> I'm toying with the idea of getting into amateur radio and have been
> reading up on the foundation licence  As such, I've got a few very
> basic questions about making inital contact in the amateur radio
> world.

> Are specifc call channels/frequencies used on  HF, VHF and UHF?  I
> guess I'm thinking in CB terms here.  Is it a similar system of
> frequency use or is it just a matter of finding any clear frequency
> and putting out a (correctly sructured) CQ call and hoping for the
> best?  If there are calling freqs, where can I get some info on them
> for all bands available to a foundation licencee?  I've found the WIA
> band plan no problem but unable (so far) to find anything specifically
> on calling frequencies (if they even exist).

> Also what's the go with GSYing to another frequency after making
> contact?  Do you basically just make inital contact on a calling freq
> then the called station stands by while the caller quickly finds one
> that is clear or does the calling station already have a clear
> frequency checked out and ready prior to making the CQ call? How far
> away from the calling freq do you usually have to go?

> Are these procedures different on HF, VHF and UHF?

> Also in some of the literature I've been reading it talks about
> identifying repeater stations.  How are they usually ID'd? Is it just
> a matter of knowing that a repeater on a specific frequency is listed
> as being on "Mount Whatever" so if you can hear a repeater on that
> freq then it must be that repeater?

> And finally....  How do you know what DTMF and CTSS control tones are
> applicable to what repeaters?

> Ok.  As I said...  basic and dumb questions but someone's got to ask
> them.

> Thanks in advance.

> Dene