Ham Radio Knowledge Base
Learn amateur radio from the ground up with beginner-friendly guides written in plain English.
All Articles
Parks on the Air (POTA) for Beginners
Getting started with Parks on the Air: how to activate parks and chase activators.
Dipole Antennas: The Best First Antenna
Everything you need to know about dipole antennas: how they work, how to build one, and how to install it.
What is Ham Radio?
An introduction to amateur radio: what it is, why people do it, and how you can get started with this rewarding hobby.
Your First Radio: What to Buy
A practical guide to choosing your first ham radio, from budget handhelds to HF transceivers.
Making Your First Contact
Step-by-step guide to making your first QSO (radio contact), including what to say and common procedures.
Ham Radio Q-Codes and Common Abbreviations
Essential Q-codes and abbreviations every ham should know for efficient communication.
How Radio Waves Travel: HF Propagation Basics
Understanding how HF radio signals travel around the world by bouncing off the ionosphere.
Ham Radio License Classes Explained
Understanding the three US amateur radio license classes: Technician, General, and Amateur Extra.
Understanding SWR and Why It Matters
What is Standing Wave Ratio (SWR), why you should care about it, and what SWR numbers actually mean.
Getting Started with FT8
A complete beginner guide to FT8: what it is, what you need, and how to make your first FT8 contact.
Understanding Power Supplies for Ham Radio
Choosing the right power supply for your radio: voltage, current capacity, and what to look for.
How to Study for Your Ham Radio Exam
Effective study strategies and resources to pass your Technician, General, or Extra exam.