Get the books for both, study and take both in one sitting. If you pass Tech (you will) you can sit back down and knock out the General at the same session. Each test is a random draw from the same bank of questions that are in the study guides. Some of the material you will learn while studying and the rest of it you will recognize if you go through the guides a few times each. There are those that would argue that studying to simply pass the test is bad form but your license is just a ticket to learn - the real education comes after the tests!

 

It does bother me that I passed my element 2 exam by studying the questions and answers, but I think you-re right - I'll learn a lot more as I get more involved with amateur radio. Although it's driving me nuts - I can't figure out how to get onto a repeater with my new 2 meter handheld!

 

Repeaters operate on two freqs: RX and TX with an offset between them. Not sure about your particular radio but most of the new ones have the standard offset already programmed. If so all you need to do is dial up the primary freq and select duplex mode so your radio knows to transmit on one freq and listen on the other. Check your operator's manual for duplex or repeater ops.

 

Today I took my handheld to work and was able to use the repeater just fine. My home might be in a dead spot.

 

Yes.......handhelds can be a bit limiting. I can't remember, are you using an external antenna or the rubber duckie?

 

I'm using a rubber duckie for now. I have a magnetic mount antenna for when I'm in a car, but I haven't used it yet. I'm just getting acquainted with the handheld.

 

Which repeater are you using and where abouts are you located? We have a bazillion repeaters in the valley but some don't have the greatest coverage depending on where you are in the valley. It seems like you can hit farnsworth just about anywhere in the valley though.

what's your call, I will listen for you when I am on.

ke7zvl

 

I was on Farnsworth, 147.12. It did take me a while to figure out how to program the subaudible tone.

My call sign is KF7CED. Hopefully we can talk.

Bert

 

What you recommend as a study guide? I picked up Now Your Talking 5th Edition quite some time ago just been too busy to open it up but I will do it now. Is it a good guide or should I be looking for a better or newer material?

 

I used the Gordon West book. I read it through 2 times, and passed the Element 2 exam for my Technician license with 34 of 35 correct!