What Is Amateur Radio?

First let's define Amateur Radio, if we look on Wikipedia we see the definition:

'Amateur radio, also known as ham radio, is the use of the radio frequency spectrum for purposes of non-commercial exchange of messages, wireless experimentation, self-training, private recreation, radiosport, contesting, and emergency communications.'

Another definition is 'a service for use recreationally for those interested in the hobby of wireless communication for purposes other than commercial use.'

Let's break it down by definition.

Ham Radio is another term for Amateur Radio, the term HAM comes from early commercial radio operators (call telegraphers at the time) referring to early operators as "hams" due to the wide spectrum of radio frequencies they occupied while operating, interfering with commercial traffic. The term was not a term of endearment and was more of a blunt way of calling Amateurs unskilled nuisances. The term was adopted by amateurs possibly unaware of the derogatory nature of the label. HAM has become a world wide term synonymous with Amateur Radio.

Radio Frequency Spectrum is an ambiguous term that refers to all forms of electromagnetic radiation. Similar radio frequencies are grouped into "Bands" while specific radio frequencies are also referred to as "Channels" when they are used with certain services that use a published standardized list of frequencies.

Messages in Amateur radio are another way of saying any communication on a given frequency or set of frequencies. This can be anything from voice communication to Morse code and can include simple forms of data transfer.

It's important to note any use of Amateur radio is Non Commercial. This means that no business or government agency can use frequencies set aside for Amateur use for any purpose. By the same measure, Amateur Radio Operators may not use Government, Emergency services or Business use frequencies that have been licensed for such use. Emergency communications in Amateur Radio refers to a specific form of formalized communication using Amateur radio frequencies during an Emergency such as a Natural Disaster.

More specific information on this topic can be found on the website for the American Radio Relay League or ARRL. The ARRL is a premiere resource for Amateur Radio information and materials related to obtaining an Amateur Radio License.