"Bill Turner" wrote in message
...
ORIGINAL MESSAGE:

On Sat, 22 Jul 2006 13:41:23 -0400, Al Klein
wrote:

Reality is that ham radio is turning into a multi-band CB - just buy a
radio and get on the air without actually knowing how it works or how
to use it.

------------ REPLY SEPARATOR ------------

Much as it pains me, I have to admit the above is true. It is
happening because that's what the majority wants. Isn't democracy
wonderful?

Sigh.

Bill, W6WRT
Licensed since 1957, the good 'ol days
20 WPM Extra who dislikes CW and always will

I'll agree with this - to a point. While hams "could" go about their hobby
and be creative - making gadgets and so on to aid in their hobby or whatever
else to keep the "electronics" part of it alive, many don't. Many just do as
suggested, buy a radio and operate it - not doing another thing. Yes it can
be a bit of a pain to design a multi band or even single band
transmitter/receiver or transceiver - while they may not equal an off the
shelf unit such as a Icom 706 or whatever, it does add to the fun of
"Creating" and "Using" it. Yeah I know - like a car, who wants to build when
you can buy. But if you've not built from scratch - try it sometime.
I've built many items and enjoy using them. They've also saved me umpteen
hours of work to boot. I build only items I know I can get use of, not
something I'm going to waste money on buying parts, time and labor and other
materials - just to throw it in a drawer. IF you build something of use or
convenience, you will appreciate it and desire to do even more. THAT is one
way to carry out the Ham tradition EVEN IF you hate code and swear it off. I
had to know code also for passing exams. I AM an examiner. I'm not "in love"
with code, but then many are. To each their own. Radio is fairly diverse, it
allows you to find your niche.

Technology in itself has to carry some blame - not everyone can repair the
current type of equipment being sold. Not everyone has the tools and
necessary special soldering/desoldering equipment. Some of that can cost as
much as a radio - itself. So, I say if ya want to at least "try" to
participate in repairing your own, buy some older stuff, use it, repair it,
ENJOY it. Enjoy using it AND being able to keep it alive.

I guess to make a point short and to the point - if you like ham - try to
get as much out of the hobby as you can - after all - you took the time to
get a license and spent the money to get involved. IF you don't like ham -
maybe into CB, fine - learn what you need about antennas, coax, etc......
and get into your hobby that way. There IS something for everyone if they
just LOOK. A hoby, regardless of it's nature - is to be ENJOYED.

Lou/Ka3flu