Ham radio operators meet over a shared hobby that becomes a lifeline during emergencies (California)

A field of large parabolic antennas, followed by a constant piercing sound lingering in the background, is a classic combo in science fiction movies, especially when earthlings receive a message from outer space. On screen, it builds uneasiness and suspense for the viewer.

But for amateur radio (or ham radio) operators, the radio waves around the Earth create connectivity. People use antennas and transceivers to communicate with each other without Wi-Fi or phones.

Non-commercial radio not only connects people worldwide but it can be an important tool in emergencies, when other means of communication, such as phones and internet, go down.

“Amateur radio has been around since radio was invented,” says Dusan Tatomirovic, Monterey Bay Amateur Radio Association’s president. “Since radio was invented, there have been individuals who would play with technology, and that’s what amateur radio is.”

Read more – Monterey County Now: https://bit.ly/4bC3nIP