Getting started

From first listen to first QSO in eight steps. Go in order or jump in anywhere.

  1. 1

    Listen first

    Listen to how hams work repeaters and HF before you key up. See who’s on right now.

    WebSDR / KiwiSDRWho’s talking nowAPRS map
  2. 2

    Study

    The whole official bank (in Greek): 344 SY and 726 SV questions, each one explained, with theory for every section.

    Licence examsWhat SV, SY and SZ mean
  3. 3

    Find people

    An old hand can save you months of head-scratching. Ask a mentor or turn up at a club event.

    MentorsEventsDirectory
  4. 4

    Pass the exam

    Run mock exams until you pass with room to spare. Ask your club or a mentor about dates and applying.

    Try a mock examCalendar
  5. 5

    Know your callsign

    The prefix shows your licence class, the digit your call area. Plus what /P and /M mean.

    Callsigns and call areasYour station page
  6. 6

    Set up your station

    A dipole, the right coax, safety, and what to do if the neighbours get interference.

    An HF dipoleSafetyInterferenceCalculators
  7. 7

    Your first QSO

    Find your nearest repeater, set the offset and tone, and put your call out. Then have a go on HF.

    First QSO on a repeaterRepeaters near youFirst QSO on HFBand plan
  8. 8

    Keep a log

    Log every QSO online, swap QSLs and chase awards.

    LogbookLogging and QSLAwards

Stuck?

Hit Ctrl K and type what you’re after, or ask a mentor.

Mentors