Often called “HAM radio,” the Amateur Radio is a hobby of communicating with a Wireless Radio set called Transceivers. Using our own Transceiver, we can talk / communicate to people with their Radio set / Transceiver across the globe without depending upon commercial infrastructure or systems. HAM Radio, is the use of the radio frequency spectrum for non-commercial exchange of messages, wireless experimentation, self-training, private recreation, education, research and emergency communications like natural disasters and medical crises.
A HAM Radio operator can carry out experiments with various RF / Radio communication equipment, going deeper into the science of electronics while at the same time providing great service to people in general through emergency communication networks during natural calamities like floods, cyclones, storms, earthquake, or any other disaster.
VU2PAL - Late. M.A. Hipparagi sir in the picture, with his Radio set, Rig.
He was a legendary figure in the field of HAM / Amateur Radio, and he established 'HAMBEL Net' in the 1970s along with a few fellow HAMs in Belgaum. People remember him for his contribution towards Amateur Radio and its popularity in the North Karnataka region and beyond.
'HAMBEL Net' is a popular Amateur Radio Network, everyday Radio Operators all over India and beyond connects with each other through their Radio Transceivers. Presently 'HAMBEL Net' is managed by many senior radio operators from the region. Due to the tireless effort by Shri. Mahendra Kannavar (VU2ZMK), 'HAMBEL-Net' is also available on YouTube for the audience across the globe.
Field Day is a picnic, a campout, practice for emergencies, an informal contest and, most of all, FUN! It is a time when many aspects of Amateur Radio come together to highlight our many roles. While some treat it as a contest, other groups use the opportunity to practice their emergency response capabilities. It is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate Amateur Radio to the organisations that Amateur Radio might serve in an emergency, as well as the general public. The contest part is to contact as many other stations as possible and to learn to operate our radio setup in abnormal situations and less-than-optimal conditions.
Field Day, is the ham radio event of the year where thousands of hams come together to operate, improve their skills, log contacts and compete, and in general just have a good time. Field Days are generally organised by local HAM Clubs or a group of HAMs. The ideal location preferred is some Hill Point, Riverfront, Beaches, Jungle, Islands or even a lighthouse!
Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just starting out, if you’re a ham radio operator or even if you’re just thinking about getting into ham radio, you need to get involved in Field Day for a lot of fun and learning!
A transceiver is a device that combines the functions of a radio transmitter and a receiver - hence the name. It is designed to transmit and receive signals. A HF transceiver is designed to transmit and receive High-Frequency radio waves in a band 3 to 30 MHz. Similarly, we have a VHF Transceiver and a UHF Transceiver, etc., HF transceivers are commonly used for aviation transmissions, by weather stations, the military, and within maritime operations. But they're also popular with amateur radio enthusiasts - you may be one of them!
All transceivers have the basics to state the obvious such as speakers and volume controls, but some are better at cutting out background noise, and interference and there will be some form of Digital Signal Processing etc.,
Most models have sophisticated LED screen displays, with multi-coloured waterfall displays, remote operation and touch-screen technology.
One of the great features of amateur radio is that it is several hobbies rolled into one. If you become bored with one aspect of the hobby, there is always something new or different to try. For over the last 60 years or so, using fleet of amateur radio satellites to communicate has always been one of the more interesting aspects of amateur radio.
Satellite communication plays a crucial role in HAM Radio by enabling long-distance communication and overcoming the limitations of terrestrial communication. There are different types of satellites used in HAM Radio, each serving a specific purpose. Geostationary satellites are positioned at a fixed point above the equator and provide continuous coverage over a large area. HAM radio operators use specialized equipment including antennas, transceivers, and tracking systems.
Picture Courtasy - K5BOU
My callsign is VU2INE, I am an Advanced-Grade now known as a General Grade licenced operator. I started this hobby in my high school days. I began with BC Dxing from my father’s Radio and then with the help of VU2PAL and now VU2SMS, learnt MORSE Code and acquired restricted grade licence VU3FRI, and later Advanced Grade licence VU2INE.
I'll be updating this section regularly and also will add a comprehensive guide about becoming a HAM and related Tools, Literature and Guides.
I suggest getting a copy of book 'Gateway to HAM Radio', by VU2JIM.
Purchse Link - https://amzn.in/d/fpdLj4e
You can reach me at VU2INE@gmail.com for HAM-related information.
If you too think 'Amateur Radio is exciting and want to be a HAM, it is easy to start this hobby and get connected to the world with your own Radio Transceiver. However, keeping or operating a Radio equipment like a Transceiver requires a valid 'Licence' from the government. the following guide helps you start your journey in this regard, Welcome to the wonderful world of HAM Radio hobby!