Chpt 1 - Introduction
Welcome to The ARRL Ham Radio License Manual, the most popular introduction to Amateur Radio of all! You're in good company - there are thousands of other folks getting ready to join the ranks of "ham" radio operators. In this study guide, not only will you learn enough to pass your Technician license exam, you'll also learn what ham radio is all about and how to jump right in once you're ready to go on the air.
The ARRL also provides ARRL Exam Review - an online browser-based resource for reviewing and practicing the exams using the current version of the ARRL license manuals for all three license classes.
This page is organized to support the Fifth Edition of the Ham Radio License Manual.
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ARRL Online Resources
- ARRL New Ham Desk - Email the New Ham Desk when you need extra explanation on a topic or just have a question.
- ARRL Licensing Information
- Club Search Page - Find clubs in your area
- License Search - Look up other license holders in your area or search for your own call sign after passing your exam.
- Licensing Class - Find license classes in your area
- Exam Session Search - Locate upcoming exam sessions
- First Steps in Radio
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- ARRL Operating Manual - covers many ham radio operating topics
- Ham Radio for Dummies - your "desktop Elmer" covering operating and technical topics
- QST
- ARRL Bulletins - Bulletins on general news, DX, Propagation, satellite tracking information (Keplerian)
- W1AW - the ARRL's club station broadcasts bulletins and code practice all year long
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Quick Reference Operating Aids, Band Charts
- Band chart of US Amateur Radio Technician Privileges to download and print
- Download this printer ready chart including commonly used Q signals and the ITU phonetic alphabet to accompany your Technician Band Chart.
- Complete US Amateur Radio Spectrum Band Chart
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Emergency Response Organizations
- Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) – ARRL-sponsored emergency communications organizations
- Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) - works with civil defense agencies
- Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) – provides humanitarian relief and assistance
- Hurricane Watch Net (HWN) — works with the National Hurricane Center
- SKYWARN Severe weather watch and reporting system — works with the National Weather Service
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Publications and Additional Resources
- ARRL Publications - The ARRL is the largest publisher of books and materials for hams and about ham radio.
- Ham Radio History - more information on how ham radio came to be the worldwide phenomenon it is today.
- Glossary
- List of Abbreviations
Licensing, Education & Training >> Getting Licensed >> Getting Your Technician License >> Ham Radio License Manual >> Chpt 1 - Introduction
