Remote Hams – An Option For Ham Radio and SWL Operation
Many hams and swls today live in areas that have antenna restrictions, or are at a stage in life that they simply no longer want the bother of maintaining antennas. Also, they may not want the expense and bother of maintaining amateur radio equipment. A good option has become available for hams who have computers, and internet access, which most of us do anymore. Remote Hams is a world wide network of amateur radio operators who have made their equipment available for anyone to use via the internet.
Brandon Hansen, KG6YPI, has developed a software, RCForb(Client) which is how we users are able to access remote hams. Each of the participating ham operators on the network has equipment connected to a server that allows people to make connections to that station. Here is how it is done:
- Type www.remotehams.com into your browser.
- You will get a page that says Remote Hams. There will be a row of boxes on the right at the top, and in about the middle of the page the will be a line that says Download RCForb (Client). Click on this line.
- You will see 6 options. I have had the best luck with the May 3rd release, although the latest release also works.
- After you have completed the download you will get a series of boxes giving you instructions.
- Software license agreement. Check the box that you agree.
- Choose install location: Just click next.
- Choose components. Click install
- Completing the RCForb (Client) Setup Wizard Click Finish
- Remote Hams.com Login Select a user name, usually your call, and a password. Login
- After you login, you will see a page listing all the stations that are currently available. It lists the call, some information about the equipment, and the QTH. Double click on a station line, and a virtual transceiver will appear. At this point you should make sure your computer sound is turned on. I prefer to use an inexpensive headset with a boom mike, but any mike/speaker combo will work.
- Tuning can be done via the keypad . NEVER tune without first clicking the ask window in the bottom right had corner. It will say, “ May I tune the remote” If no one responds, feel free to tune.
- In order to acquire transmitting privileges, you must upload a copy of your amateur license. The procedure for doing this is explained by clicking on the “Upload Amateur License” line in the upper right hand corner of the virtual transceiver. One upload is good for all stations in the system. However, you must get permission from each individual station for transmit privileges for that station. Once your license has been uploaded, after a couple of days, you can click on TX on the virtual transceiver for the station you are seeking permission. A box will appear telling you that the operator has received your request. When you are logged in, your user name, probably your call, will appear in the right had box on the lower right of the virtual transceiver. When you see an (x) in front of your user name, you can transmit.
- The Remote Hams operators are making their equipment available free of charge, and we are their guests. We need to remember to treat their equipment as our own, and follow all amateur radio rules and regulations and procedures. Each operator has the right to remove us from his station for any reason, and it is best that we not give them one.
This has been a brief overview of Remote Hams. Once you get established, and get to the point of the virtual transceiver, there is a help box which contains a users manual. Also, there are several of us on the net that can help get you totally confused. KB0L, KC5FM, Clarence (WDX5FOY) , WA0VQL. KD0HII, WA4HJB are all regular users. I mainly use remote hams for a better reception spot. Also use it when I am away from home.
73 & 75, Bernie KB0L
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