In the UK there are three types of licences that can be obtained. Each one gives a different level of privileges and requires tests at a different level to be passed.
The Foundation licence is designed to get you involved in amateur radio as quickly as possible. But before you are allowed to transmit 'live' it is important that you know a little bit about how your radio works, the dangers of interfering with other radio users, how not to upset your neighbours or your parents (if you are a young person) and the rules and regulations of holding a radio transmitting licence.
The Intermediate licence gives access to the Intermediate frequency allocations within the amateur bands . The Permitted power levels are increased to 50 watts.
The training course is longer than the Foundation course and aims to teach many of the fundamentals of radio in a stimulating way by actually undertaking practical tasks such as soldering, building a small project and a variety of other exercises building on the experience you have gained as a Foundation licence holder.
To gain an Advanced licence it is necessary to pass the Advanced Radio Communications Examination. This examination is more advanced than the Intermediate, it again covers radio theory and licence conditions but because holding a full licence enables you to use 400 Watts power output to your transmitter such subjects as Electro Magnetic Compatability (EMC), antenna design and safety issues are covered in some depth. The licence allows access to all the amateur allocations with full power.
The entry point for all newcomers into the hobby is via the Foundation licence, progressing on to Intermediate, culminating in the Advanced licence. Each licence level has to be achieved before the next can be taken. Come along any Wednesday evening to find out more about this great hobby, and if interested a course of instruction will be devised to suit the candidates expectations.
Please contact any member of the Mid-Cheshire ARS via the website or by telephone and suitable arrangements can be discussed.
Course Leader: Peter Paul Fox, G8HAV Daytime: 01606 553 401 Evening: 01606 553 401 email:
g0ira@arrl.net
Course Instruction & Morse Assessment:
Andrew Rose: G8PEO
email:
Mid Cheshire Amateur Radio Society Treasurer: The Gables, Jack Lane, Moulton, NORTHWICH Cheshire CW9 8QA
Updated Jan-2006 (G8HAV/G0LBO)