[SMCARA] Technician Class and Scout Merit Badge Session

[Daniel Metcalf]

Hello All,

Now that my trips to Alabama have come to an end (at least until November
this year) I am again trying to get a Technician Class organized to start
on or around the 18th of Feb based on availability of some key
Individuals. Please have those you know who might be interested contact me
by email kb3uun at gmail.com or by phone (301) 769-1111.

Also Boyscout Troop 1846 has a tenative date of Feb 11th for resheduling
the merit badge workshop that was postponed in December again one of the
merit badge requirements is for each candidate to complete the following:


   1. Explain what radio is. Then discuss the following:
   2. a. The differences between broadcast radio and hobby radio.
   3. b. The differences between broadcasting and two-way communications.
   4. c. Radio call signs and how they are used in broadcast radio and
   amateur radio
   5. d. The phonetic alphabet and how it is used to communicate clearly.
   6. 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.
   7. 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).
   8. Explain how radio waves carry information. Include in your
   explanation: transceiver, transmitter, receiver, amplifier, and antenna.
   9. 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.
   10. Explain the safety precautions for working with radio gear,
   including the concept of grounding for direct current circuits, power
   outlets, and antenna systems.
   11. 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.
   12. 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.
   13. 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.


For the 2nd requirement under AMATEUR RADIO I will need support from anyone
who can be available to complete the QSO(s). Once the date is confirmed I
will send more details.
-- 
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.