HEART

I grew up not learning how to use a slide rule.  Back when I was first learning mathematics, fancy new pocket calculators were just becoming available.  Everyone wanted the Hewlett-Packard HP-35 or Texas Instrument SR-50.  Years later after becoming an electrical engineer, I wanted to teach myself how to use a slide rule out of respect for engineers practicing before me.  I purchased a used slide rule on eBay and quickly learned that the slide rule can give you numbers, but you had to have an idea on the size of the number to keep track of significant digits.  This skill is something lost with the use of pocket scientific calculators.

 

Similar to the slide rule, I also wanted to learn the basics of the HAM radio trade out of respect to HAMs before me.  I picked up a book, signed up for a General class, and passed the Technician and General Class test.  (I missed the trifecta of Extra Class by one question)

 

I bought an inexpensive 2m radio for local use in emergency situations.  I live in a hurricane prone area and wanted the ability to communicate to gather information when other means of communication are disabled.  I am not a very active HAM, and currently do not have a desire to contest or make connections in faraway countries (at least not yet).  HEART is a perfect fit for what I want to get out of HAM radio.  It is a group that supports a community of hospitals by providing an emergency means of communications to surrounding hospitals and emergency management offices.