Quote:
Originally posted by zackbass
Nice to see some hams around here. I'm hardly ever talking on my FT-847, but have it for emergencies and experimenting and learning. I got my tech a few years ago just for fun, but it turns out that a lot of people value a radio licence just a highly as a bunch of computer certs. The knowlege I got from studying for my licence has helped me out so many times I can't even count, from going to the local electronics store and actually knowing what RG8/U is, to diagnosing RFI problems associated with all kind of electronics for friends. I'm working on upgrading in the next year, I know that I can learn the theory for Extra in a relatively short time, but the code really has me stumped. I can send it very fast, but can't recive for my life.
I've had a General Class license since the late '70s. I really struggled to get to 13 wpm. I can probably copy 25 or so now. Learning the code just takes doin' it. Yup, I could probably pass the Extra Class theory too but just been too lazy to do it. I don't operate all that much now anyway -- mainly chase DX on CW. My rig is an old Kenwood TS-440S but it still belts out 100w on CW and about 80 on SSB. Maybe I'll catch you on one day -- 73!