What is Amateur Radio?

Amateur Radio, also known as “ham radio”, allows enthusiasts to communicate with other Amateurs Radio Operators around the world, and experiment with all aspects of radio. If you have an interest in anything to do with radio, communication or electronics, it is possible that Amateur Radio could be the hobby for you.
  
Why would I want to become an Amateur Radio Operator?

If you have ever been interested in or dabbled with, radio or electronics, then it is worth considering becoming a Radio Amateur to learn more about technology and radio. If any of the following apply to you, perhaps you may be interested in finding out more:
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  • Interested in electronics or gadgets?
  • Into shortwave radio listening?
  • Want to understand how radio works?
  • Used a CB radio, and looking to explore other areas of the radio spectrum?
  • Played with a walkie-talkie as a kid, and want to know more?
  • Looking for a diverse technical hobby?
  • Keen to further your knowledge and technical understanding?
 What you can do

There are so many directions that the hobby can take you, so here are just a few examples:

  • Chat to locals from your home and whilst ‘mobile’ using the 2 metre and 70cm bands
  • Talk to other operators in the UK, Europe and around the world
  • Link your computer to your radio and the Internet using technologies such as EchoLink (think Skype for Amateurs), PSK31,  JT65, MFSK, Olivia, RTTY and FT8 
  • Try New Digital Voice Modes like DMR, D-Star and C4FM
  • Digital Radio Systems - Internet connectivity networking and routing 
  • Talk to the International Space Station – Most astronauts are licensed Amateurs and are occasionally available for a contact as they fly over your area
  • Experiment with radio – Investigate different aerial types, radios and transmission modes. Some amateurs are even bouncing signals off the moon
  • Take part in contests – See how far you can get, and how many contacts you can make in 24 or 48 hours
  • Events in the community and helping out in emergencies
  • Learn and operate Morse code (known as CW), and communicate around the world
  • Special events – Amateurs are often out-and-about spreading the word
 How Do I Become an Amateur Radio Operator?

You have to get a licence to operate amateur radio equipment and to transmit on the amateur radio frequencies, but that’s not a big deal. Check out the IRTS website for information regarding Radio Clubs in your area. An overview of the Amateur Radio Licence Course is available here.

The Irish Radio Transmitters Society, in conjunction with ComReg, organise two sittings of the Radio Amateur's Examination each year. The Galway VHF Group can facilitate a course of instruction for the Amateur Radio Examination on a one on one basis or for a group of enthusiasts. 

Video Links 

For further information about the hobby 
or participating in an Amateur Radio Course 

 Contact Steve EI5DD 
087 2451218