WrightwoodCalif.com Forum

Public Forums => Radio Talk => Topic started by: clint on Oct 04, 05, 11:53:12 PM

Title: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Oct 04, 05, 11:53:12 PM
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Toolman on Nov 07, 05, 02:16:27 AM
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Nov 07, 05, 10:18:51 PM
Toolman,

I'm KB6CLA. What's your call?

73s
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: RennMan on Nov 08, 05, 01:56:32 PM
Putting my 2 cents in here, I was part of the first class that Clint taught earlier this year.  It was informative, and fun, and Clint is a wonderful teacher/sensei.

I've got my radios here in Kansas, but the repeaters are quite a bit quieter, and while I've been able to listen, I haven't been able to trip the machine, for some reason.  Still working on that one.

73's
Matt - KG6ZET
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Toolman on Nov 08, 05, 11:03:40 PM
Toolman,

I'm KB6CLA. What's your call?

73s


 Hi Clint,
My call is WB6K and my wife's call is N7VFK

I can can get into the Table Mtn. repeater from the house in Hawthorne. I've been monitoring lately while in the shop in the evenings. Give it a try maybe I'll be able to hear the radio over my machining.

73,
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: RobertW on Nov 09, 05, 07:46:53 AM
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Nov 09, 05, 05:32:52 PM
Hey watch it you guys. Praising me on the forum can bring you enmity. But thank you.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Wildman on Nov 09, 05, 06:02:32 PM
A HAM radio class will be starting up soon.
clint@wrightwoodfsc.com

I, too, took Clint's class and it was wonderful.  The combination of good texts...a great powerpoint presentation...Clint's humor and an online test study system make getting your HAM license fairly straight forward.  He makes it fun.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: SNOW on Nov 12, 05, 10:48:09 PM
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Nov 13, 05, 03:06:58 PM
It will be January! There is now some bargaining over day and time. The current best choice is Sunday Afternoon 12:30 to 4:30
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Nov 14, 05, 08:03:43 PM
This is starting to look real. Getting acceptable response to Sunday Afternoons. Will probably do consecutive Sundays instead of alternating to get it accomplished quicker.

As a very tentative schedule it's looking like a start on January 15, then 1/22 - 1/29 - 2/5 and a test on 2/12 if testers are available.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Wrightwood on Dec 09, 05, 12:11:41 AM
It's still not too late.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Dec 27, 05, 07:58:58 PM
OK, It's time to get a firm head count and establish and e mail list.
We have to get books ordered!
So please send me an e mail as a confirmation and I need checks for books.

Confirm your registartion to clint@wrightwoodfsc.com
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Chesslike on Dec 27, 05, 08:12:29 PM
Do you want checks or cash?
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Dec 28, 05, 04:29:58 PM
Checks or cash with three forms of ID and a DNA swab.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Chesslike on Dec 28, 05, 04:33:06 PM
Checks or cash with three forms of ID and a DNA swab.

Alright then, who do I make the check out to and when is it due? ;D
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: artology on Dec 28, 05, 05:40:15 PM
While you're making out checks Bob, I could use a little cash. I'm not as picky about ID as Clint. ;D
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Chesslike on Dec 28, 05, 06:55:11 PM
While you're making out checks Bob, I could use a little cash. I'm not as picky about ID as Clint. ;D

Hey Arty, no problem, I put the check in the mail for you. ;)
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Dec 28, 05, 10:03:46 PM
It will be to Jack Smith and let us get a head count and get books ordered and then I will tell you the firm amount. I think it will be $31.00.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Nolena on Dec 29, 05, 12:16:37 AM
While you're making out checks Bob, I could use a little cash. I'm not as picky about ID as Clint. ;D

Hey Arty, no problem, I put the check in the mail for you. ;)

O. K. As long as you're handing them out, I'd like one, also. Can you include a transportation subsidy (approximately $342) for me for all of the class sessions?
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Dec 29, 05, 12:57:29 AM
OK Nolena, your first assignment for class is to find out exactly which frequencies are blocked and which are enhanced, by an aluminum foil hat. :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Nolena on Dec 29, 05, 01:25:53 AM
Sorry. Can't hear you because of the hat.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: liz on Jan 01, 06, 01:18:08 AM
What does it cost to get licensed? You do have to get a license, don't you? I think maybe my husband and I would be interested, but he will be gone on the 15th? Would that matter? I would probably be late on the 15th also as I have a meeting to go to first.
Thanks,
Liz
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Wrightwood on Jan 01, 06, 02:00:31 AM
Liz,
There is no cost for the class itself.
The books needed for the class run $30 and could be shared by a couple if the budget was real tight.

The cost to take the test was something like $15 per person.

As far as missing a class and being late for one I personally think it would work for someone that was really interested, but I'll let Clint be the final judge as he's the instructor.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Nolena on Jan 01, 06, 07:19:36 AM
Clint,
Got dates finalized?
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: artology on Jan 02, 06, 05:00:41 PM
The dates have been finalized. See the forum calendar. :)
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Jan 03, 06, 12:13:19 AM
If you are interested and motivated enough to study on your own, which you have to do anyway, you could probably miss the first class as it is mostly introduction and rules. But missing subsequent classes would make it tough. If you would like to see what the test material is like, give this a try.

http://www.qrz.com/p/testing.pl (http://www.qrz.com/p/testing.pl)

Try the technician tests

Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Hillbillies on Jan 03, 06, 12:53:18 AM
Sorry, but I am a little confused reading through this.  Do you provide the FCC Technician Class test at the end of the classes?  Or do the students take it later on their own?
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Wrightwood on Jan 03, 06, 01:32:01 AM
After all class session are complete, Clint has arranged one additional session, in Wrightwood, where the test is given by approved examiners. You'll know that day if you passed the test and your official license (ticket) arrives by US Mail a few weeks later.

Sorry, but I am a little confused reading through this.  Do you provide the FCC Technician Class test at the end of the classes?  Or do the students take it later on their own?
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Nick on Jan 03, 06, 01:33:13 AM
What if I say I just passed this test?

If you are interested and motivated enough to study on your own, which you have to do anyway, you could probably miss the first class as it is mostly introduction and rules. But missing subsequent classes would make it tough. If you would like to see what the test material is like, give this a try.

http://www.qrz.com/p/testing.pl (http://www.qrz.com/p/testing.pl)

Try the technician tests


Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Wrightwood on Jan 03, 06, 01:36:49 AM
That's great but that won't happen every time until you practice.

When you can consistently take the test and get 80's you're ready for the real thing.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Hillbillies on Jan 03, 06, 01:47:51 AM
This is cool. 

I have looked into HAM and some of the equipment looks a little pricey.  What type of (dollar figure) investment would it take for a novice newby who has the Technician Classification.  I understand there are hand held units.  Is that a cheaper route?

Also, if we did have a major disaster, who do HAM operators communicate with besides other HAM operators?  Fire, Police, Red Cross.......?
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Wrightwood on Jan 03, 06, 02:03:01 AM
A hand held (HT) is not expensive and runs less than $150.

Hams do not generally communicate directly with agencies.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Jan 04, 06, 03:53:55 PM
Looks like the Amateur Radio Workshop is on track. I have enough confirmations now to go forward, and if all those who have expressed interest actually commit, it will be a pretty full room. Start taking those practice tests!
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Jan 05, 06, 08:50:41 PM
Thank you to all who have signed up and got back to me in time to order books.

The book order goes in today.

I am putting together an an e-mail list for the class and I will send everyone info on class location soon.
We have ten workshop members. Great response!
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: ChattyCathy on Jan 06, 06, 12:10:00 AM
I had my license -- but I'm not sure if it's still good.  How do I find out?  My ex took all the ham radios -- but both my kids got their licenses when they were young teens.  My call sign is (was) KF6EVA
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Jan 06, 06, 01:08:36 AM
It still IS KF6EVA!
Are you living here, or in Yoba Linda? You need to update your license right away so you can renew in June. You are good until June 29th of this year! So don't let it lapse. The FCC no longer sends out reminders.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: ChattyCathy on Jan 06, 06, 02:11:45 AM
I'm in WW now - and with all the changes of address I had to submit, this is one that never dawned on me.  Do you know of an address I can send it to?  I'll see if I can dig up my license.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: KWBoy on Jan 06, 06, 02:24:48 AM
http://www.qrz.com/detail/KF6EVA
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Jan 06, 06, 03:53:41 AM
No. If you use that site they charge you $8.00.

You need an FCC form 610. It's free to update directly.

Cathy, would you like to attend the class and just get refreshed. Some things have changed in ten years and we really focus on understanding  how it all works, not just studying the test material.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Jan 15, 06, 05:00:36 AM
Class starts tomorrow! WooHoo! No snow. No excuses. No whining.
Please be on time.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: ChattyCathy on Jan 16, 06, 10:48:15 AM
How did the class go? 

I considered going as a refresher, but I had too much work. (I'm self-employed - when I have the work I've got to do it ASAP)

As to the test, I passed it the first time (after taking a class) - and believe me, I have absolutely no grasp of anything technical!
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Jan 16, 06, 08:01:17 PM
Cathy,

From the facilitator/instructor side of the room it went well. One missing student so I have to follow up with him. There are a couple of empty chairs so if you want to come and sit in on future classes to brush up that would be great. Yesterday was mainly overview and rules and regs. Only a little technical and practicum. My class stesses actually knowing what to do with the lisence, not just passing the test. So I'm sure you would benefit from it.




Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: ChattyCathy on Jan 16, 06, 08:33:29 PM
When is the next class?  When I took the class ten years ago, it was only technical info - more information about antennas than I cared to know!  I basically memorized the info for the test and promptly forgot it.  When I actually got my radio, I didn't even know how to turn it on.  My ex was involved in it, so we used ham radios rather than cell phones (which were in their infancy back then and cost almost $1 a minute to talk on the cell phone).  Both my kids got their licenses - my daughter was about 11 or 12 years old and passed the test!  She would go out on -- are they T-hunts? with her dad.  My ex belonged to RACES in Orange County, and he participated in the contests to see who could make the furthest contact.  I kind of just went along with it, but I certainly understand how important they are in an emergency situation when there will be no cell phone signal.  I think we still have two radios around here - not unpacked yet.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Jan 16, 06, 10:44:10 PM
We actually spent some time on how to operate radios yesterday. I stress that.
You can check the community calendar for the class schedule.
Classes are the next three Sunday's 12:30 to 4:30
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Nolena on Jan 17, 06, 03:53:40 AM
Maybe the room could be ventilated a little better to help with that distracting gas problem.
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: KW on Jan 17, 06, 04:31:55 AM
Oh let me guess, you brought the popular remote control fart machine.... ChattyCathy, do you really want to go? Yikes!
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Nolena on Jan 17, 06, 05:02:23 AM
I didn't bring it! This was someone else!
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: clint on Jan 17, 06, 07:00:02 PM
Now wait just a minute! You did in fact bring a fart machine!

You carry it in your purse with you? How weird is that?

Granted it was not yours that went off. But you thought it was.

Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: Surfer_Dude on May 31, 07, 03:01:53 PM
Where can you take the test?
Title: Re: Amateur (HAM) Radio class to start soon
Post by: rdnckgrl78 on May 31, 07, 03:34:56 PM
http://www.arrl.org/arrlvec/examsearch.phtml?State=CA