Hello, this is Martin Brossman, KI4CFS, and I’m joined by Carl Davis, WAWZA. Today, we’re discussing a fundamental concept in ham radio that has been pivotal in nurturing generations of amateur radio enthusiasts: the Elmer.

The Origin of the Term “Elmer”

The term “Elmer” in ham radio circles refers to a mentor or guide, someone with more experience who helps a newcomer get started and grow in the hobby. This peer-to-peer learning system is crucial for new hams, providing them with the knowledge and support needed to navigate the complexities of amateur radio.

The origin of the term dates back to an article where the author mentioned his mentor named Elmer. The name stuck, and today, in ham radio, we call mentors “Elmers.” These are the individuals who take new hams under their wing, teaching them everything from operating procedures to technical skills.

The Role of an Elmer

Elmers are not necessarily the most seasoned hams, but they are individuals who have knowledge and experience to share. Carl Davis, for example, started as a ham at 15 and has had numerous Elmers over his 25-plus years in the hobby. He emphasizes that Elmering is about mutual learning; newer hams can also teach seasoned operators about the latest technologies and modes that were not around when they first got their licenses.

Finding an Elmer

Joining a local ham radio club is one of the best ways to find an Elmer. Clubs often have programs specifically designed to help new hams get their stations operating safely and effectively. For instance, the Raleigh Amateur Radio Society (RARS) has a group that meets monthly to assist newcomers.

Elmers are found through various means, including on-air contacts, club meetings, and even online platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Carl shared his own experience of meeting Bob Kade, NSR, who helped him understand trigonometry necessary for his advanced license. This mentorship was crucial for Carl, highlighting the value of experienced hams in educating the next generation.

The Culture of Mentorship

Ham radio’s culture of mentorship stands out in today’s society, where such relationships are not as common in other areas, like business. Carl stresses the importance of being open to feedback and viewing corrections as opportunities for improvement. He encourages new hams to be receptive to advice and to seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support.

The Mutual Benefits of Elmering

Elmering is a two-way street. While it traditionally involves more experienced hams mentoring newcomers, the reverse is also true. New hams can introduce veterans to new technologies and modes. This continuous exchange of knowledge keeps the hobby dynamic and ensures that all operators, regardless of experience, continue to learn and grow.

The Importance of Feedback

Receiving and giving feedback is essential in ham radio. Carl emphasizes that constructive feedback should be given kindly and politely to foster a supportive environment. For example, rather than criticizing a new operator for low audio, a polite suggestion to speak closer to the microphone is more effective.

Ham radio also has a system for providing technical feedback through signal reports, which helps operators adjust their stations for better performance. This system of feedback and continuous improvement is a core aspect of the hobby.

Conclusion

Being an Elmer is not just about teaching; it’s a commitment to mentoring, supporting, and learning from others. Ham radio is a technical hobby that evolves with technology, and Elmers play a critical role in ensuring that all hams, new and old, keep up with these changes.

Elmering fosters a sense of community and continuity in ham radio, helping to pass down knowledge and skills through generations. Whether through local clubs, online platforms, or on-air interactions, Elmers are the backbone of the ham radio community, ensuring its growth and sustainability.

For those interested in becoming or finding an Elmer, get involved with your local ham radio club, engage with online communities, and most importantly, be open to learning and sharing knowledge. This is the spirit of ham radio, and it’s what makes the hobby rewarding for everyone involved.

Martin Brossman, KI4CFS, and Carl Davis, WAWZA, signing off. 73!

Understanding GMRS

GMRS, or General Mobile Radio Service, is a licensed radio service that operates on 22 channels in the UHF radio spectrum. This service, while not strictly a hobby like amateur radio, has been growing in popularity among hobbyists and families looking for reliable communication without the complexity of obtaining a ham radio license. GMRS can be used for personal or business communications, with certain restrictions.

GMRS vs. Other Radio Services

When comparing GMRS to other radio services like FRS (Family Radio Service) and CB (Citizen Band), it’s important to note the unique features of each. FRS shares the same 22 channels as GMRS but operates at lower power (up to 2 watts) and doesn’t require a license. CB, on the other hand, operates on different frequencies and is commonly used by truckers and for short-range communication.

Licensing and Equipment

Obtaining a GMRS license is straightforward: there’s no test required, and the license fee is $35 for 10 years. This covers the entire family, extending to parents, children, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Equipment for GMRS can range from simple handheld radios to more sophisticated mobile units. Handheld radios typically offer around 5 watts of power, sufficient for line-of-sight communication up to a few miles. Mobile radios, often mounted in vehicles, can output up to 50 watts, significantly extending their range when used with an external antenna.

Repeaters: Extending Your Reach

One of the key advantages of GMRS over FRS is the ability to use repeaters. Repeaters are devices that receive a signal on one frequency and retransmit it on another, effectively increasing the communication range. These are often mounted on high buildings or towers, allowing communication over distances of 10-20 miles or more.

To utilize a repeater, you need to program your radio with the correct input and output frequencies and the corresponding sub-audible tones (CTCSS or DCS). This can be a bit complex for beginners, but resources like mygmrs.com and local GMRS groups can provide guidance.

Setting Up Your GMRS Radio

When setting up a GMRS radio, especially for the first time, consider these steps:

1. Obtain a License: Visit the FCC website, register, and pay the fee.
2. Choose the Right Radio: Start with a handheld model that offers flexibility and ease of use.
3. Program Frequencies and Tones: Use computer software to program your radio with local repeater frequencies and tones.
4. Join a Community: Participate in local GMRS or ham radio groups for support and to enhance your understanding.

Practical Uses and Etiquette

GMRS is ideal for family communications during outings, emergency preparedness, and even small-scale business operations. The etiquette on GMRS mirrors that of ham radio, emphasizing clear, concise communication without the use of complex codes or jargon.

Common Uses:

• Emergency Communication: GMRS is a reliable backup when cell networks are down.
• Family Activities: Stay in touch during hikes, camping trips, or community events.
• Local Networking: Many GMRS repeaters serve as community hubs for like-minded radio enthusiasts.

Radio Etiquette:

• Identify Regularly: Use your call sign at the start and end of transmissions, and every 15 minutes during long conversations.
• Be Clear and Concise: Avoid using slang or jargon that might confuse others.
• Respect Others: Share the channels responsibly and avoid interrupting ongoing conversations.

Advanced Features

GMRS radios often come with features like adjustable power settings, wide and narrow band selection, and programmable channels. Understanding and using these features can enhance your communication experience.

• Power Settings: Adjusting power output can help manage battery life and reduce interference.
• Wide/Narrow Band: Choose the appropriate bandwidth for your communication needs; wide for clearer audio, narrow for more channels.
• Programmable Channels: Customize your radio to include local repeaters and preferred simplex channels.

Conclusion

GMRS offers a versatile, accessible communication option for amateur operators and families. With a simple licensing process, a range of affordable equipment, and the potential for extended range via repeaters, GMRS can serve as both a practical tool and an enjoyable hobby. By understanding the basics and engaging with local communities, new users can quickly become proficient in using GMRS for various communication needs.

Intro to GMRS for Amateur Operators and Other Mortals