If you were to ask, most people would probably say they know little or nothing at all about Amateur Radio (Ham Radio)

I became an Amateur Radio operator in 1989 (originally licensed as KB7JBY) and upgraded my license immediately (my new license was then N7OUQ). Just recently I opted for a vanity call and am now K9EDK (K9, or canine, Ed K). Being from Chicago, I didn’t think getting a “9” call would be all that inappropriate, even though I wasn’t licensed until after I had moved to Arizona.

Since becoming licensed, I have become heavily involved in emergency and public service communications. I participate in nearly every public service event in the area, and have considered volunteering elsewhere in the Southwest, but haven’t gone there yet.

Why is Ham Radio essential? http://www.spacetoday.org/k3rxk/EmergencyComms.html. I got this link from a friend, and it has some pretty interesting information on it, as well as some very interesting links. I liked it and decided to share it with you.

USER’S MANUALS & RADIO MODIFICATIONS

Have you lost or damaged your user’s manual? Do you need a service manual? Do you want another copy for the car or do you know someone who needs a copy? Most manufacturers offer the user manuals online. If you can’t find yours on the manufacturer’s website, try www.mods.dk. They not only have manuals, but radio modifications as well. Remember that modifying your radio means it is no longer type-accepted by the FCC, nor is it legal for you to operate outside of the Amateur Radio spectrum with a modified radio.

HAM RADIO-RELATED LINKS

MCECG – Maricopa County Emergency Communications Group

PCECG – Pinal County Emergency Communications Group

ARRL – Amateur Radio Relay League

ARA – Arizona Repeater Association

ARCA – Amateur Radio Council of Arizona

Ham Radio For Dummies Website

Alinco

AOR

Astron

Cushcraft

Diamond Antennas