3 ms·
How do you recommend practicing? I often have trouble with the basics, like connecting to repeaters. When I do, I don't hear much traffic or it seems like a sem
by chmod600 6y ago
How do you recommend practicing? I often have trouble with the basics, like connecting to repeaters. When I do, I don't hear much traffic or it seems like a semi-private conversation where it would feel "rude" to say something.
Do I just keep talking into the void and waiting?
Also, I have cheap equipment, so scanning is really slow and I don't know if it even really works. I can make simplex connections on 70cm and 2m with friends when I prearrange, but that's it.
I don't have tons of time but if I felt like I could hop into a conversation and be welcome (and others would be patient) then I would sometimes.
- vel0city 6y agoI'm assuming you're talking amateur radio here, doing VHF/UHF on repeaters. Especially assuming you're on an HT, find the closest repeaters to you. Periodically just throw out your call sign on the repeater and listen. Throwing out a call on the repeater is the normal way to just let people know you're there and listening. Experiences vary a good bit based on location and ability to transmit. You'll be able to hit far more repeaters if you have a mobile setup or the ability to operate a decent bit of power from your home safely. I live in a pretty metropolitan area and can easily hit or at least listen to a dozen or so repeaters in the area on 25W on a mobile with a j-pole in my attic. When I had access to a multi-story parking garage I had somewhat similar access with just a handheld and a decent whip antenna. Getting altitude can make a good bit of difference in making waves.