Also known as ham radio, amateur radio is a personal radio service that uses wireless technology for non-commercial communication. It is used by licensed operators who have a personal interest in radioelectric practice and do not have a pecuniary interest.
Radio amateurs (ham operators) are assigned certain frequency bands in the radio spectrum, called amateur radio bands. Within these bands, they can communicate on any frequency using various modes, including voice, text, image, or data.
Amateur operators must hold an amateur radio license obtained by passing a government test demonstrating adequate technical radio knowledge and legal knowledge of the host government's radio regulations.
Since this is the shopping area of our guide, we will be focusing on products associated with amateur radio. Additional information and resources can be found in the corresponding category in our Sports & Recreation section.
An integral part of amateur radio is the transceiver, a device that both transmits and receives radio signals. Transceivers come in various forms, from handheld radios to mobile units and base stations. Handheld radios like the Baofeng UV-5R are compact and portable, making them ideal for beginners and on-the-go communication. Mobile units, such as the Icom IC-2730A, are designed to be installed in vehicles, offering greater power and range over the handheld units. Base stations, like the Yaesu FT-991A, are even more powerful and offer additional features. They are suitable for home use and have long-distance communication capabilities.
Antennas are essential for the effective transmission and reception of signals. They come in various types, including vertical, dipole, and Yagi antennas. Vertical antennas, like the Comet GP-3, are popular for their omnidirectional capabilities, making them suitable for general use. Dipole antennas, such as the MFJ-1778, are simple yet effective and are often used for high-frequency (HF) bands. Yagi antennas, like the Cushcraft A-3S, are directional and provide high gain, making them ideal for long-distance communication and contesting.
Repeaters extend the range of communication, particularly in areas with challenging terrain. A repeater receives a signal on one frequency and retransmits it on another, effectively boosting the signal's reach. The key components of a repeater system include the repeater itself, duplexers, and antennas. Notable manufacturers like Motorola and Kenwood produce reliable repeater systems widely used by amateur radio clubs and emergency services.
Various accessories enhance the ham radio experience. Power supplies, such as the Astron RS-35A, provide stable power to base stations. Antenna tuners, like the LDG Z-100Plus, optimize the match between the transceiver and antenna, improving performance. Microphones, headsets, and speakers, such as those available from Heil Sound, enhance audio quality and comfort during long operating sessions. Additionally, software-defined radios (SDRs), like the FlexRadio Systems FLEX-6400, offer advanced features through computer integration.
Obtaining an amateur radio license requires passing exams that test knowledge of radio theory, regulations, and operating practices. Resources are available to help aspiring hams prepare for these exams. Study guides, such as the ARRL Ham Radio License Manual, provide coverage of exam topics. Online courses and practice tests offered by organizations like Ham Radio Prep offer interactive learning, and local amateur radio clubs often conduct classes and study sessions.
Manufacturers supplying ham radio products, such as Icom, Kenwood, and Yaesu, are appropriate topics for this category. Elecraft produces customizable kits, such as the KX3 transceiver, while MFJ Enterprises offers accessories, including antenna tuners, power supplies, and other products for amateur radio enthusiasts. Ham radio product retailers may also be listed here. Additionally, commercial options for practicing or preparing for amateur radio exams would also be suitable for this category.
Recommended Resources
Located in Tallmadge, Ohio, DX Engineering has a retail location in Sparks, Nevada. Founded in 1986, the well-known retailer specializes in ham radio equipment and supplies. They offer a wide range of products, including antennas, transceivers, coaxial cables, and other amateur radio gear from various brands, including ICOM, Kenwood, MFJ, and Yaesu. Its product catalog is online, along with its family of brands. A printed catalog is available on request, and contacts are posted.
https://www.dxengineering.com/
The US-based sales platform first appeared in the Wayback Machine in 2008. As the name implies, it focuses on radio. Shoppers looking for radio equipment can find new or used amateur radio equipment, parts, accessories, and books on radio, including handheld, mobile, or base transceivers, amplifiers, power supplies, antennas, and publications from several brands, including Alinco, ICOM, Kenwood, and Yaesu. They also stock vintage radios, tubes, parts, and collectibles.
https://hamradiohut.com/
HRO is a family-owned business with multiple sales locations throughout the United States, as well as its online sales outlet. Its locations are posted. Its website claims that HRO is the largest ham radio dealership in the world. With worldwide distribution, HRO sells its products online, over the telephone, or in person at one of its stores. Besides its online product catalog, a profile of the business is provided, along with job opportunities, gift certificates, a full catalog, and contacts.
https://www.hamradio.com/
R&L Electronics offers a variety of radio products, including amateur radio equipment, antennas and accessories, amplifiers and preamps, power supplies, test equipment, tools, and cables. In addition to its online store, the company has a storefront in Hamilton, Ohio, where customers can browse and make purchases. The store location, hours, and contacts are provided. Online shoppers can browse by manufacturer, used equipment, product type, or featured products.
https://www2.randl.com/
The online platform allows people to sell their surplus, obsolete, and used electronics by communicating directly with prospective buyers, and buyers to contact sellers. Sellers can determine if their classified advertisement will run for one week or six months, with no listing fees, photo hosting fees, final price fees, service fees, or re-list item fees. Ads must be related to radio, television, audio, laser, or hobbyist electronics. Instructions are posted, and products are categorized.
http://www.secondhandradio.com/
