Congratulations, let’s get started
Now that you have your license, getting start with this wonderful hobby can be very daunting. Here are two suggestions for getting started
- Join/ attend local ham radio clubs
Don’t be bashful. Introduce yourself and explain you are just starting out and have some questions. Typically local hams are patient and very generous with their time. They can answer many questions such as:
- What radio should I buy? Where?
- I need help programming my radio.
- My radio works, but I don’t hear anyone.
Below are listed ham radio clubs in the CSRA
- In the Aiken and North Augusta SC area
North Augusta Belvedere Amateur Radio Club
- In the Augusta GA area
- In the Columbia County GA area
Amateur Radio club of Columbia County
JOIN THE ARRL
The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) is the only national organization of hams. Founded in 1914 by Hiram Percy Maxim, the ARRL is a noncommercial organization of radio amateurs. Once you become a member there numerous services for the new as well as long time ham. The “League” publishes the monthly magazine, QST and bi-monthly ON THE AIR magazine. Members may elect online or hard copy delivery.
On the Air is a suite of ARRL benefits for new ham radio licensees, anchored by the ARRL bimonthly magazine, On the Air. The magazine covers a range of ham radio interests and topics, delivering introductory techniques and stories to help anyone with a beginner-to-intermediate-level of experience.
On the Air podcast is a companion to the bimonthly On the Air magazine and takes a deeper dive into select features and projects. Each month, host and On the Air Editorial Director Becky Schoenfeld, W1BXY, will offer additional resources, techniques, and hints to help you get the most from the magazine’s content.
In addition to On the Air magazine and podcasts (archives available on the ARRL web site for members) in 2020 the League created 17 podcast episodes called “So Now What” These podcasts are also available on the ARRL Web site.
The ARRL web site is a VERY rich ham radio resource once a member you should explore the site thoroughly. Finally, if you have a question contact the League. The League staff, nearly all hams, is very service oriented and willing to answer questions.