Getting Started

Essential information amateur radio operators wanting to participate in public service.

Public Service Gear

What gear do you need?

Getting started with public service events is pretty simple.

  • You need a Technician class license.
  • You need a HT Radio w/ extra batteries.
  • Alternate antenna (better than stock)/antenna mounts (for operating in a vehicle).
  • A Safety/High Visibility Vest.
  • Notebook with Pencil (maybe a clipboard).

What should you wear?

Dress professionally. You are an important part in the event.

  • Indoors: A black shirt with khakis, or similar business casual looks, shows professionalism.
  • Outdoors: Cargo pants/shorts allow you to carry extra gear.
  • Wear weather appropriate clothing. We are often exposed to outdoor environments.
  • High visibility vests and hats are encouraged, so both officials and bystandards can identify you.

Choosing a Radio

Standardize on a Radio Family

I think it's really important to standardize your radios. By the time you get antennas, batteries, chargers, mics, and other miscellaneous things, if you haven't standardized on a single radio family, you will be buying a lot of single-device accessories.

Radios and accessories gets expensive fast.

Standardize on an Antenna Connector

My recommendation is to standardize on BNC. It's made for quick connect and disconnect. It's a widely used standard so you should have no problems finding antennas and accessories. You can find SMA to BNC adapters all over the place.

My Recommended Antennas:

Standardize on a Charging Method

Most modern radios have USB-C charging capabilities. Some also have a 12V input. Regardless of your choice, avoid relying solely on a charging cradle with a wall wart. USB and 12V options enable you to charge your radios in the field using common charging accessories you already use for your phones, earbuds, and other portable devices.

Avoid Gimmicks

As a new ham, there will be plenty of ways to expand your hobby in the future.

  • Focus on good quality VHF/UHF radios.
  • Don't get sucked into tri-band or quad-band radios.
  • Don't fall for radios that promise power greater than 5W.
  • You don't need crossband repeat out of the gate, which is probably better served by a mobile radio anyway.
A 5W VHF/UHF HT will cover 99% of the needs of a new ham.

General Information

Getting Started

New to ham radio? Learn about licensing, basic equipment, and how to get on the air.

Local Repeaters

Find VHF/UHF repeaters in the Atlanta metro area for FM voice communications.

Emergency Preparedness (ARES)

Learn about ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service) and get involved in emergency communications.

Nets & Frequencies

Join regular scheduled nets on various bands and modes throughout the week.

Equipment Vendors

Local and online stores for radios, antennas, and accessories.

Operating Guides

Learn proper operating procedures and operating techniques for different modes.