What use is an F-call?

Curiosity is a wonderful attribute to have. While sometimes it kills cats, amateurs are better off using curiosity to learn new skills.

Recently I had the opportunity to discuss in detail the differences between two radios which I thought I knew intimately, a Yaesu 857D which I own and a Yaesu 817ND, which a friend owned and until then I thought I knew just as well.

Not so.

We discussed in detail what the differences between these radios were from a functionality perspective and from a user experience angle.

It's not the first time I've looked from my radio to that of a fellow amateur. I've looked at other brands, other models, other installations, even of the same radio, and each time I come away having learnt a little more about their set-up and often in passing I learn a little about my own gear.

While you're likely to have a fair share of Holden vs. Ford type discussions, often it's simple to get beyond that by asking the other person what it was that decided for them to acquire their particular radio.

Often times their selection criteria are completely different from your own which gives you insight into alternative aspects of amateur radio.

So, ask away, be curious, learn. Before you know it you'll feel right at home in the debate between Icom, Yaesu, Kenwood, Elecraft and several other manufacturers of radio equipment.

One tip. "My radio is better than your radio." is sure to get people all riled up, so perhaps ask them why theirs is better than yours. Who knows, you might even find out that they're jealous of your gear.

Be curious, lots to learn.

I'm Onno VK6FLAB