Amateur Radio
A Brief History Of Ham Radio
Amateur Radio has a rich history dating back over 100 years. It originated in the early 20th century with the development of wireless telegraphy technology by pioneers such as Guglielmo Marconi and Nikola Tesla. Amateur Radio was initially used primarily for experimental purposes but quickly became popular among hobbyists interested in communicating via radio waves. In the United States, the first Amateur Radio license was issued in 1912, and since then, millions of people around the world have become licensed Ham Radio operators.
Today, Ham Radio remains a popular hobby enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. It provides a means of emergency communication during disasters when traditional forms of communication may be unavailable or unreliable. Ham Radio also offers opportunities for experimentation with new technologies and techniques related to wireless communications. Additionally, it allows for social interaction among like-minded individuals who share an interest in this unique form of communication technology.
Ham Radio, also known as Amateur Radio, is a form of communication that allows for two-way radio communication between individuals using designated radio frequencies. Ham Radio operators are licensed by their respective countries’ regulatory agencies and must pass an examination to demonstrate their knowledge of relevant rules and regulations. The term “ham” originally referred to amateur radio operators who were considered to be inexperienced or unskilled in comparison to professional radio operators.
World War II And Beyond
During World War II, ham radio operators played a critical role in communications. Many of these amateur radio enthusiasts were recruited by military and government agencies to provide communication links during the war effort. These operators were able to communicate with other hams around the world by using shortwave frequencies that could travel long distances.
After the war ended, many of these ham radio operators found themselves with surplus equipment and a newfound passion for communication. They formed clubs and organizations dedicated to advancing the hobby, sharing knowledge and experiences, and promoting goodwill among nations through international contacts.
In the decades since World War II, ham radio has continued to evolve with advancements in technology. Today’s amateur radio community includes thousands of enthusiasts worldwide who use everything from traditional analog radios to cutting-edge digital modes and satellite-based communications. Despite all these changes, however, hams still share a deep respect for history and tradition that honors those who came before them.
Our DL (Directional Location Team) Team
John McCall
Investigator
KO4RDV
Desmond Jolly
Investigator
KO4UGO
Phil Cook
Investigator
W4TMS
Lee Marion
Investigator
W8CGQ
Marty Sumner
Team Leader / Investigator
AG4VN
Ken Ettlemyer
Investigator
K2KGE
Patrick Hudson
Investigator
KQ4RVR
Antenna Team
A TEAM
Phil AC4Q
Team Leader
Antenna Technician
Marty AG4VN
Antenna Technician
Lee W8CGQ
Antenna Technician
About GMRS
Overview
The General Mobile Radio Service, or GMRS, is a personal two-way radio service created by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States. Transmitting on GMRS frequencies requires a license from the FCC, however no knowledge test is required to obtain a license. A license covers you and your immediate family members and is valid for 10 years. Currently, the fee is $35 for the 10-year term, which is only $3.50 per year!
License
A license from the FCC is required to transmit on GMRS frequencies. There is no knowledge test to obtain the license, simply pay the required fee and a callsign will be issued to you. A license covers you as well as your immediate family members (i.e. spouse, children, parents, grandparents, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, and in-laws).
Cost
A GMRS license is valid for 10 years and costs $35, or only $3.50 per year. When you consider that this covers your immediate family as well, this makes GMRS an economical way to stay in touch with your family.
GMRS Rules
The FCC has developed a set of rules that govern the Personal Radio Services, which includes FRS, GMRS, MURS, and CB Radio to name a few. These rules fall under Part 95 of Title 47, Chapter 1, Subchapter D of the Code of Federal Regulations. Part 95 is further broken up into Subparts A - M. Subpart A covers all of the Personal Radio Services, whereas Subpart E covers GMRS specifically.
These rules must be followed at all times in order to make GMRS a safe and friendly environment, and to prevent harmful interference to other stations.
Our Next
Exam Session
FRN Numbers are required
Sept 14, 2024
10:00am
Love Springs Baptist Church
562 Sunny Slope Dr
Cowpens, SC 29330