New Amateur Radio Resources
Whether you’ve just earned your Technician license or you’re preparing to upgrade, the resources below will help you continue learning and enjoying amateur radio.
There is a tremendous amount of information available online, and it can be difficult to know where to start. This guide highlights some of the websites and organizations that experienced members of the Deep East Texas Amateur Radio Club (DETARC) regularly recommend to new operators.This is not intended to be a complete list. Rather, it is a collection of trusted resources that we believe every new amateur radio operator should know about.If you have questions, don’t struggle alone! Join us during one of our weekly nets or attend a club meeting. One of the best resources in amateur radio is another ham.
Buy Amateur Radio EquipmentThe following retailers are well respected within the amateur radio community.
| Vendor | Description |
|---|---|
| Ham Radio Outlet (HRO) | One of the largest amateur radio dealers in the United States, with multiple retail locations including Plano, Texas. Offers radios, antennas, power supplies, test equipment, and accessories. https://www.hamradio.com |
| GigaParts | Popular online retailer with excellent customer service and a large selection of amateur radio gear, computers, and accessories. https://www.gigaparts.com |
| R&L Electronics | Long-established amateur radio dealer offering new equipment, accessories, coax, connectors, and replacement parts. https://www.randl.com |
| Main Trading Company (MTC) | Texas-based amateur radio dealer located in Paris, Texas, known for competitive pricing and friendly service. https://www.mtcradio.com |
| DX Engineering | One of the largest suppliers of HF antennas, feed line, towers, station accessories, and contest-grade equipment. https://www.dxengineering.com |
Essential Amateur Radio References
American Radio Relay League (ARRL)
The ARRL is the national association for amateur radio in the United States. Their website includes:
- Licensing information
- Operating practices
- Technical articles
- Emergency communications
- News and advocacy
- Educational resources
If you’re serious about amateur radio, becoming an ARRL member is worth considering.
QRZ.com
QRZ is one of the most frequently used websites in amateur radio.
Features include:
- Callsign lookup
- Online logbook
- Awards
- Forums
- Equipment reviews
- Practice exams
- Ham marketplace
Most hams use QRZ daily.
QSL.net
One of the oldest amateur radio resource sites on the Internet, QSL.net hosts hundreds of club pages, technical articles, software links, antenna information, and operating resources.
Parks on the Air (POTA)
Parks on the Air is one of the fastest-growing activities in amateur radio. Operators set up portable stations in state and national parks while “hunters” contact them from home or from other parks.
Official POTA Website
Learn about:
- What POTA is
- Rules
- Activations
- Awards
- Getting Started
POTA App
The companion app provides:
- Live park activations
- Spotting
- Statistics
- Maps
- Personal operating history
Emergency Communications
Many amateur radio operators volunteer to provide emergency communications during disasters and public events.
Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES)
ARES is sponsored by the ARRL and consists of trained volunteers who support local communities when traditional communications are unavailable or overloaded.
Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES)
National Information
https://www.qsl.net/races/what.html
Texas RACES
https://www.tdem.texas.gov/response/races
RACES works alongside government emergency management organizations during emergencies and disasters.
Study Resources for Amateur Radio Exams
Whether you’re studying for your Technician license or preparing to upgrade to General or Amateur Extra, these sites are excellent resources.
HamStudy.org (Highly Recommended)
HamStudy has become one of the most popular free study resources available.
Features include:
- Flash cards
- Adaptive learning
- Practice exams
- Progress tracking
- Mobile-friendly interface
QRZ Practice Exams
Free practice exams covering all current FCC amateur radio license classes.
HamExam.org
A long-standing practice testing website with question pools and exam simulations.
Ham Radio Prep
Commercial training platform offering:
- Video lessons
- Guided study plans
- Practice exams
- Mobile access
Ideal for those who prefer a structured classroom-style approach.
Additional Learning Resources
As you gain experience, you may also want to explore:
- Digital Modes (FT8, JS8Call, Winlink)
- APRS
- Amateur Satellites
- AllStarLink
- EchoLink
- Mesh Networking
- Antenna Design
- HF Operating
- Contesting
- Portable Operations
- Emergency Communications
DETARC regularly offers presentations, demonstrations, and mentoring in many of these areas.
We Can Help
One of the greatest strengths of amateur radio is the willingness of experienced operators to help newcomers.
If you’re struggling with:
- Programming your first radio
- Installing an antenna
- Choosing equipment
- Making your first HF contact
- Learning digital modes
- Understanding repeaters
- Operating procedures
- Station setup
…don’t hesitate to ask.
Join the Deep East Texas Amateur Radio Club
Whether you’re newly licensed or have been away from the hobby for years, we’d love to help you get on the air.
We invite you to:
- Join us for our weekly club net
- Attend one of our monthly meetings
- Participate in club events
- Ask questions and learn from experienced operators
Welcome to amateur radio—we’re glad you’re here, and we hope to hear you on the air soon!