Chapter 5 – Radio Signals and Equipment

As you advance to General, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the signals you use to communicate. The methods of constructing transmitters and receivers are also covered. You’ll be able to communicate more effectively as a result.

Schematics and Circuit Diagrams

• How to Read Circuit Diagrams, Part I - this may be old, but it's accurate!
• How to Read Circuit Diagrams, Part II

Modes and Modulation

• Wikipedia entry on Modulation- a comprehensive review of modulation
• ARRL Technical Information Service - plenty of articles and links about AM
• Williamson Labs AM illustration page - animated page showing how AM works
• AMfone - a Web site about AM operating on the HF bands
• Williamson Labs SSB illustration - animated page showing how SSB works
• Wikipedia entry on Single Sideband - in-depth treatment with the theory
• Understanding FM Transmitters - a QST article about FM
• Williamson Labs FM illustration page - animated page showing how FM and PM work
• Wikipedia entry on Frequency Modulation - in-depth treatment with the theory

Digital Modes

• ARRL TIS Digital Mode Information - information on most popular modes  
• ARRL’s HF Digital Handbook - all about digital operating on the HF bands

Mobile

• ARRL TIS Mobile Operating Information
• Your Mobile Companion - an introduction to mobile operation
• Amateur Radio On the Move - portable operating tips and techniques

ARRL Interference Resources

• ARRL Technical Information Service (TIS) - numerous Web resources and magazine articles on technical topics of interest to all hams
• ARRL EMI/RFI Resources - a number of resources for managing interference of all types
• FCC TV Interference Handbook - the FCC’s guide to managing interference to television receivers
• The ARRL RFI Book - helpful information for preventing and solving RF interference problems