Your Ham Radio Go Kit

Ham Radio For Dummies

Would you be ready if a call came from your local public service group to provide some ham radio expertise for a day or so? Items in the following list are the basics of what should be in your radio go kit. Now is a good time to check your supplies and be prepared! Don’t forget to put together a personal go kit, too.

Dual-band (VHF/UHF) handheld radio and mini manual
Full-size flexible whip antenna
Copy of your Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license and any public service group or government agency IDs
Mag-mount antenna with necessary adapters for connecting to various connectors
Extra battery packs and charger
AA-cell battery pack if available and fresh batteries
AC power supply and cigarette-plug cord with spare fuses
Headset with microphone (preferred) or speaker-mic
Copy of your local emcomm frequencies, phone numbers, and procedures
Pocket knife and/or multipurpose tool
Flashlight or headlamp and spare batteries
Pencil and notebook, clipboard, and permanent marker
Duct tape, electrical tape, and a few small cable ties
Cash for food, gas, and telephone calls (about $20 in small bills and change)

About This Article

About the book author:

H. Ward Silver has the experience of a 20-year career as an electrical engineer developing instrumentation and medical electronics. He also spent 8 years in broadcasting, both programming and engineering. In 2000 he turned to teaching and writing as a second career. He is a contributing editor to the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) and author of the popular “Hands-On Radio” column in QST magazine every month. He is the author of the ARRL’s Amateur Radio license study guides and numerous other articles. He developed the ARRL’s online courses, “Antenna Design and Construction,” “Analog Electronics,” and “Digital Electronics.” Along with his comedic alter-ego, Dr Beldar, Ward is a sought-after speaker and lecturer among “hams.” When not in front of a computer screen, you will find Ward working on his mandolin technique and compositions.