Ham Radio: Simplified [Paperback]

Kevin D. Cornwell (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: 1998

A perfect gift or companion for Hams-to-be, new Hams, old Hams, young Hams, or just downright confused Hams. Lots of illustrations, definitions, and examples make hamming easy and fun. A great learning tool both before and after the exam. A non-technical guide on how to choose a radio, set up a station, put up an antenna, talk on the air for the first time, and how to use packet, Morse Code, SSTV, RTTY, and more. Whether you'd like to markedly improve your own skill level, or the skill level of your students, this book will help you.

Easy-to-understand, Ham Radio: Simplified was written expressly for new or confused hams. It details basics often not covered in the classroom curriculum and clearly defines common practices and protocols the new ham will encounter when on-the-air. No- nonsense explanations help you grasp difficult concepts with greater ease. After reading this book you'll approach your exam or your radio with confidence and enthusiasm.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

One of the nicest technical books we've seen - anywhere. Written in a breezy style, this title presents the principles and procedures that govern good operating practice on the amateur bands. Using a sidebar to define 'jargon' words, the body text is left uncluttered for those with some knowledge, while providing clear definitions, illustrations, and examples for those with no previous technical knowledge. This book will prepare one for the real world of amateur radio and is a must in every ham shack.

From the Author

While there are other similar titles available, I was unable to find one that was concise, to the point, and not full of superfluous information. So, I wrote a book that is easy read, easy to understand, and fun. The information you need is readily available and clearly explained. I know you'll find my book an enhancement to your enjoyment of the amateur radio hobby.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 96 pages
• Publisher: GOCEAN, Global Oceanic Communication, Education & Assistance Network (1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1888740000
• ISBN-13: 978-1888740004
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.9 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 5.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 3.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (9 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,276,198 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

42 of 42 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Indispensable and Handy Reference, March 26, 2001

By 

Steve Nieman (South Carolina) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Ham Radio: Simplified (Paperback)

While others may find this book a 'waste of bookshelf space', I use this book daily as I learn new ham protocols and modes of operation. I find the ARRL tomes to be far to fat for practical use and hence a waste of my valuable space next to my rig. This book provides quick answers and understandable references. Simplified illustrations and explanations make this a perfect book for those of us who haven't tangled with the technical side before. I don't have time to wade through the other texts, but the clear and simple style in this book gave me just what I needed to get started. Sure it's simple, that's what the title says - and it is! Excellent!

37 of 37 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Best for tech-illiterate, July 16, 2001

By A Customer

This review is from: Ham Radio: Simplified (Paperback)

This book was a great assist for the person who hates to admit that he/she doesn't really understand the world of electronics nd ham radio. Easy to follow and Kevin wrote it as though he knew just the questions I would have. Simplified...by all means! Not the book for techno freaks...but for the tech illiterate.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Buy this AFTER you get your license, May 13, 2008

By 

Patrick N. Brooks (NC, USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Ham Radio: Simplified (Paperback)

If you have no previous exposure to Ham radio, then this isn't the book for you. There isn't any big picture introductory material -- page 1 starts with guidance for purchasing your ham radio rig (back in 1998). The ARRL technician class study guide has better intro material.

The author does a good job of defining terms, but many terms which need defining are missed (or not defined soon enough). For example, 'DXing' is mentioned 15 times before it is defined on page 24. The density of new terms is challenging -- even if they were all defined the first time they were used.

Instead, this should be the first book you buy after receiving your technician class license. It is full of information and advice, but you simply can't start from zero with this book.