Author Topic: Online Technician Classes (Read 41764 times)

BikingBrian · « **on:** Mar 16, 12, 10:16:24 AM »

I know nothing's better than going to an actual in person class. But with work, young kids, and other commitments, that's not an attractive option.

So I'm wondering if there's any recommended online classes. I have an engineering background and got 65% taking an online practice test cold, since I could figure out the answers to the general electrical type questions. I know I could "study to the test" just to get a passing score, but I want to learn something useful on the way. Any suggestions?

BTW, I'm just looking to be able to use the low budget Wouxun 2m and 440 handheld I just picked up - at least at this point in time.

Tibia · « **Reply #1 on:** Mar 17, 12, 01:55:02 AM »

While there are multiple on-line study sites, another approach may be the combination of a written study guide and a on-line exam study. Gordon West's study guides are some of the best there are. HamTestOnline does a great job of testing your knowledge as well as helping with any weak spots.

Looks like you talked to Ed

Bob

Tomas · « **Reply #2 on:** Mar 17, 12, 09:58:22 AM »

I concur, with your background, the study guide and practice tests will be a good combo. Since you already have a radio, you should turn it on and listen. Listening to some of the organized nets will give you a good idea on etiquette.

BikingBrian · « **Reply #3 on:** Mar 17, 12, 09:36:51 PM »

Thanks for the tips!

Toolman · « **Reply #4 on:** Mar 18, 12, 08:45:02 AM »

Good on ya Brian

I was halfway through the tech book when I stopped in at the TRW swap-meet. I found a used Yaesu HT and bought it. I think the Gorden West book was only 8 or 9 bucks at the time so I didn't have much $$ invested. Now you HAVE to pass the test because you have the doh invested in the radio. Same thing before I went on to HF privileges, I bought a brand new Kenwood TS 850 before I even had a General license. I worked my butt off to pass the 20wpm and theory to reach extra. At that time we had Novice, Tech, Tech +, General, Advanced, then finally Extra.

I only knew red was positive and black was negative at the time, so you have most of it nailed.

Good luck !

BikingBrian · « **Reply #5 on:** Mar 21, 12, 11:24:32 PM »

Thanks, I was at Fry's last night, saw the Gordon West technician book and just had to pick it up. I've only thumbed through it so far, but it seems like a great guide.

To my surprise, I was able to listen in on the Keller 2 meter repeater in WW and down the hill in Anaheim. But I can't hear it from my house in Orange, maybe the hills south of the 91 between Anaheim Hills and Corona are getting in the way. Or maybe I just need a rooftop antenna, I work from home now so I can put it up while my wife is at work.

Toolman · « **Reply #6 on:** Mar 22, 12, 07:56:42 AM »

I work from home now so I can put it up while my wife is at work.

You know the old saying... well never mind, I better not say it.

Better water that first roof mounted antenna, they multipley pretty fast. All they need is a bunch of RF input and a little water, then BAM next thing you know there's another one.

The GW study guides got me through all my tests. He's a pretty funny guy in person.

If my hunch is correct, you'll be making many trips to the HRO in Anaheim.

Tibia · « **Reply #7 on:** Mar 22, 12, 08:56:14 PM »

BikingBrian... Looking forward to a QSO with you.

Gotta agree with Toolman... "then BAM next thing you know there's another one." LOL
Won't be long before BikingBrian's signature will include "see you on 40"...

Bob

BikingBrian · « **Reply #8 on:** Apr 02, 12, 11:28:46 PM »

Thought you'd be interested in this, with a J-Pole I can hear traffic 50 miles away on the Keller Repeater, even though I don't have perfect line of sight.

http://www.bikingbrian.com/2012/04/02/new-antenna-mounting/

Toolman · « **Reply #9 on:** Apr 03, 12, 09:35:06 AM »

Now just add water

Scroll to the bottom to see my rotor and antenna changes on the HF tower.
http://www.wrightwoodcalif.com/forum/index.php/topic,13328.0.html

Tower two was completed the following week.... don't have pictures yet.

spellbinder · « **Reply #10 on:** Apr 13, 12, 10:41:51 PM »

Brian,

If the hills are in the way you can always add ECHOLINK to your laptop or home computer and sign in to KE6TZG which is the Keller Peak repeater.

I know its not REAL ham radio when you don't have a radio, but it works...I have used it from Oakland, San Francisco, Oregon....works well as long as Echolink is up and running on the repeater. It is a free program, just download it and sign up with your call sign and wait a day or two for your confirmation email and your set!

Of course, if you don't have a call sign yet you cant use this option yet.....

Scott
KI6CXD

BikingBrian · « **Reply #11 on:** Apr 13, 12, 10:45:22 PM »

Been thinking about the Echolink option, but a "real" radio would be nice. Taking the test Monday night, wish me luck!

Toolman · « **Reply #12 on:** Apr 14, 12, 07:00:11 AM »

Good luck !

I may have a spare 2mtr. mobile but need to look.

spellbinder · « **Reply #13 on:** Apr 15, 12, 07:01:19 PM »

Good Luck!!

Be sure to post your new call sign when you get it....we know you will pass...

Tibia · « **Reply #14 on:** Apr 15, 12, 07:53:37 PM »

Brian,

I've got most all appendages crossed in wishing you good luck,
even if we all know you will do well.

Once your new callsign is posted, tuned to our repeater (W6CPD) on 147.225, - shift, 156.7 tone any Sunday evening at 8pm for our weekly net.

Bob
W6AJO

BikingBrian · « **Reply #15 on:** Apr 16, 12, 08:40:22 PM »

It wasn't pretty, but I passed! But I'll be traveling on business by the time I get the call sign. Though I wonder if my HT will work in my boss' private jet?

Wrightwood · « **Reply #16 on:** Apr 16, 12, 09:00:27 PM »

Congratulations Brian!

Tibia · « **Reply #17 on:** Apr 16, 12, 11:18:27 PM »

Great Job Brian ! Congratulations !

Bob

Toolman · « **Reply #18 on:** Apr 20, 12, 12:33:04 PM »

Quote from: BikingBrian on Apr 16, 12, 08:40:22 PM

Though I wonder if my HT will work in my boss' private jet?

Actually it will work VERY well, you should take a repeater book with you and give it a try.

I knew you could do it.

BikingBrian · « **Reply #19 on:** Apr 20, 12, 02:50:38 PM »

Now I just need to find a repeater book. My local Fry's was out of them. Do bookstores like Barnes and Noble carry them?

Author Topic: Online Technician Classes (Read 41764 times)

Tomas