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Last Update: 22 JUN 2026
Content Usage
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This site may include facts, views, or opinions of individuals or organizations not affiliated with the Northwest Amateur Radio Society (NARS). NARS does not endorse, guarantee, or warrant the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of these facts, views, or opinions. NARS specifically disclaims any and all liability for any claims or damages that may result from facts, views, or opinions of individuals or organizations not affiliated with NARS appearing on these sites.
This site may contain links to other Internet sites maintained by third parties which NARS believes may be of interest or use to users of the sites, but for which NARS has no responsibility. NARS makes no effort to independently verify information on Internet sites outside of the w5nc.net domain, nor does it attempt to exert editorial control over such information.
NARS makes no representations or warranty of any kind as to the accuracy or any other aspect of the information contained on such Internet sites. NARS specifically disclaims any and all liability for any claims or damages that may result from information on Internet sites outside of the w5nc.net domain.
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NARS NARS Meeting Presentations - Northwest Amateur Radio Society - Meeting Presentations
ARRL Online Course Catalog - http://www.arrl.org/online-course-catalog
ARRL Emergency Communications Training - http://www.arrl.org/emergency-communications-training
ARRL Webinars - http://www.arrl.org/ARRL-LearningNetwork#schedule
Exam Review for Ham Radio - http://www.arrl.org/examreview
Find an Amateur Radio License Class - http://www.arrl.org/find-an-amateur-radio-license-class
Free Study Guides
A study guide for Technician license preparation, Dan Romanchik, KB6NU
A study guide for Technician license preparation on the Inland Empire VHF Radio Club website, Jack Tiley, AD7FO (Click on "Training Links" and go to the Technician training link)
Online Video/Audio Courses
Online Technician license exam self-study course, Fred Benson, NC4FB - The purpose of the resources developed for this course is to provide candidates in geographical areas that do not provide classes and candidates who cannot attend a class with the means to prepare for the Technician license exam. The materials cover all questions in the question pool with explanations, sub element tests, and sample license exams. Help is available upon request via email.
Benson also offers a "kid friendly" self-study course and a self-study program especially designed for emergency services personnel. "The Ham Whisperer" Video Course, Andy Vallenga, KE4GKP – This course is based on the FCC question pool sequence to assist with Technician license preparation.
A Self-Study Video Course, Dave Casler, KE0OG – This course provides a guided self-study video course based on ARRL's Ham Radio License Manual curriculum.
Online Technician License Preparation Course – Chris Johnson, N1IR 17 NARS NEWS Study Tools HamStudy.org: Cutting edge amateur radio study tools - Free ham radio flash cards, practice tests, and question pools as well as introduction to ham radio and explanations for questions.
HamTestOnline – Study Tips for the Ham Radio License Exams
HamExam.org - Free Amateur Radio Practice Tests with Flash Cards eHam.net Ham Radio Practice Exams Paid Resources W5YI Group - Your Resource for Ham Radio and Commercial Radio Licensing
HamRadioPrep - Enroll in Ham Radio Prep, the industry’s #1 online test prep and training program, and pass your FCC Amateur Radio License exam on the first try - or your money back. Use our partnership code, NARS, to get 10% off when you enroll.
HamTestOnline - Study for your Ham Radio License Exam!
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NARS Fall 2026 Fox Hunt and Club Picnic will be held Saturday November 7, 2026 at Burroughs Park 9738 Hufsmith Rd, Tomball, TX 77375
One of the most enjoyable and educational activities in amateur radio is transmitter hunting, commonly known as fox hunting. This unique aspect of the hobby combines radio operating skills, electronics knowledge, map reading, and outdoor adventure into a fun and challenging event. Participants use radio direction-finding techniques to locate a hidden transmitter, known as the "fox," using handheld radios, directional antennas, and signal strength observations.
In a typical fox hunt, one operator hides a small transmitter somewhere within a designated area while other participants attempt to locate it. Hunters listen to the signal and use directional antennas, such as Yagi antennas or handheld loop antennas, to determine the direction of the transmission. By taking bearings from multiple locations and following the strongest signal, hunters gradually narrow their search area until the transmitter is found. Hunts can range from simple exercises in local parks to complex events covering entire cities or wide rural areas.
Fox hunting provides an excellent opportunity to develop practical skills that can be valuable during emergency situations. The same radio direction-finding techniques used to locate a hidden transmitter can help identify sources of radio interference, track down malfunctioning equipment, locate emergency beacons, or assist public safety agencies during search-and-rescue operations. Many amateur radio operators first learn these techniques through club-sponsored fox hunts before applying them to real-world communications challenges.
Beyond the technical lessons, fox hunting is simply a great deal of fun. It encourages teamwork, friendly competition, and problem-solving while getting operators out from behind their radios and into the field. Participants often discover that success depends just as much on strategy and observation as it does on radio equipment. New hams quickly gain confidence in their radio skills, while experienced operators enjoy the challenge of testing their equipment and techniques against other hunters.
Many amateur radio clubs host fox hunts throughout the year as part of their training and educational programs. These events are an excellent way for members of all experience levels to learn about radio propagation, antenna design, signal attenuation, and direction-finding methods in a hands-on environment. Whether conducted on foot, by bicycle, or from vehicles, transmitter hunting remains one of amateur radio's most engaging activities, combining technology, adventure, and fellowship into a memorable experience.
For many radio amateurs, the thrill of finally spotting the hidden transmitter after following clues and chasing signals makes fox hunting one of the most rewarding activities in the hobby. It demonstrates that amateur radio is about much more than simply talking over the airwaves. It is about learning, experimentation, public service, and having fun while developing skills that can make a real difference when they are needed most.
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NARS Nets are on Tuesday at 7:00 pm, and Wednesday at 8:00 pm.
A ham radio net is an organized on-air gathering of amateur radio operators who meet at a scheduled time and frequency to communicate, share information, practice operating skills, and provide a structured way for stations to check in. Nets can be held on local repeaters, simplex frequencies, HF bands, or digital networks.
Nets serve several important purposes:
Emergency Communications
One of the primary reasons for holding nets is to maintain readiness for emergency communications. Regular participation helps operators become familiar with proper radio procedures, message handling, and net discipline. When severe weather, natural disasters, or other emergencies occur, trained operators can quickly provide communications support when normal systems are unavailable.
Training and Practice
Nets give both new and experienced operators an opportunity to practice radio communications in a structured environment. Participants learn proper operating techniques, phonetics, signal reporting, directed net procedures, and efficient communication methods. Regular practice helps build operator confidence and competence.
Information Sharing
Many clubs and organizations use nets to distribute announcements, meeting information, event updates, and technical news. Club officers can communicate upcoming activities, public service events, training opportunities, and operating tips to members quickly and efficiently.
Building Community
Nets help strengthen the amateur radio community by bringing operators together on a regular basis. Members can become familiar with one another, welcome new hams, and maintain friendships. For many operators, the weekly club net is an important social activity that helps keep them active in the hobby.
Public Service Coordination
During public service events such as marathons, parades, bike rides, and community events, nets provide an organized communication channel for volunteers. A net control station can coordinate activities, track resources, and relay information among operators in the field.
Types of Nets
Common types of amateur radio nets include:
- Club Nets - Sponsored by local amateur radio clubs.
- Traffic Nets - Used to pass formal written messages.
- Emergency Nets - Activated during emergencies and disasters.
- Training Nets - Focused on education and operator development.
- Technical Nets - Discussions about equipment and operating techniques.
- Social or Ragchew Nets - Informal conversations among operators.
- Public Service Nets - Used during community events and exercises.
At the center of most nets is the Net Control Station (NCS), which manages the flow of communications, calls for check-ins, and ensures the net operates in an organized manner. Some clubs have a Net Logging Station (NLS) to allow the NCS to focus on communicating with stations checking in.
In simple terms, a ham radio net is the amateur radio equivalent of a regularly scheduled meeting held over the air. It helps operators stay connected, develop skills, share information, and maintain readiness to serve their communities when needed.
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2027 Winter Field Day is January 23rd & 24th, 2027
Winter Field Day is an annual amateur radio operating event held on the last full weekend of January. Organized by the Winter Field Day Association (WFDA), the event encourages amateur radio operators to set up temporary stations and operate in challenging winter conditions. Unlike traditional home-based operating, participants deploy radios, antennas, and power systems in the field to test their ability to communicate effectively during cold weather, snow, ice, and other conditions that could be encountered during a real emergency.
The primary goal of Winter Field Day is to improve emergency preparedness and operating skills. Participants operate using HF, VHF, and UHF frequencies while making contacts with stations across North America and beyond. Many stations rely on generators, batteries, solar power, or other alternative power sources to simulate operating when commercial power is unavailable. The event provides valuable hands-on experience in setting up portable equipment, managing power resources, logging contacts, and maintaining communications under less-than-ideal conditions.
Winter Field Day is also a great opportunity for clubs and individual operators to showcase amateur radio to the public. Visitors can observe stations in operation, learn about emergency communications, and even get on the air under the supervision of licensed operators. The event combines technical skill, preparedness training, and camaraderie, making it one of the most enjoyable and educational weekends on the amateur radio calendar. Whether operating from a heated tent, a campsite, a park pavilion, or a backyard, participants gain practical experience while demonstrating the resilience and versatility of amateur radio communications.