Choose a Legal Frequency and Mode

Your Elmer, Dave, calls to talk you through your first on-air contact. 'Start on ten meters,' he says, 'I always park around 28.150 for a rag-chew.' He hangs up before you can ask about mode. Your rig is already sitting at 28.150 MHz, USB — Dave's usual spot. Before you call anyone, decide whether that's actually where you're allowed to talk.

Set the VFO frequency and mode you'll use to attempt a 10-meter phone contact. Leave the radio where it is, or retune it — your call.

You key the mic and call CQ on the 10-meter frequency and mode you selected.