Ham radio is often referred to as amateur radio and is a hobby that is enjoyed by millions of individuals across the globe. A ham radio operator uses a two-way radio to broadcast with other amateurs for the purpose of entertainment, public service or other venture.

Ham radio was once confined to an actual radio, but the progression of the World Wide Web has changed the way that people both listen and communicate via radio. In fact, there are a number of radio stations that actively communicate with listeners online. This activity paved the way for ham radio to reach a broad audience via the Internet. While some simply use ham radio as a way to talk with friends, meet new people who share common interest and discuss topics that are relevant to a specific idea, others regularly use ham radio to send and receive emergency notifications relating to severe weather, emergency situations, disaster relief and other forms of scenarios that call for fast action that are of interest to the public.

Like traditional radios, ham radio equipment is often portable enough to accompany the operator while on vacation. In order to use ham radio, individuals must be licensed and cannot successfully travel with the equipment otherwise. The only way that an individual can become licensed to operate ham radio is to successfully pass an exam, which is created to confirm the individual’s knowledge and understanding of key radio concepts. Unlike CB radio, individuals broadcasting on ham radio must possess a valid license to do so.

If you are interested, contact the Cayman Amateur Radio Society at caymanhams.org