You’ll find some resources on this page that may be useful to you as you decide how you want to get started with your new license. We’ve listed resources that will help you explore different areas of interest and answer common questions new hams have.
Choosing A Ham Radio: Your Guide to Selecting the Right Equipment.
Among new hams, by far the most frequently asked question is, “What radio should I buy?” Whether you’re new to ham radio, or getting involved again after a respite, this guide will help you figure out what equipment would be most suitable by guiding you through the relevant considerations for the type of operating you plan to do.
Ham Ways – A Primer
This is an introduction to ham radio operating practices for the new ham familiar with using public agency or commercial radio systems. For example, fire departments, school districts, community volunteer teams, or business radio users operate differently than hams do, even though the radios are very similar. Understanding some of the key differences will help you understand the features and terms associated with your radio and to feel more at ease when communicating with other hams.
Antennas
Among new hams, second only to, “Which radio should I buy?” is the question, “Which antenna is best?”
Propagation
A good knowledge and understanding of radio signal propagation is one of the most important tools any radio amateur can have. Here are some resources that will help you explore that fascinating subject.
Affiliated Club search
Find an amateur radio club in your local area. Connect with local hams for ham radio activities and to learn from radio amateurs who have a variety of amateur radio interests.
QST Product Reviews
ARRL’s Lab is known for its thorough and dependable reviews of amateur radio equipment. As you are considering purchases you will want to check out any product reviews for relevant information that may influence your decisions. Our online archive of product reviews is available to ARRL Members to search and download past reviews. Non-members may purchase reprints of specific reviews.
Our technicians can direct you to information to help you overcome technical hurdles or answer questions to help you get started. This service is available to ARRL Members.
Find out what’s going on in amateur radio cyberspace.
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