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: 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. 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. 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.