Basic Intro To Ham Radio For Beginners - Episode 1

A high-level, simple overview to the Basics Of Ham Radio - Part 1. Covering the UHF/VHF Bands. This is directed to beginners who have no exposure to Ham Radio and don't come from a technical background.

Part 1 will cover key terms and concepts, equipment options, transmitting options and the use of Repeaters.

KEY LINKS BELOW:

[fadecomic]

Just as a note, I have an EE and physics background, and it still helps to see it in a simple way. I understand the technical aspect, but it's still hard for anyone to look at the technician questions and not feel overloaded with so much new information at once. Also, there are ham-specific topics that you just won't know even if you are technical. Long story short, I also found this very helpful.

[CarlPugh]

Hands down the BEST intro-to-amateur-radio series on the Internet! Thank you

[TxHornyToad]

I’m a electrical engineer by education. As a sailboater I thought getting a ham license would be helpful. So 30+ years ago I got my technician license and bought Kenwood TH-78A HT. Didn’t have any ham friends so lost interest. When they dropped the morse code requirement I studied up and passed the general test and got that license. Not a “rag chewer” my nature I decided to only up grade my HT to a Yaesu VX-6 for SHTF communications. This radio has am/fm, weather bands and marine vhf channels (listen only) which I find useful. I guess I need to find/join a ham club to really learn to use what I have.

[newteripin]

Noob here. BEST info found so far on youtube !! Straight forward, concise and NO drivel. Thank you MJ !!

[albertmoots]

I am 82 formerly K7IQR but when active years ago it was fun to send code all around the world. Was a Mars operator as well. Enjoy as this man makes it simple.

[jp]

Easy way to compute your band is to divide 300 by your chosen frequency. 300 divided by 150Mhz equals 2 meter band

[AshMarie-ghxx]

I am brand new to HAM radios. I started thinking about SHTF scenarios so I bought a Baofeng BF-F8HP. I am very glad I found your page! I have been nervous to even turn in on.

[nancywarner]

I used MJ's techniques and passed my Tech exam ... 100%! These videos get straight to the essence of what you need to learn.. he also gives great tips on various ways to study.
I'm the proof his system works ... thank you!

[Jmeel]

Oh this is why the old school TVs had the UHF knob for the local TV stations like for instance Philly UHF stations are channel 17, 29, and 57

[ptlmbutler]

I have recently become interested in ham radio and have been reading and watching a lot of content. This was by far the best piece I have seen. I have learned more from this 45 minute video than I have reading articles and books from the last two weeks. Thank you!

[Nigol]

I am totally new to GMRS and Ham Radios. I literally know nothing, so this video blew me away! Thank you! Through the FCC I did get my FRN and my call sign. Cost me $35... no test required. The license is valid for 10 years. Now I need to buy a decent handheld system. Amazon here I come!

[edupa]

Because of the floods in Brazil I saw the importance of ham radios. Next time, I wanna be prepared and help people. This was the best video with lots of infos for begginers like myself. Thanks a lot!

[enriquediaz]

FYI. I have an engineering background *but * still enjoy these videos! Thanks! I’m at general & really enjoying it (when I have time:) ). I started learning CW but still early in the process.

[michaelwelborn]

I have a technical background in electronics and even some experience in tower maintenance, and still this video helped alot.
There is far too much information out there to take on at one time, and people get intimidated before they attempt to take the technician test. This is a good breakdown of the info. I hope to attempt the technician test in a few months. Thanks.

[Trickhorn]

What a great video! I’ve seen your videos in reverse order, because I came across them when I was already well into the process. I got my tech then general about six weeks into diving into radio. Looking back this would have been a great initial introduction! Great refresher too.

[andyfirecone]

This is another excellent example of how to explain the basics of ham radio MJ, thank you!
Nothing out there comes close to the detail and quality of your delivery.
You’ve set the bar high and any YouTubers who want to share their “knowledge” need to take note and start upping their game!
Thanks again for taking the time to produce these videos MJ, they’re very much appreciated! M7PPE

[shellmaker]

Very good video. I just ordered some books for the Tech. and General licenses and have been looking around on YouTube for some info on Ham radio . Up until I found yours they were either to complicated or just touched on one small aspect. I will say that this is the first time seeing any of this info (connected together) and my head is spinning a little after watching it. I will be watching it many more times as well as your other videos. You must be a teacher or just a natural at communicating this stuff. Thanks.

[DLBard-bvnd]

Thank you MJ. Great video. I have my General which I obtained to use on my sailboat for communication with other cruisers, weather fax and email. After several years of sailing I sold my sailboat, return back to USA to care for my elderly parents and fell off my HAM Radio. Now trying to get back up to speed. I purchased another sailboat & need to purchase new radio equipment. This video is helping to refresh my brain.
Cheers, S/V Cork~N.C. KJ4KNV (D.L.)

[EMThomasTX]

Excellent job. Terrific overview. I am just getting in, and I've already read some bummer stories about newbies getting into HAM, treatment from the vets. Won't let it deter me. Got my ARRL book coming for Tech, will move to General after that. Hope to find more good balanced information like this as I go forward. Thanks!

[RainGarden-]

Thank you so much! Excellent overview! So easy to understand.
Sending much gratitude and healing prayers to you.