American Radio Relay League (ARRL)

ARRL is the national association for Amateur Radio in the US. Founded in 1914 by Hiram Percy Maxim as The American Radio Relay League, ARRL is a noncommercial organization of radio amateurs. ARRL numbers within its ranks the vast majority of active radio amateurs in the nation and has a proud history of achievement as the standard-bearer in amateur affairs. ARRL’s underpinnings as Amateur Radio’s witness, partner and forum are defined by five pillars: Public Service, Advocacy, Education, Technology, and Membership.

www.arrl.org

 

What is Amateur Radio?

When cell phones, regular phones, the internet and other systems are down or overloaded, Amateur Radio still gets the message through.  Radio amateurs, often called “hams,” enjoy radio technology as a hobby. But it’s also a service –a vital service that has saved lives when regular communication systems failed.

Who are Hams? Ham Radio operators are movie stars, missionaries, doctors, students, politicians, truck drivers and regular people. They are all ages, sexes and income levels linked by their interest in wireless communications technologies. There are more licensed American Amateur Radio operators now than ever before in history.

Why do you need a license? While license application requirements vary by country, the Amateur Radio Service is also controlled by international law and agreements because radio waves do not stop for international borders. In its regulations (Part 97), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recognizes the ability of the hobby not only to advance radio communication and technical skills, but also to enhance international goodwill.

How do I get a license? Click here to visit ARRL page on getting licensed. It explains the different license levels and has other awesome information. Also check out the guides on our Tutorials page which are quick starts to the different tests.

What’s the appeal of Ham Radio? Hams are at the cutting edge of many technologies.  They provide thousands of hours of volunteer community and emergency services when normal communications go down or are overloaded.  All of them enjoy being creators, not just consumers, of wireless technology.

For More Info: Wikipedia Article on Amateur Radio