Anyone want to tutor a newb? Picked up a couple cheap HT units, and want to learn the basics.

What do you want to know?

http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_8_13/609199_ARFCOM-weekly-radio-net--Friday---1830---Arizona-Radio-Net-Schedule.html

https://thearmsroomvom.podbean.com/e/radio-communications/

https://thearmsroomvom.podbean.com/e/radio-communications-reloaded/

I've heard the podcasts, they helped cement my decision to go this direction.

The recent death of a friend in a remote area with extremely limited communications, has had me looking into alternative communication options. I was leaning towards satellite locator beacons, but was made acutely aware of their limited ability to relay critical  information. Sounds like HAM is going to be a necessary part of my outdoor/car gear.

I have the radios to learn the basics, and with time, I could figure it out. A little coaching and hands on teaching will speed the process, and that what I'm looking for. Right now, I'm looking at the controls of the space shuttle... I don't know where to start.

Sorry about your friend.

That was me on the podcast with Glen & crew. We're working on an intro class to offer through his Independence training group. Where in the valley are you? My work schedule sucks but I'll try to help as much as I can.

The link above has net events that are active throughout the week. Those also happen on the busiest repeaters during the day. Getting your radio setup and listening to those is a good step.

Start studying for your tech exam, and pick a date you want to take the test.

We have a good subforum with a lot of information: http://www.ar15.com/forums/f_10/22_Ham-Radios.html
This is currently the baofeng bible and also full of good info: http://www.miklor.com/uv5r/

my other hobby....

join a local club, thunderbird, superstition are good ones

attend club's field day (last weekend in june, every club in NA goes on a camping trip, look it up on youtube)

I'll be at Rio Salado tutoring high power rifle newbs all day sunday. come by.

what part of the valley are you in?

Poole

The ham radio repeater coverage in this state is amazing. It is the best way to summon help when you are out in the sticks.

Program in all the ARA's 2 meter repeaters and you will have coverage

in most of the state.

Add the EAARS system and have coverage in the S.E. part of AZ.

I can stand on my property 16 miles east of Show Low and talk to people down here in the valley with a hand-held radio

using the Rimlink system operated by the ARA.

What part of AZ are you in?

Phoenix & Chino Valley

Maricopa New Ham Net in the valley tonight: 442.800+ 100.0  @ 1900.

Pretty much turn your radio on and punch in "442800" to be able to listen.  If you need help beforehand, I'll be online.

I'll be at work, but I'll try and jump on.

here as well. 

Well, I listen, I hardly ever talk on my radios anymore. I'm trying to get some friends licensed so I have someone to talk to about my medication and knee problems. 

I need to reprogram my ht and mobile to some basic repeaters again, there are too many on there that are slim to no chance I'd ever use. 

ETA:

Unpleasant, If that class ever gets momentum, shoot me a PM. I have some locals that are interested that I'd probably end up paying to make sure they attend. I'd also be willing to lend my call to help get people on the airwaves. 

Will do, thanks for the heads up.

If you feel like playing radio, shoot me a pm and catch me on rimlink or metrolink sometime.