Where do I Start?
Follow the links on the right to find out more about amateur radio.
No licence is needed to listen to amateur radio transmissions, however, you need an Amateur Srtation Licence in order to transmit. Transmitting licences are issued by ComReg, The Communications Regulator. To qualify for a licence, you need to pass the Amateur Station Licence Examination. This exam, which is to test your understanding of the basic principles of radio and the regulations governing radio experimenters, is simple enough for anyone with an interest in the hobby.
IRTS has developed the Amateur Station Licence Examination Course Guide, which is a CD-based guide to topics covered by the HAREC Syllabus (see the screen sample below). This course is best tackled in a club environment (many clubs will be arranging courses based on the Course Guide, generally commencing in September each year), but for those who are not in a position to attend classes in a club, the CD is available for a nominal registration fee.
For details on how to order the Course CD
Our page of Radio Theory Links has links to web sites with material useful for anyone studying radio theory
The best way to learn about all aspects of amateur radio is to join your local Radio Club. Also, you can find out more about the hobby by listening to radio experimenters talking to each other. This can be done with relatively simple equipment and, of course, no licence or radio theory knowledge is required to get started as a listener.
You can keep up to date with amateur radio by becoming a member of IRTS. The Society's newsletter Echo Ireland, which is posted regularly to all members, includes a full roundup of activities locally and internationally.
Attending one of the many Rallies that take place around the country provides an opportunity to meet radio experimenters, see what they do and view the type of equipment used to set up an amateur radio station. Rallies also provide a good opportunity to buy new or secondhand equipment.
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