Cheap
 

What is a cheap way to get started in Ham Radio. Studying for my license.

Learn the code. There are numerous transceivers out there for under
$100 using code. Some probably under $50. Of course if you get the
tech license you can get a good two meter radio also, used, for about $100.

Jennie wrote:

What is a cheap way to get started in Ham Radio. Studying for my license.

"Jennie" wrote in message
...
| What is a cheap way to get started in Ham Radio. Studying for my license.

Learn Morse code and build a QRP transceiver from a kit.

Guaranteed fun for less than $100!

73,

--
Steve Lawrence
KAØPMD
Burnsville, Minnesota

"If a man wants his dreams to come true then he must wake up."
- Anonymous


---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.775 / Virus Database: 522 - Release Date: 10/8/04

check the ARRL online listing of clubs for local ham clubs and contact
them. Many clubs have their own station (sometimes mobile emergency ones
as well), and in any case, you can get a chance to work and operate their
club station, even before you get your license (with a licensed ham acting
as the control operator). They can also help you get your license quickly

There is a non-trivial chance you can score a "loaner" radio from one of
the club members until you decide what kind of radio and operations you
want to pursue. You will also get help with starting out issues like
setting up antennas etc.

Another excellent program is the new ARRL Mentoring program called
Mentorfest - we have one locally next weekend see description at
http://www.ntxinfo.org/mentorfest/

As noted, there are lots of terrific buys in ham radio equipment out there
(e.g., we just picked up a dual band 2m/70cm Handi-talkie + battery/mike..
for $75 etc.). Check the online reviews, ARRL Equipment Buyers Guide and
QST review articles for technical details, and keep in mind that if you
don't like it, you can always resell it for little lost $ ;-)

good luck!

bob monaghan
(W5YF SMU ARC)
--
************************************************** *********************
* Robert Monaghan POB 752182 Southern Methodist Univ. Dallas Tx 75275 *
********************Standard Disclaimers Apply*************************

Here is info on a very small and cheap radio called the Tuna Tin 2. It
operates on 1/2 watt and one fellow has worked ALL states on 40 meters
with that 1/2 watt of power. That's on CW. I was on the W.Va. line
and worked a fellow in Norfolk, Va. He was running .75 watt and was on
SSB / voice! Not sure the mileage but it was probably over 200 miles
all the way across the state of VA.

http://www.arrl.org/tis/info/pdf/0003037.pdf

and here's how to build it:

http://www.arrl.org/tis/info/pdf/7605014.pdf

Some overlap of the two pages. It'll be fun to read about if you never
wish to build it.

==========

Jennie wrote:

What is a cheap way to get started in Ham Radio. Studying for my license.