Lesson Archive
Radio – Be Prepared
Welcome to the Radio Merit Badge course! As Scouts, you want to Be Prepared and knowing how to use Radio is a great way to help in emergencies as well as an interesting and exciting hobby (or even career). The Radio Merit Badge dates back to 1919, but Radio keeps evolving every day. Here you’ll learn how to get Read More …
View LessonRadio – Last Steps
DON’T FORGET TO SEND ANY REQUIRED WRITING/DRAWING TO radio@medlock.net Complete and submit the following form to confirm your completion of the online pre-session course (Please enter RADIO in the Subject Line):
View LessonRadio – Notes and Addendum
If you would like to experience Amateur Radio “virtually”, there is a system called HamSphere that simulates all the worldwide Amateur Radio Bands right from your computer. There is a FREE Trial version that you can use by creating a free account (with a parent or guardian). If you need to complete an online contact Read More …
View LessonRadio – Requirement 1
1. Explain what radio is. Then discuss the following: a. The differences between broadcast radio and hobby radio.b. The differences between broadcasting and two-way communications.c. Radio station call signs and how they are used in broadcast radio and amateur radio. d. The phonetic alphabet and how it is used to communicate clearly. Radio is a way Read More …
View LessonRadio – Requirement 2
Do the following: a. Sketch a diagram showing how radio waves travel locally and around the world. Explain how the broadcast radio stations WWV and WWVH can be used to help determine what you will hear when you listen to a shortwave radio. b. Explain the difference between a DX and a local station. Discuss Read More …
View LessonRadio – Requirement 3
Do the following: a. Draw a chart of the electromagnetic spectrum covering 300 kilohertz (kHz) to 3,000 megahertz (MHz). b. Label the MF, HF, VHF, UHF, and microwave portions of the spectrum on your diagram. c. Locate on your chart at least eight radio services, such as AM and FM commercial broadcast, citizens band (CB), Read More …
View LessonRadio – Requirement 4
Explain how radio waves carry information. Include in your explanation: transceiver, transmitter, reciever, amplifier, and antenna. Radio waves are created when an oscillator circuit gets electrons to vibrate thousands or millions of times per second. An amplifier in the transmitter makes these Radio Frequencies (RF) more powerful. If the circuit is turned on or off Read More …
View LessonRadio – Requirement 5
Do the following: a. Explain the differences between a block diagram and a schematic diagram. b. Draw a block diagram for a radio station that includes a transceiver, amplifier, microphone, antenna, and feed line. c. Discuss how information is sent when using amplitude modulation AM), frequency modulation (FM), continuous wave (CW) Morse Code transmission, single Read More …
View LessonRadio – Requirement 6
Explain the safety precautions for working with radio gear, including the concept of grounding for direct current circuits, power outlets, and antenna systems. While working on radios is fun, it’s important to be safe. Here are some good rules to follow: Electrical shock can hurt or kill – make sure the power is disconnected Read More …
View LessonRadio – Requirement 7
Visit a radio installation (an amateur radio station, broadcast station, or public service communications center, for example) approved in advance by your counselor. Discuss what types of equipment you saw in use, how it was used, what types of licenses required to operate and maintain the equipment, and the purpose of the station. Note Read More …
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