# Live workshops

# How to become a Ham?

# How to Become a Ham - Beginner Workshop

## Group Members:
- DL6BW
- HA0XD
- E71HB Haaarun
- 9A3BQR
- ES2ADO

## Event Overview:
- **Name of the Event:** How to Become a Ham
- **Number of Participants:** 3-6 people
- **Level of Experience:** Beginner (no prior experience required, participants are preparing to get their licenses)
- **Duration:** 
  - 3 hours per session, every week.
  - Each session is split into 1.5 hours for lecture and 1.5 hours for practical activities.

- **Location/Space Needed:** 
  - A local radio club or a similar facility equipped with basic radio equipment.
  - The space should have a lecture area and room for radio operation practice.

## Food:
- **Meals:** No food required.
- **Refreshments:** Optionally, provide water or coffee.

## Budget:
- **Do you need money for the event?** 
  - Yes, around **5-10 € per person** to cover materials (pens, notebooks, etc.).
  - Money can be collected from participants or sourced from the local radio club.
  
## Materials and Equipment Needed:
- **For Lectures:**
  - Pen and paper for participants.
  - A blackboard/whiteboard or a projector for the instructor to explain concepts.
  
- **For Practical Sessions:**
  - A working radio station for participants to practice QSOs.
  - A morse key and software/hardware for trying out CW (optional).
  - A computer or station to try digital modes (optional).

## Organizer's Preparations:
- Prepare all necessary teaching materials in advance (lecture slides, handouts, etc.).
- Set up the radio station and ensure it is functional for practical exercises.
- If using digital modes, install the necessary software and verify the setup.

## What Participants Need to Bring:
- A notebook for taking notes.
- A positive attitude and a smile!

## Workshop Content:

### **Workshop Structure:**
1. **Lectures (1.5 hours per session):**
   - Cover the following topics over the course of several weeks:
     - **Basics of Amateur Radio:** What it is, the different modes (voice, CW, digital), and the purpose of getting licensed.
     - **Operating a Radio:** How to handle radio equipment safely and efficiently.
     - **Call Signs & Procedures:** How to identify yourself and communicate properly on the air.
     - **Radio Etiquette:** Common dos and don'ts during QSOs.
     - **The Phonetic Alphabet:** Learn and practice using it in mock QSOs.
     - **Basic Regulations and Frequencies:** An overview of important laws and frequency bands for amateur radio operators.

2. **Practical Sessions (1.5 hours per session):**
   - **Simulated QSOs:** Each participant practices making a basic QSO with their peers under instructor supervision.
     - Focus on proper use of call signs, signal reports, and correct radio procedures.
   - **Introduction to CW (Morse Code):** Try basic CW operations using a Morse key or software.
     - Start with simple letters and numbers, progressing to simple words.
   - **Digital Modes (optional):** A brief introduction to FT8, PSK31, or another digital mode.
     - Demonstrate how to set up a computer-radio interface and make digital contacts.

3. **Weekly Focus:**
   - **Week 1: Introduction & Radio Basics**
     - Learn what amateur radio is, basic concepts, and hands-on radio operation.
   - **Week 2: Call Signs, QSO Procedures, and Phonetic Alphabet**
     - Focus on how to make QSOs and communicate on the radio effectively.
   - **Week 3: CW & Digital Modes Introduction**
     - Introduce participants to CW and some basic digital modes, allowing them to practice both.
   - **Week 4: Practice QSOs, Mock Radio Exams, & Review**
     - Give participants time to practice their skills and prepare for their amateur radio license exams with mock scenarios and exam questions.

### **Learning Objectives:**
- Help participants understand the basics of ham radio and the procedures for making QSOs.
- Build confidence in using a radio station, handling equipment, and operating on different modes (voice, CW, digital).
- Prepare participants for their upcoming amateur radio license exam by teaching key concepts and allowing practical hands-on experience.

### **Role of the Referee:**
- Ensure participants are following proper radio procedures during QSOs.
- Provide guidance on correct radio operation and QSO etiquette.

# Exploring the World of Amateur Radio

# Waves of Connection: Exploring the World of Ham Radio - Workshop

## Group Members:
- Not specified (participants will register for the event)

## Event Overview:
- **Name of the Event:** Waves of Connection: Exploring the World of Ham Radio
- **Number of Participants:** 15 people
- **Level of Experience:** No prior experience with ham radio (complete beginners)
- **Duration:** 1 day (Field Day)
- **Location/Space Needed:** 
  - Outdoor area, preferably on a hill or elevated location for better signal transmission.
  - Tables and chairs for participants.
  - Shade (from tents, trees, or portable canopies) for comfort.

## Food:
- **Meals:** Organize a picnic-style lunch.
  - Provide sandwiches, salads, fruit, snacks, and drinks.
  - Ensure that any dietary restrictions are considered (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.).

## Budget:
- **Do you need money for the event?** Yes.
  - Estimated costs for food, materials, and equipment.
  - **How to cover costs:** 
    - Charge a small participation fee.
    - Seek sponsorship from local radio clubs or societies.

## Materials and Equipment Needed:
- Portable ham radios for communication exercises.
- Morse code cheat sheets and devices (e.g., practice oscillators).
- Maps or software for tracking DX (long-distance) contacts.
- Chairs, tables, and shaded areas for comfort.
- Whiteboards or other presentation materials for teaching.
- Sunscreen, hats, and water stations (to keep participants hydrated and protected from the sun).

## Organizer's Preparations:
- Secure all required equipment and materials in advance (radios, Morse devices, tables, etc.).
- Set up a registration process for participants to manage attendance.
- Create a detailed schedule and timeline for the day's activities.
- Coordinate with any guest speakers or ham radio experts who will share insights.
- Ensure all setup, including tables, chairs, and radios, is ready before participants arrive.

## What Participants Need to Bring:
- Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for outdoor activities.
- Paper and pens for taking notes during sessions.
- Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Enthusiasm and curiosity for learning about ham radio!

## Workshop Content:

### **Welcome and Icebreaker:**
1. **Introduction:**
   - Welcome participants and introduce the event organizers.
   - Share the day's schedule, goals, and what participants can expect to learn.
   
2. **Icebreaker Activity:**
   - Fun, engaging activity to get participants comfortable with each other and set a positive tone for the day.

---

### **Introduction to Ham Radio:**
1. **What is Ham Radio?:**
   - Explain the basics of ham radio and its importance in global communication.
   - Highlight stories of how ham radio has contributed to emergency situations and public service.

2. **Ham Radio's Role in the Modern World:**
   - Discuss how ham radio is used for international communication, emergency coordination, and space communication (satellites).

---

### **Basics of Radio Waves:**
1. **Interactive Session:**
   - Explain radio wave properties in a simple, easy-to-understand way (e.g., frequency, wavelength, propagation).
   - Demonstrate how different frequencies work and the possibilities (e.g., bouncing signals off the ionosphere, satellite communication).

---

### **Communication Techniques:**
1. **Ham Radio Protocols:**
   - Introduce basic ham radio communication protocols (e.g., calling CQ, using call signs, signal reports).
   
2. **Hands-on Practice:**
   - Let participants practice using portable ham radios, under supervision, to simulate real QSOs (radio contacts).
   - Provide simple scripts or prompts to guide beginners through their first radio exchanges.

---

### **Short Morse Code Exploration:**
1. **Introduction to Morse Code:**
   - Teach participants the basics of Morse code and its history in ham radio.
   - Demonstrate simple Morse code patterns for letters and numbers (e.g., SOS, common letters like E and T).
   
2. **Morse Code Practice:**
   - Participants try sending and receiving basic Morse code using practice oscillators or straight keys.

---

### **Outdoor Picnic Lunch:**
1. **Picnic Lunch:**
   - Enjoy a relaxed, picnic-style lunch where participants can socialize and discuss their morning activities.
   - A good time to chat about personal experiences or any early impressions of ham radio.

---

### **Expert Talk (Guest Speaker):**
1. **Guest Speaker:**
   - Invite a seasoned ham radio operator to talk about their experiences in the hobby.
   - The speaker can share stories of long-distance contacts (DX), public service, or unique aspects of ham radio (e.g., satellite communication, contests, etc.).

---

### **Q&A and Sharing Session:**
1. **Discussion:**
   - Open the floor for participants to share their thoughts, questions, or concerns about ham radio.
   - Encourage them to discuss what they've learned and any lingering questions.

2. **Next Steps:**
   - Provide information on how participants can continue learning about ham radio and how to get their license.
   - Offer resources such as websites, books, or local clubs they can join to further explore the hobby.

---

### **Closing Remarks:**
1. **Recap:**
   - Summarize the key takeaways from the workshop.
   - Reinforce the excitement and possibilities of ham radio as a hobby.

2. **Thank You:**
   - Thank participants, guest speakers, and any contributors.
   - Encourage participants to stay in touch and consider pursuing their ham radio license.

---

### **Learning Objectives:**
- Introduce participants to the world of ham radio in a fun, hands-on environment.
- Teach the basics of radio communication, radio waves, and Morse code.
- Spark curiosity and interest in the hobby by providing a welcoming, interactive experience.
- Equip participants with knowledge and resources to pursue their ham radio license.

# Live & Listening

# Live and Listening - Ham Radio Workshop for Kids

## Group Members:
- Kira
- Lucía
- Dzestina
- Sam
- Diego

## Event Overview:
- **Name of the Event:** Live and Listening
- **Number of Participants:** 12 kids (aged 7-12)
- **Level of Experience:** No prior knowledge of ham radio, but all participants speak English.
- **Duration:** Half a day (approximately 4-5 hours)
- **Location/Space Needed:** 
  - A local club house with a ham radio station or a room where a station can be set up.
  - Create a "club room vibe" to keep the atmosphere friendly and engaging.
  - Comfortable seating and spaces for creative activities, like making QSL cards.

## Food:
- **Meals:** 
  - Provide snacks like pizza, sweets, and drinks (coffee for adults, juice for kids).
  - Serve snacks when energy levels start dropping, to keep participants engaged and create a "party vibe."

## Budget:
- **Do you need money for the event?** Yes.
  - **What for:** Food and snacks (pizza, sweets, drinks).
  - **Funding Source:** Use the club fund for food and materials.
  - **Additional Materials:** Walkie-talkies (HTs) for hands-on practice.

## Materials and Equipment Needed:
- A working ham radio station.
- Handheld radios (HTs) for kids to practice with.
- Vertical/straight Morse keys and electronic keyers for CW practice.
- QSL Cards or plain paper for kids to design their own QSL cards.
- Colour pencils, markers, and writing materials for creating QSL cards.
- Stationery for note-taking and participating in activities.

## Organizer's Preparations:
- Coordinate with club members to schedule on-air contacts (Rx) from the station during the event.
- Ensure the radio station and all equipment are working properly (debugging, if necessary).
- Prepare blank QSL cards or materials for kids to design their own.
- Set up the station for interviews, and coordinate with club members to be on standby for on-air conversations with the kids.
- Prepare the room to feel comfortable and kid-friendly.

## What Participants Need to Bring:
- Stationery (pens, pencils, etc.).
- Enthusiasm and curiosity!

## Workshop Content:

### **1. Introduction (15 mins):**
   - Welcome the kids and introduce them to ham radio in simple terms.
   - Explain what ham radio is and why it's exciting. Highlight how people use it to communicate across the world, even in emergencies.
   - Briefly go over the day's schedule and activities.

### **2. ICAO Phonetic Alphabet (20 mins):**
   - Teach the kids the **ICAO Phonetic Alphabet** using fun examples.
   - Have them practice saying their names using the ICAO alphabet.
   - Activity: Let them introduce themselves on-air using the phonetic alphabet.

### **3. How to Say Your Name & Callsign in ICAO (20 mins):**
   - Teach kids how to say a basic callsign using the phonetic alphabet.
   - Practice calling out a mock callsign over the station or handheld radio (HT).

### **4. Prepare QSL Cards (30 mins):**
   - Explain what a **QSL card** is and why it's important in ham radio.
   - Let the kids design and create their own QSL cards using paper, markers, and colour pencils.
   - Encourage creativity in their designs and have fun with it!

### **5. Interview with Club Members (30 mins):**
   - Schedule club members to be available on the air to speak with the kids.
   - Have the kids prepare simple interview questions for club members:
     - Callsign: ________
     - Date/time: ________
     - Name: ________
     - QTH (location): _________
     - WX (weather): _________
     - Why do you like ham radio? ________________
     - What is your favorite part of ham radio? _______________
     - What is your most embarrassing moment in ham radio? _______________
     - Tell me about a friend you made in ham radio. _______________

### **6. Hands-On Communication with HTs (25 mins):**
   - Let the kids try **handheld radios (HTs)** to communicate with each other using what they've learned.
   - Guide them through a simple **off-air QSO** using proper radio etiquette.

### **7. Introduction to CW (Morse Code) (25 mins):**
   - Teach the basics of **Morse Code (CW)**, explaining how it was used for long-distance communication.
   - Practice sending simple messages like **SOS** and **CQ** using vertical or straight keys.
   - Let the kids practice with Morse code oscillators or keyers to try out basic letters and phrases.

### **8. Picnic Break (30 mins):**
   - Take a break for snacks and drinks (pizza, sweets, and juice).
   - Use this time to socialize and chat about what they've learned so far.

### **9. Exchange QSL Cards (15 mins):**
   - Have the kids exchange their personalized QSL cards with each other or with the club members they spoke to during the interviews.
   - Celebrate their accomplishments by discussing their designs and radio conversations.

### **10. Wrap-Up & Follow-Up Event Planning (15 mins):**
   - Recap the key takeaways of the day and encourage the kids to explore ham radio further.
   - Mention upcoming events or workshops where they can continue learning about ham radio.
   - Thank the participants for their enthusiasm and participation, and invite them to a potential follow-up event.

## Learning Objectives:
- Get kids excited about ham radio by introducing them to the basics of communication and radio technology in a fun, hands-on way.
- Teach the ICAO phonetic alphabet and how to make a basic call using radio protocols.
- Show them how to use handheld radios and Morse code to communicate.
- Engage them creatively with QSL card design and real on-air interviews with experienced operators.
- Spark their curiosity to continue exploring ham radio as a hobby or future pursuit.

# Completing a QSO in every mode on 5 bands

# Completing a QSO in Every Mode on 5 Bands - Workshop for Beginners

## Group Members:
- Lili (HA2LY)
- Zoli (HA0BZ)
- Amar (E70AW)
- Ljuba (YU5EEA)
- Bastien (ON4BCY)

## Event Overview:
- **Name of the Event:** Completing a QSO in Every Mode, in at least 5 Bands (CW is optional)
- **Number of Participants:** 5-10 people
- **Level of Experience:** Beginner (participants have just obtained their licenses)
- **Duration:** 1-2 hours
- **Location/Space Needed:** 
  - A single shack with a radio station setup.
  - A computer with logging software and digital mode software.
  - The space should accommodate all participants comfortably for hands-on radio operation.

## Food:
- **Meals:** Light refreshments like water, soda, and snacks (chips, fruits) to keep participants energized during the session.

## Budget:
- **Do you need money for the event?** 
  - No significant costs are required beyond basic refreshments.
  - Use existing club resources for the shack, radios, and software.

## Materials and Equipment Needed:
- A working **ham radio shack** that supports different modes:
  - **SSB (Single Sideband)** for voice QSOs.
  - **CW (Morse Code)** (optional) for those who want to practice.
  - **Digital modes** like FT8 or PSK31, which will require a computer and digital mode software.
- **Paper and pens** for participants to take notes or log contacts manually if necessary.
- **Stopwatch app** (to time QSOs for practice and efficiency).

## Organizer's Preparations:
- **Prepare the shack:** Ensure all equipment (radio, antennas, computer) is set up and tested before the event begins.
- **Software setup:** 
  - Check that the **logging software** is installed and configured properly.
  - Verify that the **digital mode software** is working, such as WSJT-X or fldigi.
- Test the radio station on all planned bands (at least 5) to ensure proper operation during the workshop.

## What Participants Need to Bring:
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- No additional materials are required, as all necessary equipment will be provided.

## Workshop Content:

### **1. Introduction to QSOs Across Multiple Modes and Bands (15 mins):**
   - **Explanation of Modes:**
     - **SSB (Voice):** Introduction to making voice contacts over the radio, highlighting proper etiquette and procedures.
     - **CW (Morse Code - Optional):** Brief introduction to CW for those interested, though it's not mandatory for the workshop.
     - **Digital Modes:** Explanation of digital modes like FT8, including how to set up and log digital contacts using the computer.
   - **Band Overview:**
     - Explain the characteristics of different bands (e.g., 40m, 20m, 15m) and why operating on multiple bands can increase the range of contacts.

### **2. Hands-on Activity: Completing a QSO in Every Mode (60-75 mins):**
   - **Objective:** Each participant will attempt to complete a QSO in at least 3 modes (SSB, digital, CW optional) on 5 different bands.
   - **Process:**
     - Participants take turns operating the station.
     - Start with **SSB (voice mode)**:
       - The instructor will guide the first participant in making their QSO, explaining proper call signs, signal reports, and logging procedures.
     - Move to **Digital Mode**:
       - The next participant will operate on digital mode (e.g., FT8) using the computer.
       - Guide them through the steps of selecting the band, initiating a QSO, and logging it using the software.
     - **Optional CW (Morse Code)**:
       - If participants are interested, let them try making a simple CW QSO. This part is optional for those unfamiliar with Morse Code.

   - **Band Changes:**
     - After each successful QSO, switch to a different band and repeat the process, allowing participants to gain experience on multiple bands.

### **3. Timed QSO Challenge (Optional - 10-15 mins):**
   - For those who complete their QSOs quickly, organize a **timed challenge** to see who can complete a contact the fastest while maintaining proper procedure.
   - Use the stopwatch app to track the time it takes for participants to complete a QSO on a specific mode.

### **4. Recap and Q&A (10-15 mins):**
   - **Review Key Points:**
     - Discuss the different modes and what participants learned about operating on different bands.
     - Provide feedback on their QSOs, including any areas for improvement in signal reports, callsign usage, or logging.
   - **Q&A Session:**
     - Open the floor for questions, addressing any concerns or clarifications participants may have about operating on multiple modes and bands.
  
### **5. Conclusion and Next Steps:**
   - Encourage participants to continue practicing QSOs in different modes and bands on their own time.
   - Suggest further resources or events, such as field days or contests, where they can put their skills to the test in a real-world setting.

## Learning Objectives:
- Teach participants how to complete a QSO using different modes (SSB, digital, and optionally CW).
- Provide hands-on experience in operating across multiple bands.
- Ensure participants are comfortable using logging software and operating both voice and digital modes.
- Help participants gain confidence in making QSOs as beginner ham radio operators.