Dial was formed as Dial Twisters and has been an American Radio Relay League (ARRL) affiliated club since 1941.
The Dial organization is a state certified nonprofit corporation that is dedicated to public service and the advancement of the radio arts through education and the operation of public communication facilities.
Nonprofit Certification
Dial maintains an open repeater system at multiple locations in the Middletown Ohio area which operate on the 144 Mhz, and 440 Mhz amateur radio bands. Those facilities are available without charge to all properly licensed radio operators. In addition to permitting experimentation and research the repeater system is utilized for communications support of public and charitable events and weather spotting. It is available for and used to provide emergency communications when natural disasters and other events render alternative communication channels are unavailable.
Dial has conducted training in radio and telecommunications including all of the disciplines required for FCC license (e.g. FCC regulations, electrical and radio theory, practical components, operating procedures, and antennas). In conjunction with the National Weather Service, Dial also has conducted training in weather spotting.
Dial has been giving amateur examinations since the Volunteer Examiner program was instituted by the FCC.
See our Exams webpage for details and our Home and Calendar webpage for the next examination session.
In conjunction with the American Radio Relay League, Dial conducts an annual 24 hour field day demonstration of emergency communication conducted entirely without the use of utility power from a prominent location in a local public park. Dial also participates in a national radio convention at which the members are available to explain its activities and encourage participation.
The activities of Dial are principally conducted by the members of the organization although participation by members of the general public is strongly encouraged. Activities are conducted throughout the year. Because of its use for emergency communication, repeater operation is maintained on a continuous 24 hour a day basis. Field day operations occur annually in June and convention participation in May. All activities of the organization occur within one hour’s drive of Middletown and are open to all without charge.
Family based membership is typically 75+ members representing 50+ families. Monthly General Membership Meetings are held on the third Monday of every month. Dinner starts between 5:30 and 6:00 PM. Business Meeting starts at 7:00 PM. See our Home and Calendar webpage for location and details about the next meeting.