Passed my Technician exam last week

[madlabs]

Originally Posted by Kamakiri

I've explored all of that stuff and as I mentioned, I discovered that the CTCSS is why I couldn't hit the repeaters. My Alinco HT hits the repeaters fine with the programmed PL tones. I bought a used J pole at a hamfest, so that's going in the trash once I get a new antenna.

I guess when it boils down to it I'm somewhat discouraged that technology has woven its way into the 2 meter band to the degree that it's a requirement.

Well, it's a double edged sword. While the endless menus and silly features are annoying (who cares what color the back light is on receive or transmit!!) there are very useful features too, like dual watch or tone squelch. I have a great antenna in an awesome spot and without tone squelch my radio would be squawking all day. Same for modern HF radios.

Overall though, it's a good time to be a ham. Lots of great kits, new modes, all sorts of stuff to get up to.