A ham radio is a complex piece of broadcasting equipment that allows amateur users to listen and send signals around the world. The basic components of a ham radio setup are quite simple, but there is a lot of room to add on. Ham radio accessories allow for a fully customized setup that meets every demand that the user might have. From microphones to chargers, batteries, headsets and antennas, there are no shortage of options.
One of the most popular types of ham radio accessories are microphones. These usually do not resemble studio recording microphones and vary in quality and price. A ham radio microphone looks like a citizen's band (CB) radio microphone with a coiled, flexible cord, a speaking piece that fits in the palm of a hand and a button on the side. The higher quality the microphone, generally, the better sound quality of a broadcast.
A headset is one of the most diverse pieces of ham radio accessories available. These headsets come in a variety of styles and meet almost any user's need. Some function and look like a headset an office receptionist uses, with a lightweight earpiece and a small microphone attached. More sturdy models look like high-quality stereo headphones, with noise-blocking foam padding around the ears and adjustable volume control. In between are a variety of options varying between lightweight technology and heavy-duty quality.
Batteries and chargers are essential for handheld ham radios. These accessories come in many sizes and strengths and are somewhat dictated by the type of radio they fit inside. These ham radio accessories can prolong the life of a portable model for many hours, some much longer than others. Similarly, some chargers recharge batteries faster than others, but those normally come with a larger price tag than models that recharge batteries more slowly.
A ham radio antenna is a great way to upgrade a setup to add more power. These ham radio accessories come in more shapes and sizes than any other additions. Generally, the larger the antenna, the better and farther it can broadcast a signal. Also, it can pick up signals from farther away. An antenna can be as small as a single rod that neatly sits atop a desk, or it can be much larger, such as a metal structure fastened atop a rooftop or a large tower that requires a ladder to climb.