ELIDA, OH (WLIO) - Local ham radio enthusiasts gathered this weekend for their annual field day.
The members of the Northwest Ohio Amateur Radio Club are trying to make as many contacts as possible on Saturday and Sunday, where they speak to someone from another state or country over the radio. One member even connected with someone on the International Space Station. Many of them have built their own equipment, from the radio itself to the antennas that pick up signals from other users anywhere on or off the planet. One purpose of the annual event is to let the public see what a ham radio can do.
"I have to admit that I originally got my license just so I could talk to my brother on his radio. But I have been talking on what they call the Alabama Link, and I have made several friends, and I've made contacts overseas in England. And so, it's a fun thing," explained Sharon Falk, the president of the Northwest Ohio Amateur Radio Club.
You do need a license to be a ham radio operator. There are two levels, and once you pass that test, your license is good for ten years.
"For the technician and for the general class, you have a 35-question exam you have to take. And there's plenty of studying material; AARL has plenty of publications and the question pools you can study. They'll also take and get someone in your area; if you want somebody to help, they'll show you hams in the area that you can contact to get help," added Randy Tuttle, who has been a member of NWOARC for 45 years.
The club will also be hosting Hamfest on October 5th, a vendor event that's free for the public to come learn more. If you're interested in getting started with ham radio, you can contact the club at nwoarc@gmail.com.
