Radio enthusiasts to offer demonstrations

South Carolina's Greenwood County Emergency Communications Group will have a public demonstration of emergency communication abilities as they make contacts with other amateur radio stations across the country as part of a nationwide Field Day.

The event is 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday in the Greenwood County Courthouse basement.

When tornadoes, hurricanes and other disasters happen, amateur radio can often be the only form of communication. Amateur (or “ham”) radio stations can run on batteries, generators or other emergency power and can be set up to operate in minutes. They provide reliable communication when other systems, including telephones, cellular phones and the Internet, fail or overload.

“Field Day is an opportunity for us to show the public how ham radios work,” said Allen Kennemore, Greenwood County’s amateur coordinator. “The public will have a chance to get on the air and experience the fun and public service capability that this hobby has to offer.”

Members will also provide information on how to become a licensed amateur radio operator.

Historically, amateur radio contacts were made using Morse code. Today, amateur radio offers a variety of communication means. During Field Day, contacts will be made using not only Morse code, but also voice, satellite and a number of digital modes. The group will demonstrate communications using computers to send and receive pictures and instant messages.

The Greenwood County Emergency Communications Group is a volunteer organization designed to provide area communications support in the event of an emergency. Field Day is a drop-in event and is free. Parking and directional signs will be posted by the rear of the courthouse.
For information, e-mail gcecg@greenwoodsc.com.

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Our thanks to Fabio IZ8FTW for alerting us to this item