authorization and become enraged when others do not
respect your glorious and noble achievement...forgetting that your
other actions as a human being are deplorable, even despicable.

Anyone venturing into this newsgroup is as open and vulnerable to
opinion attack as any other. There is no Special Dispensation for
the supposed magics of a high license. You cannot negate
opposite opinions by using a lot of false insults, acting the outraged
bigoted bully, all in insulting the person rather than the subject.

Opposite opinions exist. They do not go away. Physical force
and coercion will not stop them. They are not "lies" no matter how
many times you call opposite opinions for "lies." In order to remove
the self-applied-through-response despicability, you must try to
concentrate on the subject, not the person making the opinion
statements.

My opinion is that none of the above will have any effect on Stebe.
He will continue to vent rage and fury on certain individuals because
that is the only tactic available to bullies. But, it needs to be said
once in a while... :-)

LHA / WMD

In article ,
(William) writes:

(Steve Robeson, K4CAP) wrote in message
.com...
(Steve Robeson, K4CAP) wrote in message
. com...

those who praticipate in it.

Ooooops. Made a new word!

Steve

Looks like you've been attending "Anger Management."

Only one class. After a few minutes the therapist gave up in
disgust.

:-)

LHA / WMD

"William" wrote:

Looks like you've been attending
"Anger Management."


I went to an anger management class once - the class just made me angry.


Dwight Stewart (W5NET)

http://www.qsl.net/w5net/

"Scott" wrote in message ...
Hi folks.

Please allow me to give a "newbies" view on the current state of amateur
radio, and also ask a few questions.

I recently took my Technicians License exam and passed with a perfect score.
(I bring up the score just to indicate that I studied hard, and took the
exam seriously). I am now studying to take the 5wpm mores code test. I have
not yet purchased a radio, or even been "on the air". More on this is a
moment.

I have also joined a local radio club, whose first meeting I attended last
night. This club owns and maintains the local 2m repeater, and even though
it is an open repeater, if nothing else, I feel as though by joining, I am
helping to support a service which I plan on eventually using.

But what disappoints me is the fact that I left this meeting knowing
absolutely no more than I did when I walked into the door. I had been led to
believe that one of the best ways for a new guy just becoming involved in
this hobby to get practical advice on things like your first purchase of
equipment, which bands are best for what, and the different applications of
amateur radio, was to join a club. Well, unfortunately, the majority of the
meeting I attended was, in my opinion, controlled by a group of 7 or 8 ham
"veterans" trying to impress one another with their technical knowledge.

So, I guess what I would like to do here is give my views on what I have
seen so far, and invite anyone who is more informed on these matters to
correct me.

1) The Amateur Radio Service is not an essential element in our society.
Even in times of emergency, there is nothing you can do with a ham radio
that you can't do with an internet connection, fax machine, land line
telephone, or cell phone in similar circumstances. Ham Radio is a hobby, and
like golf, gardening, bird watching, or any other hobby, it could cease to
exist tomorrow, and nothing would really change.

2) To me, the most appealing aspect to Ham Radio is the gaining of
knowledge. Learning the "in's and out's" of all that encompasses Ham Radio o
peration is the true fun, whether it is dx'ing, satellite, CW or whatever.
But, like building a boat in a bottle, or even doing a crossword puzzle, the
satisfaction comes in the steps taken to accomplish the task, not the end
result itself.

3) From all accounts that I have heard, the number of new Amateur licenses
issued has been declining for years. This would tell me that the best way to
save the hobby was to open new Hams with open arms, instead of clinging
white-knuckled to the past (packet radio, morse code etc.) look to the
future, and make it fun.

Thanks for letting me rant folks. Now for some questions.

1) Can anyone point me towards any resources to assist someone brand new to
the hobby? (Stuff like recommendations on the type of equipment to get for
the first time buyer)?

2) Also, any sources to purchase used equipment. I think I would rather buy
more functional used stuff, than new equipment that has less "bells and
whistles".

3) One more thing...I am looking for information on antennas that is geared
to the novice.

Thanks folks.


I am newer than you, but I do have a rig set up, and ready to go when
my callsign is granted. What I've learned so far:


1.) Make sure you have what you'll need. If you don't operate from a
car, and you want a mobile rig, make sure you've bought your 13.8V DC
Power supply. I used up every penny getting this bugger ready to go,
and I found I needed the following:

2M Mobile Radio (I got an Icom v8000)
Diamond X-50 2M Antenna
50' 52-Guage Coax
A pair of "banana plugs"
A pair of 50 ohm Coax plugs
A soldering Iron
Solder
A mono-stereo 8 Ohm converter (for earphones) I am very hearing
impaired. I have only 20% hearing in my left ear, 25% in my right
Both ears is good. (As far as listening goes)
Coax crimper
Wire cutter/stripper


Make sure you'll know EVERYTHING you'll need. I spent $150.00 more
than I thought I'd have to getting started. Total price tag for me
was $400.00. YMMV.

2.) You'll pretty much have to get on the air and ask, but ask
PREPARED TO UNDERSTAND! KNOW what it is you want to know, and go from
there. Nothing irritates ANYONE more than someone randomly asking
unrelated questions, and not grasping what's being told to them. If
you're transmitting with hum or static, they'll let you know. I don't
speak from personal experience, but by listening to the 2M repeater.

3.) Have fun, be polite, and follow the rules of transmission and
you'll learn sooner rather than later whether or not you want to move
forward in this hobby.

My ultra-newbie two cents worth.

With all respects,

73

DJM

"Daniel J. Morlan" wrote


I am newer than you, but I do have a rig set up, and ready to go when
my callsign is granted. What I've learned so far:


I absolutely LOVE it!!!! Dan is still waiting on his callsign, but he's
already being an Elmer!

Welcome aboard Dan. You are a breath of fresh air around here.

73, de Hans, K0HB