23-07-2024, 04:45 AM
(This post was last modified: 23-07-2024, 04:52 AM by Murphyv310.)
Hi Bob
The first step is to study for the Foundation license go to Essex Ham and do their course it's by far the best.
Don't spend out on a new transceiver, if you are serious then look out for a older radio that covers HF from Yaesu or ICOM. 2 meters FM (145.200-145.550Mhz ) may be fairly busy in your area so again a cheap 2 meter radio is what to look out for this will give a far better feel of the hobby, while the SDR Play receivers are good you don't get the feel of amateur radio transceivers. Do Not be tempted to press the PTT button.
For 2 meters you need a suitable antenna, you could make a Slim Jim or a J pole or buy a Diamond X30 as an entry antenna, put up as high as you can and use 50 ohm coax, no old TV coax as it's lossy and 75 ohm.
For HF a long wire will do in the meantime.
If you need help give me a ring.
PS id not recommend the ELAD if you are serious, you'll get a brand new Xiegu G90 for the same price and it's power output is within the Foundation License conditions. Remember you will need a resonant antenna when you pass and start to transmit, power supplies, SWR meter and many other things, it's a rewarding hobby and you'll gain many friends.
Good luck.
The first step is to study for the Foundation license go to Essex Ham and do their course it's by far the best.
Don't spend out on a new transceiver, if you are serious then look out for a older radio that covers HF from Yaesu or ICOM. 2 meters FM (145.200-145.550Mhz ) may be fairly busy in your area so again a cheap 2 meter radio is what to look out for this will give a far better feel of the hobby, while the SDR Play receivers are good you don't get the feel of amateur radio transceivers. Do Not be tempted to press the PTT button.
For 2 meters you need a suitable antenna, you could make a Slim Jim or a J pole or buy a Diamond X30 as an entry antenna, put up as high as you can and use 50 ohm coax, no old TV coax as it's lossy and 75 ohm.
For HF a long wire will do in the meantime.
If you need help give me a ring.
PS id not recommend the ELAD if you are serious, you'll get a brand new Xiegu G90 for the same price and it's power output is within the Foundation License conditions. Remember you will need a resonant antenna when you pass and start to transmit, power supplies, SWR meter and many other things, it's a rewarding hobby and you'll gain many friends.
Good luck.
