Online Class: Ham Radio 101

For nearly one hundred years, ham radio has been a part of many people's lives and it is a part of American technological history. Over that time, with the many advances in technology, it has grow
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  • 15
    Lessons
  • 17
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 23
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 13
    Hours
    average time
  • 1.3
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

For nearly one hundred years, ham radio has been a part of many people's lives and it is a part of American technological history. Over that time, with the many advances in technology, it has grown into a community that spans the globe, comprising many millions of operators, or "hams," as they are called. For some it is a hobby, and for many it is a profession. As you will learn in this comprehensive course, the ham radio community is one of the most diverse communities of enthusiasts in the world. Regardless of age, background, technological ability, or training, there are countless opportunities for ham radio operators to get involved within their community. 

The practice of ham radio operation began mainly as a hobby for many people, but there are also many professional uses for the technology, with operators providing many services such as emergency communications. Through the advances of the Internet, lasers, and microwave transmitters, today's ham radio operators are making contact with people in greater numbers than ever before. In fact, the use of a ham radio can enable a private citizen to have one of the most powerful wireless communications devices possible. It opens up a wide variety of opportunities for both amusement and professional endeavors. 

This course will enable you to learn both basic and advanced concepts in ham radio operation as well as guiding you through the logistical and legal process of obtaining your own license and setting up your own in-home radio station, or "shack."

Courses Frequently Bought Together:
  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Lesson 1. Connect and Communicate: Ham Radio Essentials

Explore the vibrant tapestry of ham radio—a realm where hobbyist passion meets professional necessity, binding operators in an intricate network of communication that transcends geographical boundaries. This course unravels the mysteries of ham radio, guiding learners in everything from legal logistics to the technical nuances of propagation. 12 Total Points
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: Motives for Taking this Course
  • Assessment: Lesson 1: Introduction to Ham Radio

Lesson 2. Radio Spectrum: Unveiling the Bands and Frequencies

Radio waves, a part of the electromagnetic spectrum like visible light, enable the transmission of signals at the speed of light through electric and magnetic fields. Transceivers combine transmitters and receivers to allow two-way communication, using antennas like dipole and beam designs to connect with different frequencies. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 2: Ham Radio Technology

Lesson 3. Building Connections: Navigating Ham Radio Organizations for Beginners

International conventions and local hamfests present excellent opportunities for enthusiasts to discover the latest trends, interact with peers, and immerse themselves in diverse aspects of the amateur radio hobby. By engaging with clubs and online forums, newcomers and veterans alike can broaden their expertise and enjoy a thriving amateur radio community. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 3: Ham Radio Organizations

Lesson 4. Ham Radio Licenses: A Beginner's Guide

The FCC recognizes the passion and skills of ham operators, regulating the radio spectrum to facilitate global amateur communication. Licenses are crucial as they delineate frequencies and ensure qualified operators contribute effectively during crises. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 4: The Licensing Process

Lesson 5. Navigating the Path to Your Ham Radio License

The FCC requires aspiring radio amateurs to pass a multiple-choice exam to receive their license and call sign. Beyond studying the question pool, understanding underlying radio operation concepts is crucial for success as a radio operator. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 5: Obtaining Your Own License

Lesson 6. Frequency Fundamentals: Understanding Bands and Sub Bands

Mastering your radio and its settings is key to connecting with other ham operators, requiring an understanding of different bands, frequencies, and equipment. By exploring tuning techniques and transmission types, you lay the foundation for seamless communication. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 6: Contacting Other Operators

Lesson 7. Step into the Airwaves: Mastering Your Initial Call

Initiating a Morse Code call mirrors voice calls except for using 'DE' for 'from,' and it ends with 'K' to signify the end of the transmission. The lesson emphasizes learning these abbreviations and understanding shorthand responses such as 'TKS' for thanks. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 7: Making Your First Call

Lesson 8. Operate with Ease: Casual Ham Radio Connections

Discover the art of ham radio as a hobby, where casual operators connect globally, even in remote areas, using various setups from home to portable radios on the move. Adhering to simple regulations ensures an enjoyable experience, with the FCC Rule Book providing essential guidelines and tips. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 8: Operating as a Hobby: Casual Contact

Lesson 9. Mastering the Art of Ham Radio Conversation: Etiquette and Guidelines

In ham radio, balanced on-air conduct requires discerning which bands suit casual chats and respecting organized group activities. By tuning into the social nuances of radio communication, operators enhance both personal interactions and the hobby's community atmosphere. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 9: Operating as a Hobby: Ham Etiquette

Lesson 10. Emergency Response 101

Amateur radio hams play a crucial role in emergency communication by volunteering with groups like ARES and RACES, backed by training and support from the ARRL. Their preparedness and ability to handle traffic communication make them indispensable for emergency response and public service. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 10: Professional Operation

Lesson 11. Ham Radio's Specialties: Exploring DX and QRP

Many amateur radio operators advance into skill areas like DX-ing, calling for detailed knowledge of signal propagation based on atmospheric conditions, and aiming for distant contacts that may earn awards. QRP-ing involves deliberate low-power communication challenges, often requiring custom equipment build, and presents its own achievement records within the community. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 11: Two Specializations: DX and QRP

Lesson 12. Digital Waves and Satellite Signals

Rising from traditional voice and Morse code transmissions, digital ham radio has leveraged computer technologies to send data using Internet protocols despite ionospheric challenges. Participants engage in contests and awards while experimenting with modes like radioteletype and PACTOR that offer reliable, albeit sometimes slow, communication with error correction. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 12: Digital and Satellite Transmissions and Radio Contests

Lesson 13. Choosing Your First Radio: A Beginner's Key to Entry

Ham radio's diversity demands strategic planning in equipment selection, considering where and how radios will be used and setting clear operational goals. By understanding the significance of filters, digital capabilities, and personalized accessory needs, enthusiasts can enhance their radio communication experiences. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 13: Selecting Radio Equipment

Lesson 14. Computers in Ham Radio: Beyond Logs and Record-Keeping

A successful ham radio setup relies on choosing appropriate antennas and computers which aid in digital communication and system control. From wire and vertical to beam antennas, each serves a distinct purpose and requires specific support and maintenance. 10 Total Points
  • Assessment: Lesson 14: Selecting Antennas and Computers

Lesson 15. Designing the Ideal Ham Shack: A Comprehensive Guide for Comfort and Efficiency

Maintaining a ham shack involves keeping a comprehensive notebook detailing equipment schematics, maintenance records, and a contact log for troubleshooting and performance tracking. A well-stocked toolbox aids in basic repairs and ensures equipment remains in optimal working condition. 78 Total Points
  • Lesson discussions: End of Course Poll; Course Comments; Course Comments
  • Assessment: Lesson 15: Setting up and Maintaining a Shack
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
220
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Describe what exactly is ham radio.
  • Describe ham radio technology.
  • Describe ham radio organizations.
  • Describe the licensing process.
  • Summarize contacting other operators.
  • Demonstrate making your first call.
  • Describe professional operation.
  • Summarize digital and satellite transmissions and radio contests.
  • Identify selecting radio equipment.
  • Describe what to look for when selecting antennas and computers.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Student Testimonials

  • "Good stuff especially for new course!" -- Kyle B.
  • "This course was very enjoyable to take." -- Frank R.

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