Ham Radio Tips & Tales – Volume I

By Harold (Hal) Kennedy, N4GG

Amateur Radio Hints, Tips, Techniques, Insights, Opinions, and Bemusement

36 Chapters of Practical Wisdom, Operating Insights & Stories for Every Ham: Ham Radio Tips & Tales is a rich collection of 36 chapters packed with technical tips, operating advice, and memorable storytelling—written for hams of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned operator, a newly licensed ham, or studying for your very first ticket, you’ll find something valuable, enjoyable, and immediately useful.

What’s Inside: This book brings together practical techniques that experienced hams have used for years—tips that rarely get shared or written down. Each technical chapter was chosen because it’s actionable, helping you build a better station, operate more easily, and save both time and money.

No advanced math required!—if you can handle a four‑function calculator, you can understand and appreciate every chapter. Ham radio is meant to be fun, and this book keeps it that way.

Topics You’ll Explore

• Answers to classic questions like: “Do I need a balun to feed a dipole?”

• Straightforward guidance on “What’s the best radio?” and “What’s the best antenna?” — the answers may surprise you.

• Dozens of practical, field‑tested techniques to improve your station and on‑air experience.

• Light‑hearted stories and humorous commentary woven throughout, reminding us why we love the hobby.

Why You’ll Love It: This isn’t a dry technical manual. It’s a friendly, insightful companion that helps you get more out of ham radio—more enjoyment, more confidence, and more capability. The author’s goal is simple: to help you have a ball on the air.

Continue the Journey: This is the first of two volumes. Ham Radio Tips & Tales — Volume II, released in late 2025, adds 38 more chapters of insights and fun storytelling for every ham.

73, N4GG