maw wrote:A few questions...
- "Ham" just means 'amateur radio operators' right?
- Does this course instruct how to use CB radios correctly?
- Does Canada/BC require users of CB radios to be licensed?
- What is the cost of radio/antenna/installation for mid to high range equipment?
Thanks.
1) yes, ham and amateur are the same thing.
2) the courses tend not to teach you how to use ANY radios, they aim to have you pass the test. They won't cover operating procedures, nor now to physically set your radio (since each one is different). Once you have the licence, you will have to figure out how to use a radio on your own. Best bet is to hook up with some experienced hams and bug them. Many clubs have a Wed. evening or Sat morning coffee klatch at a mall food court or restaurant. Helping out on a public service event (radio for say, MS walk) is another good way to learn.
3) CB, GMRS and FRS radios do not need a licence in Canada, GMRS requires license in the USA. In Canada, land mobile radios need licence of
radio by owner. Ham, marine, and air radios require the
operator to have a licence, the radio itself does not need a licence.
4) cost? Sky is the limit. But an okay single band radio will be about $200, antenna about $50, installation you can do yourself, or ask someone technical to help.
The radio on my current wish list is a Yaesu 8900 VHF/UHF (and 10- and 6-metre) and costs about $600. It does cross-band repeat, which I consider important. My current radio (icom) I bought 10 years ago second hand, can't remember the price. I recommend staying away from Kenwood, many of their bits and pieces are incompatible with everything else, and they've been having quality issues lately. Icom, Yaesu (Standard), Alinco are good. Doesn't hurt to buy the same as the guy who you will be bugging with questions, since modern transceivers have way too many features, and the manuals are often obtuse.
Many ham clubs have fleamarkets once or twice a year, keep an ear out. Check it out. Ask around for advice, listen to lots, then make up your mind what to get.
Once suggestion is to get a cheap VHF, use it a while, and then you will have a better idea of what you might want. Maybe the cheap single-band will suffice, if not then you have a second radio to lend out or as backup.
Hope this helps.
Erebus the
licenced ham <groan>
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