Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Voice Operation
Check frequencies. Each band offers different communication possibilities depending on atmospheric conditions and time of day.
Make certain you are within proper frequency allocation permitted by your license.
Tune band to find a clear frequency.
Tune transmitter into dummy load.
Monitor frequency for a short period to make certain you will not interfere with another conversation.
Begin your first transmission by asking if frequency is clear.
Call CQ.
Monitor transmitter and antenna performance while transmitting.
Exchange routine information with your contact.
Speak naturally but relatively slowly and distinctly.
Make your transmissions relatively short to assure continuous contact.
Allow appreciable pause when turning over transmission to other party so that other parties on frequencies might have a chance to join in conversation.
Remember to identify your station with your license call letters every 10 minutes or sooner.
Sign off smartly when the conversation is over. Don't draw out your goodbyes.
Morse Code Operation
Check different frequencies, but remember that Morse code allows operation under crowded and weak signal conditions unsuitable for voice operation.
Be sure you're within a band frequency appropriate to your license.
Find a clear spot.
Tune transmitter into dummy load.
Call CQ or answer another ham's CQ.
Monitor transmitter performance.
Apply receiver filtering, if necessary.
Exchange basic information in first transmission, including signal report, name and location.
Send at a rate that you are capable of receiving, not faster than you can receive.
Use full break-in operation, if possible, to allow the other ham to interrupt you if conditions change.
Make transmissions short and to the point.
Don't be afraid to carry on a general, "get to know you" conversation.