Amateur Radio (HAM Radio)

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Radio is the technology of using radio waves to communicate. Radio works by transmitting radio waves from transmitters to receivers. Radio waves are waves in the electromagnetic spectrum with frequencies between 3 hertz and 300 gigahertz. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) divides radio waves into 12 different categories:

• ELF - 3 to 30 hertz
• SLF - 30 to 300 hertz
• ULF - 300 to 3,000 hertz
• VLF - 3 to 30 kilohertz
• LF - 30 to 300 kilohertz
• MF - 300 to 3,000 kilohertz
• HF - 3 to 30 megahertz
• VHF - 30 to 300 megahertz
• UHF - 300 to 3,000 megahertz
• SHF - 3 to 30 gigahertz
• EHF - 30 to 300 gigahertz
• THF - 300 to 3,000 gigahertz

The ITU designates which bandwidths can be used by different types of radio devices to transmit radio signals. Examples of devices that transmit radio signal include equipment for professional radio broadcast, garage door openers, satellite television, and cell phone towers. 

Amateur radio is also known as HAM radIo. HAM is not an acronym, it is a slang term for amateur radio. Specific bandwidths within the radio spectrum are set aside by the ITU for amateur radio operators.   

Click on the following links to learn more.

• ARRL website - The National Association for HAM Radio

In order to become a HAM radio operator you need a HAM radio, a license, and knowledge.

• HAM radios can easily be purchased online from Amazon and other sources. HAM radios vary in the distance that the radio signals can be transmitted, an antenna can increase the range. Some HAM radios are hand-held, some can be installed in vehicles, and others are not meant to be transported. Repeaters located around the state can extend your range of communication.
• In order to operate a HAM radio in the United States you must have a license from the FCC. There are 3 levels of license: technical (VHF and UHF/entry level/short range), general (HF/long distance/communicate with other states, and extra (access all bandwidths designated for HAM/global)   
• Knowledge can be obtained by connecting with local Elmers, or people who assist others in learning how to use a HAM radio. Connect with Elmers through the Pueblo HAM radio club. 

HAM radio works when cell phones and other forms of communication fail. For this reason, HAM radio operators are often able to assist with emergency communications during a disaster. If you want to help with communication during a disaster, you should practice with your HAM radio and develop contacts with other HAM radio operators. Program your HAM radio with the frequencies you will need. Have a list of the frequencies and repeaters you may need on paper in case you need to assist in programming another person’s HAM radio.

• Print out a copy of the US amateur radio bands. 
• Print a copy of the Colorado statewide coordinated repeaters.