Welcome to NORAC The North Okanagan Radio Amateur Club

Update at 2018/03/22

The classes have started with 7 keen students taking part. If you are just reading this now and want to take part, there is a chance you might be able to jump in mid way. Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to discuss.

Additionally, if you simply don't have the time to do the course, but you've studied up and would like to challenge the exam, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to get details. We welcome you to write the exam on April 29, 2018 at the same time as the course participants do.

About The Course:

The NORAC Amateur Radio Basic Qualifications Course is intended to provide students with the knowledge and understanding necessary to become certified as Canadian Amateur Radio Operators, in accordance with the regulations of Industry Canada. This program is organized and instructed by volunteers associated with the North Okanagan Radio Amateurs Club, and will run Sunday and Wednesday evenings from 7:00pm to 10:00pm, March 18th 2018 through April 29th.

Campus Location:

People Place
3402 27^th Ave, Vernon, BC, V1T 1S1

Deadlines:

Application Deadline: March 18th
Application Fees Deadline: March 18th

Tuition & Fees:

Entrance Fee: $50
Textbook: $50
*Textbooks ordered after March 8th may not arrive in time for the first class.
*The course relies heavily on textbook material, but groups or families may choose to share copies. 

Payments can be made online at norac.bc.ca/hosted/membership/joinnorac.html

Completion Requirements:

Complete the Canadian Basic Qualification Exam with a mark of 70% or greater... but really, you want to aim for 80% in order to get Basic with Honours, which allows you more frequency access.

How to Register:

Online:
Submit payment for the Amateur Radio Course (Online Payment Option #3) and the requested information via our website at http://norac.bc.ca/hosted/membership/joinnorac.html

Via Mail:
Submit payment for the NORAC Amateur Radio - Basic Qualifications course to:
NORAC. c/o PO Box 1706, Vernon, B.C. Canada, V1T-8C3.
Please include your mailing address, email address, and preferred phone number so that we may contact you.

By Email:
Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. stating your intention to attend the NORAC Amateur Radio - Basic Qualifications course. Please provide your full name and telephone number. Course Fees may be paid via cheque or cash in person on March 18th, but students choosing this payment option are expected to obtain a textbook beforehand on their own.

Please Bring:

Pencils
Eraser
Lined Paper
Calculator
Textbook: Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide, 9th Edition.

Contact Us:

Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any questions or concerns regarding the course or the schedule.

Amateur Radio - Basic Qualifications - Spring 2018 Schedule:

What is Amateur Radio?

Amateur radio (also called ham radio) is the use of designated radio frequency spectrum for purposes of private recreation, non-commercial exchange of messages, wireless experimentation, self-training, and emergency communication. The term "amateur" is used to specify persons interested in radio technique solely with a personal aim and without financial or business interest, and to differentiate it from commercial broadcasting, public safety (such as police and fire), or professional two-way radio services (such as maritime, aviation, taxis, etc.).

With the capability of operating both as stand-alone communication devices, or in conjunction with repeater networks and digital uplinks, Amateur radio has found favour amongst individuals whose lifestyle takes them outside of cell coverage. It has also been used extensively as a means of communication in disaster-swept areas when conventional communication services fail. With the right equipment and expertise, ham operators can communicate around the world, in real time, with zero reliance on phone or internet infrastructure.

But that's really just the tip of the iceberg. Amateur radio isn't simply about being able to communicate, though that's certainly a primary function. Amateur radio has historically been about pushing the limits of communication technology. From GPS trackers to long distance wireless internet links to communication directly with the astronauts onboard the International Space Station, our hobby strives to find and implement new ways of doing things that might otherwise require corporate grade infrastructure and funding.

That said, we find that every Amateur Radio Operator's reason for getting their licence, and subsequent use thereof, is unique. Today, we're just offering to help get you started.

We hope to see you March 18th.

73,
Nicholas Rudersdorfer VA7AZZ
NORAC Education Coordinator