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There are more than 750,000 licensed Amateur Radio operators in the U.S. and the number is growing every day.
The term "Ham Radio" is over 100 years old. It dates back to when radio and telegraph communication was by Morse Code. Since then many techniques have evolved that eliminated the need for Morse Code, but some Ham radio operators still use it because it's efficient and challenging.
Technologies used today include simple, inexpensive handheld two way radios, digital based systems using microcontrollers, small simple to large complex antennas and even antique radios using vacuum tubes.
Some Hams participate in radio contests where operators try to contact other Hams with a variety of rules and restrictions to keep it fun.
Other Hams experiment with cutting edge technology or experimental antenna design.
The most rapidly growing segment is referred to as digital mode. Originally, digital modes were mechanical systems used to send telegraph type signals. With the introduction of inexpensive microprocessors, digital modes allow sending and receiving radio signals by bouncing them off the moon or even meteor trails. Some operate at very low power - it's not unusual to see confirmed reports of signals being received at distances over 4,000 miles using 5 watt of power - about the same power as most nightlights.
Some Hams support local events like marathons, bicycle tours or fundraising events. Using handheld transceivers and rapid deploy control stations, they provide extra eyes and ears for fire/police/ambulance services during an event.
It's common to question the need for Amateur Radio when cell phones and the internet are widespread and easily available. Amateur radio operators around the world provide emergency communications when cell phones don't work or the internet isn't available.
The Schaumburg Amateur Radio Club has been around since the mid 1970's. Its main strength is being a very active club, in addition to running two repeaters on the 2m and 70 cm bands, we try to schedule club activities that get our members doing something, as opposed to talking about things. We prefer to be on the air, building equipment, participating in public service events, searching for hidden transmitters, working contests, or holding licensing classes. Club members can help you to get more active in whatever facet of ham radio you enjoy most, and you do not have to learn Morse Code. If you are new to ham radio, or just thinking about getting your first license, we can help you get started, and expose you to the widest variety of operating modes, giving you a chance to see for yourself what your personal favorites are.
In ten two-hour classes, you'll learn everything you need to successfully pass your Federal Communication Commission Technician Class Amateur Radio License test. This course is offered at no charge. (There is a nominal charge to process the test and the FCC has a nominal charge to apply for a license).
We'll be using the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) ARRL Ham Radio License Manual 5th Edition as a study guide. The libraries may have copies available for check out, but students are encouraged to get their own copy from the ARRL (arrl.org), book stores or on line vendors.
The class will be held at the Hoffman Estates Branch of Schaumburg Township District Library.
Hoffman Estates Branch
1550 Hassell Road
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
(847) 885-3511
Saturdays 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, September 10, 2022, through November 12, 2022
T
o register: https://schaumburg.libnet.info/events?a=Adults
Or contact the Schaumburg Amateur Radio Club at http://www.n9rjv.org
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