Introduction Michael Burnette, a well-regarded figure in the amateur radio world, delivers yet another practical resource for ham radio enthusiasts with Fast Track Ham Radio Facts: A Collection of Useful Knowledge for Informed Amateur Radio Operators. Released in January 2020, this companion to his popular Fast Track Ham License series bridges the gap between obtaining a ham license and becoming a confident, well-rounded operator. Designed to provide both new and experienced hams with concise, applicable knowledge, this book serves as a must-have addition to any operator's library.
In this in-depth review, we will explore the content, structure, target audience, and overall usefulness of this guide to assess its value for readers.
Content and Organization At its core, Fast Track Ham Radio Facts is structured as a collection of bite-sized, well-curated facts about amateur radio. Burnette has organized the book to serve as an accessible reference, packed with practical insights. Rather than presenting an exhaustive academic treatment of radio topics, the author distills essential knowledge into easy-to-digest sections.
The book covers a broad range of topics, including:
Radio frequency bands and allocations
Operating modes and their best use cases (CW, SSB, digital modes, etc.)
Propagation principles and the behavior of signals
Antenna basics and practical advice on setup and optimization
Key regulatory information, including international considerations
Emergency communication tips
Handy formulas, calculators, and reference charts for operators
Each topic is delivered in a clear, no-nonsense style, keeping explanations simple but informative. Burnette focuses on delivering actionable insights without overwhelming the reader with excessive jargon or theoretical detail.
For example, the sections on propagation and antennas are particularly helpful, as they simplify traditionally complex topics into straightforward, practical advice that readers can immediately apply to their setups. This focus on relevance makes the book stand out as an approachable resource for radio operators who want to quickly find useful information without wading through technical manuals.
Style and Tone Burnette maintains the friendly, conversational tone that readers of his Fast Track series have come to appreciate. His writing strikes a balance between technical accuracy and readability, ensuring that concepts are accessible to operators of all skill levels.
The tone is also motivational, encouraging operators to experiment, learn, and continue their amateur radio journey beyond the exam process. Burnette's enthusiasm for ham radio is contagious, making the book an enjoyable read despite its reference-style format.
Who Is This Book For? One of the greatest strengths of Fast Track Ham Radio Facts is its broad appeal. Burnette successfully targets:
New Operators: For those who have recently passed their Technician, General, or Extra exams, this book provides essential knowledge that bridges the gap between studying for the test and actually using the radio.
Experienced Hams: Even seasoned operators will find this book useful as a quick reference guide. Its well-organized structure makes it easy to find information on specific topics, whether you’re troubleshooting an antenna or refreshing your memory on propagation concepts.
Operators Preparing for Upgrades: Those looking to advance their licenses can use the book as supplementary material to strengthen their understanding of ham radio concepts.
This versatility ensures that Fast Track Ham Radio Facts has lasting value for operators at all stages of their journey.
Strengths The book has several standout features that make it a worthwhile addition to any ham radio library:
Clear and Concise Format: Burnette’s ability to break down complex topics into manageable, actionable facts is a hallmark of this book.
Practical Content: The focus on real-world advice, from antenna setups to emergency preparedness, makes the information immediately applicable.
Highly Accessible Writing: Burnette’s conversational tone ensures that readers don’t feel overwhelmed, even when tackling more advanced topics.
Compact and Portable: The paperback format is easy to carry, making it a great resource to keep in your shack or take on trips.
Useful as a Reference: The book’s modular structure allows readers to quickly locate specific information without flipping through unrelated material.
Potential Limitations While Fast Track Ham Radio Facts excels in many areas, it is worth noting that:
Depth Is Limited: Readers looking for a highly technical or in-depth exploration of specific topics may find the content too basic. The book is intentionally designed as a practical reference rather than a technical manual.
Focused on Practical Use: Hams interested in exploring experimental or cutting-edge aspects of amateur radio might not find extensive coverage here.
These limitations, however, are intentional and do not detract from the book’s value for its target audience.
Overall Assessment Michael Burnette’s Fast Track Ham Radio Facts is a highly practical, user-friendly guide that delivers exactly what it promises: a collection of useful knowledge for informed amateur radio operators. Whether you’re a newcomer to ham radio, an experienced operator, or somewhere in between, this book provides actionable insights in a format that is both accessible and engaging.
The book succeeds because it focuses on what matters most—helping operators gain the confidence and practical knowledge they need to fully enjoy the amateur radio hobby. Burnette’s straightforward writing style, well-organized topics, and emphasis on real-world applications ensure that this resource remains relevant long after the initial read.
For anyone looking to expand their understanding of amateur radio in a practical, no-fuss way, Fast Track Ham Radio Facts is a worthwhile investment. It’s a book you’ll find yourself reaching for time and time again.
