[PPRAANet] A little guidance requested.

[Wes Wilson]

Phil --

Great to hear that you, and possibly your daughter, are interested in
Amateur Radio.  Those of us involved feel it is the greatest hobby in the
world.

I would suggest that you start by visiting (if you haven't done so already)
the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) website at www.arrl.org  They have a
good introduction to amateur radio and information on licensing.

Probably the best overall book for learning about amateur radio is the "Now
You're Talking" book published by ARRL.  Info from their website states:

Now You're Talking! -- All You Need For Your FIRST Amateur Radio License
Amateur Radio's most popular beginners study guide! In one book, you have
everything you need to earn your Technician class license. Study from this
book, and pass your 35-question license exam. It's that easy!
Inside you'll find: Friendly, easy-to-understand theory and rules;  Latest
Technician class question pool (Element 2) with answer key, for use
beginning April 15, 2000; Detailed explanations for all questions, including
FCC rules.

You can order this book from the online store at the ARRL website, or it is
available at some local Radio Shack stores, at Centennial Electronics (on E.
Bijou), or from Ham Radio Outlet up in Denver.  The HRO website is
http://www.hamradio.com/ and you can find info on the Denver outlet under
the "Store Location" tab.

While the "Now You're Talking" book includes all the license information and
question/answer pools, for study purposes many applicants prefer to use the
"Technician Class License Manual" compiled and edited by Gordon West.  This
book is much more concise and easier to use as a study guide and is
available at many local outlets.  For more detailed information and
explanation you then can refer to the "Now You're Talking" book.

Of course you should get involved with the Pikes Peak Radio Amateur
Association -- and we have a meeting coming up at 7 pm on Wednesday, Aug.
14.  Information is available at the PPRAA website at
http://www.qsl.net/ppraa/

The PPRAA also offers a Technician Class course, usually offered starting in
January each year (but you may not want to wait that long).  Info on the
class should be on the website (Oops! -- actually what is there is from
January, 2002 -- so watch for updates).

Hope to see you and your daughter at a meeting or exam session soon.  If you
have questions, feel free to ask!

"73"  (Very Best Wishes)
Wes Wilson, KOHBZ
Woodland Park
k0hbz@arrl.net
(719) 687-8758