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This will effect hands-free communications and dispatched services as well.

Grundy1133 wrote:

locke_n_load wrote:Hello all, I'm in humble/atascocita (NE Houston) and I have a baofeng handheld with an upgraded antenna. I scan my local repeaters, but have only heard real communications on ham day... Is this normal? I guess I need to tune in on days with scheduled chatter.
Taking my tech exam Saturday.

I have a BaoFeng and I have no clue how to use it. i can tune into my local FM radio stations but other than that I cant pick up squat and I have no idea how. I gave up and threw it in a drawer somewhere...

You need the cable and program. The cable isn't expensive The program is free.
If You don't have a Ham license get one, The test is pretty easy and no morse code required. Sometimes it seems as though there is more Repeaters than Hams. If you are looking for activity your Baofeng is a scanner that covers the public service and business bands but do not ever key up on these channels

Saturday, I took the General test. I was pretty well prepared for it. I also took the Extra test. Failed it by one question. I was surprised, because I did no prep for it. The good thing is when I take the test again I will do so with confidence. The bad news is that I have no HF gear. I need to work on that

KF5IZN.

Baufeng hand helds a good basic 2 bander with a power supply will double as a base and car mobile. Yeasu 7900 or other brand name is a good start.
A hamfest is a good place to get equipment new or used at the best prices. If you are near Texas City they will be having one on July 8th They will be doing testing there also.