About Our Club

Davenport Radio Amateur Club

The Davenport Radio Amateur Club (W0BXR) is an association of radio amateurs. Organized and dedicated to promote the interest in amateur radio communications, experimentation, and to provide communication in the event of disasters or other emergencies. DRAC is an incorporated association chartered on February 5th, 1951 under the provisions of chapter 504 of the 1950 code of the State of Iowa.  Affiliated with the American Radio Relay League. Our affairs are governed  by a board of directors, elected every year by the general membership. DRAC is the sponsor of The Davenport Hamfest, and earns its operating revenue from this annual event. The funds are used for upkeep and maintenance of our repeaters and also various membership activities.

Whether you’re looking to get on the air for the first time or take your interest in amateur radio to a new level, The Davenport Radio Amateur Club has many years of experience supporting hams in pursuing their interest in amateur radio.

What is Amateur Radio

Amateur Radio (ham radio) is a popular hobby and service that brings people, electronics and communication together. People use ham radio to talk across town, around the world, or even into space, all without the Internet or cell phones. It’s fun, social, educational, and can be a lifeline during times of need. Although Amateur Radio operators get involved for many reasons, they all have in common a basic knowledge of radio technology and operating principles, and pass an examination for the FCC license to operate on radio frequencies known as the “Amateur Bands.” These bands are radio frequencies allocated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for use by ham radio operators.