About NC4AB

Name here is Andy (I have found out that going by your middle name is apparently more common in the Southern United States).

I have always had a lifelong interest in electronics, my first radio was a Knight-Kit Star Roamer Short Wave recever that I built when I was in the 8th grade (still have it on the shelf).  Listened to lots of now defunct SW broadcasters over the years but never could get the hang of CW so took many hours of listening to CW tapes before I got my nerve up to take the test.

Finally sat down and took the test in November 7, 1987 at the Kernersvile Public Library, passed the written exams / 5 wpm code and was licensed was a Tech Plus (N4ROX).  I have no problem remembering the date as that night I met my future XYL on a blind date. (After 30+ years together I think I might keep her around.)

Since I was owned and operated a commercial two way (Land Mobile) business I went ahead took my GROL exam and passed it in December 1994. When the FCC dropped the 13 wpm code requirement I upgraded in July 2000 to Extra (AG4AW), then changed to my current call of NC4AB. (North Carolina 4 Andy Brinkley).  My CW was never great and after this many years I am trying the digital modes instead of CW and slowly trying to build my CW speed back up.

I enjoy modifying commercial gear to amateur bands along with most all aspects of homebrewing / antenna building, etc, and in my spare time I volunteer with the local fire department as a Firefighter / EMT. 

Just now getting back into HF after being off the air for about 10 years, currently looking for a good multiband HF beam so I can start working some serious DX.

I am still old school in being a paper QSL type, and will QSL direct (No SASE needed) for any card I receive.

73's

Andy