Experimentation at its Core
If you’ve ever wondered what exactly amateur radio—better known as “ham radio”—is, you’re not alone. On the surface, it might seem like a hobby about talking to people over the airwaves, but at its core, amateur radio is about so much more: it’s about experimentation, innovation, and a deep curiosity about how we communicate.
A Playground for Experimenters
Amateur radio is a unique space where anyone—regardless of background—can become an experimenter. The only real requirement is a license and a willingness to learn. Ham radio operators are constantly tinkering with new antennas, building their own radios, and pushing the boundaries of radio frequency (RF) technology. This experimental spirit is what has kept the hobby vibrant and relevant for over a century.
New Technologies, New Modes
One of the things that excites me most about amateur radio is the constant evolution of technologies and operating modes. Every few years, we see the introduction of a new digital mode or a new way of using the spectrum, and the community rallies to test, adapt, and improve it.
Take, for example, FT2—the latest super-quick digital mode that’s making waves in the ham radio world. FT2 offers something new: a fresh experiment in RF. It’s fast, efficient, and opens up new possibilities for making contacts under challenging conditions. For some, FT2 might seem like a departure from traditional ham radio. Still, I see it as a natural extension of what amateur radio has always been about—pushing the limits of what’s possible.
It’s All Ham Radio
There are always voices in the community who question whether new modes like FT2 are “real” ham radio. To them, I say: experimentation with new antennas, new technologies, and new modes is the very heart of our hobby. If we stop experimenting, we stop being hams.
Ham radio isn’t just about nostalgia or tradition—it’s about curiosity, creativity, and the joy of discovery. Whether you’re stringing up a wire antenna in your backyard, building a new SDR from scratch, or making your first contact using FT2, you’re participating in a grand tradition of experimentation that stretches back to the very beginnings of radio.
Join the Experiment
If you’re curious about amateur radio, now is a great time to get involved. There’s a whole world of technology to explore, and a global community of experimenters ready to welcome you. Who knows? The next big innovation in radio might come from your own shack.
Until next time, keep experimenting and stay out n’ aboot on the bands!
— VE9CF
