hello all and callsign request (Issued)

hello guys my names carl im from cheshire uk. I like shortwave scanning looking for number stations. Always wanted to have a go on the air so im starting on PMR446 as i think its a nice easy way inn. Looking forward to any help and advice you guys can give. Im using a baofeng UV-5RIII 

Thanks again

Hi Carl,

Welcome to Charlie Tango.


You'll need to ensure your profile is filled in as per the instructions to obtain a call sign otherwise admin responsible will have to ask causing you delays in obtaining one. Just trying to help.  


There's plenty of people here using PMR and indeed some successful nets that are regularly busy but it all depends on activity in your area remembering that it is usually a short range mode of transmission. (Although 'Tropospheric Propagation' can often extend the range.  ) Worth listening out for the "8@8" which is Sundays, channel 8 at 8pm and see if anyone is shouting out or even indeed shout out yourself. Always worth a listen anyway for activity but remembering that most PMR activity is legitimate business use and/or leisure. 

Technically a Baofeng's power and external antenna use is illegal in the UK, (forewarned is forearmed), so just be careful that you don't cause any interference to legitimate users.

For about the same price as a Baofeng you can take your Foundation Amateur Radio examination which is available online and there are even free training courses available from the likes of 'Essex Ham'. With some study and a 'ticket' your Baofeng becomes a lot more powerful, legally bolt on any antenna system to transmit on the 2m, 144MHz band and the 70cm, 432MHz band and even take advantage of the Amateur Radio repeater network to communicate further. 

It's what I did after playing again with CB and PMR only to find it devoid of much activity my way but with my 'Ham' licence I've never been so busy with the radio hobby.

Anyway, worth a thought.


All the best,
Victor

Hello and welcome, Carl.

73s John.

Hi Carl, welcome to the CTDX group
73s
Steve.

Thanks for the welcome guys and thanks to victor for the very helpful info. Iv filled in my profile as much as i can with my info so I shoud have no problems there I hope    Iv seen the ringway manchesters videos and im on the 8@8 facebook group too. Iv been listening for years just wanted to finaly get on and say Hi  

 Thanks again guys 73s

Hello Carl, welcome to the forum.

I am having difficulty locating "Castle" your stated QTH. It doesn't show on Google maps, can you elaborate please.

73's Gary.

C.T. Admin.

hi gary yes Castle is in nortwich cheshire    

Hello Carl, thanks for updating.

I am delighted to allocate you 26-CT-4406 may you have good luck with it.

73's Gary.

C.T. Admin.

thank you gary all the best 73s

Seems like you're all clued up with everything there Carl and I hope your new Charlie Tango call sign serves you well.

I wish you all the best with your radio activities.

73
Victor