(The following was reproduced from the Amateur Radio Relay League's Web site at http://www.arrl.org/ham-radio-faq-s)
Amateur Radio Frequently Asked Questions:
Who are Amateur Radio operators or Hams?
Anyone you know could be an Amateur Radio operator or "ham" --no matter what
age, gender or physical ability. From ages 8 to 80, people in many countries of
the world can have fun as radio amateurs. If you've had fun with CB radio or
trying new things with your computer, wait till you see what you can do with ham
radio!
What Can I Do With Ham Radio?
You can communicate from the top of a mountain, your home or behind the wheel of
your car. You can take radio wherever you go! In times of disaster, when regular
communications channels fail, hams can swing into action assisting emergency
communications efforts and working with public service agencies. At other times,
you can talk to Shuttle astronauts or bounce signals off the moon. You can use
telegraphy, voice, digital, even images in communication with other hams. Know
any other hobby with so much to offer?
Why Do I need A License?
Although the main purpose of the hobby is fun, it is called the "Amateur Radio
Service" because it also has a serious face. The FCC created the "Service" to
fill the need for a pool of experts who could provide backup emergency
communications in times of need. In addition, the FCC acknowledged the ability
of the hobby to advance communication and technical knowledge, and enhance
international goodwill.
What will this cost me?
A basic new handheld radio can cost about the same as an inexpensive 19-inch
color TV. Flea market bargains can cost a lot less. A new tabletop multi-band
unit for your home radio shack can cost about the same as the PC you're reading
this on. Materials to get you started are relatively inexpensive, and the exam
fee you'll pay when you're ready to test is nominal.
Who can help me out?
Amateur Radio clubs are located all over the US and are eager to help the
newcomer get started.
When was Amateur Radio started?
Nobody knows when Amateur Radio operators were first called "hams," but we do
know that Amateur Radio is as old as the history of radio itself. In 1912,
Congress passed the first laws regulating radio transmissions in the US. By
1914, amateur experimenters were communicating nationwide, and setting up a
system to relay messages from coast to coast (that's how we got our name,
American Radio Relay League, ARRL, for short).
I don't have a lot of time. Can I still enjoy the hobby?
You bet! The beauty of ham radio is it can fit the time, space, and budget that
YOU decide is right for you. It's got that low stress, high fun ratio that many
busy people seek in their off-hours. It can also be great family fun or a
solitary pleasure.