HAM Links

Amateur Radio or "HAM" radio is a hobby just like any other hobby except that you have to obtain an FCC license by passing a written test about electronics and other radio related laws. There is no age limit and there is something for everyone. After passing the license test (s), you will receive a call sign similar to the ones that TV & radio stations have. You then buy radio station equipment similar to (but smaller than) the ones larger radio stations use. Click this link then click "view a short video" for more info: http://www.hello-radio.org/whatis.html

So why use HAM radio? What's the draw, when you can talk around the world on a cell phone or the internet? There is a sense of accomplishment when you put all the radio station items together yourself and can talk around the world without monthly fees or worrying if your battery is going to die. Check out our "member photo" page on this site for a look at some of our friends whom we have met through HAM radio and also take a look at their radio station equipment. Many of us started in the days of no cell phones, computers or internet, so it was a real thrill talking to strangers around the world back then. Click on one of the links on this page to see other HAM radio related sites & info.

After getting your license, you are then exposed to the excitement of speaking to people at random from all parts of the world, 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Many great friendships have come from a chance meeting "on the air". Through HAM radio some have met people in their own neighborhood or town who might not have met otherwise. A good knowledge of radio can help you with many technical gadgets at home or work. It was nice (back in the day) to know how to fix your own TV and radio set and other electronic devices. That saved me and made me money as a teenager. And, with today's technology, computers and HAM radio work very well together. HAM radio is not for everyone but there is a benefit for all who are in it. For those who are shut-ins, it is a great way to pass what would otherwise be a long boring day alone at home. For others in their cars, it is a friendly voice for the long drive home. The great thing about the hobby is that you can spend a little or a fortune on your station and you can take up the whole house or just a small corner of a room. Ask one of us to give you a live demonstration of the workings of a HAM radio station. Most HAM operators would glad to do that for you.

When I was first licensed in 1969, I never would have guessed that I would be involved in a Bible ministry through HAM radio. There are thousands of people that we don't even know about who listen to our Spirit Net each night and are blessed by the reading and the comments from our friends. And now that we are using "on line streaming" you can listen to us from the comfort of your own home. Thank you for visiting our site and I hope that you will allow God to bless you as HE has blessed us on "The Spirit Net". Phil WA3MNS