Riding the Shortwaves: Exploring the Magic of Amateur Radio by Don Keith


Riding the Shortwaves: Exploring the Magic of Amateur Radio
Title : Riding the Shortwaves: Exploring the Magic of Amateur Radio
Author :
Rating :
ISBN : -
Language : English
Format Type : Kindle Edition
Number of Pages : 354
Publication : First published July 1, 2012

Amateur or "ham" radio is enjoying a big resurgence, attracting a whole new generation to the excitement of worldwide communications. Many of those into the "maker" and "hacker" groups are discovering this hundred-year-old hobby has continued to not only keep up with the times but is still leading the way in many technical innovations. In this book, ham radio operator and bestselling author Don Keith (call sign N4KC) uses both factual, easy-to-understand advice along with fictional short stories to show those interested just what the hobby is all about in the 21st century. Hams use their radios and antennas to bounce signals off the moon, explore digital communication modes, perform computer control of their stations from anywhere on the planet, talk with astronauts in the International Space Station, use satellites launched by amateur groups, talk to fellow members of the "tribe" all over the planet and more. You do not have to be a geek or electronics nut to get the most from the hobby, though it can be a great way to prepare for a technical career. Hams with all levels of technical skills enjoy the hobby, and Keith gives a number of ways in this fast-paced, easily read book. He details how the Internet, Facebook, smart phones and other technology poses no threat to amateur radio's popularity and, in fact, can be paired with the hobby in many exciting ways. Young, old, or in between, ham radio can be a thrilling hobby, and one that can be combined with other interests such as hiking, camping, weather watching, emergency communications, and more, and Keith not only offers examples but uses interesting, well-written stories to illustrate. Whether you are considering exploring amateur radio as a hobby, are already licensed, or want to have a book to help others you know who may be developing an interest, Don Keith's Riding the Shortwaves is for you. Come explore the magical world of communications as you ride the shortwaves with N4KC.

Riding the Shortwaves: Exploring the Magic of Amateur Radio Reviews

  • Daniel N.

    For anyone who is into ham radio and possibly wants to get into ham radio, this book is a great book

  • Jeremy J. Freeman

    Read some of it, and may check it out again. I think I just need to DO IT and take action, instead of reading about having a ham radio. IDK. DNF

  • Steve

    Good fun upbeat non-technical books on Amateur Radio are a rarity, and not only has Don Keith N4KC hit the mark, he has slipped in some very good advice and some stealthy tech stuff in too!

    Some of the chapters have appeared elsewhere as Don N4KC fleshed out this book, and some seem to make so much sense the reader is sure they have read it before, even though the words are new.

    Great read, dood fun, and an enjoyable introduction with some solid advice to an over 100 year old hobby - ham radio. I am sure glad I ordered a signed copy directly from Don N4KC.

    73

  • Jonathan Spencer

    This was just what I needed to give me some real world context between studying for my General and Extra Class exams. If you are not a ham, it might not make a lot of sense. If you have studied for at least one exam, though, it is a lit of fun.

  • Tom Lange

    A must read for anyone new to the radio hobby!