Elmer Net
Learning, Sharing, and Growing in Amateur Radio
The Elmer Net is a weekly amateur radio discussion net dedicated to education, mentorship, and the exchange of ideas. Whether you are a newly licensed Technician, an experienced Extra-class operator, or somewhere in between, the Elmer Net provides a welcoming environment to ask questions, share knowledge, and explore all aspects of the amateur radio hobby.
Amateur radio is a lifelong learning experience, and every operator has something valuable to contribute. The Elmer Net brings together operators from across southeastern Wisconsin and beyond to discuss technical topics, operating practices, station design, new technologies, and the many ways amateur radio serves our communities.
What Is an Elmer?
In amateur radio, an “Elmer” is an experienced operator who helps others learn and grow in the hobby. The tradition dates back generations and remains one of the foundations of amateur radio. The Elmer Net continues that tradition by encouraging operators to share their experiences, answer questions, and help fellow hams develop new skills.
Topics We Discuss
Each week features a different amateur radio topic, and discussions often evolve naturally as participants contribute their experiences and questions.
- Analog and digital operating modes
- VHF, UHF, and HF communications
- Antennas, feed lines, and propagation
- Power supplies, batteries, and station power systems
- DMR, Fusion, D-STAR, and other digital voice technologies
- APRS and packet radio
- Portable operating, Parks on the Air (POTA), and field operations
- Contest operating and special event stations
- Emergency communications and public service events
- Station building and equipment reviews
- Software-defined radio (SDR)
- Satellite communications
- Remote station operation
- Amateur radio licensing and exam preparation
A Great Place for New Hams
Newly licensed operators are especially encouraged to participate. The Elmer Net is designed to be a comfortable place to ask questions, learn proper operating procedures, and gain confidence using amateur radio equipment.
No question is too basic. Many of today’s most experienced operators started by asking the same questions about antennas, repeaters, radios, and operating practices.
For Experienced Operators Too
The Elmer Net is not just for beginners. Experienced operators are invited to share technical expertise, operating tips, project ideas, and lessons learned over years of amateur radio activity. The collective knowledge of the amateur radio community is what makes this hobby unique.
Join the Discussion
Whether you’re interested in building a better station, learning about digital modes, improving your antenna system, preparing for your next license upgrade, or simply talking radio with fellow enthusiasts, the Elmer Net is the perfect place to learn and connect.
Learn. Share. Mentor. Explore.
The Elmer Net exists to help amateur radio operators become better operators through education, discussion, and community.