It's "ham radio", not "HAM radio". It's not an acronym.
#NitPicks #HamRadio #AmateurRadio
@arth Wasn't HAM one of the first amateur radio station call sign? Don't we tend to write call signs in all caps? So one could argue that HAM radio would be correct although it is not an acronym? What am I missing in that argument?
As @KA7O said: The "ham" in #hamRadio was originally a derogatory term used by commercial ops for us amateurs, originally marking mediocre #MorseCode skills.
The community later adopted "hamradio" as a self description. Adopting originally derogatory terms happens, compare "quaker" or "queer".
There is this story about the amateur station with the call sign HAM successfully lobbying. As no historical evidence shows it ever existed, I believe it was invented in retrospect.
@arth @dj3ei @KA7O At least, that is in line with what is discussed at https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etymology_of_ham_radio. Looks like I fell for an urban legend.
But this makes me wonder: what was the original meaning of "ham"? Sadly, according to http://www.arrl.org/ham-radio-history that seems to be lost in history.
Yup, no one knows for sure as it wasn't exactly 'documented' from the git-go.
But, the adoption of a slur from 'Professionals', being called 'ham fisted' or 'hams' has the closest ring to truth. Special when other stories are taken into context. ie. Those same pros feeling threatened, anger towards the Amateurs, etc.
Wait, did I remember the right thread here? (just me be'n a ham) <g>
