#HamRadio

Any tips for getting started in Ham Radio?

Note the following:

1) I'm 76, still work part time, and have neither desire nor money to spend a boatload of $ on gear. Is this still a feasible activity?

2) Aside from my own curiousity, I'm hoping that if I get licensed, I can perhaps interest one of my grandchildren in amateur radio. Are many kids involved?

3) Passing the technician exam doesn't seem particularly difficult, but I don't get the feeling that the exam prep has much to do with actually being a Ham operator. Other than having an operator next door, how does one actually learn the real stuff?

Thanks!