1. Explain what Radio is. Include in your explanation: the differences between broadcast radio and hobby radio, and the differences between broadcasting and two-way communicating. What are Amateur Radio Call Signs? What is the use of the International Phonetic Alphabet?
2. Sketch a diagram showing how radio waves travel locally and around the world. How do the broadcast radio stations WWV and WWVH help determine what you hear when you listen to a radio?
3. Do the following:
a. Draw a chart of the electromagnetic spectrum covering 100 kilohertz (kHz) to 1,000 megahertz (MHz).
b. Label the LF, MF, HF, VHF, UHF, and microwave portions of the spectrum on your diagram.
c. Locate on your chart at least eight radio services, such as AM and FM commercial broadcast, citizens band (CB), television, amateur radio (at least four ham radio bands), and police.
d. Discuss why some radio stations are called DX and others are called local. Explain what the FCC and the ITU are.
4. Explain how radio waves carry information. Include in your explanation: transceiver, transmitter, amplifier, and antenna.
5. Learn the safety precautions for working with radio gear, particularly direct current and RF grounding.
6. Do the following:
a. Explain the difference between a block diagram and a schematic diagram.
b. Draw and label a block diagram that includes a transceiver, amplifier, microphone, antenna, and feed line.
c. Explain the differences between an open circuit, a closed circuit, and a short circuit
d. Draw ten schematic symbols. Explain what three of the represented parts do. Find three electrical components to match to three of these symbols.
7. Do ONE of the following (a, b, or c):
a. AMATEUR RADIO
b. BROADCAST RADIO
c. SHORTWAVE LISTENING
8. Visit a radio installation approved in advance by your counselor (a ham radio station, broadcast station, or public service communication center, for example). Discuss what types of equipment you saw in use, how it was used, what types of licenses are required to operate and maintain the equipment, and the purpose of the station.
Last Updated 05/17/00