On Sunday, June 2, 2024, the Goa Radio Amateurs Society (GRAS) organized an engaging session on ham radio. This event aimed to demystify ham radio for enthusiasts and the general public. I, Sandesh Bhat (VU3FGJ), along with Amey Pandit (VU2YQ), had the pleasure of leading this informative session.
Session Overview
The session began with a friendly welcome, setting an inviting atmosphere for a diverse audience composed of curious newcomers and aspiring radio amateurs. Everyone was eager to learn about the fascinating world of ham radio.
Introduction to Ham Radio
Our presentation started with a comprehensive introduction to ham radio, covering its history, significance, and the unique opportunities it offers for global communication. We explained the fundamental concepts, operational techniques, and various modes of communication facilitated by ham radio. Attendees were particularly intrigued by ham radio’s ability to enable long-distance communication without relying on conventional infrastructure.
Licensing and Exam Procedures
Following the introduction, we detailed the procedures for obtaining a ham radio license in India. This segment was crucial for those interested in getting started with ham radio. We outlined the steps involved in the Amateur Station Operator’s Certificate (AOSC) examination, including the syllabus, study resources, and effective preparation strategies. The interactive nature of this segment allowed attendees to ask numerous questions about the licensing process, which we addressed in detail.
Interactive Q&A Session
The Q&A session that followed was lively and engaging. Participants posed a variety of questions, ranging from technical aspects of ham radio operations to its practical applications in emergency situations. Both Amey Pandit and I provided thorough answers and insights, fostering a deeper understanding among the attendees. The high level of interaction and curiosity was a testament to the participants’ genuine interest.
Demonstration of Ham Radio Equipment
To provide a hands-on experience, we demonstrated my HF go box and several handheld devices for VHF and UHF communication. This practical session allowed participants to see the equipment in action and understand its capabilities. Amey Pandit elaborated on the setup and operation of the HF go box, emphasizing its versatility and effectiveness in various scenarios, including emergency communications. The handheld devices demonstration highlighted their user-friendliness and adaptability, making them suitable for both beginners and seasoned operators.
The session concluded with enthusiastic applause and positive feedback from the attendees. Many expressed their interest in joining GRAS and pursuing their ham radio licenses. The overwhelming response reaffirmed our commitment to continue such educational initiatives and expand the ham radio community in Goa.
Here are some key moments captured during the session
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their enthusiasm and active engagement. We look forward to organizing more such sessions and growing the ham radio community in Goa.
Stay updated on upcoming events and sessions by GRAS by visiting our website grasociety .org.