Operating Procedures
Newly licenced hams naturally like to start transmitting as soon as possible but the advice has to be take it easy, take your time, stay away from that microphone, morse key or keyboard. First get comfortable with ALL the functions of your transmitters/receivers before attempting any transmissions. The transmit part needs special attention, as it is here one can make one’s first 'on the air' mistakes!
Initially learn to LISTEN. Whoever listens at first, will be much more successful in making good and enjoyable contacts.
The adoption of good operating procedures is essential if the integrity of ham radio operation is to be maintained. In the past most new licencees would have spent time as a shortwave listener, listening to the bands and getting to know and understand operating procedures. This is not the case nowadays and it is a fact that many newly licenced operators do not know how to go about conducting a contact, be it a ragchew or when hunting DX.
The RSGB Operating Manual is a useful publication which will help newcomers to the hobby in relation to good operating procedures, whilst ON4WW's website is a good start for general operating information.
If your interest lies in contesting, then GM3WOJ’s site contains a wealth of hints and tips on contest working.
Updated 13 June, 2010 21:31:16 GMT