Reviews (15)

Must Have Every Year!
There is nothing like the Passport to World Band Radio.If you are interested in shortwave radio, you should get every edition as soon as it is available.

Excelent Shortwave Radio Guide
This publication is the best shortwave radio guide that I have come across. Super reports on various shortwave radios that are on the market, giving you information which helps in selecting your next radio. Much information about different countries and their shortwave transmissions. This is a got-to-have guide.

Quick and Easy Shortwave Programming Guide
Passport to World Band Radio, New 2006 Edition (Passport to World Band Radio)by Lawrence Magne is laid out in kind of a TV Guide format.This lends itself to finding the station or type of shortwave programming you seek quickly.Like past editions there are articles on shortwave and equipment reviews.While not as thorough as its European counterpart, the WRTH (World Radio TV Handbook) it is easier to use.I find myself referring to Passport to World Band Radio, New 2006 Edition (Passport to World Band Radio)by Lawrence Magne and WRTH on an equal basis.Both compliment each other and should be in the libraries of any Shortwave Listener. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateur Radio Techniques    2. Amateurs' manuals    3. Directories    4. Pop Arts / Pop Culture    5. Radio    6. Radio - General    7. Radio - Reference    8. Radio Broadcasting    9. Radio stations, Short wave    10. Radio, Short wave    11. Science/Mathematics    12. Technology    13. Radio technology   

Reviews (13)

A Must For Every Hamshack
A really great read!Ward has the knack of entertaining and
Ok book for newbies
A fairly good book for "newbies" I've actually had it for sometime. Ham Radio definitely triumps during disaster and this book will get you the basics in clear, concise terms to help get you on the air and talking to folks all over the entire world!!! My Fiance is even interested in ham radio now!! Look me up when you get your ticket,
Randy Johnson's comment
Randy made excellent comments.I'd also like to add, in response to the question we hams all receive, as to "why radio, when the Internet, cell phones, and other forms of communication exist?" is that in disaster areas - even small disasters - normal avenues of communication are can't be used.Phone lines are jammed or down.Cell services are down.Radio is usually the only type of communication that can be used under such circumstances.
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Subjects:  1. Amateur Radio Techniques    2. Amateur radio stations    3. Amateurs' manuals    4. Computers - Other Applications    5. Handbooks, manuals, etc    6. Radio    7. Science/Mathematics    8. Technology    9. General Theory of Computing    10. Technology / Radio   

Reviews (38)

Excellent resource for the technicians test...
If you want to actually know why the answers are what they are on the test, instead of just taking practice test after practice test and trying to memorize answers, then you NEED this book. I wasn't satisfied just taking the practice tests online and memorizing answers, so I bought this book - learned the information - and almost got a perfect score on the FCC's technicians class test. Most people I know, who didn't buy any books, barely passed. What kind of a score do you want?

Highly recommended for your Amateur Radio Technician License
"Now You're Talking" (NYT) is a great resource for anyone seeking a Technician class license -- the first step in the hobby of Amateur Radio. In simple, straightforward language, you'll learn all you need to know in order to pass the FCC's 35-question Technician class examination. The entire FCC question pool, along with correct answers and text references, is included, so there'll be no surprises when you walk into the examination room. As an added plus, you'll find references to many other resources that provide valuable information about the Amateur Radio Service and assistance in becoming a ham.
Great Companion Book to Gordon West's Technician Class Book
This is a must get book to gain understanding and a wealth of information about Ham Radio Element 2 topics. You don't just memorize answers, but understand the why and how behind them. Easy reading for this type of topic. A very helpful and needed companion to Gordon West's Technician Class book. You won't be sorry that you bought it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateur radio stations    2. Amateurs' manuals    3. Examinations, questions, etc    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Licenses    6. Radio    7. Radio operators    8. Technology & Industrial Arts    9. United States   

Reviews (5)

Radio repair made easy
These books are usually a joke. This one is first class. For the beginner, it explains the sort of things we took five years to learn at the technical college. For electrical tradesmen,we can skip the basics and go to the nitty gritty. I was a telecommunications tech. This book is great. If you're a newby it's great, if you're experienced,super.

Tops for the Biginner or Old Time Radio Repairman
This is a book I wish I had when I first started to do radio repairs. It is an easy read and covers each subject with clear and concise instructions, diagrams and photos.

Not for Beginners
I bought this book without looking at it in a bookstore. I am a beginner in this field and was looking for something, somewhere that can explain radio restoration techniques to the non-engineer. Unfortunately, except for some interesting historical information, and what I would agree are some useful charts on tubes, etc., this book is written with a lot of electronic theory.Those who already have some knowledge or experience in electronics, or are very technically-minded, might not find that a problem, but the lay person will be tossing it in the air in exasperation after a few chapters.Very thorough but dense. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateurs' manuals    2. Antiques / Collectibles    3. Electronics - General    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Radio    6. Radios & Televisions    7. Repairing    8. Science/Mathematics    9. Technology    10. Communications engineering / telecommunications    11. DIY    12. Electrician skills    13. Technology / Electronics / General   

Reviews (6)

THE Classic Shortwave book - needs updating, however
Absolutely fascinating introduction to shortwave radio listening...well written by someone very passionate and knowledgable about the subject!Not just a collection of dry facts about DXing but filled with Mr. Helms' personal stories and experiences that really make the subject come alive!It's all covered:Shortwave, AM/FM/TV DXing, Ham radio, maritime/utility broadcasting...it's all here.Now, why I am giving this book a "four" rather than a "five star" rating; this classic text BADLY needs an update as it was written in 1993.For example, I did catch myself wondering if stations really do still mail out QSL cards in this "online" day and age, and the section on using BBS is really very dated.Mr. Helms...if you happen to read this review, PLEASE consider revising/updating this CLASSIC BOOK - the Shortwave Listening Community will love you for it!

great introduction
This 1993 book is packed full of information still relevant to the hobby. It has helped me, a new shortwave listener, explore and get he most out of my new interest.

A superbly-written, thoughtful, and comprehensive guide
This is the ultimate hybrid of reference book andpage-turner, thanks to Harry Helms' superb writing style. Prose is liquid, even in the sections that have a lot of reference information. Absolutely recommended. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateurs' manuals    2. Crafts & Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Radio    5. Radio - General    6. Radio Broadcasting    7. Reference    8. Shortwave radio    9. Technology & Industrial Arts    10. Reference works   

Reviews (2)

The ARRL Rfi Book
This book was bought used, and I was impressed with the prompt shipment to my house and the book was in Great shape! I'm very satisfied 100%. Thank You Amazon.

Essential Reading In Today's Gang-Banging World !!!
I have read only the earlier version of this book' "Radio Frequency Interfierence" ( now out of print ). This, at first glance, seems to be a better book that helps one stop Radio Frequency Interfierence with ourTV's, Cable Viewing, and Enjoyment of Hi-Technology from Gang-Bangers foundeven in small cities. They can easily make your life into a re-run of"Poltergeist" and force you into believing that YOUR world isinhabited by electronic demons - where nothing can go wrong. I know, Isurvived 10 months ( enjoyed myself, actually )while wondering how tophysically protect my expensive sterio system ( see home security, personalsecurity, and Lock-Picking, even as a topic on the internet. )***YOU NEEDTHIS BOOK. YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW THE ARRL AND THE Federal CommunicationsCommision work togeather to protect you - if you know how to find them. BeProactive - get there first for you and your children. Gangs want you andyour lifetime earnings.Related topics in Amazon.com - Vision Exercises.There's an out of print book no longer mentioned in Amazon: "SeeingYourself See" by Jim Jackson. Your local Library can get this byInterLibrary Loan. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateur Radio Techniques    2. Amateur radio stations    3. Amateurs' manuals    4. Electronics - General    5. Handbooks & Manuals    6. Handbooks, manuals, etc    7. Interference    8. Radio    9. Radio frequency modulation    10. Reference    11. Technology & Industrial Arts   

Reviews (3)

Best for tech-illiterate
This book was a great assist for the person who hates to admit that he/she doesn't really understand the world of electronics nd ham radio.Easy to follow and Kevin wrote it as though he knew just the questions I would have.Simplified...by all means!Not the book for techno freaks...but for the tech illiterate.

Indispensable and Handy Reference
While others may find this book a 'waste of bookshelf space', I use this book daily as I learn new ham protocols and modes of operation. I find the ARRL tomes to be far to fat for practical use and hence a waste of my valuable space next to my rig. This book provides quick answers and understandable references. Simplified illustrations and explanations make this a perfect book for those of us who haven't tangled with the technical side before. I don't have time to wade through the other texts, but the clear and simple style in this book gave me just what I needed to get started. Sure it's simple, that's what the title says - and it is! Excellent!

Save your money
A waste of valuable bookshelf space. This is a simple minded overview of ham radio operation; there isn't enough content to hold attention for long.A typical chapter title is "Electricity, An Invisible Superhero."Give us a break. Much better are the titles available at American RadioRelay League (check their website). ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateur radio stations    2. Amateurs' manuals    3. Radio   

Subjects:  1. Amateur Radio Techniques    2. Counseling - Vocational Guidance    3. Electronic Engineering (Specific Aspects)    4. Electronics - General    5. Radio    6. Science/Mathematics    7. Technology    8. Technology & Industrial Arts    9. Electronics engineering    10. Radio technology    11. Technology / Electronics / General   

Reviews (8)

A good book
This is a very good book. Besides being fun to read, you just might learn something. The appendices in the back are good. Ten-codes, slang, rules they are all covered. Even if you are an experienced radio operator, I would still get this book. Leave it on the coffee table and someone is guaranteed to read it.

GREAT learning source!
I'm a newfound lover of the CB radio, and have starting my learning process in that area to join REACT (Radio Emergency Associated Communications Teams), more specifically Oklahoma County REACT. This book has done WONDERS on helping me understand the CB radio, and although it *is* a good resource, I also feel it is of the layman sort, meaning it's a great starter, however I do not think it will quell the desires of more experienced radio operators/individuals looking to become seriously involved in the world of CB radio. But otherwise, by all means would I suggest this book to learn a little more about the CB, I can't complain!

For a book on CB, it's better than I thought it would be
While I disagree with some of the authors sentiments about the quality and purpose of Citizens Band radio in our society, the material is suitably written and technically accurate, and for those without technical knowlegeit would be rather usefull.I found some of the "lingo"humorous, but overall it was a bland read.I consider CB too limited to bea reasonable alternative to FRS/GMRS or Amateur Radio, as the author hasimplied it is. For un-licensed operation, the Family Radio Service (FRS)and General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) are far better alternatives thanCB, and are easier to use as mobiles and portables (walkie-talkies).Youcan even get an Amateur Radio license *without taking a morse code test*these days, and the privileges that come with that license are far beyondwhat CB could ever possibly offer.Read "Now Your Talking!" tosee what I mean. Writing a book about CB radio, or in any way contributingto it's maintenance, is about the equivalent of feeding a rabbid dog: it'sgoing to die sooner or later, and is a problem (to the licensed radioservices) while it's around, so why not 'put it down' and be done with it? -just my opinion ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateur Radio Techniques    2. Citizens band radio    3. General    4. Radio    5. Science/Mathematics    6. Technology    7. Technology & Industrial Arts    8. Reference works   

Reviews (2)

Awesome intro to theory behind RF!!
I'm just beginning to get into Amateur Radio (ie: Ham radio) to move my career more toward RF technology.This book really lays out the info very gently, doesn't try to impress you with huge words or complex theorems.For anyone trying to gain insight into RF, this is a GREAT starting point.But, if you're trying to get into Ham radio, get the test book first from the ARRL and pass the Technician's exam.After that, you can apply practically all the theory found in this book and expand your knowledge further through experience.

Perfect for Beginners & Non-techies
This book was definitely written for non-technical people.In order to enjoy this book, one does not have to have great knowledge in electronics and mathematics.As matter of fact, the author completely avoids using mathematical equations and replace it with very easy-to-follow graphs to explain the complex "Radiophysics".The author did a very good job of explaining difficult topics of "Radiophysics" using normal everyday language. An excellent starter book for anyone who is interested in learning how our modern communication works. I wish I had read this book before I started my college engineering courses.Concepts mentioned in this book can be a stepping stone for anyone(high school students, people in technical sales, non-technical managers, and even tax agents) who is considering a career in RF/wireless communication field.This book will definitely set you in the right path for an introductory communication class. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateur Radio Techniques    2. Electronics - General    3. Engineering - Electrical & Electronic    4. Modulation (Electronics)    5. Popular works    6. Radio    7. Radio waves    8. Science/Mathematics    9. Technology    10. Technology & Industrial Arts    11. Radar    12. Technology / Acoustics & Sound   

Subjects:  1. Amateurs' manuals    2. Handbooks & Manuals    3. Radio    4. Reference    5. Technology & Industrial Arts   

Subjects:  1. Amateurs' manuals    2. Electronics    3. Radio    4. Radio circuits    5. Reference   

Reviews (16)

Learn to become a Tecknition
This book is great. I used it and I passed my test when I was 10. The book uses simple language to tell about HAM radio and gives the info needed to pass the test easely and tells it in a fun way. I like how it tells why things are, not just the answers to the test questions. Without Now You're Talking I never would have gotten my call sign.

Best Book for Beginners
This book is a great intro to the wonderful hobbie of Amateur Radio. A how-to book , with all the how-to's. As an Extra class Ham, this is the book I gave to my own son and daughter. They both have their call signs, and actually learned something. This is not a cheap study guide with the questions and answers only. Now You're Talking teaches the whys and what for. Good luck!!DE KK5VN

good book
with a credit card why should it take 4 weeks to be shipped out? ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateur radio stations    2. Amateurs' manuals    3. Examinations, questions, etc    4. Licenses    5. Radio    6. Radio operators    7. United States   

Reviews (1)

Good basic information
I found this book informative and easy to read without being overly technical.A good book for aspiring amateurs or new hams looking for a guide to amateur marine mobile communications. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateur radio stations    2. Amateurs' manuals    3. Boating - General    4. Installation on ships    5. Marine radio stations    6. Radio    7. Radio - General    8. Sailing - General    9. Sports    10. Sports & Recreation    11. Boating    12. Sports & Recreation / Boating   

Reviews (11)

Loved the book
I bought this book because it was about ham radio. I was impressed at how well the storyline was. You actually felt as though you were there watching this story go on. A must read!!!

For Design People, Too, Not Just Hams
I know nothing about ham radio and loved this book.It is beautifully constructed,has amazing graphics and a great story that Gregory has reconstructed about one man's passion.It's a book about communication, and humanity, and art and how small the world really is.Gorgeous.

Demystifies Amateur Radio (Ham Radio) with superb graphics!
I was given this fantastic book by my neighbor and friend here in New Jersey, who is a longtime Ham Radio afficionado (and Police Officer by occupation).Truth be told, I have always wondered about Jim's (my mentioned neighbor/friend) hobby/pastime, especially given his tower and antenna systems, which are large and visible and hard to ignore!I did not know much about the hobby, other than 'people talk around the world much like CB'ers talk locally'.I now realize how utterly wonderful, fascinating and riveting this hobby is!Not to mention critical in times of regional or national emergencies! The authors take you on a FASCINATING journey through the ham radio life of an engineer named Jerry Powell, an actual FCC licensed 'Ham' operator from Kansas who moved to New Jersey early on in his career and spent decades on the air from his humble home, communicating with Hams everywhere from all kinds of economic and ideological backrounds.The book is replete with interesting vignettes and descriptions of what Ham Radio is all about, and the true passion and wonderment of engaging in all aspects of this hobby shared by millions around the world.The graphics are first rate, with a veritable 'world tour' of colorful QSL cards, which reflect many of Jerry's contacts with other Ham Operators from every conceivable corner of the world!After reading this book and 'taking in' the wonderful graphics, I even picked up a few entry-level study guides from the ... site (National Amateur Radio organization) on the advice of my neighbor Jim, and I am excitedly planning on obtaining my entry 'Technician' license!I can't wait to get on the air!Just a superb, SUPERB book!!! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateur radio stations    2. Amateurs' manuals    3. Antiques/Collectibles    4. Biography    5. Biography / Autobiography    6. Personal Memoirs    7. Radio    8. Radio - General    9. Architecture / General    10. Biography & Autobiography / Personal Memoirs    11. Biography: general    12. Radio technology    13. postcards   

Reviews (3)

For Those Interested in Amateur Radio
This guide provides a fascinating overview of Amateur (Ham) Radio from how to get a Ham Radio license to a wide range of information on Amateur Radio communications to some basic electronics projects for your Ham Shack.
Totally Awesome
This book has it all - you really need to get it if you are into ham radio like I am!There is some key information here that I haven't found in other sources.The best!

Youn cnt go without it
This ook has erything that you need to know about Hm Radio.It even includes field guids!This bookis great for all ages.I truely recomendit! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateurs' manuals    2. Counseling - Vocational Guidance    3. Radio    4. Science/Mathematics    5. Technology    6. Technology & Industrial Arts    7. Radio technology    8. Technology / Engineering / Electrical   

Reviews (1)

Good Practical book
An excellent practical book on designing simple low power ham transmitters and receivers. A little short in design theory but a good book nonetheless. Read Chris Bowick's RF Circuit Design book for more theoretical info. If you want to build simple radios and want them to work, this is the book for you. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateur radio stations    2. Amateurs' manuals    3. Low voltage systems    4. Radio    5. Reference    6. Shortwave radio    7. Technology & Industrial Arts   

Reviews (4)

Helping to demystify "World Band (Shortwave) Radio"
Since the early days of radio, shortwave radio has been a mystery to many potential listeners.There are many factors in getting involved in this fascinating hobby.You will need a receiver, an antenna, a list of broadcasting stations, their frequencies and time schedules and an understanding of how radio signals move through and bounce off of the atmosphere and earth.Quite a daunting task for the shortwave radio novice.Becoming a shortwave radio listener (SWL) has become much easier and more pleasurable with Lawrence Magne's "Passport to World Band Radio"(I'm not sure if Magne's group coined the phrase "World Band Radio" or not but the phrase is used interchangeably with "shortwave radio"). A must for shortwave listeners.
Yes, shortwave radio still exists. Hundreds of millions of people across the globe rely on it daily for their news and information. Any well rounded news freak, travel junkie or culture hound should own one. Maybe for use occasionally, maybe for use while travelling, or maybe, like many of us, you listen daily. If you own a shortwave (world band) radio and want to make the most use out of it, you must own this book. Whether at home with your radio, or travelling, it is the key to unlocking the potential of shortwave. The schedule information for stations worldwide is as complete and current as you can find anywhere. The reviews of shortwave radios are thorough and will make sense to the beginner or the advanced listener, and infused with enough humor to keep the material interesting, even if you aren't shopping for a new one. Lastly, the theme for each yearly edition changes and while the 2004 edition isn't quite as in-depth, topically, as last year's (2003), the book is an interesting read even if you don't yet own a shortwave radio. It will probably inspire you to buy one.

Don't Get Into Shortwave Radio Without It
Using your shortwave radio without this book would be like trying to use the Internet without a search engine. Passport is cross linked so many ways. By time, frequency and station. If you don't already have a SW receiver, it's a good place to read-up on what's hot and what's not before you choose. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateur Radio Techniques    2. Amateurs' manuals    3. Directories    4. Handbooks & Manuals    5. Handbooks, manuals, etc    6. Pop Arts / Pop Culture    7. Radio    8. Radio - General    9. Radio - History & Criticism    10. Radio Broadcasting    11. Radio stations, Short wave    12. Radio, Short wave    13. Science/Mathematics    14. Shortwave, radio    15. Technology    16. Reference / General    17. Yearbooks, annuals, almanacs   

Reviews (2)

A Disappointing Book
This is a very disappointing book.The preface promises "All projects use standard parts and have been thoroughly tested, with PC board layouts given for most the projects, as well as parts lists, coil data, and complete setup information."However, the only time it delivers all this information is when the transmitter in question is a kit from a certain vendor in New York State.For everything else, the information supplied is minimal at best.
Learning and building transmitters / rec (FM, AM, Video, RC)
Great book! It is the backbone of transmitting and receiving. If you want to learn how to build or how transmitters and receivers work get this book!! The only thing I don't like is the designs are not that up to date, but you need to know them to build better transmitters / receivers. This is a great book for getting into RF. The best part is you can build everything!! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateurs' manuals    2. Design and construction    3. Electronics - General    4. Engineering - Electrical & Electronic    5. Low voltage systems    6. Radio    7. Radio Engineering    8. Science/Mathematics    9. Technology    10. Technology & Industrial Arts    11. Transmitters and transmission    12. Radio technology    13. Technology / Electronics / General   

Reviews (2)

Forget the Internet, get World Band!
Forget the Internet, get World Band! The "TV Guide" for shortwave radio!
If I could recommend only one book to have in front of you while tuning the shortwave radio bands, this would be it. It contains listing by time, country, frequency, along with complete schedules of operation. It is written for a novice user, but with valuable info for veterans as well ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Amateurs' manuals    2. Directories    3. General    4. Handbooks, manuals, etc    5. Radio    6. Radio - General    7. Radio Broadcasting    8. Radio stations, Short wave    9. Radio, Short wave    10. Reference    11. Shortwave radio