|
|
Introduction to Ham Radios
Home » Gadgets » Ham Radios » Introduction to Ham RadiosA ham radio is basically a walkie-talkie with worldwide range. The three million ham radio operators around the world (675,000 of which are in the United States) use their radios to communicate with people down the street, across the country, around the world, and even in space. Contrary to what is depicted in the movie Frequency, however, you can’t use a ham radio to communicate with people from other times.
Still, hamming offers many significant benefits. Like children with walkie-talkies, most ham radio operators use their radios simply as a hobby, enjoying the thrill of communicating with someone on the other side of the world. Ham radio operators (often called simply “hams”) form a tight-knit community, so if you can use a ham radio, you’re part of their select club.
In addition, however, ham radios provide educational and emergency services. You will learn about the mechanics of radio and electronics through your ham radio, and you may be able to communicate when all other forms of communication fail. Many ham radio operators have thus provided a great service during natural disasters and other emergencies.
Amateur radio first appeared in the early twentieth century, along with the invention of regular radios. In those early days, radio operators used Morse Code to communicate. The government suspended ham radio use during both world wars, but operators picked right back up where they left off. Today, people communicate via Morse Code and voice, but they also communicate television images and so-called packet radio, and they even make contact using ham satellites.
Related Ham Radios Articles
- Introduction to Ham Radios
- Getting Started with Ham Radios
- Using a Ham Radio
- What are the differences between ham radios and other radios?
- How does a ham radio work?