NorCal FJs

FJ Cruisers of Northern California

Ham radio is much more useful, especially over long distances, than either CB or FRS radios. Getting started in Ham radio is getting much cheaper.

Taking the test is pretty cheap, $20 to $40, depending on where you take it. There is a Ham Cram session Saturday, 2/16, in Stockton. If you cannot make it to Stockton, look on the internet for a "Ham Cram" session in your area. I am taking my 11 year old son there to take the test. It is easy. If anyone want to meet there, let me know.

You do not need to study or know anything about Ham radio to  take the test. The session consists of a 6 hour review (memorization) session and then you take the test in the afternoon.

http://www.eventbrite.com/event/4854986395

PBnFJ told me about a decent, Chinese made ham Radio that is now availabe in the US for about $42 from Amazon.com or a bit more from some other stores.

http://www.amazon.com/BaoFeng-UV-5R-136-174-400-480-Dual-Band/dp/B0...

This is not the easiest radio to use but it is cheap. I have learned how to use it pretty well and am willing to help out those who go this route. A programming cable for it is less that $10 and the software is free to download and use.

So that is less cost than some CB radios. I have one of these radios and was able to talk to someone about 30 miles away. They also work far more reliably than other types of radios.

The goal is to get more people on the Ham frequencies on trail runs, it makes a better communication tool.

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I need to do this. Hmmmmmmmm

I will have to be on the look-out for the next one, think I am doing Apple Seed that weekend!

I heard someone talking about that this morning on WD6EJF. 

I am in Placerville, but I listen to several repeaters on my way to work, including that one. I have not tried checking in.

Can you post the Frequency, offset, and tone.  I generally listen and talk on ICW, 147.195, But my commute is pretty short so I dont get a lot of air time.  I have a TM-V71A so I can have another repeater on the other side. 

AG6I

My 11 year old son passed the test today.

My son says "thanks".

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