All About Ham Radio [Paperback]

Harry Helms (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Helms, a ham operator since the age of 12, offers the first comprehensive guide to amateur radio since the Federal Communications Commission dropped the Morse code requirement for licenses. He explains clearly, and with enough humor to avoid tedium, licensing procedures, equipment, antennae, radio theory, and electronics. The attractions of the hobby may be ordinary conversation, accessing rarely contacted parts of the world, competing for awards, tinkering with equipment, or public service. Modes of communication include voice, Morse code, and television. Satellites and personal computers may be involved. Potential hams should find this introduction a useful aid in determining future action. Recommended for public libraries.
- William R. Smith, Johns Hopkins Univ. Lib., Baltimore
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Paperback: 299 pages
• Publisher: Universal Radio Research (June 1992)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1878707043
• ISBN-13: 978-1878707048
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,340,447 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Best first book about Ham Radio, June 18, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: All About Ham Radio (Paperback)

In comparison to other ham books, this is agreat first ham book. It's easy to understand, and it covers everything. If you already understand this stuff, get <U>"Now You're Talking"</U>. If you already have your license, and want technical info, by all means, buy <U>"The ARRL Handbook"</U>! But, if you have ANY interest in ham </I>whatsoever</I> and you don't know a lot about it, <B>BUY THIS BOOK</B>!!! Trust me.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The best "What's Amateur Radio??" book I've ever read, June 27, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: All About Ham Radio (Paperback)

If you've ever wondered why your neighbor has more aluminum above his house than Alcoa, or thought it would be fun to talk to people around the country or world, buy this book!!

When I first thought about becoming a ham, this is the volume that convinced me I could and should. Mr Helms presents the varied world of amateur radio in a simple, informative, and humorous manner. The best first step into a wonderful hobby that he'll show you isn't as difficult as many think.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The best beginner's guide to Short Wave Listening, August 5, 1997

By A Customer

This review is from: All About Ham Radio (Paperback)

I first read Helms when I became interested in Ham Radio. His book was an excellent introduction. This book is also first-rate. Harry makes the subject very interesting and gives a lot of practical advice. This is what I found to be the best part of his book(s). He let's you in on the secrets. It's very much like having a very experienced DX'er chatting with you and giving you friendly advice. He takes the time to explain the technical terms, the options, the 'real world' of short wave listening so that you have a very straight foreward explanation of what it's really all about. And he has strong opinions! And a sense of humor! He has stories to tell about the excitement of DX'ing and relates it very, very well. I found out more about the technical and practical aspects of short wave radio from this book than from Mange's Passport [Which is an excellent serial book] Excellent advice about selecting your first SW radio, great advice about an outside antenna, a honest discussion about the need for 'grounding' your antenna (this will surprise you because of his contrarian view and logic) This book and Mange's Passport book are all you need to enjoy this hobby and save $.