[SMCARA] Boy Scout Radio Merit Badge Workshop

[Daniel Metcalf]

Hello All,

As I mentioned sometime ago I have been asked by a local troop to present
the required material for the BSA Radio Merit Badge. During the class I
will be touching on these requirements:

1.Explain what radio is.
 Then discuss the following:
  a. The differences between broadcast radio and hobby radio.
  b. The differences between broadcasting and two-way communications.
  c. Radio call signs and how they are used in broadcast radio and amateur
radio
  d. The phonetic alphabet and how it is used to communicate clearly.
2. Do the following:
  a. Sketch a diagram showing how radio waves travel locally and around the
world. Explain how the broadcast radio stations, WWV and WWVH can be used
to help determine what you will hear when you listen to a shortwave radio.
  b. Explain the difference between a DX and a local station. Discuss what
the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) does and how it is different
from the International Telecommunication Union.
3. Do the following:
  a. Draw a chart of the electromagnetic spectrum covering 100 kilohertz
(kHz) to 1000 megahertz (MHz).
  b. Label the MF, HF, VHF, UHF, and microwave portions of the spectrum on
your diagram.
  c. Locate on your chart at least eight radio services such as AM and FM
commercial broadcast, citizens band (CB), television, amateur radio (at
least four amateur radio bands), and public service (police and fire).
4. Explain how radio waves carry information. Include in your explanation:
transceiver, transmitter, receiver, amplifier, and antenna.
5.Do the following:
  a. Explain the differences between a block diagram and a schematic
diagram.
  b. Draw a block diagram for a radio station that includes a transceiver,
amplifier, microphone, antenna, and feed line.
  c. Explain the differences between an open circuit a closed circuit, and
a short circuit.
  d. Draw eight schematic symbols. Explain what three of the represented
parts do. Find three electrical components to match to three of these
symbols.
6. Explain the safety precautions for working with radio gear, including
the concept of grounding for direct current circuits, power outlets, and
antenna systems.
7. Visit a radio installation (an amateur radio station, broadcast station,
or public communications center, for example) approved in advance by your
counselor. Discuss what types of equipment you saw in use, how it was used,
what types of licenses are required to operate and maintain the equipment,
and the purpose of the station.
8. Find out about three career opportunities in radio. Pick one and find
out the education, training, and experience required for this profession.
Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might
interest you.
9. Do ONE of the following: (a OR b OR c )
 a. AMATEUR RADIO
  1. Tell why the FCC has an amateur radio service. Describe some of the
activities that amateur radio operators can do on the air, once they have
earned an amateur radio license.
  *2. Using proper call signs, Q signals, and abbreviations, carry on a 10
minute real or simulated radio contact using voice, Morse Code, or digital
mode. (Licensed amateur radio operators may substitute five QSL cards as
evidence of contacts with amateur radio operators from at least three
different call districts.) Properly log the real or simulated ham radio
contact and record the signal report.*
  3. Explain at least five Q signals or amateur radio terms you hear while
listening.
  4. Explain some of the differences between the Technician, General, and
Extra Class license requirements and privileges. Explain who administers
amateur radio exams.
  5. Explain how you would make an emergency call on voice or Morse code.
  6. Explain the differences between handheld transceivers and home "base"
transceivers. Explain the uses of mobile amateur radio transceivers and
amateur radio repeaters.


I am going to try to have at least 3 radios set up for requirement 2 under
Amateur radio. What I am going to need is people for these scouts to talk
to. I am setting up my 897 with my buddipole on 40 meters but the majority
of the contacts are going to be through HTs so that means 146.520, 147.420
and the local repeaters. The location for this event is at the Latter Day
Saint Chapel behind the kmart in California, MD and will be running from
8am to 12noon this coming Saturday 11th of Feb 2012. There is some class
work that has to take place prior to making contacts so I am expecting us
to be on the air no later than 10:30am. Please reply to the email if you
are able to help.

-- 
Dan -- KB3UUN
c. 301 769 1111
Amateur Radio has something for everyone. Even if it is just peace of mind
the no matter what happens your message will get through.