KQ4UUR

My name is Cliff Ravenscraft. I've had a passion for radio communication since I was four years old. It all began with my first "Mr. Microphone"—a toy with an FM transmitter built into its handle.

From ages 8 to 17, I owned a Realistic Navaho TRC-433 CB radio, which I operated for thousands of hours. At 17, I bought a Realistic HTX-202 2-meter radio and a study book for my amateur radio license.

Having only skimmed the book, I missed passing the test by three questions. Instead of waiting a month to retake it, my interests shifted. I became fascinated with computers connected via modems to BBS systems, and eventually, all things Internet-related. This path led to an incredibly rewarding entrepreneurial journey.

At age 51, I was reintroduced to two-way radio through GMRS repeaters. Instantly, I felt like a kid again and reconnected with my desire to get my amateur radio license. This time, I studied diligently. I memorized all 423 potential questions and their answers, scored a perfect 35/35 on the test, and received my call sign, KQ4UUR, on August 21, 2024.

Eager to dive deep into the world of HF, I embarked on an intense month of study, memorizing all 484 potential questions and their answers for the General exam. I scored a perfect 35/35 and received my General License upgrade less than a month after getting my Technician license.

I host a podcast called "Cliff's Notes on Amateur Radio," which aims to promote the hobby, explore the art of radio communication, and share my personal journey in the field.

You can find the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at http://notesonradio.com.

If you've encountered me on the radio, I'd love to hear from you again. Feel free to reach out via email at Cliff@CliffRavenscraft.com.