What’s the Appeal of Ham Radio?
Some hams are attracted by the ability to communicate across the country, around the globe, even with astronauts on the International Space Station. For some it opens the door to new friendships over the air or through participation in one of more than 2,000 Amateur Radio clubs throughout the US. Others build and experiment with electronics. Hams are at the cutting edge of many technologies. Computer hobbyists enjoy experimenting in wireless digital communications, software defined radios (SDR), long-distance digital and image transmissions. “Off the grid” power sources and other concepts undreamed of just a few years ago are common in the ham community. While a Morse code key may still be on the desk, it is probably next to a modern, computerized radio communications system capable of operating, with or without supportive infrastructure, under the most extreme conditions.
