Regional Radio Clubs
Become A Part of The Fun
Several regional radio clubs now call the SIGNALS Museum of Information Explosion (MIE) home. Each club focuses on a different aspect of computing or radio communication. The Museum is excited to facilitate a workspace for each member to be able to indulge in their hobbies and passions!
The K4MIE Amateur Radio Club
SIGNALS, the Museum of Information Explosion has its own “in-house” Radio Club. “K4MIE” is an FCC issued vanity club call sign with the last 3 letters chosen to represent “Museum of Information Explosion”. This club was recently formed after SIGNALS Volunteers obtained an ARDC grant to fund some modern amateur radio equipment to accompany SIGNAL’s showcase of mostly functional vintage amateur radios. This club is both an exhibit of the Museum and an operational ham station that participates in many kinds of on the air events and contests and may be available to support Public Service events such as marathons or bike races or Public Safety events such as disaster recovery.
The K4MIE station is operated by licensed and trained hams, Volunteers of the Museum, many of whom are also members of the other clubs listed below.
Visit the K4MIE website here: https://sites.google.com/view/k4mie/home
The Huntsville Amateur Radio Club
The Huntsville Amateur Radio Club or the “HAM Club” (harc.net), is a thriving regional group operating in various forms since 1947. To break it down, HAM radio (also known as amateur radio) is the use of radio frequency spectrum for non-commercial exchange. The agenda behind the HAM club meetings vary based on the participating members. For example, a member may be interested in reaching out to a number of countries in one weekend using HAM– it can be upwards of 250 countries! The simple act of communicating back and forth between countries using amateur radio is half the fun.
Other times, the members are focused on what is needed in the HAM shack. For instance, tuning the new 20 meter-long antenna, installing computer monitors, and more. Club meetings foster a learning environment, where sessions can be dedicated to teaching people topics such as how to solder, or learning new technical skills.
The North Alabama DX Club
The North Alabama DX club (nadxc.org) is also here for members who are particularly interested in using HAM to reach extremely distant locations. Being successful connecting with other users half-way around the globe isn’t easy. Many factors including the weather and even sun-spots can challenge absolute success.
The Vintage Communication and Computing Club (VC3)
This club is one of the most active radio and technology clubs in the southeast. The VC3 is the most recent embodiment of a five-decade old regional special interest club. This member organization is especially suited for those interested in vintage radios, phonographs, and electronics. Members meet monthly and work together to exchange goods and information related to vintage radio,wireline, or other electronic equipment.
Looking to join one of our clubs or support our museum? The groups are always welcoming new members. Check out each club’s website, sign up for the monthly newsletter, or contact us here at the museum to learn about the clubs’ latest activities. We also appreciate any donations to educate and connect the community!