Let the Class Begin!
The time is finally near, and soon you’ll be able to get on the air as a ham radio operator.
Our classes will begin the first week of March, on Sunday the 2nd at 1 p.m., and continue the next two Sundays, March 9th and 16th. We’ll go from 1 until 5 p.m.; I’ll stay on for another hour for those who care to stay for questions and discussion. “In persons” will be at the Community Room at the Claverack Free Library, 9 Rt 9H (corner of Rt 23) and online. Webinar information will be sent later.
Note: The Facebook Page, “Resilient Radio Classes”
As we’ve said this will be a “hybrid” class, with home study complemented by the three “in-person” (or webinar) sessions with lecture, demonstrations, and question-and-answer times. On your own you’ll work with videos, a book, reviews, and practice exams; suggestions follow, and later I’ll send some alternatives.
Below I have some suggestions for study materials, and a few examples from people who recently got their licenses. Soon I’ll send a list of alternative and supplementary materials.
Please begin NOW to choose your book, video course and practice exams and buy or register for them. It’s easy to have a look to see which you like, or simply choose from my recommendations. Don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Suggestions
Book:
(Free online) HamStudy Technician License HamBook Excellent
These people are doing a real service to the amateur radio world – with their excellent suite of learning tools, and with the antennas they build and sell, with proceeds supporting the training.
“Friendly, approachable tone and clear, well-organized content that covers both technical aspects and practical guidance.”
If you need a book to hold in your hand, a number are available, but I’d suggest
No-Nonsense Technician Study Guide – free pdf to print, or buy it, $10 ebook, $22 print
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B3FPYTV8?ref_=k4w_oembed_VmAh55JYBGrI9k
Video Courses Organized
W4EEY (11 hours, free) Recommended
My friends Alison and Jeremy recommend W4EEY’s free course Technician Class 5th Edition, which is comprehensive but with a “folksy” presentation. The full course is 11 hours, broken into 1 and 2 hour segments. Here is the playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ_9BZQ8gpzg1lykJjQxbXmt8dpll5oct
Or/ Most thorough package – includes video class, book and many resources
Ham Radio School ($30 for the whole package)
More technically oriented, this is by far the most thorough class, “Written in a straightforward everyday manner, with minimal technical jargon.” Price includes book, video classes, resources, quizzes and exam practice, and email support; in addition, “forever” access to the site and resources. There are a great many helpful articles aimed at the new ham. There is a “Try before you buy” option.
“Every lesson features a book section reading, a video lecture, a review of exam content, an interactive quiz, and depth options for learning ‘beyond the exam.’ Each course also provides practice exams to test your readiness for the real exam, as well as pointers for finding exam sessions in person or online.”
https://hamradioschool.com/technician-prep
Quickest Video Course – Ham Radio Crash Course (4 hours, free)
Best to read the book first, then this is a recap.
Apps – Recommended
iOS – Ham Study ($4)
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hamstudy-org/id1371288324
Android – Ham Study ($4)
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.hamstudy.mobile
Description for both
(Includes all question pools and explanations from the website)
Review Guides
Ham Study
Practice Exams
Ham Study
Registration for this class is required. To register, send your contact information to friends@claveracklibrary.org with “Ham Radio Class” in the subject header. Registration ends February 24.
Looking forward, Christian, KD2LIN