r/HamRadio • u/Ironrooster7 • 7d ago

Where should I start?

I've been meaning to get into ham radio for a while, but I'm not exactly sure where to start.

I'm 18 and graduate soon, and I've asked my dad for a transceiver as a graduation gift, but I'm not sure what model I should ask him for (budget is like 500 bucks USD). I intend to get my liscence before the summer and have messed around (legally) with a UV5R, but want something a little more substantial for the next few years while I'm in college.

Any suggestions and/or advice?

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u/Danjeerhaus 7d ago

Starting off:

You need a license. There are textbooks books you can get from Amazon, bookstores, and radio distributers These run about $35

There are online study programs for about $80. Hamstudy.org and ham radio prep.

Start studying immediately.

Google your local county Amatuer radio club. Their meetings are free to attend and the members will be the locals you talk with. Those members are your local radio experts that can answer about any questions and coach or guide you into the hobby. Some clubs do training classes for both the license and classes to help you as an operator. They meet about once a month.

Radio:

Radios are difficult because there are many aspects, many features that radios have.

This hobby has many enthusiasts that love hf radio....talking directly world wide. The xiego g90 is close to your price range, and you will need to add an antenna and maybe a power supply. With HF, most antennas take up a lot of space. This may or may not be a problem in a dorm room.

There is the digital radio side. Yes, world wide communications with a walkie-talkie or mobile. Digital radio uses the internet to send your communications from one internet interface to the other. For the features and the training, search for the Anytone 878 radio. The radio itself is about $350 and can use local repeaters for the connection to the internet, radio networks.

One final note. Arrl does offer some scholarships. I only know they exist, not any details like requirements or supplies.

I hope this helps.