SEMINARS & EXAMS -- 2010

SEMINAR INFORMATION FOR June 19, 2010 Hamfest -- hope you enjoyed them!  Will post all new info here for 2011 when available.

Click HERE to download schedule as a PDF to print and take with you

10 AM SEMINAR:
Work those birds! How to get started operating with amateur satellites
Hosted by Paul Lux, K1PL

OK, so you know amateur radio operators have satellites, but what do you need to start using them? Join Paul as he gives you an introduction to satellites, what equipment is needed to operate them and how you just might already have most of the gear you need. Paul has worked 19 satellites, 48 states confirmed and even 26 countries (even the ISS Space Station!). All of this is possible with your entry level amateur radio license.

About Paul, K1PL: Paul has been licensed since 1965. He comes from quite the ham family! His wife is Pat tricia WB1EOS, son Matthew is WB1FGX and daughter is Diane is N1PYV. He is a retired electrician which has given him more time to “play radio”. He has 330 countries confirmed on HF and WAS on 5 bands on HF.

10 AM SEMINAR:
Connecticut Region 3 ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service) meeting
Hosted by E. Jonathan Hardy, KB1KIX, Region 3 District Emergency Coordinator.

Annual mid-region meeting at NARL Hamfest. We gave all participants an update on upcoming projects, report on our busy public service schedule and what we have in the works. This is also a good opportunity to provide us with input on what training opportunities you’d like to see for 2010.

  • Updates on projects we've done over the past quarter
  • Upcoming projects
  • Tools available for planning public service
  • Reporting procedures
  • Region 3 ARESMAT update

All ARES members are invited. If you want to become a member of the Amateur Radio Emergency Service, please attend this meeting and we’ll help you become a member.

EXAM SESSION - 10:00 AM

Volunteer Examiners conduct a walk-in FCC license exam session.  All three tests -- Technician, General, and Amateur Extra will be available. See separate exam page.

11:00 AM SEMINAR:
New Ham Forum
Hosted by Quentin Hinton, KB1EWM 

OK, so now you have your ham license, what now? Many new hams have no idea how many different operating privileges are available to them, even with their entry level Technician license. Quentin will give a brief overview of some of the modes available to the new ham as well as demonstrate some of these operating modes.

This is also a perfect time to come and ask any questions you may have, such as: What is a good radio for my particular interests in radio? What equipment is needed to get started in a particular mode? What are some good, basic antennas I that I can purchase or build to get better performance out of my first radio? Bring your questions and enthusiasm. There will be handouts with online resources for the new ham.

About Quentin, KB1EWM: Quentin has been licensed since 2000 as KB1EWM. Quentin is also active in amateur radio restoring his first HF RIG (a Yaesu classic from the mid 70’s), portable HF operating, active with the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) and public service. Quentin also leads the New Britain Community Emergency Response Team. 

12 Noon SEMINAR:
Introduction to kit building and QRP.
Hosted by E. Jonathan Hardy, KB1KIX

Today’s hams have it easy. Hop on the web, buy a radio, hit the switch and you’re on the air. But, there are many options out there to get on the air with something you build yourself. Whether it’s a new transmitter, receiver, transceiver, shack accessory – whatever, there has never been a better time to get on the air. If you’ve ever wanted to get started and experience the thrill and excitement of using your own ham gear, this is the presentation for you. There will be a brief discussion of what is available to the new kit/homebrew builder, tools needed (really doesn’t take much) and examples of some great projects and resources available to hams. Please keep in mind, it doesn’t matter whether you’re a Technician or Extra class licensee – there’s something for everyone.

About Jonathan, KB1KIX: Jonathan has been licensed as KB1KIX since 2003. Like a duck to water, quickly gathered his footing and jumped right in. Not having an electronics background, amateur radio was the perfect fit to get started learning electronics. Jonathan started hosting ham radio “buildathons” for the Newington Amateur Radio League within his first year licensed as an amateur. Currently, he is completely enamored with minimalist radio projects and transmitting trans-Atlantic signals with radio transmitters in the 100 milli-watt range and enjoying life with his 12 year old son Brendan and dog Duke.

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