HR Geeks

It’s finally happened. Being geeks, many of us have grown up around HAM radio people. A number of us have owned various pieces of radio equipment for other projects. But some of us just never gotten around to actually taking the HAM test.

At the HOPE conference in NYC, it was announced that HAM tests would be given. Some of the people surrounding 2600 really promote it. Erik and Jeff managed to study up enough and take the tests, both earning a license. I brought study materials and hyped it, but actually didn’t take the test myself. Another local (Bill) actually took the test, but Erik & Jeff didn’t know him at the time. Congrats to all 3!

Once back in Hampton Roads, I managed to take and pass tests as well. I encourage others to do so as well. It wasn’t too difficult and the practice tests at www.qrz.com help greatly. Once you’ve studied up, then find the next testing date at www.arrl.org.

Be sure to check out the Virginia Beach Amateur Radio Club (www.w4ug.com) as well as the Chesapeake Amateur Radio Service (www.qsl.net/cars) .
At some point HRGeeks may look into standing up a repeater, but this is still in discussion. Most likely we would look to do HAM (data capable), GMRS and possibly a Motorola business band UHF or VHF repeater capable of moving DES encrypted traffic (just because encryption is cool, not that we have secrets).