K0SWE Blog

While working analog FM, I've heard several folks mention digital modes. There are a couple of competing standards, but it sounds like locally in the Denver area, DMR is the most popular. In light of that, I picked up a TYT MD-380 dual-band DMR handheld. It's certainly nice to have something more sophisticated than the Baofeng I've been using. Luckily, it uses the same Kenwood K1 style plug, so headsets and hand mics will be compatible between them.

My amateur radio license has been assigned! For now I'm KE0VJM . I've been listening to the bands a bit on a Baofeng UV-5R. I've heard some negative reviews about their effects on the ham bands so I probably won't stick with it for long, but at $20 you can't beat the price! Since I passed my general-class exam, I'm eligible for a shorter vanity callsign, so I might apply for that soon.

After a couple of weeks of studying for the amateur radio technician-level exam and cramming last-minute for the general-level, I took my test today at the annual Longmont Amateur Radio Club LARCFest. I passed Elements 2 and 3, which qualifies me for a amateur radio General license! I have to wait for my paperwork to be processed and a callsign assigned before I can operate, but I'm still excited!