Amateur Radio Fits Seniors and Retirees to a Tee
Being retired does not mean becoming inactive. Many civilian and military retirees quickly cast about, searching for something to replace their prior work. They crave something to keep them useful and sharp. Amateur radio may be the perfect answer.
· There is no age limit for obtaining or retaining a F.C.C. amateur radio license. Ham radio truly is a hobby for a lifetime. Hams come from many backgrounds, from truck drivers to professionals, or firefighters and teachers to business people, both male and female from six years old to some folks in their 90s.
· Reference materials and practice tests are available to help an individual prepare for the short, multiple-choice Technician Class written exam conducted locally by ham radio operators. Proficiency in Morse code is no longer part of any exam. Furthermore, you do not need to be an electronic wizard to have fun with ham radio!
· There are many facets of wireless communication to explore, so the hobby never gets boring.
· New operators can obtain initial VHF radio equipment for a very modest investment, usually under $200. Used transceivers are also available locally and on the Internet.
· Hams help by providing emergency and special event communications, so there is a community service element to a fun hobby, and one learns new skills in the process. Hams provide services during natural disasters when other means of communication are down.
· Ham radio includes those with physical disabilities. Hams with physical challenges, known as “Handi-hams,” use radio to stay connected to the rest of the world.
More than 700,000 U.S. hams communicate around the world with over two million hams globally and even in space. Most astronauts on the International Space Station are hams and enjoy chatting with their earth-bound brethren! Some hams simply prefer to spend their time in longer conversations with other local operators.
Hams build international goodwill and have a lot of fun in the process. They help local communities by providing volunteer communication services. Hams continue to contribute to wireless technology, experimenting with new methods and equipment.
The Richardson Wireless Klub provides support for hams in and around Richardson, Texas. Check the website at www.k5rwk.org for meeting dates. Guests are always welcome.
The American Radio Relay League is the national association for amateur radio. For more information about how to become a ham, go to www.arrl.org.