Ham Radio Technician Class Licensing CourseCourse Outline Today - Welcome to amateur radio -...

Ham Radio Technician Class Licensing Course

Presented by the Twin State Radio Club

Introductions

- Who are we? Hobby Public Service - Prouty, Crop Walk Emergency Service - Who are you?

Course Outline

Today- Welcome to amateur radio- Licensing regulations- Radio & electronics fundamentals- Operating station equipment.- Communicating with other hams.- Operating regulations.- Radio safety.

Next Class- Test preparation and review (2 hours).- Test (1 hour)

Let’s Get Started

Our goal during this class is for each of you to achieve the Technician Class Amateur Radio License!

The license will authorize you to operate an Amateur Radio (Ham Radio) transmitter.

Steps to Obtaining Your License

Study the material in the Ham Radio License Manual.Review the questions in the back of the bookTake interactive practice exams.

http://www.eham.net/exams/http://www.qrz.com/xtest2.htmlhttp://aa9pw.com/radio/

Pass a proctored 35-question multiple choice test.Questions pulled directly from the question pool.Need to answer 26 questions correctly.

No Morse code is required.

What Makes Ham Radio Different?

There are many unlicensed radio services available.Ham radio is authorized:

Less restrictions.More frequencies (channels or bands to utilize).More power (to improve range and quality).More ways to communicate.It’s free to operate your radio.

With More Privileges Comes More Responsibility

Because ham radios are much more capable and have the potential of interfering with other radio services.Because ham radios have unlimited reach. They easily reach around the globe and into space.FCC authorization is required to ensure the operator is qualified to operate the ham radio safely, appropriately and within the rules and regulation – that is why you are here.

Technician License CourseChapter 5

Licensing Regulations

Licensing Authority

Federal Communications CommissionLocated in Gettysburg, PA.

Amateur Radio operations covered by FCC rules published in Part 97 of Title 47 – Code of Federal Regulations.

Use Part 97 for short

Some Definitions

Amateur Service – no pecuniary interest (private and personal, non commercial).Amateur Operator – the person holding authorization (license) to operate an Amateur Radio station.Amateur Station – equipment capable of transmitting on frequencies authorized for Amateur Service.

The Amateur License

No age limit or citizenship restrictions.One exception – foreign representatives.

License actually contains two parts.Operator License.Station License (the Call Sign).

Three levels of operator privileges: Technician, General, Amateur Extra.

License Term and Renewal

The license is free and good for 10 years.Renewable within 90 days of the expiration date.

What can you do with a Technician Class License?

Frequency Privileges:Band versus frequency.

Amateur Radio - Internationally

International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

Regions 1, 2 and 3.CONUS hams are in Region 2.Reciprocal operating authorizations.There are times when there are restrictions on certain countries that we can contact.

Call Signs

US call signs begin with: K, N, W, and A.US call sign districts: 0-9

Technician License CourseChapter 2

Radio and Electronics FundamentalsEquipment Definitions Hour-1

Basic Station Organization

Station EquipmentReceiverTransmitterAntennaPower Supply

Accessory Station EquipmentRepeaters

The Transceiver

You will notice that many of the controls of the transmitter and receiver are the same.Most modern transmitters and receivers are combined in one unit – called a transceiver.

Saves spaceCost less

Many common electronic circuits are shared in the transceiver.

Antenna

The antenna exposes your station to the world.Facilitates the radiation of your signal into space (electromagnetic radiation).Intercepts someone else’s signal.

Most times the transmitting and receiving antenna are the same antenna.Connected to your station by a connecting wire called a feed line.

Power Supply

Most modern radios operate on 12 volts direct current (dc).

A power supply converts household current to the type of current and the correct voltage to operate your station.Could be internal, might be external.

You are probably familiar with common “wall-wart” power supplies.

Special Stations You Will Use (Repeaters)

Repeaters are automated stations located at high places that receive and then retransmit your signal – simultaneously.

Dramatically improves range.The basic components of a repeater are the same as your station: receiver, transmitter, antenna and power supply.

Repeaters

But, repeaters are transmitting and receiving at the same time using the same antenna.This requires a very high quality and specialized filter to prevent the transmitted signal from overpowering the receiver.This specialized filter is called a duplexer.

Repeater

Technician License CourseChapter 2

Radio and Electronics FundamentalsBasic Electricity Hour-2

Basic Characteristics of Electricity

There are three characteristics to electricity:VoltageCurrentResistance

All three must be present for electrons to flow.

Ohm’s Law

E is voltageUnits - volts

I is currentUnits - amperes

R is resistanceUnits - ohms

R = E/II = E/RE = I x R

Power Formula

Power is defined as the amount of current that is being pushed through a conductor or device to do work.

P = E x IE = P/II = P/E

Two Basic Kinds of Current

When current flows in only one direction, it is called direct current (dc).

Batteries are a common source of dc.Most electronic devices are powered by dc.

When current flows alternatively in one direction then in the opposite direction, it is called alternating current (ac).

Your household current is ac.

Putting It All Together in a Circuit Diagram

Metric Units

Technician License CourseChapter 2

Radio and Electronics FundamentalsSignals and Waves Hour-3

Radio Waves are AC

You have already learned that in an alternating current (ac) the electrons flow in one direction one moment and then the opposite direction the next moment.Radio waves (electromagnetic radiation) are ac waves.Radio waves are used to carry the information you want to convey to someone else.

Wave Vocabulary

Before we study radio waves, we need to learn some wave vocabulary.

AmplitudeFrequencyPeriodWavelengthHarmonics

Wavelength

The distance a radio wave travels during one cycle.

One complete change between magnetic and electric fields.

Radio Frequency (RF) Spectrum

Another Use for Frequency and Wavelength

For the station antenna to efficiently send the radio wave out into space, the antenna must be designed for the specific operating frequency.

The antenna length needs to closely match the wavelength of the frequency to be used.Any mismatch between antenna length and frequency wavelength will result in radio frequency energy being reflected back to the transmitter, not going (being emitted) into space.

Adding Information - Modulation

Now that we know where we are in the RF spectrum and are sending a radio wave into space.When we imprint some information on the radio wave, we modulate the wave.

Turn the wave on and offVoice AM (to Control Tower) and FM (to DHART)Data

Different modulation techniques are called modes.

Technician License CourseChapter 2

Radio and Electronics FundamentalsAntennas, Feed lines, and

Propagation

The Antenna (Some Vocabulary)

Polarization: The direction of the electric field relative to the surface of the earth.

Same as the physical directionVerticalHorizontalCircular

The Antenna (Some Vocabulary)

Omni-directional – radiates in all directions.Directional beam – focuses radiation in specific directions.Gain – apparent increase in power in a particular direction because energy is focused in that direction.

Measured in decibels (dB)

Antenna Impedance

Antennas have a characteristic impedance.Expressed in ohms – common value 50 ohms.Depends on:

Antenna designHeight above the groundDistance from surrounding obstaclesFrequency of operationA million other factors

Feed Line types

The purpose of the feed line is to get energy from your station to the antenna.Basic feed line types.

Coaxial cable (coax).Open-wire or ladder line.

Each has a characteristic impedance, each has its unique application.

SWR Meter

The SWR meter is inserted in the feed line and indicates the mismatch that exists at that point.You make adjustments to the antenna to minimize the reflected energy (minimum SWR).

Radio Wave Propagation:Getting from Point A to Point B

Radio waves propagate by many mechanisms.

The science of wave propagation has many facets.

We will discuss three basic ways:Line of sight - VHF or UHFGround wave - Hugs surface of earthSky-wave - Reflects off ionosphere

Ionosphere

Radiation from the Sun momentarily will strip electrons away from the parent atom in the upper reaches of the atmosphere.

Creates ionsThe region where ionization occurs is called the ionosphere.

Technician License CourseChapter 3

Operating Station EquipmentTransmitters, Receivers and

Transceivers

Generalized Transceiver Categories

Single Band VHF or UHF FMDual Band VHF/UHF FMMulti-mode VHF/UHFMulti-band HF and VHF/UHFHand-held (HT)

Single Band Transceiver

Probably the most common starter rig.Operates from 12 volts dc, requires external power supply.Requires an external antenna.Can be operated mobile or as a base station.Limited to frequency modulation (FM) and either 2 meters or 70 cm bands.Up to approximately 50 watts output.

Hand-held (HT) Transceiver

Small hand-held FM units.Can be single band or dual band.Limited power (usually 5 watts or less).Includes power (battery) and antenna in one package.An attractive first starter rig – but make sure it is what you want.

Rig Vocabulary

We will now go through some jargon and vocabulary specific to the functions and controls of a transmitter and receiver.

This is a way to discuss how to operate a transceiver.

These controls, though separate, are combined in a transceiver.

Transmitter Controls and Functions

Main tuning dial (both TX and RX):Controls the frequency selection via the Variable Frequency Oscillator (VFO).Could be an actual dial or key pad or programmed channels.Variable frequency step size (tuning rate, resolution).Could have more than one VFO (control more that one frequency at a time).

Transmitter Controls and Functions

Transmitter on/offPush-to-Talk (PTT)Voice-Operated Transmission (VOX)

VOX GainVOX DelayAnti-VOX

Key jack

Receiver Controls and Functions

SquelchTurns off audio to speaker when signal is not present.

Used in FM primarilyOpen – allows very weak signals to pass through (along with noise).Tight – allows only the strongest signals to pass through.

Advance the squelch control until the noise just disappears.

Receiver Controls and Functions

Reception and Transmission Meter.In transmit, indicates output power or ALC or other functions as selected by switch setting.

In receive - indicates signal strength.In “S” units S1 through S9 – S9 is strongest.Also have dB over S9 to cover very strong signals.

Technician License CourseChapter 3

Operating Station EquipmentRepeater Operation and Data Modes

What is a Repeater?

Specialized transmitter/receiver interconnected by computer controller.Generally located at a high place.Receives your signal and simultaneously retransmits your signal on a different frequency.Dramatically extends line-of-sight range.

If both users can see the repeater site.

A Little Vocabulary First

SimplexTransmitting and receiving on the same frequency.Each user takes turns to transmit.Is the preferred method if it works.

A Little Vocabulary First

DuplexTransmitting on one frequency while simultaneously listening on a different frequency.Repeaters use duplex.Output frequency – the frequency the repeater transmits on and you listen to.Input frequency – the frequency the repeater listens to and you transmit on.

Things to Know to Use a Repeater

Output frequency.Frequency split.

and therefore the input frequency.Repeater access tones (if any).

Repeater Output Frequency

Repeaters are frequently identified by their output frequency.

“Meet you on the 443.50 machine.”Here the specific frequency is used.

“Let’s go to 94.”Here an abbreviation for a standard repeater channel is used meaning 146.94 MHz.

“How about the NARL repeater?”Here the repeater is referenced by the sponsoring club name.

Repeater Frequency Split

The split, shifts, or offset frequencies are standardized to help facilitate repeater use.There are + and – shifts depending on the plan.Different bands have different standardized amounts of shift.

Repeater Access Tones

Access tones are usually published along with repeater frequencies.Could also be announced when the repeater identifies.

“PL is 123.0”Tones are generally programmed into the radio along with frequency and offset.

Repeater Controller

Computer that controls the repeater operation.Station identification (Morse code or synthesized voice).

Same ID requirements as you have.Time-out protection.

Sometimes called the alligator.Protects against continuous transmission in the event of a stuck PTT or long winded hams.

Courtesy tone – repeater time-out timer reset.

Data Modes

Connecting computers via ham radio.Some systems use radio to connect to Internet gateways.

The bulk of the work is done by specialized modems or computer software/sound card.

Terminal Node Controller (TNC).Multiple Protocol Controller (MPC).

Technician License CourseChapter 3

Operating Station EquipmentPractical Antennas

The Dipole

Most basic antenna.Two conductive, equal length parts.Feed line connected in the middle.

Total length is ½ wavelength (1/2 � ).

Length (in feet) = 468 / Frequency (in MHz).

The Ground-Plane

Simply a dipole that is oriented perpendicular (vertical to the Earth’s surface).One half of the dipole is replaced by the ground-plane.

EarthCar roof or trunk lid or other metal surface.Radial wires.

Length (in feet) = 234 / Frequency (in MHz).

The Ground-Plane

Directional (Beam) Antennas

Coax Feed Lines

RG-58RG-8RG-213RG-174Hardline

Coax Connectors

SO-239/PL259BNCNSMA

Technician License CourseChapter 3

Operating Station EquipmentPower Supplies and Batteries

Handheld TransceiversRF Interference (RFI)

Power Supplies

Most modern radio equipment runs from 12 volts dc.Household current is 120 volts ac.Power supplies convert 120 volts ac to 12 volts dc.

13.8 volts dc is the common voltage you will see.This is the charging voltage for motorized vehicles.

Handheld Transceivers

Single, dual and multi-band versions (with increasing cost and complexity).

Some have expanded receiver coverage (wide-band receive).

Very portable and self-contained.Internal microphone and speaker.Rubber duck antenna.Battery powered.

RFI Mitigation

FiltersFilters attenuate (reduce) interfering signals – but do not totally eliminate them.

High-pass –generally on the receive side.Low-pass – generally on the transmit side.Band-pass – used within most radio equipment.

Noise Sources

Electrical arcs (motors, thermostats, electric fences, neon signs).Power lines.Motor vehicle ignitions.Motor vehicle alternators.Switching power supplies.Computers, networks, and TV sets.

Dealing with RFI

Take interference complaints seriously.Make sure that you’re really not the cause (demonstrate that you don’t interfere within your own home).Offer to help eliminate the RFI, even if you are not at fault.Consult ARRL RFI Resources for help and assistance.

What the Rules Say

RFI from and to unlicensed devices is the responsibility of the users of such devicesBottom line – If your station is operating properly, you are protected against interference complaintsBUT – Be a good neighbor because they may (probably) not be familiar with Part 15 rules and regulations

Technician License CourseChapter 4

Communicating with other hamsMaking Contact

Radio Manners

Ham radio is self-regulated.ARRL Official Observers.

LoggingQSL’s

Awards Program

Band Plans

A band plan is a way of organizing the use of radio frequencies.

Formal and legal plan.Informal – gentleman's agreement.

Repeater/Digital/Internet

EcholinkIRLPWinLinkD-Star

Technician License CourseChapter 4

Communicating with other hamsNets and Emergency

Communications

Nets

Net is short for “Network.”Evolved over the years of radio to share and exchange information in an organized and efficient way with accuracy.

Social Nets.Traffic Nets.Emergency and Public Service Nets.

Emergency and Public Service Nets

Public Service Nets – training for emergency nets.

Training for ham operators as well as supported emergency managers.

Emergency Nets.

Net Structure

Net Control Station (NCS).Traffic cop that controls the flow of information.

Check-in and check-out procedures.Communications discipline vital.

Learn and follow procedures.Speak only when directed, and only to whom directed.Follow through with your commitments.

EMCOMM Organizations

Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES).

Supports civil emergencies.National in scope.Vermont

Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES).

Local and regional in scope.Supports non-governmental agencies.New Hampshire

Making and Answering Distress Calls

Rule number one – speak in plain language!Mayday (voice); SOS (Morse code) are flagsIdentifyGive locationState the situationDescribe assistance requiredProvide other important information

Tactical Communications

Tactical Call Signs.Facilitate communications.Location or function specific.Transcends operator changes.

FCC ID rules still apply.

Technician License CourseChapter 4

Communicating with other hamsSpecial Modes and Techniques

Awards

DXCCContacting 100 different countries and/or entities.

WASContacting 50 states.

VUCCContacting 100 grid squares on VHF/UHF.

Contests

Field DaySweepstakesQSO PartiesCQ DX Contest

Contest Corral

Amateur Satellites

OSCAROrbiting Satellites Carrying Amateur Radio.

ModesFMAnalog (SSB and CW)Digital

International Space Station.

Digital Techniques

Radio Teletype (RTTY).Single letters sent as they are typed.

AMTOR and PACTOR.Small grouping of letters sent with error correction.

Packet and Packet Networks.Groups (packets) of collected data sent with error correction and automatic forwarding.

PSK31.Different modulation technique.

APRS

Automatic Position Reporting System (APRS).Packet based Global Positioning System (GPS) position reporting.

Uses a packet-like digipeater system to create an APRS network (also Internet connected).

Other Special Modes

VideoSlow Scan TV (SSTV).

Sending snap-shot pictures.

Amateur TV (ATV).Similar to commercial TV imagery.

Other Special Modes

Meteor Scatter.Reflecting radio signals off of the ionized trail left by meteors.

Moonbounce.Reflecting radio signals off the surface of the moon.

Technician License CourseChapter 6

Operating Regulations

Most Important Information

Control operator responsibilities.The FCC’s primary concern is that transmissions are made only under the control of a licensed operator.

Control operator – the licensed amateur responsible for making sure transmissions comply with FCC rules.

Control Operator

Must have a valid FCC issued Amateur Radio license.Station must operate within the authorization of the control operator’s license.Control operator must be present at the control point of the station (the on-off switch) or remotely connected by a control link.

Guest Operations

Non-licensed people can use a ham radio but only when a control operator is present.

The control operator is solely responsible for station operation.

Licensed guests can use the ham radio.In this case, both the control operator and the guest ham are responsible for station operation.

Station Identification (ID)

Normal ID.Say your call sign every ten minutes during and at the end of the contact (QSO).

Use of Tactical Call Signs.Does not substitute for proper station ID.

Ham Guests.

Prohibited Transmissions

Unidentified transmissions .(not giving your call sign)

False or deceptive signals.(using someone else’s call sign)

False distress or emergency signals.(fake calls for help)

Obscene or indecent speech.(up to interpretation)

Music.

No Business Communications

You can not make a profit through the use of transmissions made via ham radio.The exception is teachers using ham radio in their classrooms.

No Encrypted Transmissions

Encryption involves encoding information for transmission that must be decoded upon reception to interpret the information.This is okay if:

Coding is open source.Intention is not to hide the message or deceive.

No Broadcasting

Broadcasting is sending one-way transmissions with no expectation of getting a response.

NewsMusic

Exceptions:Code practice.Ham radio related bulletins.Re-transmission of shuttle communications.

Technician License CourseChapter 7

Electrical and RF Safety

Electrical Injuries

Shocks.Burns.Even small currents can cause problems.100 mA can cause death (test)

Lightning Safety

Antennas are not struck any more frequently than trees or tall structures.Ground all antennas.Use lightning arrestors.Disconnect antenna cables and power cords during storms.Disconnect telephone lines from computer modems.

RF Exposure

Exposure to high levels of RF can cause problems.If equipment is operated properly, RF exposure is minimal and not dangerous.Problem is RF energy can heat body tissues.

Heating depends on the RF intensity and frequency.

RF Intensity

Power DensityActual transmitter power.

Higher power, higher risk.Antenna gain and proximity.

Beam antennas focus available energy.Being physically close or standing in the beam direction increases risk.

Mode duty cycle.The more time the power output is at high level, the higher the risk.

Antenna Proximity

Controlled Environment.You know where people are standing in relation to your antenna and you can do something about it.More power is allowed because you can make adjustments if needed.

Uncontrolled Environment.You have no idea, or have no control of people near your antenna.Less power is allowed because you have to assume the worse case scenario.

RF Exposure and Frequency

This concludes of today's work

Next class is final review and the test

Your Mentors during independent study:

Bill Brown, KB1MOV 603-643-6639, kb1mov@arrl.orgBill Burden, WB1BRE 802-333-4623, william.burden@valley.net