Ham Radio Operator's Guide [Paperback]

Carl Bergquist (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0790612380 | ISBN-13: 978-0790612386 | Publication Date: May 1, 2001 | Edition: 2

Building on the success of Prompt's publishing of the very first HAM Radio Guide (Hayden) in the late-1960s, Prompt brings the HAM radio user up-to-date with the 2nd edition of HAM Radio Operator's Guide. Bergquist has updated this recent text with the latest in HAM technology, regulations, and ideas.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

Whether you are just getting into the field of HAM radio, or are a seasoned veteran, the second edition of HAM Radio Operator's Guide is a book you should not be without! Written by noted author and HAM operator Carl J. Bergquist KG4AIC, this book is sure to become a valuable tool in your pursuit of this hobby, which is shared by people from all walks of life around the world.

Bergquist writes HAM Radio Operator's Guide from the perspective of a new user, while keeping the experienced operator in mind. This second edition includes updated license requirements, sample test questions, and a new section dealing with on-air operations. Other coverage includes equipment ranging from antenna types to power supplies, education, contests, clubs, safety, jargon, and etiquette. Also included are plans for several exciting projects such as a field strength meter, antennas, a power distribution center, and other add-ons to dress up any HAM shack.

Bergquist has been a successful photojournalist for AP, UPI, The New York Times, Newsweek, and other publications, including Popular Electronics and Electronics Now.

About the Author

Carl Bergquist followed a successful career as a photojournalist for AP, UPI, The New York Times, and Newsweek by turning his efforts toward a lifelong hobby of electronics. Besides articles in Popular Electronics and Electronics Now, Bergquist has authored numerous books from Prompt Publications and resides in Montgomery, AL.

Product Details

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Prompt (DPI - 8/01); 2 edition (May 1, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0790612380
• ISBN-13: 978-0790612386
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,497,156 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

20 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars For Those Interested in Amateur Radio, August 6, 2004

By 

Michael N. Powers "Online Sailor" (Houghton, MI USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Ham Radio Operator's Guide (Paperback)

This guide provides a fascinating overview of Amateur (Ham) Radio from how to get a Ham Radio license to a wide range of information on Amateur Radio communications to some basic electronics projects for your Ham Shack.

"Ham Radio Operator's Guide" starts off with an overview of the Ham License Classes, including the spectrum's and modes each license is allowed to operate on. Unfortunately, despite being published only last year, the Federal Communications Commission changed the number and types of Amateur Radio licenses for the United States. Regardless, the advice about how to study for and take the examinations is still valid.

The book continues with a discussion of all of the things you can do with a Amateur Radio License. The author covers the basic characteristics of the various frequency bands and modes of transmission that Hams use. He also discusses the basic electronics equipment required to communicate and operate a radio shack, from transmitters and receivers to microphones and power supplies.

The "Ham Radio Operator's Guide" describes many of the activities that Ham Radio Clubs conduct, from swap meets and field days to fox hunts and educational efforts. In addition to discussing why all Amateur Radio operators should join their local Ham Radio Club, the author comments on Ham traditions, conventions and etiquette.

Finally, the book wraps up with eight simple electronics contruction projects for useful items from a field strength meter and radio frequency relay to four different types of antennas.

After a successful career as a photojournalist, the author, Carl Bergquist, KG4AIC, has turned to his lifelong hobby of electronics and writes articles for Popular Electronics and Electronics Now. He wrote "Ham Radio Operator's Guide" from the perspective of a new potential radio amateur. His writing style is very entertaining, keeping what could be dry, technical topics fresh and interesting.

I strongly recommend this book for anyone who thinks they might be interested in becoming an Amateur Radio operator or in learning what being a Ham is like.

Review by Mike Powers, Radideo.com Guide, November 2000

5.0 out of 5 stars Ham Radio Operators Guide, January 14, 2012

By 

Doyle Simmons - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Ham Radio Operator's Guide (Paperback)

I am pleased with this book.
It informs me when and where for stations broadcasting.
This book also informs me about setting up and maintaing my equipment.

3.0 out of 5 stars ham radio review, December 31, 2010

By 

elpiri177 - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Howard W. Sams Ham Radio Operator's Guide (Paperback)

this book is informative in terms of the history of ham radio and lets you know what exists so you can make better choices for yourself. But it does not break down the science of how it works, it is not a do it yourself handbook. But it is informative, I'm glad I read it.