Amateur Radio and CB Radio Communication: A Basic Introduction to Two-Way Radio
Radio communications have come a long way from the original concept stemming from Marconi’s discovery of electromagnetic radiation (radio waves). Marconi conceived that an electromagnetic pulse, sent through the air, would create a stream of electrons (flux) when passing through a non-ferrous metal source. Such a flow of electrons can be amplified to create sound if the pulses are emitted in a certain way. This is the simplest representation of what Marconi discovered, and by his revelation many things have become clear. Many possibilities have been derived from such thought, and clearly all the inventions of man come from such seemingly small achievements.
At its base, radio communication is quite simple. During this modern age there are many ways, so many in fact that their discussion will be beyond the scope of this article. Basically, we have two forms of radio communication in the field of hobby. The Citizen Band and Short Wave are the two that most of us are familiar with. Although shortwave offers many optional communication modes, we are going to look at ‘full duplex’ and ‘half duplex’ modes which involve AM (amplitude modulation) communications.
communication modes
one). In full-duplex mode, a radio is capable of transmitting and receiving data or voice on two channels at the same time. This is important for transmitting voice and visual data such as on television. Radio amateurs are capable of such a transmission, but we won’t go that deep here. Microwave communication is another form of full-duplex transmission. Cell phones have this capability and radio amateurs can definitely tune in to your radio and listen to your phone conversations.
two). In half-duplex we have the ability to transmit and receive on one channel, but not at the same time. The radios that we normally use, CB or Walkie Talkie, work in half duplex mode. Amateur radio communications are also common in this mode. As a consequence, we have to make our own breaks during the broadcast so that the people we are talking to can respond. Because of this, a protocol has been developed to ensure proper etiquette during conversation. Words like ‘Roger’ and ‘Ten Four’ are used to indicate that a transmission has been received or to ask for confirmation that it has been received. Also, there are 10-Codes and Q-Codes that have been developed in the United States. The ones listed below should be memorized as the most used.
The 10 most common codes
* 10-1 Receiving badly
* 10-4 Ok, message received
* 10-7 Out of order, going off air (goes off air)
* 10-8 On duty, subject to call (you’re back on the air)
* 10-9 Repeat message
* 10-10 Transmission complete, waiting (you will be listening)
* 10-20 What is your location? or “My location is… Commonly asked as What’s your 20?
Most common Q codes
* QRM Man-made noise, adjacent channel interference
* QRN Static Noise
* QRO Increase Potency
* QRP Reduce Power
* QRT Turn off, clear
* QSL confirmation, often refers to the confirmation cards exchanged by radio amateurs
* QSO talk
* QSX waiting aside
* QSY Move to another frequency
* QTH Address, Location
For a beginner, the codes listed above are standard. Code 10 or Code Q can be used interchangeably in the Citizens Band or Ham Radio arena. Amateur radio operators have to be licensed in this country. This ensures that an operator knows the rules of the road and will not unknowingly interfere with other areas of communication bandwidth. It is possible to transmit at television frequencies and bandwidth, as well as interfere with cell phone conversations and transmissions. In fact, shortwave radio amateurs have the entire frequency spectrum at their disposal and their inappropriate use can cause serious civil problems.
Fire and police bands can be interrupted during emergencies; pilots can be fooled and so on. This is how it is strictly regulated. However, it is much easier to obtain a license now than it was in the past. You no longer have to be an electronic technician. Simply learning the rules of the road and the proper use of equipment can earn you a basic ham radio license. As a beginner, you must first purchase a receiver and antenna system. Enjoy listening to the different conversations of radio amateurs and citizen band, as well as marine and private pilots. You will be able to listen to people from all over the world. I’m sure it will surprise you and ‘capture’ your interest.
A good ham radio receiver can be purchased for as little as $450.00, complete with an antenna and mast. Wiring can be included for around $250.00. You might even consider buying used equipment for an even better price, as many radio enthusiasts upgrade and look for a way to save on their new purchase. Citizens band radios can be purchased for as little as $95.00, with 40 channels available. An antenna system for a CB home base would cost around $180.00, while again you might be able to find something cheaper second hand. These are approximate figures, but precise enough. Citizens band radios do not require a license to operate. The units are transceivers, which means they are capable of transmitting and receiving in half-duplex mode. The power of these units is usually limited to 5-10 watts. Your average ham has capabilities depending on the license, to transmit at 1.5 KW (1500 watts), and they are very powerful.
Whatever you decide, I hope you give the hobby of radio communication a try. It can be a great hobby that you can share with family and friends. The true value is in sharing and learning that you and your children will enjoy. It can spark interest in the field of electronics, which will make both you and the children want to know more about the science and physics related to radios and how they work. All this would be valuable and lasting, a guarantee of many memories that will last forever.
Good luck if you get involved. Have a lot of fun and enjoy!