Radioamatori. I primi Maker Elettronici

ARI Associazione Radioamatori Italiani Sezione di Roma

Radio amateurs were the first makers in electronics… Since the time of Marconi's invention and together with its subsequent commercial development, there has always been a multitude of "electronics" enthusiasts who, for the purpose of individual learning, enjoy studying, building and experimenting in the field of radio transmissions. This activity has been recognized by the International Telecommunications Union ITU and by the various national legislations, as a service of technical and social interest carried out by radio amateurs equipped with transceiver stations after passing a ministerial technical and regulatory exam. The Italian Amateur Radio Association, founded in 1927, has had its own representation in the capital since 1946. Since then, the ARI of Rome has represented a fundamental meeting point for Lazio enthusiasts, with twice-weekly meetings for the exchange of experiences, seminars monthly in-depth courses and, for over a decade, cycles of introduction to the STEM world (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) at middle and high schools. Despite the availability of commercial equipment, nearly all amateur radio operators are keen to use home-built or optimized equipment and tools at their station. This is especially true for lower (longwave) and higher (centimeter and millimeter wave) frequencies and for a variety of instruments and control equipment leading to tight integration between radio stations and PC and automation systems.