Introduction

Introduction

Welcome to Amateur Radio — a world of discovery, communication, and public service

What is Amateur Radio?

Amateur radio — a two-way radio service for licensed operators to experiment, communicate, and serve the public
ISED — Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada manages the radio spectrum
Three pillars — technical experimentation, public service, and international friendship

Video: Why Ham Radio?

A short introduction from the ARRL — the American Radio Relay League
Video controls — play, pause, and full-screen available on the player below

What Can You Do With Ham Radio?

Talk locally — VHF and UHF repeaters connect you to nearby hams
Talk worldwide — HF bands let you reach other continents
Special interests — satellites, ISS, digital modes, moonbounce, and more

Who Are the Hams?

All ages, all backgrounds — ham radio is for everyone
Clubs and mentorship — a welcoming community ready to help you learn
Field Day — the annual on-air gathering where hams set up portable stations and make contacts

Getting Licensed — It Is Free and For Life

No cost to obtain — the Amateur Radio Operator Certificate is free
No age limit — anyone can earn a licence regardless of age
Your call sign — a unique identity that becomes your on-air name

The Basic Qualification Exam

100 questions drawn from 8 exam sections — 70% to pass
Exam rules — a basic calculator and official ISED reference material are permitted
Accredited examiners — ISED-certified volunteers who administer the test

Certificate Levels — Basic, Honours, Advanced, and Morse Code

Basic Certificate — VHF/UHF privileges, up to 560 W PEP SSB
Honours Certificate — full HF access with 560 W PEP SSB
Advanced Certificate — full privileges, 2250 W PEP SSB, remote operation, amplifier building
Morse Code (CW) Certification — an optional qualification adding HF privileges

What You Need to Get Started

A simple handheld transceiver (HT) — your first radio
Study materials — this course, the official question bank, and the RAC-published Hamstudy Basic study guide
An accredited examiner — find one through your local club or the RAC website

Ham Radio Rules — Simple and Sensible

Use minimum power necessary — only enough to maintain reliable communications
No business or commercial use — amateur radio is a non-commercial service
Identify every 30 minutes — announce your call sign during and at the end of transmissions

Emergency Communications — Ham Radio Serves the Public

Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) — trained volunteers for disaster communications
Emergency priority — distress calls have highest priority on the air
Public service events — marathons, bike rides, parades, and community events

About This Course

Based on the Hamstudy Basic study guide — published by Radio Amateurs of Canada (RAC)
Course structure — 8 chapters following the 8 exam sections
Study tips — work through the material, try the practice questions, and revisit as needed

The Ham Radio Community

Radio Amateurs of Canada (RAC) — the national voice for Canadian hams
Local clubs — the heart of the amateur radio community
Contests, awards, and DXCC — the sporting side of ham radio

Key Takeaways

Amateur Radio — a fun, technical, and service-oriented hobby open to everyone
Your next steps — choose a chapter, start studying, and find your local club