Amateur Radio or Ham Radio’s hobby, as it is commonly called, offers an inexpensive, exciting way to stay in touch when your vehicle, boat, plane, or other means of communication gets interrupted. The whole point of the hobby is to make sure that there is a way for people to stay in touch and that the local emergency responders are up to date on current road conditions and area weather forecasts. You might be wondering if you need a license to get started, but you won’t need one if you are learning. You could get started from scratch with no equipment and no knowledge of the complex radio signals and bands and still feel like you were a part of the action. Below are seven great tips and tricks that will help you get started with operating Ham radio on a budget.
Millions of amateur operators in all areas of the world communicate with each other directly or through ad hoc relay systems and amateur-satellites. They exchange messages by voice, teleprinting, telegraphy, facsimile, and television. In areas where the FCC regulates the services, an amateur operator must have an FCC or Canadian license. FCC-issued Reciprocal Permit for Alien Amateur Licensee are no longer needed. Reciprocal operation in the U.S. is now authorized by Section 47 C.F.R. § 97.107.
Join an amateur radio club!
OK, let’s start with the bad news: Operating Ham radio on a budget is next to impossible. I know, I know. I hate to be the bearer of bad news. But there are ways you can cut corners and still operate, even if your bank account is in the red zone. Start by joining an amateur radio club. One of the best things about being a ham is the community. Click here to find a local amateur radio club near you. Many of these clubs offer test preparation classes that can significantly reduce the time and cost of getting your Amateur Radio License.
Choose quality equipment
The second tip for operating Ham radio on a budget is to buy the best equipment you can afford. If you are getting into Ham radio, it can be tempting to go for the cheapest equipment. However, this can be a false economy because less expensive equipment can break down quicker and need replacement sooner than better quality gear. By choosing quality equipment, you are likely to use it longer until you outgrow what you have.
Use what you already have. One of the easiest ways to save money when getting started with operating Ham radio is to use what you already have! Many people already have an old cell phone or iPad sitting around the house that they don’t use any more. This kind of tech is perfect for a basic setup, and in many cases, you can use it to get on the air without spending any additional money or time on purchasing or setting up a new one.
Learn How to Scavenge For Parts
If you’re looking to save a few bucks, there are a few places that you can look for parts and equipment that are being tossed out. One great way to get started with this is to check out your local Craigslist for any new or used parts or old radios and equipment that people are giving away.
Don’t Forget Your Antenna
Without a great antenna, you won’t be able to experience all that handheld cb radios have to offer. You can find some excellent antennas for relatively cheap but make sure you can fit them in your vessel.
Buy Used Radios
Buying radio equipment used can both save you money and be great for the environment. You can find radios that are gently used on forums like QRZ.com or eBay, as well as local classifieds. Buying from other amateur radio operators makes them more likely to support local repeaters or offer advice on choosing an antenna.
Get on a Budget Plan
Most local amateur radio clubs offer a budget plan for those looking to get their license and purchase gear. The German American Verein – Midwest Chapter (GAvM) in Chicago, Illinois, offers such a plan and is one of the only ham radio clubs that do so in Illinois.