07/10/2026
Ever Wondered What It's Like to Operate the Ham Radio Microwave Bands? Here's Your Chance.
Most amateur radio operators have never experienced the microwave bands. They've heard people mention 10 GHz or seen pictures of dish antennas on mountaintops, but they've never actually seen microwave operating in action.
If that's you, we'd love to change that.
The San Bernardino Microwave Society (SBMS) is inviting all amateur radio operators, newly licensed hams, and anyone with an interest in radio technology to join us for our next club meeting on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 7:00 PM.
Meeting Location
American Legion Hall
1024 S Main Street
Corona, California
Can't make it in person? No problem. A Zoom option is also available. Just contact the SBMS and we'll be happy to send you the meeting link.
Why Come?
During this meeting we'll be talking about the upcoming ARRL 10 GHz & Up Contest, one of the most exciting operating events in amateur radio.
Imagine making contacts over 100, 200, or even more miles away using only about one watt of power on 10 GHz (10,368 MHz). Sound impossible? It isn't. We do it regularly. And it doesn't stop there. Many of our members are also active on 24 GHz, 47 GHz, and even higher microwave bands.
Microwave operating is unlike anything else in amateur radio. Portable mountaintop stations, highly directional antennas, aircraft scatter, incredible line-of-sight paths, and surprisingly long-distance contacts all combine to create an operating experience that's both challenging and incredibly rewarding.
Own an Icom IC-905?
This meeting is especially for you.
The Icom IC-905 has opened the door for many amateurs to finally explore the microwave bands, but many owners have never had the opportunity to put the 10 GHz band to work.
If you've purchased an IC-905 and have been wondering, "Now what?", this is the perfect opportunity.
Our members have extensive experience operating on 10 GHz and would be happy to help you get your station configured and ready for the upcoming contest. If you've been looking for an excuse to get that radio on the air, this is it.
The Perfect Time to Get Started
The ARRL 10 GHz & Up Contest is held over two weekends each year:
August 15-16, 2026
September 19-20, 2026
Operators throughout California, Arizona, and beyond will be setting up in parks, on mountain peaks and other high locations to make as many microwave contacts as possible. It's an incredible weekend of operating and one of the best opportunities of the year to experience microwave radio.
If you've ever wanted to see what it's all about, we'll help you get connected with experienced operators who can show you the ropes. We even have a loaner microwave station that may be available for someone interested in joining us during the contest. Imagine making your very first 10 GHz contact using club equipment while operating alongside experienced microwave operators.
No microwave experience? No problem.
No microwave equipment? That's okay too.
Just bring your curiosity.
Visitors are always welcome, and there's absolutely no pressure. Whether you've been licensed for 40 years or just earned your Technician license last week, we'd love to have you join us.
For more information, visit www.w6ife.com We hope you'll come see why so many of us have fallen in love with the microwave bands. There's a good chance you'll leave wanting to operate them yourself.
