# Becoming a radio amateur

Classes of Amateur Licence

Amateur radio licences are available at five levels. Full A, full B, intermediate A, intermediate B and foundation, each level having differing examination requirements.

The full A licence allows operation in all amateur radio bands and at full power as allocated to that band, but requires the licensee to have passed a Morse test at 5 WPM (words per minute). Additionally all applicants for a full licence must pass the Radio Amateurs Examination (RAE).

The full B licence has no Morse requirement but does allow operation in all amateur radio bands above 30MHz and at full power as allocated to that band. All applicants for a full licence must pass the Radio Amateurs Examination (RAE).

The Intermediate A requires the licensee to have passed a Morse test, at 5 WPM, and permits operation on all bands, including HF and VHF. The intermediate B has no Morse requirement, therefore not allowing operation on the HF bands. Intermediate licensees also have power restrictions on all bands.

The foundation licence provides access to all amateur bands, except 10m, but restricts the licensee to a maximum power of 10W RF output. Furthermore, transmitting equipment must be of commercial manufacture or properly designed commercial kits.

The World Radio Conference takes place during 2003, it is expected that the Morse requirement will be lifted. It will then be up to each individual licensing authority to decide whether to retain an element of Morse or to remove it altogether. From 2004 these requirements are expected to change.

Photos 1.3, 1.4. Many clubs put on exhibition stations at local fairs. This one is GB0PC for Peterlee Carnival in County Durham. In the marquee, all aspects of amateur radio are demonstrated to the visiting public, from worldwide voice communication to real-time weather satellite reception. This station as mounted every year by the local club. On the right, club treasurer Albert G0MJV waits to greet and inform visitors.

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