What Are Radio Amateurs

R adio amateurs are volunteers who develop equipment, experience, and skill in two-way radio communications on their own time, at their own expense, are licensed by the United States government as a Communications Auxiliary to provide communications in times of disaster when existing government and commercial communications are down or simply not enough for the demand.

Before they operate transmitters on the amateur radio frequency allocations, they must pass written examinations to demonstrate knowledge of FCC rules, radio systems, and modes of operation corresponding to frequency privileges granted for each class of license.

They are called “Amateurs” because they are not paid for their services, not because they are any less capable than those who are paid professionals. .... but the really cool thing is when the “ham” frequencies are not involved in disaster or public service communications, they are available for radio amateurs to have fun chit-chatting with others in this country and abroad, trying new antennas, ways of hooking computers to the radio, staying in touch with friends and relatives while on a trip or a sailboat around the world!

And it's free ...as in you don't have to pay by the minute to use the airwaves. You just have to have the radio equipment and be properly licensed, and continue to abide by the Part 97 FCC rules.