[HomeBrew] Homebrew Modern Day Novice Station?

[N2EY@aol.com]

In a message dated 8/12/02 4:11:50 PM Eastern Daylight Time, katrob@efn.org 
writes:

> Having started late into Ham Radio, 40 years old when I passed tech
>  plus, I never really had an Elmer and didn't get to build my first
>  station. Does anyone out there know of plans for what would be more of a
>  modern day homebrew station? Something I could use to really understand
>  what I'm doing. Or maybe I'm asking for something that just isn't
>  possible anymore? Just a thought and I'll take responses either in the
>  group or to me personally.

Good question!

I would say that the first consideration is "what sort of station do you have 
in mind"? Is a monoband CW QRP setup OK, or do you want multiband and 
multimode capability? The complexity of a multiband multimode HF rig is such 
that they are not easy beginner projects. 

Another consideration is "would you consider a kit?" There are a number of 
good kits out there at reasonable prices. Check out:

http://www.elecraft.com

for some excellent examples. You can download the manuals for all of their 
products free. 

While not strictly homebrew, kits allow the beginning builder to develop 
skills in electronic assembly and testing. Some kits (like the Elecrafts) 
also contain detailed explanations of how the circuits work, and help when 
needed. Finished kits also have considerable resale value. 

Also, consider getting at least a General license if you have any interest in 
HF work. The additional HF/MF privileges granted for upgrading from Tech Plus 
are well worth the VE fee and the written test, which are all that separate 
you from a General. Sample tests and the Q&A pools are available free at many 
websites. 

73 es GL de Jim, N2EY