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Amateur radio is an amazing hobby that allows people of all ages and from different parts of the world to communicate using radio waves.
It is a fun, educational and very useful activity, especially in emergency situations.
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Let's better understand what amateur radio is and learn about three applications that can help you enter this fascinating world: EchoLink, DroidPSK, RepeaterBook, HamSphere and Radio Pocket Packet.
What is Amateur Radio?
Amateur radio, also known as ham radio, is a form of wireless communication that uses radio frequencies.
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Unlike commercial radio stations you listen to in your car, amateur radio operators, called hams, can chat with people around the world, send text messages, pictures, and even connect to the Internet using radio waves.
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To become a radio amateur, you need a license, which is obtained after passing an exam.
This exam tests your knowledge of radio rules, radio wave theory, and the practice of radio operation.
EchoLink: Connecting Radio Amateurs Around the World
EchoLink is one of the most popular apps among radio amateurs. It allows you to use your smartphone or computer to connect to other radio amateurs over the Internet.
With EchoLink, you can chat with people around the world, even if you don't have a physical radio.
How does it work?
EchoLink works by connecting your ham radio station to the internet. This means you can use your device to communicate with ham radio stations around the world. You can talk to other hams using voice or text, and even participate in chat networks (nets) where multiple hams discuss specific topics.
Advantages
- Easy to use: It is easy to set up and use, even for beginners.
- Global Access: Allows you to connect with radio amateurs anywhere in the world.
- Flexibility: It can be used on smartphones, tablets and computers.
DroidPSK: Easy Digital Communication
DroidPSK is an Android app that allows radio amateurs to send and receive digital signals. PSK31, or Phase Shift Keying 31, is a popular digital communication mode among radio amateurs because it is efficient and uses little bandwidth.
How does it work?
DroidPSK turns your smartphone into a digital modem. It decodes PSK31 signals received by your radio and displays them on your device's screen. You can also use the app's keyboard to send your own PSK31 messages.
Advantages
- Digital Communication: Allows clear and efficient communication.
- Portability: Turn your smartphone into a digital radio.
- Interactivity: You can send and receive text messages in real time.
RepeaterBook: Finding Radio Repeaters
RepeaterBook is an essential app for any radio amateur. It provides a complete list of radio repeaters, which are stations that retransmit radio signals to increase their coverage area.
This is especially useful for communicating over long distances or in urban areas where buildings can block radio signals.
How does it work?
RepeaterBook uses your smartphone's GPS to find repeaters near your location. It provides detailed information about each repeater, including frequency, location, and other important features.
Advantages
- Ease of Location: Helps to find nearby repeaters quickly.
- Detailed information: Provides all the details needed to use repeaters.
- Global Coverage: Includes repeaters from all over the world.
HamSphere: Virtual Radio Amateur
HamSphere is a virtual amateur radio system that simulates the operation of a real radio. It is perfect for those who want to experience amateur radio without investing in expensive equipment.
How does it work?
HamSphere uses your computer or smartphone to simulate a high frequency (HF) radio. You can connect to different frequencies and chat with other HamSphere users around the world. It also simulates real radio wave propagation conditions, making the experience quite realistic.
Advantages
- Realistic Simulation: Delivers an authentic amateur radio experience.
- Accessibility: It can be used on mobile devices and computers.
- Cost-Benefit: Allows you to experience amateur radio without purchasing expensive equipment.
Pocket Packet Radio: Communication via APRS
Pocket Packet Radio is an application that allows radio amateurs to use the APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System). APRS is used to transmit real-time data such as GPS location, text messages, and weather information.
How does it work?
Pocket Packet connects to your radio and uses the APRS system to send and receive data. You can see the location of other hams on the map, send text messages, and even receive weather updates.
Advantages
- Real-Time Data: Allows sending and receiving data in real time.
- GPS location: You can see and share your location.
- Data Integration: Receive weather and traffic information.
Conclusion
Amateur radio is a fascinating hobby that opens up a world of communication and learning possibilities.
With apps like EchoLink, DroidPSK, RepeaterBook, HamSphere, and Pocket Packet Radio, you can explore this hobby in an accessible and fun way.
Try these apps and discover how amateur radio can enrich your life!
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DroidPSK – Android
