10-05-2017, 12:34 PM
Radio amateurs are fortunate in having lots of different frequency bands to use and many modes of transmission.
So from Morse code to the latest digital modes, it is all there to be explored.
You can also go on DF hunts, field days.
Challenges arise now from the high level of man made noise on HF bands (QRM), this is an ongoing and worsening problem. Even some Solar panel installations are giving QRM. It is causing some radio amateurs to stop operating as they cannot hear stations above the noise.
As for valves and high voltages I have just ordered four 811A valves for my Linear amplifier which has nearly 2KV on the anodes . However even with linear amplifiers MOSFETs are now taking over.
It is a good hobby and you find many friends on the air. Try and join a club or get along to one of the many radio rallies that take place during the summer.
I took the RAE in 1971, but did not start to be active on the air until 1995! I operate about 4 times a week, mainly on Nets, including RAOTA net.
I hope if you are now returning to the hobby you find it fun.
John
So from Morse code to the latest digital modes, it is all there to be explored.
You can also go on DF hunts, field days.
Challenges arise now from the high level of man made noise on HF bands (QRM), this is an ongoing and worsening problem. Even some Solar panel installations are giving QRM. It is causing some radio amateurs to stop operating as they cannot hear stations above the noise.
As for valves and high voltages I have just ordered four 811A valves for my Linear amplifier which has nearly 2KV on the anodes . However even with linear amplifiers MOSFETs are now taking over.
It is a good hobby and you find many friends on the air. Try and join a club or get along to one of the many radio rallies that take place during the summer.
I took the RAE in 1971, but did not start to be active on the air until 1995! I operate about 4 times a week, mainly on Nets, including RAOTA net.
I hope if you are now returning to the hobby you find it fun.
John
