After doing quite a bit of research I purchased a used Icom 7410 radio. I was looking for a radio with USB connection for digital modes and the ability to do an IF tap for a panadapter since I already had a couple RTL-SDR dongles. I found a Icom 7410 on eHam classifieds that had the filters and the IF tap already installed and at a good price. At the time the 7300’s were still going for close to retail used so I figured I could use the $500+ savings for other gear. I received the radio about a week before my callsign appeared on the FCC database(it was a long week)….
Amateur Extra
I’ve always been interested in electronics. Most of my radio experience was with RC cars. I considered getting into ham radio when I was younger but the code requirement scared me away. An episode of NCIS got me interested in it again. With my EE background I was able to pass the Tech practice exam without reviewing the material. For the General and Extra I used the free iPhone “Ham Radio Exam” apps as study guides and the HamStudy.org website for practice tests. It was hit or miss whether I was going to pass the Extra and luckily I was able to pass all 3 tests in one sitting. I’m glad because…