Ham Radio Operator's Guide (Paperback)

by Carl Bergquist (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description
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.

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.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 400 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: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #513,806 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

19 of 19 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 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

7 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Totally Awesome, April 10, 2003

By	mary kate bell (schaumburg, il United States) - See all my reviews

This book has it all - you really need to get it if you are into ham radio like I am! There is some key information here that I haven't found in other sources. The best!

7 of 31 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Youn cnt go without it, July 12, 2001

By	Patrick Snodgrass "[e-mail]" (Kingwood, TX United States) - See all my reviews

This ook has erything that you need to know about Hm Radio. It even includes field guids! This bookis great for all ages. I truely recomendit!