Sorry that I have not been posting much on my blog. I have several other projects consuming my time and this blog has been neglected.
Then, it hit me: I should just let ChatGPT, a free artificial intelligence (AI) platform that is getting a lot of attention, write my blog for me. All the Cool Kids are Using It. I just entered “Please write my next blog post about VHF ham radio” and this is what I got back:
VHF Ham Radio: Exploring the World Above 50 MHz
When most people think of ham radio, they usually picture a person sitting in a dark room, talking into a large radio with a huge antenna. However, ham radio can be much more than that, especially when you start exploring the VHF bands.
VHF, or Very High Frequency, refers to the portion of the radio spectrum between 30 and 300 MHz. This includes the 6-meter (50 MHz), 2-meter (144 MHz), and 70-centimeter (440 MHz) bands, which are commonly used by amateur radio operators for local and regional communication.
One of the main advantages of VHF ham radio is that it allows for much greater range than the traditional HF bands (below 30 MHz). This is because VHF signals travel mostly in a straight line, and are less affected by the ionosphere and other atmospheric conditions that can impact HF propagation.
In addition to traditional voice communication, VHF ham radio operators also use a variety of digital modes such as Packet Radio, APRS, and D-STAR, which allow for the exchange of data and information over the airwaves.
Another popular VHF activity is contesting, which involves making as many contacts as possible in a short period of time. Contesting can be a fun and exciting way to improve your operating skills and test your equipment.
VHF ham radio is also a great way to get involved in emergency communication and public service. Many amateur radio clubs and organizations work closely with local authorities to provide communication support during emergencies and events.
If you’re interested in exploring the world of VHF ham radio, there are a few things you’ll need. First, you’ll need a radio that covers the VHF bands. There are many options available, from handheld transceivers to base stations with large antennas.
You’ll also need an antenna that is specifically designed for VHF operation. These antennas are typically shorter and more compact than HF antennas, and are available in a variety of types and configurations.
Finally, you’ll need to obtain a ham radio license from the FCC. The process is relatively straightforward and involves passing a written exam that covers basic radio theory, regulations, and operating procedures.
In conclusion, VHF ham radio offers a world of opportunities for communication, experimentation, and public service. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or a newcomer to the hobby, there’s always something new to discover on the VHF bands.
[ end of ChatGPT article]
How many factual errors did you spot?
73 Bob K0NR
Actually Bob, it is a very nice article. However, the only personal touch is the question at the end. I’ve experimented with AI on my blog as well, see: https://pe4bas.blogspot.com/2023/02/artificial-intelligence-ai-and-how-it.html
73, Bas PE4BAS
Bas,
ChatGPT does a good job of putting sentences together that read well. However, it often makes logical connections that are not correct, resulting in factual errors.
This is actually a dangerous combination because the text seems coherent and credible while making significant mistakes. Of course, it will improve with time.
Bob K0NR
…” it allows for much greater range than the traditional HF bands.”
“This includes the 6-meter (50 MHz), 2-meter (144 MHz), and 70-centimeter (440 MHz) bands, …”
220 Mcs?
Yes, 222 MHz is missing and 440 MHz is UHF, not VHF.
I’d swear that most reviews of radios are witten by these AI dumb bots. They tend to be both shallow an erroneous.
So perhaps the AI is just emulating human behavior.
This is UNREAL. I did spot some mistakes even though I have not been studying up on my ham facts lately. To the casual observer, blah blah blah. Here’s another scary/ugly example of how people use it. https://gizmodo.com/ai-chatgpt-vanderbilt-michigan-state-shooting-apology-1850139417 It is a reminder that we need to question everything more.
G the AI had been as well informed as an advanced user thr addition of packet radio with APRS puts VHF and higher frequencies in class above HF, ie: WinLink down load speed. And it’s the only way to use LEO sattelite repeaters and DV television.
It was eerily well written in that marketing fashion that is unique to fake news and government propaganda not that those aren’t actually the same.
I thought that the barbed comments in the Hackaday link relating AI and FT8 were particularly sharp.