What is Amateur Radio (HAM)?
Amateur radio (also called ham radio) is a hobby with many facets and thus attracts practitioners with a wide range of interests. It is the use of designated radio frequency spectrum for purposes of private recreation, non-commercial exchange of messages, wireless experimentation, self-training, and emergency communication. The term "amateur" is used to specify persons interested in radio technique solely with a personal aim and without direct pecuniary interest, and to differentiate it from commercial broadcasting, public safety (such as police and fire), or professional two-way radio services (such as maritime, aviation, taxis, etc.).
How to get your license ?
Amateur Radio is a hobby which involves Government licensing.
In India, the Wireless Planning Commission, a division of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, conducts licensing exams through the International Monitoring Organization offices in major cities.
Anyone above the age of 12, can obtain their amateur radio license in India.
There are currently two classes of licenses granted to Radio Amateurs in India,
- General grade
- Restricted grade
The Exam Syllabus and the operating privileges between the two are quite similar,except for a few differences.
The Amateur Station Operator’s certificate is awarded after a candidate has successfully cleared the licensing exam and has paid the necessary fees.
The licensing exam is consists of a Theory test and a Morse code test at 8WPM( for general grade).
The Theory test examines the candidates grasp of basic electronics, radio regulations, communication procedures, local and international law.
The Morse code test examines the proficiency of the candidate in sending and receiving the international Morse code at 8 WPM. The test is only for those opting for the general grade amateur radio license.
How to apply for an ASOC exam ?
Simply prepare the ASOC application in the prescribed format and apply to your local monitoring station of WPC. Addresses and contact numbers of these stations are available at their website http://www.wpc.gov.in/
