On this page, we take a look at some recommended books about amateur radio. If you’re able to suggest a good read on any aspect of the ham radio hobby, please let us know and we’ll be happy to list it together with your recommendation.

Getting a licence

Just about everyone starting out on the hobby today will want to start with “the book”. Foundation Licence Now by Alan Betts gives an excellent grounding in the hobby, and the book carefully explains all of the sections that you’ll need to understand in order to get your licence.

This is essential reading if you’re looking to get your first ham licence. It’s an easy read at 32 pages, and makes for a handy reference when you have  a licence. It covers the syllabus, technical basics, transmitters, receivers, antennas, propagation, licence conditions, operating practices, interference and safety.

There are subsequent books for the other exam levels:

Other books on Ham Radio

There are loads of books on the subject of amateur radio, covering shack setup, the history of the hobby, antenna design and mobile operation. We’d love to hear your suggestions on books that you’d recommend. In the meantime, here’s a look at the “best buys” on the subject of amateur radio at Amazon.co.uk – this list is automatically generated, and lists popular in-stock books on the UK store. Note that we make a small commission on anything we sell via Amazon, so if you want to support our site, please order via one of the Amazon links on this page.

Scanners

We had an email in from a site visitor asking for some advice about scanners, and where to find a book containing the various frequencies that you can find using a scanner.

If you’re into scanning, pick yourself up a copy of the UK Scanning Directory. At the time of writing, the book’s on its ninth edition. UK Scanning Directory at Amazon.

UK Scanning Directory, frequencies from aircraft to zoos

Any suggestions? Please add a comment below…