(Almost) Everything the Beginner Should Know About Amateur Radio

      By Sandra M. Hawley, N5OLU and James D. Heil, KB5AWM

                 Houston Amateur Radio Helpline

      Copyright 1991 by James D. Heil and Sandra M. Hawley
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -


How do you become an Amateur Radio Operator?

Actually, it's pretty easy.  First, you've come to the right
place!  The Houston Amateur Radio Helpline is THE place for
information.

(Forgive us if you don't live in Houston.  The Helpline is
available to anyone - anywhere. If you can't find the information
you are looking for, give us a call and we'll help you
713-488-4HAM.)

To be an Amateur Operator, you have to have a license issued by
the Federal Communications Commission, and to get the license,
you have to pass a test.  Easy enough.

The Choices

There are two paths to take to your first license: No-Code, and
Code.  The "code" in question is Morse Code.

To make things easier for would-be amateurs, the FCC has made it
sound more complicated...  Life is like that occasionally.  (And
your government frequently....)

You may take a Novice license, which involves passing a Morse
code test, or a Technician license, which bypasses the Morse code
but involves more questions and more knowledge of Amateur theory
and practice.

To obtain a Novice license, you must pass two separate test
parts: a series of 30 questions about radio theory and practice,
and a five word per minute Morse code test.

To obtain the No-Code Technician license, you have to pass a 55-
question written test (actually there are two tests - Novice and
Technician) about radio theory and practice.  The Technician
license gives you more privileges at first than the Novice, but
to go on to higher level licenses and fuller privileges (what
frequencies you can work, what equipment you can use, the ability
to do long-distance radio work) you will have to pass a 5 wpm
Morse code test.

Don't worry if this sounds confusing - it is, but we can help you
get it straightened out and get on the right path to the fun of
Amateur Radio.

A Class Act

Probably the easiest way to work toward your license, whichever
one you decide to obtain first, is to enroll in an Amateur Radio
class.  Most general purpose amateur radio clubs sponsor classes,
and the Helpline can help you find out what classes are available
and when in your area.

Most classes for the Novice license will run about six to eight
weeks; experienced hams will explain the theory and practice to
you and help you study for your test. Amateurs are delighted to
help people get involved in Amateur Radio.

There are also several books available that you can study on your
own if classes don't fit your time schedule.  Most of them
feature both the questions from which the tests are chosen and -
this is the wonderful part - the answers!  You can obtain these
books at electronics and radio stores; if you can't find them,
let the Helpline know and we'll help you.

There are also tapes that will help you learn Morse code and a
nifty computer program (for IBM compatibles) called Super Morse
that you can use to learn the code.

Testing, testing....

Once you've mastered the information and (if you choose) the
Morse code, it'll be no problem to find a Testing Session.
Several clubs in the Houston area run tests on a monthly basis,
and quite a few others maintain a bi- or tri-monthly schedule.
Again, the Helpline can give you the right information when
you're ready for it.

After you've passed the test comes the hardest part of all -
waiting for your license to arrive so that you can finally get on
the air and start doing all the wonderful things you've been
learning about.  Sadly, this can take up to a couple of months,
but while you're waiting, you can either borrow some equipment or
begin investing in your own "shack" and listen in to local and
long-distance communications so you'll know what to do when your
"ticket" finally arrives.

Joining an Amateur Radio Club

The best way to get on the air is through an Amateur club in your
area.  A lot of clubs have equipment "loaner" programs so that
you don't have to hit your bank account right after your license
arrives, and all of them have experienced operators who'll be
glad to "Elmer" you - to teach you the ropes and help you become
comfortable operating.

After that, it's up to you.  Amateur Radio is a wonderful and
rewarding hobby, and you can become involved in just about any
part of it you want - emergency communications, assisting
community events by providing communications support,
participating in a local club, operating long-distance (your
first conversation with Japan or Russia is really a kick!),putting Amateur Radio and computers together with a packet
station, using Amateur Radio to send television signals....

Over the Rainbow....

You get the idea.  The sky is literally the limit - and maybe not
even then, since Amateurs have been using both satellites and
even "moon-bounce" signals for decades.


                   QUESTIONS MOST OFTEN ASKED

IS AMATEUR RADIO REALLY FOR ME?

     Let's try a simple quiz.

          1.   Do you like people?
          2.   Do you like talking to people?
          3.   Do you enjoy meeting new friends?
          4.   Do you like learning new things?
          5.   Do you like having fun?

     Scoring:

       If you answered yes to ANY of the above, amateur radio is
       for YOU!!!!

CAN ANYONE BECOME AN AMATEUR?

  Anyone can become an amateur radio operator - anyone! Whether
  you are 8 years old or 80 years young, you can become a ham
  radio operator.  Amateur Radio knows no boundaries and
  Amateurs have no limitations - there are blind amateurs,
  amateurs confined to wheelchairs or to their beds, male
  amateurs, female amateurs..... There are hams who are
  astronauts, actors, comedians, politicians - you name it,
  there is bound to be an amateur who is one.

  Most of all, YOU can become an amateur!

I'M PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED. CAN I GET A LICENSE?

  Amateur Radio is for everyone.  Depending on the severity of
  the handicap, the FCC has recently allowed license examiners
  to waive at least some parts of the morse tests.  Physical
  handicaps don't prevent use of your mind, and that's what you
  need to be an Amateur Radio Operator.  There's even an
  organization specifically for Amateurs who are handicapped:
  Courage HANDI-HAM System, Courage Center, 3915 Golden Valley
  Road, Golden Valley, MN, 55422 (612-588-0811).
WHAT DOES HAM STAND FOR ANYWAY?

  That's a good question.  Problem is, nobody really knows.
  There are all kinds of theories and "explanations" - lack of
  information has never stopped a good story from spreading. One
  of our favorites is that H, A, and M were the initials of
  three amateurs who founded one of the first clubs, up at
  Harvard University, back in 1907 or so.  Unfortunately, nobody
  up at Harvard has ever heard of them, but it's a neat story.
  Or then there's the one about an early magazine called H.A.M.
  And then there's the version about Helping America -
  Marvelously.  (Actually, that's a brand-new version we just
  made up!  It's fun, and everybody else does it.....)

  Luckily, it really doesn't matter that much.  A ham is a
  person just like you who enjoys Amateur Radio and has fun with
  it.

WHY DO I WANT TO JOIN AN AMATEUR RADIO CLUB?

  Clubs provide the quickest way to get involved in Amateur
  radio.  They run classes, stage programs, and have a wealth of
  experienced hams to help you get started, and keep going. A
  lot of clubs also run "repeaters" for the benefit of their
  members, so that you can use a low-powered radio to talk over
  substantial distances.  (What's a repeater?  You'll learn that
  in your class.)  Clubs also organize special events, sponsor
  contests, publish newsletters, help at community events, and
  generally let you find out what your interests are and follow
  them.  Joining a club will put you in touch with others who
  share your interests and who also want to have fun with
  amateur radio.  Do it.

ARE THERE ANY RADIO CLUBS IN MY AREA?

  After you've checked your phone books, called electronic
  stores, and haven't saved up the nerve to knock on a door with
  a large antenna in the back yard, you only have one reliable
  source left - the ARRL.  Contact the American Radio Relay
  League (203-666-1541). They'll ask for your Zip Code and send
  you a computer printout of the local clubs in your area.
  While you're at it, go ahead and ask for a list of volunteer
  teachers ("Elmers") - they register with the ARRL in order to
  help people get started in Amateur Radio and will be delighted
  to hear from you.


WHAT KIND OF RADIO SHOULD I GET?

  There are different kinds of radios for different kinds of
  communications.  For local communications, you'll probably
  want a small, hand-held radio (a handie-talkie or HT) that can
  operate on the repeaters in your area.  You can also get a
  more powerful (and, alas, more expensive) mobile rig to mount
  in your car for local communications.  For long-distance
  you'll need a good HF rig; there are lots of used rigs
  available at swapfests and auctions.

  If you like playing with wires and capacitors and so forth,
  you can build your own equipment - "homebrew" can be lots of
  fun, and not very expensive.

HOW MUCH WILL MY FIRST RADIO COST?

  That's pretty much up to you, and what you want to do with it.
  Amateurs are always buying and selling equipment, and there
  are always swapfests and auctions where you can pick up used
  equipment for good prices.  A nice handie-talkie, used, can
  cost from $75 up, depending on how fancy it is, while a new
  one can run anywhere from $250 to $500, again depending on how
  many features it has.  Generally, the smaller (and more
  convenient) the size, the higher the price tag.

  HF equipment, the stuff you will use for long-distancing, is
  more expensive.  You can pick up a 10-meter rig at Radio Shack
  for under $200, but as you upgrade your license you'll want a
  radio that can be used on more bands.  Good used multi-band
  equipment starts at $300 or so; the new stuff will run $750 or
  more.

  And then there are the antennas.  They can range from a simple
  Slinky stretched out (no, we're not kidding) to an elaborate
  beam-and-tower - stuff that would put your local AM/FM station
  to shame.  Not surprisingly, the beam and tower are a lot more
  expensive than the slinky.  You get what you pay for...

  However, don't let price tags dismay you.  A lot of hams will
  gladly let you borrow equipment so that you can find out what
  you need, and many clubs also have "loaner" programs for new
  hams.

  It's not awfully cheap, and can get to be quite expensive, but
  then so can most hobbies.  Whether you're interested in
  woodworking or photography or scuba diving or needlepoint,
  you're going to end up spending money.  Even a certified couch
  potato can end up spending big bucks for a good TV and a VCR,
  not to mention the couch....

HOW FAR CAN I TALK?

  How far do you want to talk?  No, that's not just a smart-alec
  answer - it's the truth.  You can talk across the street or
  across the world - to your old friends in Freeport or your new
  friends in Mauritius and the Seychelles.  It all depends on
  what you want to do.

  Two main things determine what distances you can talk: what
  license you have, and what equipment you have.

 Novices using Morse code can talk all over the world on HF.
  Technicians can talk by voice locally and use satellites
  (how's that for long distance?).  And those holding higher
  class licenses - General, Advanced, and Extra - can use more
  frequencies and can play with the same satellites and
  moonbounce.

DO THEY USE ENGLISH OVER THERE?

  You're not multilingual?  Shame on you.  Neither are we.
  Luckily, the majority of Amateurs all over the world are -
  with English as their second language!  Thank goodness.

  And if you're studying a foreign language, there's no better
  (and no cheaper) way to find thousands of genuine native
  speakers than on the airwaves.

WHAT IS MORSE CODE?

  It is not, despite what you might hear, a form of medieval
  torture.  It's actually just a system of dots and dashes
  combined into letters, numbers, punctuation marks, and
  abbreviations.  You can send and receive Morse in lots of ways
  - electronically, as light signals, by blinking your eyes.....
  Usually in Amateur radio it's an aural signal.

  There actually was a Morse who made up the code, incidentally:
  Samuel F.B. Morse, who had invented the telegraph but needed
  something to send on it.  (Okay, that's an oversimplification,
  but close enough.)

  Learning Morse code is pretty much like the old joke about
  getting to Carnegie Hall... practice, practice, practice. It
  helps if you have a good ear and sense of rhythm, but anybody
  can learn it (one of the authors of this piece is a case in
  point).

  Although it's sometimes hard to understand why Amateurs have
  to learn a signalling system invented in the mid-19th century
  here on the eve of the 21st century, it actually does have
  some use, since it can be sent intelligibly on much lower
  power than any other form of radio signal.

WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION?

  The largest amateur organization is the American Radio Relay
  League (ARRL).  Don't be afraid to give them a call at
  203-666-1441 or write them at ARRL, 225 Main Street,
  Newington, CT  06111.  They can give you all sorts of
  information - rules, local radio clubs, testing, books,
  pamphlets and just about anything you can think of.  And
  membership is cheap!!

  If you have a computer and a modem, you can tap into bulletin
  board systems (BBSs) that feature amateur radio forums and
  have thousands of public domain programs available.  The ARRL
  has a BBS with lots of amateur related information; give it a
  call at 203-665-0090. For a fee, you can join GEnie
  (800-638-9636) or CompuServe (800-848-8199 ext. 48) or any of
  the commercial information systems.

  Local hams can probably tell you about bulletin boards in your
  area that carry ham information (another one of the great
  reasons to join a ham club).  If you live in or around
  Houston, Texas, give the Houston Amateur Radio Helpline a call
  @ 713-488-4HAM.

  ....and don't forget your local library.

WHEN IS THAT NEW COMMUNICATOR LICENSE SUPPOSED TO BE IN EFFECT?

  The new no-code Technician license went into effect on
  February 14, 1991.  The name of the license remains
  Technician.  The communicator moniker was the proposed name
  the FCC suggested but was never used.

 WHEN WILL I BE ABLE TO GET THE NO-CODE LICENSE STUDY MANUAL?

  Until further notice, you will need to pick up both the Novice
  and Technician study guides in order to get your Technician
  license.  No, it's not a conspiracy by study guide publishers
  to make more money.  Since newcomers have the choice of
  becoming a Novice or Technician, it wouldn't make a whole lot
  of sense to make the two tests into one.


PRINTED VERSION ONLY

  For a document that answers over 50 more often asked questions
  please send a large self-address-stamped-envelope (with at
  least $1.50 in postage) to:

       Houston Amateur Radio Helpline
       Need to Know Answers
       16410 Havenhurst
       Houston, Texas  77059-5307
       713-488-4HAM.


GENERAL INFORMATION

WHICH LICENSE SHOULD I START WITH?

  The no-code Technician was created for people interested more
  in local communication and technical innovations such as
  packet radio;  while the good ole' Novice with 5 WPM code is
  still probably the "best" entry into the world of long
  distance communications.  Some might even say that in order to
  effectively talk around the world you need at least a general
  license, which requires 13 wpm code. (Un)fortunately, the
  decision is up to you!

WHAT THE HECK DO YOU AMATEURS DO ANYWAY?

  Amateur Radio operators can do almost anything they want, from
  talking across the street to speaking to other amateurs across
  the world.  Amateurs are often involved in emergency
  communications, such as in the aftermath of earthquakes and
  hurricanes.  Amateurs assist officials with communications for
  almost any community event.  Be it the Rose Bowl Parade, the
  New York Marathon, or your local March of Dimes Walk-a-Thon,
  chances are that amateurs are involved in one way or another.

  What do we do?  We experiment, build, learn, educate - all
  with Amateur Radio.  But most of all, we have fun!

HOW DOES AMATEUR RADIO RELATE TO CB RADIO?

  Both Amateur Radio and CB radio operators use radios, but the
  similarities end about there.

  Both services have their places in the world, although we're
  sure some in one service would have some "choice" words for
  the other.  Politics aside, here's the straight dope.

  Amateur Radio operators may use over 15 bands (areas that
  contain hundreds of frequencies or "channels") including UHF,
  VHF, and High Frequency (HF) in many different modes while CB
  is somewhat limited by 40 AM channels and just a few modes.
  An amateur can use Morse Code, packet, SSB, FM, AM, TV, and
  other modes while CB is limited to AM and SSB. On the other
  hand, Amateurs must pass an increasingly rigorous series of
  tests to enjoy these privileges, while CB is available to
  anyone who owns the equipment.

  The two elements of the radio community probably spend too
  much time quibbling with one another about which is best; the
  most important thing is that operators in each service use
  their talents to help others and to enjoy their hobby.

OKAY, YOU'VE SOLD ME.  BUT WHAT STUDY GUIDE DO I NEED AND WHICH
ONE SHOULD I GET?

  There are several publishers of amateur radio study guides. A
  few of the popular ones follow:

     The ARRL publishes many study guides and books.  Including:

CLASS           Name of Publication      Edition

Novice               Tune in the World        8th edition, 3rd printing
Technician           Technician Guide         1st edition, 3rd printing
General              General Guide            1st edition, 4th printing
Advanced             Advanced Guide           3rd edition, 1st printing
Extra                Extra Guide              5th edition, 1st printing

           Gordon West Radio School distributes kits and various guides: Radio
           Amateur Callbook, Inc. 925 Sherwood Dr., Lake Bluff, IL 60044
           (708.234.6600)

HOW CAN I STUDY MORSE CODE?

           The most commonly used tapes of Morse Code are distributed by the
           Gordon West Radio School and the ARRL (see above) and other various
           vendors.  This isn't a commercial, remember, just a way for you to
           obtain what you need.

           If you have an IBM compatible computer, we swear by and sometimes at
           (the code not the program) the Super Morse program by WD5CID.  It's a
           shareware program that you can obtain from most BBSs.  However, if you
           can't find it on your local BBS, you may send $15 to the author at the
           address below.   Be sure to enclose a FORMATTED 360K 5-1/4 inch
           diskette in a postage paid return diskette mailer.

                Lee Murrah, WD5CID
                10 Cottage Grove Woods, S.E.
                Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
                319-365-6530
                GEnie: L.MURRAH

I'D LIKE TO READ ABOUT AMATEUR RADIO. ARE THERE ANY MAGAZINES?

           Are there any magazines?  Yes, yes, yes, there are magazines!
           Magazines galore.... below are a few (certainly not all) of the ones
           most commonly encountered.  We've included some general magazines on
           Amateur Radio, some dealing solely with DX (long-distance), and a
           couple written for radio listening more than operating.  THIS IS NOT A
           COMPREHENSIVE LIST!!!!

           AMATEUR RADIO MAGAZINES

     QST (with ARRL membership)               World Radio
                225 Main Street               201 Lathrop Way, Suite D
                Newington, CT 06111           Sacramento, CA 95815
                203-666-1541  ($30 per year)  800-365-SUBS

     73 Amateur Radio Today                   CQ Magazine
                WGE Center                    76 North Broadway
                Hancock, NH 03449             Hicksville, NY 11801
                603-525-4201/800-289-0388     516-681-2922

     RADIO RELATED MAGAZINES

     Popular Communications         Monitoring Times
     76 North Broadway              PO Box 98
     Hicksville, NY 11801           140 Dog Branch Road
     516-681-2922                   Brasstown, NC 28902
                                    704-837-9200
     DX MAGAZINES

     The Long Island DX Bulletin, PO Box 173, Huntington, NY  11743-0173 -
           bi weekly.

     The DX Bulletin, PO Box 50, Fulton, CA 95439 - 707-523-1001 - weekly

     DX News Sheet, Lambda House, Cranborne Road, Potters Bar,
           Herfordshire EN63JE, England - weekly

     QRZ DX, PO Box 832205, Richardson, TX 75083 - weekly

     W6GO/K6HHD QSL Manager list
           Jay and Jan O'Brien, Box 700
           Rio Linda, CA  95673-0700OPERATING ON THE AIR


WHAT'S THE FCC?

           The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is a Federal Government
           organization that governs, among other things, the amateur radio
           service.  Within the FCC, the Private Radio Bureau (PRB) is directly
           responsible for the amateur radio service.

I'VE HEARD PEOPLE TALK TO THEIR FRIENDS EVERYDAY. HOW DOES THE
OTHER PERSON KNOW I'M LOOKING FOR HIM/HER?

           While normal amateur communications is pot-luck, friends sometimes set
           up schedules so they can talk more often.  At a certain time and
           frequency the friends can get together and chat.

WHY ARE YOU GUYS MESSING UP MY TV?

           Many times a neighbor of an amateur experiences some interference.
           This may or may not be caused by the amateur. Most amateurs are more
           than willing to help reduce or eliminate any interference - also, the
           FCC insists on it! Talk with the operator and see whether he/she can
           offer any help.  Helping solve interference problems, whether or not
           they're caused by Amateur Radio operators, is something we want to do.
           Most clubs maintain an Interference Committee expressly for that
           purpose, so check with them for help - in the meantime, don't berate
           your Amateur Operator neighbor - odds are, he or she's not the source
           of your problem.

CAN I USE MY TV ANTENNA?

           Well.....  While your current television antenna could provide some
           use, it is best to purchase an antenna specifically for amateur use.
           Many types are available such as beams, verticals, satellite, dipoles,
           etc.  (Yet another reason to join a local club - to find out what
           antenna is best for your particular task.)

I HAVE AN APARTMENT.  HOW CAN I PUT UP AN ANTENNA?

           A large antenna is not necessary to enjoy amateur radio. For instance,
           the Technician license will allow you to talk with other local
           amateurs.  A small hand-held radio is all you need.  No large beam
           antenna or long dipole.  It's so simple, it's amazing!

          If you want to get into DXing from your apartment, consider using a
           Slinky rigged as an antenna - local Amateurs can help you with that -
           or you can put up an inside dipole by running copper wire, cut for the
           frequency you'll be using, around the interior of your apartment and
           connecting it to your radio.  Be careful when you operate - this kind
           of antenna can give your neighbors lots of interference.

CAN I HOOK UP MY COMPUTER TO THE RADIO?

           Computers are used in many different ways with amateur radio. One of
           the important uses is amateur packet, or AX.25.  It is essentially a
           computer network. However, while most computer nets use wires or
           telephones, the amateur radio packet network uses the airwaves.

           To do this, you will need a TNC (terminal node controller), a black box
           (literally) you connect between your transceiver and your computer.
           There are several companies that make these "packet boxes;" one of the
           best known is the Pakratt 232 manufactured by Advanced Electronic
           Applications, Inc. (AEA).  You don't have to tie up your good rig with
           packet; a lot of hams just pick up an old 2-meter rig and use it.

           Using packet radio, you can send messages to other Amateurs and to
           friends all over the world at near-lightning speeds. Admittedly, all
           those little electrons are travelling at the speed of light, but their
           journey will be interrupted from time to time as they're forwarded to
           various packet terminals.  It's taken as little as 11 hours to send
           traffic nationwide via packet, and as long as 48 hours.  The Postal
           Service is green with envy.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TALK ON A HAM SATELLITE?

           How much do you want to spend?  No, that's not just another smart-alec
           remark. It's true, you can spend as much - or as little - as you would
           like.  Like other hobbies, working amateur satellite does require a
           basic set of tools.  At a minimum, you would need a receiver and
           transmitter (nowadays it's more often than not a transceiver), and a
           beam antenna that can follow the satellites.  To allow the antenna to
           "track" a satellite, it is equipped with a special rotor which allows
           it to not only turn around but also to go up and down (azimuth and
           elevation, in technical terms, with azimuth the horizon).

           For new equipment, expect to spend at least $1500.00 to have what a
           satellite user would consider adequate.

HOW DID THEY GET THOSE SATELLITES UP THERE?

           Rockets.  Okay, so that's another smart-alec answer, albeit  the short
           version....

           Amateur satellites are launched, usually at a reduced cost, by various
           non-profit organizations that seek to improve satellite use among
           amateurs.  By far the largest organization of amateur satellite
           enthusiasts is AMSAT, Inc. For more information, you may contact AMSAT
           at (301) 589- 6062 or write:  AMSAT, PO Box 27, Washington, DC  20044.
           Please include a business-size self-addressed, stamped envelope (SASE).
           Or if you happen to know anyone sending up a rocket anytime soon, call
           us!

DO I NEED A HAM LICENSE TO TALK ON SOMEONE ELSE'S RADIO?

           An FCC issued amateur license is for one specific person. It can not be
           transferred to anyone.  Your relatives and friends may use the radio,
           but only when you are the control operator, i.e. you must be there when
           someone other than yourself is using the radio.  Beware - you are
           responsible for anything and everything that goes out on your radio.

MY SON'S HOBBY IS STAMP COLLECTING.  IF I TALKED TO A HAM IN A
FOREIGN COUNTRY, WOULD IT BE LEGAL FOR HIM TO SEND ME STAMPS FROM HIS COUNTRY?

           Yes, and Hams often exchange stuff with one another - we've received
           flags and stamps and booklets and all kinds of nifty stuff, and sent
           Americana and Texana all over the world.  The most important things
           Hams give one another are friendship and insight into another culture -
           but all those bright stamps on the letters and QSL cards are nifty too.

WHAT'S THE CHARGE TO USE AN AUTOPATCH?

           An "autopatch" is a service that many clubs provide on their repeaters.
           It allows club members to make non-business phone calls via their
           radios.  While there isn't a per-minute charge, it is often suggested
           that anyone planning to use the repeater and autopatch donate to a club
           repeater fund.  That way the repeater is kept up to par so everyone can
           enjoy it.

ARE YOU SURE I'LL BE ABLE TO OPERATE ON 2M WITH THE TECH LICENSE?

           Yes, we're sure.  The Technician license allows one to operate all
           modes above 30 MHz.  For updated information, call the ARRL.

CAN I USE MY HANDIE-TALKIE ON AN AIRPLANE?

           Most airlines do not allow any electronic equipment to be operated
           while the plane is in flight.  However, some people have been very
           creative.  For instance, one amateur is known to always carry a QSL
           card with him during his travels.  As soon as he settles in his airline
           seat he visits the pilot and introduces himself as an amateur.  He
           mentions that he has an HT along with him and would like to see if he
           can use his HT while the plane is in flight.  The pilot usually allows
           him to use his HT as long as the plane is not landing or taking off.
           So can you use it?  Ask the pilot. Who knows, if he isn't thrilled
           about your transmitting he may allow you to at least listen!  Getting
           your handie-talkie through airport security may be an interesting
           experience - you will probably need to show your license and
           demonstrate that it is a working rig.  Security guards tend to be
           nervous people.  Hurrah....

WHAT'S DX?

           DX is amateurese for long distance communications.  Many amateurs enter
           DX contests and seek QSL cards from afar. Since many places on the
           Earth aren't normally inhabited, many amateurs travel to remote places
           to operate.  These DXpeditions are usually funded by an amateur radio
           manufacturer, but often by the amateurs' own pockets.  To keep track of
           the DXpeditions many DX enthusiasts subscribe to one or more of the
           many DX magazines or newsletters.  See INFO section for selected DX
           magazines.

WITH SO MANY HAMS IN THE WORLD, HOW DO YOU KNOW WHERE EVERYONE IS?

           Luckily we don't have to memorize everyone's callsign and address
           (don't we all have troubles remembering our own name sometimes?).
           Several firms publish listings of either North American amateurs
           (that's the US and its possessions, and Canada) or an International
           edition (everyone but those included in the North American Edition).

     The Radio Amateur Callbook
     925 Sherwood Drive
     PO Box 247
     Lake Bluff, IL 60044
     708-234-6600
     North American & International Editions

           If you have a computer (doesn't everyone??), an MS-DOS in particular,
           you can purchase the Buckmaster Call Sign CD-ROM.  It contains the
           current FCC amateur database as well as over 200 megabytes of shareware
           and public domain software.

           Buckmaster Publishing
           Route 3, Box 56
           Mineral, VA 23117
           703-894-5777/800-282-5628
           Microfiche, computer disk, and  CD-ROM versions, North America  only

WHAT'S A QSL CARD?

         A QSL card is a confirmation of contact between two amateurs.  It is
         usually a custom printed postcard that each amateur mails to the other.
         Some of the more popular QSL printers:  (random order)

          Visual Concepts                   Mac's Shack
          7715 W. 63rd St.                  Box 43175
          Overland Park, KS 66202           Seven Points, TX 75143
          1-800-869-7527

          Sams Cards                        Chester QSL Cards
          48 Monte Carlo Dr.                310 Commercial
          Pittsburgh, PA 15239              Emporia, KS  66801
                                            316-342-8792

          Little Print Shop                 Rusprint
          PO Box 1160                       Rt. 1
          Pflugerville, TX 78660            Box 363-KNOW
          512-990-1192                      Spring Hill, KS 66083

          Gilmores Printing N4ZDU           Shell Printing
          Route #3, Box 1151                Box 50
          Oldtown, FL 32680                 Rockton, IL 61072
                                            815-629-2193

WHAT ARE ALL THESE QSL'S AND QSO'S AND FB OM'S RUNNING AROUND?

         Amateurs love to use abbreviations - it's a holdover from the days of
         almost nothing but Morse code transmissions. There are entire lists of "Q"
         signals - check the Callbook.

         Other common abbreviations are:

     FB - fine business
     OM - Old Man (used by hams as a friendly term)
     YL - young lady or wife

         If you don't understand the abbreviation, request that your contact use
         plain English.  It's really possible.

CAN I USE A LINEAR AMPLIFIER ON 10 METERS LEGALLY?

         Amateurs are allowed up to 1500 watts on 10 meters.  Many firms
         manufacture amplifiers that are capable of being used on 10 meters.
         However, the FCC does not allow any firm to sell an amplifier that may be
         operated on 10 meters without modification.  Most firms will tell an
         amateur how to modify their amplifier to be used on 10 meters.

HOW CAN I USE AMATEUR RADIO IN CONJUNCTION WITH MY INTEREST IN
FLYING RADIO CONTROLLED AIRCRAFT?

         You're in luck!  Many amateurs use 6 meters for controlling their
         radio-controlled devices.  As a matter of fact, many of the amateurs who
         do use 6 meters actually became amateurs to get away from the very crowded
         "unlicensed" radio control frequencies (or so we're told).

I KEEP HEARING HAMS ON MY SCANNER REFER TO "GOOD AMATEUR
PRACTICE."  PLEASE CLARIFY THIS CONCEPT FOR ME.

         This is a touchy question.  Essentially "good amateur practice" is being
         civilized and courteous to each other. If you have doubts about the
         legality or civility of a particular activity, don't do it.

WHAT RADIOS ARE OUT THERE ANYWAY?

         There are tens of different types of radios.  By far the most popular are
         Kenwood, Icom, and Yaesu.  Below are the address (and phones if available)
         of many of the most popular brands of amateur radio equipment.  A quick
         call or a short note will get you brochures on a particular radio.
         Information on radios may also be received from "where" you can get your
         radio.

         SELECTED AMATEUR RADIO EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS

     ICOM America, Inc.                Kenwood USA
     2380-116th Ave NE                 2201 E. Dominguez St.
     Bellevue, WA 98004                Long Beach, CA 90801-5745
     206-454-7619
     800-999-9877
     GREAT Place for INFO!

     Alinco Electronics, Inc.          Ten-Tec
     438 Amapola Ave. #130             Highway 411 East
     Torrance, CA 90501                Sevierville, TN 37862
     213-618-8616                      615-428-0364

     Standard (Amateur Radio)         Advanced Electronic Applications
      PO Box 48480                     2006-196th St. S.W.
      Niles, IL 60648                  PO Box C2160
      312-763-0081                     Lynnwood, WA 98036
                                       206.775.7373

      Alinco Electronics, Inc.         Yaesu USA, Inc.
      438 Amapola Ave.                 17210 Edwards Road
      Unit 130                         Cerritos, CA 90701
      Torrance, CA  90501
      203-618-8616


WHERE CAN I GET MY AMATEUR RADIO?

         Many amateurs get their new and used radios from mail order houses.  Below
         are some of the more popular vendors:

         SELECTED AMATEUR RADIO VENDORS:

     Madison's Electronics                  Ham Radio Outlet
     12310 Zavalla                          They're everywhere!
     Houston, TX 77085                      West 800-854-6046
     713-729-7300/800-231-3057              SE   800-444-7927

     Amateur Electronic Supply              C-Comm
     5710 W. Good Hope Road                 6115 15th N.W.
     Milwaukee, WI 53223                    Seattle, WA 98107
     414-358-0333/800-558-0411              206-784-7337/800-426-6528

     R&L Electronics                        RF Enterprises
     1315 Maple Ave                         HCR Box 43
     Hamilton, OH 45011                     Merrifield, MN 56465
     513-868-6399/800-221-7735              218-765-3254/800-233-2482

     Austin Amateur Radio Supply            Jun's Electronics
     5325 North I-35                        3919 Sepulveda Blvd.
     Austin, TX 78723                       Culver City, CA 90230
     512-454-2994/800-423-2604              213-390-8003/800-882-1343

     Barry Electronics                      Texas Towers
     512 Broadway                           1108 Summit Ave. #4
     New York City, NY 10012                Plano, TX 75074
     212-925-7000                           214-422-7306/800-272-3467

WHAT RADIO'S FOR ME?

         See above.  There are several major manufacturers of Amateur equipment -
         Yaesu, Icom, Kenwood are the three largest, or at least the biggest
         advertisers.  Browse through the magazines devoted to Amateur radio - QST
         and 73 are two of the largest - 'cause they're filled with advertisements
         and technical data.  Talk to your fellow club members, who will be only
         too happy to sing the praises of their current equipment.

WHAT AMATEUR SOFTWARE IS AVAILABLE FOR MY COMPUTER?

         Amateur Radio software is available for virtually every computer.  Many
         public domain copying services have special sections just for us amateurs.
         Check with your local Computer user's group for more details. While this
         isn't a commercial, you may want to try Public Brand Software at
         1-800-426-DISK.  They have a diverse selection of software including some
         amateur radio related titles. It is reported that each disk is $5.00  (see
         related question on 'Where can I get more information').  GEnie and
         CompuServe also have extensive software libraries that include Amateur
         Radio related programs.

HOW DID HAMS GET TO BE ASTRONAUTS?

         Unfortunately having a license doesn't guarantee us a seat on the Space
         Shuttle.  No, the question should read "how does an astronaut become an
         amateur."  Too bad, eh?

         "Hams in Space" started in 1983 when Owen Garriott, W5LFL, went up in the
         shuttle Columbia and used a 2-meter rig to carry on conversations with
         people back on earth.  This was so successful, and so popular, that NASA
         now runs the SAREX program (Shuttle Amateur Radio EXperiment) from time to
         time, coordinating the shuttle with hams at various NASA sites.

         SAREX has been tremendously popular, both with Amateur Radio enthusiasts
         and astronauts, and quite a few members of the astronaut corps either have
         or are working on their amateur radio licenses.

                                         AMATEUR TESTING QUESTIONS

I'M ONLY GOING TO OPERATE ON VHF.  WHY TO I HAVE TO KNOW ALL THIS
HF STUFF?

         It doesn't hurt to know more than you need, does it?  Who knows, you may
         want to get into other facets of amateur radio.  If you do, you'll be
         prepared!  And that's what the FCC tells us.

NOW THAT I'VE DECIDED TO GET MY LICENSE, WHAT DO I NEED TO STUDY?

         There are five levels of amateur radio licenses - Novice, Technician,
         General, Advanced, and Extra.  The following tables describe the levels
         and what it takes to earn each license as well as a description of each of
         the current elements (tests).

         Class               Elements required for each license
         --------            ------------------------------------------------
         Novice              - 1A, 2
         Tech                - 2, 3A
         General             - 1B, 2, 3A, 3B
         Advanced            - 1B, 2, 3A, 3B, 4A
         Extra               - 1C, 2, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B

Element  Name of Element     Number of questions/needed to pass
-------  ---------------     -----------------------------------

  1A          5 wpm telegraphy  25 characters in a row or 7 questions correct out
                                 of 10
  1B          13 wpm telegraphy   65 characters in a row or 7 questions correct out
                                 of 10
  1C          20 wpm telegraphy   100 characters in a row or 7 questions correct
                                    out of 10
  2           Novice written 30 questions, 22 correct
  3A          Technician written  25 questions, 19 correct
  3B          General written     25 questions, 19 correct
  4A          Advanced written    50 questions, 37 correct
  4B          Extra written       40 questions, 30 correct

DO I HAVE TO RETAKE THE TEST EACH TIME I RENEW MY LICENSE?

         No.  An Amateur Radio license is valid for 10 years.  To make sure your
         renewed ticket (we amateurs sometimes call our licenses tickets) arrives
         in time, a few months before your ticket expires you should submit a 610
         form requesting a renewal to the FCC (be sure to attach a copy of your
         license!).  A month or so later you'll be good for another 10 years! A
         retest is not necessary.  All you have to do is submit the FCC 610 form
         DIRECTLY to the FCC.  Your club secretary probably has some 610 forms
         available, or you can request them directly from the FCC.

ANY HELPFUL HINTS ON TAKING MY TESTS?

         First, as that all-knowing hitchhiker said - Don't Panic!

         Most test sessions start with the Morse code exam.  Usually the 20 wpm
         test will go first,then the 13, and then the 5 wpm.  Some people find it
         helpful to sit in and simply listen to the faster speed, so that their
         test sounds much slower and easier to copy.  By the time you go in to take
         the Morse test, you probably should be able to copy at least a little bit
         faster than the speed you intend to pass - that allows for nerves.

         You can take the Morse code elements out of sequence - that is, start with
         the 20 wpm and work your way down to your level, but you must take the
         written tests in order, from Novice up to Extra.  In other words, you can
         take any level of the code whether or not you have passed the lower level,
         but you may not take a higher level written test until you have passed its
         precursors.  You can't take the Advanced written until you've passed
         Novice, Tech, and General.

         When taking exams at your local VEC approved session, you pay the current
         rate ($5.25 for 1991) to take an exam.  AS LONG AS YOU CONTINUE TO PASS
         EACH ELEMENT YOU TAKE, YOU MAY CONTINUE TO TAKE ADDITIONAL EXAMS.  Once
         you have FAILED an exam, you must pay an additional fee.   If possible,
         the VEs will allow you to take the element you failed (but different from
         the last).  The IF POSSIBLE means that the VEs have a CHOICE to administer
         another exam for you -- we're not talking the Constitution here, you know!
         Most VEs help conduct the tests because they like helping people get
         licensed and then upgrade, and will do as much as they can to help you.

         When taking a Morse code exam, TAKE YOUR TIME!  Many people just don't
         take the time to rewrite what they copied during the test.  If you take
         the time to rewrite what you received and fill in whatever you may have
         missed, chances are you'll do better.  I've even seen several people fail
         because they didn't spell TEXAS correctly (they had TEX S on their
         paper!).  TAKE THE TIME TO DO IT RIGHT!

         You have two ways to pass your CW test. First, you can answer 7 of 10
         questions about the message that was sent. Most Ves have relied on
         fill-in-the-blank questions, but many VECs are planning on allowing VEs to
         administer multiple choice morse code exams - check with your local
         testing group to see what they offer.

         The second way you may pass the test is by copying the message correctly
         for one minute; for the 5 wpm test you must have 25 consecutive characters
         correct, for the 13 wpm test 65, and for the 20 wpm 100.

WHO GIVES THE TESTS?

         Tests may be given two ways: either by 2 hams with a license of General or
         above, or at an accredited VEC (volunteer examiner coordinator) testing
         session.

         According to the FCC rules, a Novice test may be given by two amateurs
         with General class licenses or above.  The test may be held in your living
         room, at a regular session of the Novice class, or just about anywhere you
         can get two General licensees.  ALL Novice TESTS ARE FREE.  The only
         prohibition is that the testers may not be related to you.

         However, if you're taking a Technician or higher level test, the test must
         be administered by accredited VEs.  These VEs must hold at least an
         Advanced license and must have passed a written exam required by the VEC
         (Volunteer Examiner Coordinators, such as the ARRL or W5YI).  Usually the
         higher level exams will be given at a formal examination session. Many
         clubs hold these test sessions monthly; the ARRL can give you information
         on who, when and where (800-927-7583).

         For 70 years the FCC administered all amateur examinations. However, with
         the onslaught of governmental budget cuts, the FCC was forced to reduce
         costs incurred by the amateur radio service.  In 1982 the FCC proposed
         that the amateur service begin testing itself.  While the history lesson
         could go for many pages, the result was...(TA DA!) the Amateur Radio
         Volunteer Examiner Coordinator.  A VEC is an organization that is large
         enough in scope to be able to administer exams wherever the FCC has
         authority.  Volunteer Examiners (VEs) administer amateur radio exams all
         throughout the US and its possessions on behalf of the FCC approved VECs.

         Every year the FCC determines the maximum fee all VECs may charge for
         amateur exams.  Since the fee is based upon the Consumer Price Index, one
         can almost be assured of an increase each January 1.  The current fee most
         VECs charge is $5.25.

         Exams are registered with their VEC's headquarters.  For information
         regarding ARRL-VEC exams you may call 800-927-7583.  For W5YI-VEC testing
         sites you may call either 800-669-W5YI or 817-461-6443.   Or if you're
         lucky enough to live near Houston, you can call the Houston Amateur Radio
         Helpline @ 713-488-4HAM.  Good luck!

IF I PASS MY NOVICE WRITTEN BUT FAIL MY TECHNICIAN WRITTEN, DO I
HAVE TO TAKE THE NOVICE TEST OVER?

         No, you do not have to retake the Novice test.  You receive Certificate of
         Successful Completion of an Examination (CSCE) for each exam you
         successfully pass.  The CSCE is valid for one year from the date it was
         issued.

         If you are already licensed as a Novice, for instance, and you pass the
         Technician written, the CSCE is proof that you have passed the required
         exam until you receive your updated license from the FCC.

WHAT IF THE FCC RUNS OUT OF CALLSIGNS?

         To coin a phrase, the FCC has billions and billions of choices for our
         call signs. (Thank you, Carl Sagan.)  Well, maybe not billions, but think
         about this:  there are 10 call sign districts and four distinct groups (A,
         B, C, D), each with a different number of letters in both prefix and
         suffix.  Our math won't take us all the way, but we're pretty sure the FCC
         has a long way to go!

I LET MY LICENSE EXPIRE A FEW YEARS AGO, DO I HAVE TO RETAKE ALL
OF THOSE SILLY TESTS?

         Yes.  Sorry, but that's the way life goes sometimes.  A license is valid
         for 10 years.  Because the FCC is such a nice organization, they have a 2
         year grace period.  If you realize your license is expired within the 2
         year grace period you may still renew your license.  Outside of two years,
         grab that book and start studying!

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO RECEIVE MY LICENSE FROM THE FCC?

         Unfortunately, it's truly hard to say.  For a new license you should
         expect up to a 90 day wait.  If after 90 days you still haven't received
         your license you have several options. First and foremost, contact the
         people who gave your exam.  If they have no idea, contact the FCC at their
         consumer information number (717-337-1212).  The FCC will need your name,
         call, and testing date.  Remember, the FCC's database may not have your
         new license entered yet, so don't despair (it must be actually printed
         before Gettysburg knows about your license).  It is reported that the FCC
         prints licenses on Thursdays.  If your exam was taken at a VEC testing
         session, contact the VEC. (ARRL 800-927-7583; W5YI 817-461-6443).

I'M WAITING FOR MY LICENSE - ANY IDEA WHAT MY CALLSIGN WILL BE?

         Many amateur publications publish the latest calls issued by the FCC.  If
         you can't find the latest call list try calling the FCC at 717-337-1212.
         The end of the month is usually when the FCC releases the latest call sign
         list.

IS THE NO-CODE TECH ONE TEST OR TWO?

         The no-code license (Technician) requires two tests - the Novice and
         Technician written.  There are no current plans to merge the two tests
         into one.  However, things change.

WHY IS THE TECHNICIAN LIMITED TO >30 MHZ?

         By international agreements no person shall be eligible to transmit below
         30 MegaHertz (MHz) without successfully showing that he/she can send and
         receive Morse Code.

IF I FAIL A TEST, CAN I RETAKE IT? IS THERE A WAITING PERIOD?

         First, sorry you failed the test. However, it isn't the end of the world,
         right?

         There is no required waiting period between tests.  However, if you fail a
         test and wish to retake it you will be required to pay an additional
         testing fee. But what the heck, it's only money! (luckily, it's your
         money, not mine!)

CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE

         The authors would like to thank the amateur community for the enormous
         enthusiasm it had towards this project.  The questions are from many
         different sources including ourselves, the GEnie Information Service,
         Prodigy, and local BBS systems in the Houston area.

         A special thanks is in order to Gerry Jurrens, N2GJ, for his many helpful
         suggestions and contributions.

         All trademarks mentioned in the document are copyrighted by their
         respective owners.  This document is not a commercial for any product;
         it's one and only purpose is to inform.

         Please forward any unanswered questions that you feel should be a part of
         the next edition of this document.

              James D. Heil, KB5AWM         Sandra M. Hawley, N5OLU
              16410 Havenhurst              16301 Buccaneer # 207
              Houston, Texas  77059-5307    Houston, Texas 77062
              713-488-4HAM
              Prodigy: GTMS56A
              GEnie: J.HEIL4

This document is copyright 1991 by James D. Heil & Sandra M. Hawley

                                Table of Contents

             HOW DO YOU BECOME AN AMATEUR RADIO OPERATOR?  1

                                              THE CHOICES  1
                                              A CLASS ACT  2
                                     TESTING, TESTING....  2
                            JOINING AN AMATEUR RADIO CLUB  2
                                     OVER THE RAINBOW....  3
                               QUESTIONS MOST OFTEN ASKED  3
                          IS AMATEUR RADIO REALLY FOR ME?  3
                            CAN ANYONE BECOME AN AMATEUR?  3
         I'M PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED. CAN I GET A LICENSE?  3
                          WHAT DOES HAM STAND FOR ANYWAY?  4
             WHY DO I WANT TO JOIN AN AMATEUR RADIO CLUB?  4
                    ARE THERE ANY RADIO CLUBS IN MY AREA?  4
                         WHAT KIND OF RADIO SHOULD I GET?  4
                       HOW MUCH WILL MY FIRST RADIO COST?  5
                                      HOW FAR CAN I TALK?  5
                          DO THEY USE ENGLISH OVER THERE?  5
                                      WHAT IS MORSE CODE?  6
                        WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION?  6
      WHEN IS THAT NEW  LICENSE SUPPOSED TO BE IN EFFECT?  6
    WHEN WILL I BE ABLE TO GET THE NO-CODE  STUDY MANUAL?  7
                                      GENERAL INFORMATION  8
                       WHICH LICENSE SHOULD I START WITH?  8
                 WHAT THE HECK DO YOU AMATEURS DO ANYWAY?  8
               HOW DOES AMATEUR RADIO RELATE TO CB RADIO?  8
       OKAY, YOU'VE SOLD ME.  WHAT STUDY GUIDE DO I NEED?  9
                              HOW CAN I STUDY MORSE CODE?  9
               I'D LIKE TO READ  AMATEUR RADIO MAGAZINES  10
                                 AMATEUR RADIO MAGAZINES  10
                                 RADIO RELATED MAGAZINES  10
                                            DX MAGAZINES  10
                                    OPERATING ON THE AIR  11
                                         WHAT'S THE FCC?  11
            HOW DOES THE OTHER PERSON KNOW I'M LOOKING ?  11
                      WHY ARE YOU GUYS MESSING UP MY TV?  11
                                CAN I USE MY TV ANTENNA?  11
      I HAVE AN APARTMENT.  HOW CAN I PUT UP AN ANTENNA?  11
                 CAN I HOOK UP MY COMPUTER TO THE RADIO?  12
       HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TALK ON A HAM SATELLITE?  12
             HOW DID THEY GET THOSE SATELLITES UP THERE?  13
     DO I NEED A HAM LICENSE TO TALK ON SOMEONE'S RADIO?  13
           MY SON'S HOBBY IS STAMP COLLECTING.  STAMPS?   13
                  WHAT'S THE CHARGE TO USE AN AUTOPATCH?  13
    I'LL BE ABLE TO OPERATE ON 2M WITH THE TECH LICENSE?  13
              CAN I USE MY HANDIE-TALKIE ON AN AIRPLANE?  14
                                              WHAT'S DX?  14
                      HOW DO YOU KNOW WHERE EVERYONE IS?  14

                                      WHAT'S A QSL CARD?  15
                                            QSL PRINTERS  15
   WHAT ARE  QSL'S AND QSO'S AND FB OM'S RUNNING AROUND?  15
      CAN I USE A LINEAR AMPLIFIER ON 10 METERS LEGALLY?  16
              CAN I USE AMATEUR RADIO WITH R-C AIRCRAFT?  16
                                 "GOOD AMATEUR PRACTICE." 16
                       WHAT RADIOS ARE OUT THERE ANYWAY?  16
              SELECTED HAM RADIO EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS  16
                       WHERE CAN I GET MY AMATEUR RADIO?  17
                         SELECTED AMATEUR RADIO VENDORS:  17
                                    WHAT RADIO'S FOR ME?  18
     WHAT AMATEUR SOFTWARE IS AVAILABLE FOR MY COMPUTER?  18
                      HOW DID HAMS GET TO BE ASTRONAUTS?  18
                               AMATEUR TESTING QUESTIONS  19
                WHY TO I HAVE TO KNOW ALL THIS HF STUFF?  19
                                WHAT DO I NEED TO STUDY?  19
                      ELEMENTS REQUIRED FOR EACH LICENSE  19
   DO I HAVE TO RETAKE THE TEST WHEN I RENEW MY LICENSE?  19
                   ANY HELPFUL HINTS ON TAKING MY TESTS?  20
                                  WHO GIVES THE TESTS?    21
   IF I FAIL MY TECH, DO I HAVE TO TAKE THE NOVICE OVER?  22
                  WHAT IF THE FCC RUNS OUT OF CALLSIGNS?  22
                  I LET MY LICENSE EXPIRE A FEW YEARS AGO 22
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO GET MY LICENSE FROM THE FCC?     22
                      ANY IDEA WHAT MY CALLSIGN WILL BE?  22
                    IS THE NO-CODE TECH ONE TEST OR TWO?  23
               WHY IS THE TECHNICIAN LIMITED TO >30 MHZ?  23
IF I FAIL A TEST, CAN I RETAKE IT? IS THERE A WAIT PERIOD 23

                              CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE  23

                                                            

                    Index of Selected Topics



            Advanced Electronic Applications, Inc. (AEA)  12
                     American Radio Relay League (ARRL)    4
                                                   AMSAT  13
                                                ARRL-VEC  21
                                                Callbook   9
                                               CompuServe  6
                                Courage HANDI-HAM System   3
                       Federal Communications Commission   1
                                                   GEnie   6
                                Gordon West Radio School   9
                                          Hams in Space   18
                          Houston Amateur Radio Helpline   1
                                              Morse Code   1
                             Private Radio Bureau (PRB)   11
                                           QSL printers   15
                       Shuttle Amateur Radio EXperiment   18
                                             Super Morse   9
                   Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC)   21
                                               W5YI-VEC   21
                                                            

         Introducing the Houston Amateur Radio Helpline


"Lending Houston a Helping Ham" - that's what the Houston Amateur
Radio Helpline is doing.  All it takes is an interested person, a
touch-tone phone and a call to 713-488-4HAM to find out the
latest information about clubs, classes, tests, rules and amateur
radio in general.

"We wanted to find a way to get the word out about amateur radio
- how much fun it is, how easy it is to get involved with and how
to do it," according to Jim Heil, KB5AWM who has spearheaded
formation of the Helpline.

To do this, the Clear Lake Amateur Radio Club (CLARC) is using a
computerized telephone answering system that provides callers
with a menu of choices and access to information by simply
punching in numbers from their touch-tone phone.  "We're still
working on it," Heil said, "but even now we've got an enormous
amount of information available.  If people ask us, we can refer
to them to clubs in their area, give them information about
classes and tests, and send them packets of material about
amateur radio."

The Helpline has been created for the benefit of everybody in the
Houston area and will include information about any local club
that wants to participate.  "All a club has to do to get on the
Helpline is fill out a questionnaire that we'll be glad to send
them. As soon as we get the information back, we'll get it on the
Helpline."

Although the Helpline has been operating just over a month, it
has already received nearly 200 phone calls and sent out over 50
information packets - free.  "Right now CLARC is paying for
this," Heil says, "but we hope other clubs will see its value and
help out - it gets very expensive."

According to Heil, even the Houston FCC office has greeted this
project with enthusiasm and gives out the Helpline number to
people looking for amateur radio information.

"'Lending Houston a Helping Ham' is far more than just a terrible
pun.  It is our motto and our goal.  Amateur Radio is a wonderful
hobby and an important public service, and the more people we can
bring into it, the better."

Give the Houston Amateur Radio Helpline a call - it's easy!
713- 488-4HAM.

The Houston Amateur Radio Helpline (713.488.4HAM) is sponsored by
the Clear Lake Amateur Radio Club and Jim Heil, KB5AWM. If you
are out of our calling area you can write the Helpline at 16410
Havenhurst, Houston, Texas  77059-5307.
