Ham radio field day tests technology and prepares for a disaster

Communications have advanced technologically thanks to cellular phone service and internet connectivity. However, power can fail, storms can down cell towers and broadband lines can be cut or damaged.

When disaster strikes, sometimes the only remaining means of communication is ham radio.

Amateur radio operators can be self-sufficient when other communications fail as long as they have a generator or battery power supply.

This weekend, local hams will participate in Field Day, in which radio operators all over the country attempt to simulate emergency conditions and make contact with as many other hams from as wide a range as possible.

Members of the Northeast Mississippi Amateur Radio Club will be set up at 610 Cleveland Street starting at about noon, attempting to make contacts during the afternoon. Anyone interested is welcome to stop by to see what is going on and chat.

Amateur radio got its start with old tube-operated equipment, sometimes converted from military surplus or even built from scratch. Today, amateur radio involves computers, digital communications and satellites.

A person can become involved by spending as little as $50 for a handheld two-meter transceiver that communicates with a central repeater. More expensive and sophisticated equipment can allow a person to talk with people all over the globe.

License examinations are given locally for different classes of operators and the FCC has simplified requirements. While potential hams used to have to be proficient in Morse code and study theory and regulations, today a person only has to pass a written multiple-choice test.

The pool of test questions and answers is publically available and smartphone apps are available to aid in learning.

The Northeast Mississippi Amateur Radio Club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month at New Albany Presbyterian Church and anyone is welcome.

About 70 Union Countians are listed as having ham licenses and surrounding counties have their own organizations as well.