K7VIQ Personal &
POTA & SOTA Leaflets

Ham Radio Operator K7VIQ

Greetings, I am Paul, a Ham Radio Operator with the FCC Amature Extra Ham radio license call of K7VIQ.

Ham operators, also known as amateur radio operators, are individuals who use specialized radio equipment to communicate with other ham operators around the globe.  Ham radio is a non-commercial service, operated by licensed individuals for their own personal enjoyment and advancement of the radio art.

With a few adjustments to their dials and a keen ear, we listen for the faint signals that carry the voices or Morse code of fellow ham operators from near and far.

When we make contact, we exchange greetings, practice radio protocol, share stories(often about our radios and equipment), creating a bridge across vast distances. 

Ham radio operators also use their skills to provide emergency communication during times of disaster when other forms of communication may be unavailable.

Our passion for radio technology extends beyond mere communication. We enjoy experimenting with different types of radios, 

antennas, and software, constantly pushing the boundaries of our hobby.

A common online place Ham Operators use to find each other and introduce themselves is the QRZ website. I can be found at: www.QRZ.com/db/K7VIQ

What is a Ham Radio Operator?

Ham Radio operators, or "Hams," are trained in communications techniques and basic electronics theory.  They voluntarily use their skills to provide public service during emergencies, such as natural disasters and power outages.  Ham Amateur Radio has been recognized by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross as an essential part of the critical communications infrastructure.

 Ham Radio Operators 

at Park and Summits

Known as POTA (Parks on the Air) and SOTA (Summits on the Air) both are popular activities in amateur radio.  These activities encourage ham operators through contest goals to practice using their radios and enjoy getting outside and meeting others outdoors at Parks and Summits and on the air.  They enjoy natural areas and are sure to leave it as was for others to enjoy.  They cautiously make sure their antenna does not disturb or is in the way of others and remove it and all signs of their presents when they leave.

Read the next pages if you wish to learn more about either of these activities.

Summary

When you encounter a person with a radio and antenna at a park or summit, using their Ham radio equipment, they are not just a hobbyist; they are a part of a global network of individuals who share a passion for communication, technology, and being available in times of emergency and enjoy working in clean natural environments.  

Cherry Plain State park. NY

I am a good steward of the land

I practice being a good steward of the land as I also practice my mobile Ham Radio operator radio skills.  I enjoy nature.  I will remove from the environment all my waste, wires and equipment.  I will leave the environment perhaps better than I found it by not only properly taking care of any garbage I create, but I will also try to help with garbage left behind by others by removing anything that does not belong in the natural environment.

I follow area rules and the motto: “Leave no trace”. “Leave nothing behind but a good time.”

I personally created this document from scratch with the help of other Ham radio documentation in order to help explain my Ham Radio activities to others and to emphasize my proper stewardship goals of the land I use.

Paul Allen - K7VIQ