Radio Merit Badge

[flybabyfly]

My son will be earning his Radio Merit Badge at Boy Scout camp, but there is one requirement that must be completed as a prerequisite.  He must visit a radio installation (an amateur radio station, broadcast station, or public communications center, for example).  He would need to learn what types of equipment are used, purpose of the equipment, what types of licenses are required, and the purpose of the station.  I assume this could be accomplished in an hour's visit.  Please send me a PM if you can help us out.

[tcaarabians]

Flybaby... I think there are a number of HAM operators in WW that can likely help you. If not.. I know someone here in P.H. that can likely help you. It just
depends on how the BS defines "amateur radio station." Or perhaps the Fire Dept here or the Sheriff's station as a public communications center.
They're always willing to help kids.  And, good for your son.. I say that as an Eagle Scout Mother.. cheryl o7o

[flybabyfly]

My interpretation is that a HAM operation would qualify. Any takers?

[RennMan]

He should contact his Radio Merit Badge counselor for information.  There are many Amateur (Ham) radio operators in the Tri-Community area.  If you are still having trouble with that requirement, he should contact the California Inland Empire Council in Redlands for a list of MB counselors.

The requirements state:
7. Visit a radio installation (an amateur radio station, broadcast station, or public communications center, for example) approved in advance by your counselor. Discuss what types of equipment you saw in use, how it was used, what types of licenses are required to operate and maintain the equipment, and the purpose of the station.

While I am a licenced Amateur radio operator, and I may still be on the list as a BSA Radio MB counselor, my radios are all portable units called Handi-Talkies or HTs.  In my mind, looking at my radios would not qualify for this requirement, since they are few in number and I don't have an external antenna.  In order to appreciate the world of Amateur radio, he really should look at a larger station, and if the camp counselor is good, he can discuss with your son how all amateur operators started out with small stations or HTs, and grew their hobby from that point.

Good luck!

Matt/N4MAN

[Tomas]

I'd be happy to help out. I don't have all  that much equipment either but I do have a home base station, mobile rig,and an HT. I also have a  homebrew antenna that I use for my 2m base. PM me if you'd like.

[flybabyfly]

Many thanks to Tomas for helping out!  Radio Merit Badge completed at camp.  It was his favorite!

[Tomas]

No problem, I'm glad I was able to help and it's great to hear he completed his badge. 

[tcaarabians]

Congratulations to your son flybaby on a wonderful accomplishment. I remember how proud my son
was of his merit badges. Has he been to Emerald Bay yet? My son loved that camp. I know we have
one camp right here off the 138. My son had so many great trips through his scouting years.. canoeing
down the Colorado River.. horse backpacking at the camp in N.M.. and so many more.

Again... great work by your son. cheryl o7o