~nJan 20

I never applied for an amateur radio license because I didn't like the idea of appearing on an official list of "skilled" people. Until now that was a theoretical fear. One I wasn't even sure if it was warranted or just me being overly cautious.

In Belarus things escalated quickly. Radio amateurs - usually recognized as men of goodwill - have been declared enemies of the state and publicly shamed and indicted for high treason.

https://steanlab.medium.com/mayday-389f5713fee4

Show threadJustin MacleodJan 20
@nblr that's one of the things that makes me hesitant about becoming a ham operator as well. I don't like the idea of the rigid, tight regulations and appearing on a list.
Show threadArmin Hanisch
@JustinMac84 @nblr Guys, you are already on a list people operating a UHF radio device with your address and even payment details — it’s called smartphone. 😎
Jan 20 at 7:44pmWeb
Show threadJustin MacleodJan 20
@Linkshaender @nblr It's true, but if a regime is going to be suspicious of those with greater technical curiosity, that's a much smaller list and you stick out further.
Show threadArmin HanischJan 20
@JustinMac84 @nblr You’re right. Don’t know your location, so this might be more important for you than for me at the moment. At least my flat doesn’t allow for an antenna, so I don’t „stick out“ in the literal sense. Although I have to admit I miss shortwave.
Show threadSupermoosieJan 20

@Linkshaender

But does it allow plants?

https://www.hamuniverse.com/kl7jrantennawire.html

What Antenna Wire? Disguise Your Antenna Wire with Flowers! by HI3/KL7JR

Show threadArmin HanischJan 20
@SuperMoosie Haha, that’s a great idea!
Show threadSupermoosieJan 20

@Linkshaender

Whip as the trunk of a type Xmas tree

Show threadDec [{()}]Jan 21
@SuperMoosie @Linkshaender
A J-pole inside the top section of a disused chimney (in a shared occupancy office or residential building) was used by a few pirate FM broadcasters in a city near me.