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Frequently Asked Questions

Q.    What’s a Hamboree? I thought this was a computer show!

The Hamboree, or Ham Fest, had its origins as a place for amateur radio operators to swap radio and electronic equipment. With the introduction of packet radio, computers became a part of the Hamboree experience. The Miami Tropical Hamboree is one of the few Ham Fests that showcase a variety of computer vendors from all over the country.

New equipment, old equipment, odd equipment! You name it, we’ve got it.

Q.    Got plenty of Pentiums? Have too many electronic gadgets?

Unlike some other shows out there, the Hamboree is one of the only places in South Florida where you can attend and sell your old equipment in one of our two swap areas: indoor and outdoor.

Q.    I want to sell at your show, what should or shouldn’t I bring?

Since the majority of the attendees for the Hamboree are tech oriented, selling your new or used electronics is what you should bring. Although you could bring other things, it is not recommended. A good rule of thumb is: If you can plug it in or it runs on batteries, it can be sold.

Q.    Can I take the test to become a ham at the Hamboree?

A.     YES!   The Volunteer Examiners will be giving Ham Radio tests Saturday morning.   You can see all the testing information here.

Q.    Where can I stay while in Miami?

We've had great feedback on the hotels we've suggested.   If you're into doing some sightseeing while in Miami, you might want to stay more toward the East, closer to the beaches.   

Q.    Can I get on the Internet?

Yes.  Bring your 802.11b/g enabled device and check the WiFi page for information.

Q.    Do you guys take suggestions?

Yes, please.  We need your feedback to make the next one even better.  Please click here to answer a few questions about the last Hamboree.  We really do value your comments.

Q.    What IS a 'hamfest?'

A.     First, stop thinking of pork.  Think of it as convention of technically inclined people.  New and used equipment is available for sale.    Electronics, radios, transmitters, tools, computer parts, TV equipment... all that cool technology stuff that your eyes focus on at the store or the garage sales.    But you get to park once and see a day's worth of stuff.   When your feet get tired from all that walking, you can attend interesting demonstrations and meetings.

Q.    Ok, what is a 'ham'?

A.    Do you have a couple hours?   To cut to the chase, we're licensed by the Federal Communications Commission to be able to use radio spectrum.     We use it to help our communities, learn more about radio technology, and to respond to disasters.   We use voice, data, images, video, Morse code and any new technology that comes along.   There's a lot more interesting information about ham radio here and a ham radio FAQ here.   It's a huge hobby... so it really can't be explained in a few sentences.   Take a closer look and I'm sure you'll find something very interesting to you personally.   

Q.    I'm not a ham, why should I be interested?

A,    First of all, if you've gotten this far, there's a chance you might want to become a ham.   We'll have information available about our hobby at the ARRL tables next to the Prize Booth.   But even if things that transmit signals around the world (and beyond) don't interest you... there's a lot of other things that you'll find at the Hamboree.   Computer?  Who doesn't have a computer?  I'm willing to bet you're using one right now!   If you're ready for an upgrade, or want to set up a second one for the kids (or the parents) then you'll find what you'll need here.    Also tools, test equipment, video, networking, satellite... all types of technical stuff you know you find interesting.    If you have ever taken something apart to see what makes it work, this is the convention for you.  

Q.    Is this something new?   

A.    Depends on what you call 'new'.   Compared to radio itself, no, not really.   But this is the Forty Sixth yearly Hamboree.    We aren't responding to a fad.    The Tropical Hamboree has been around for a long long time and will be here a lot longer.    The technology may come and go, but this convention/show is rock solid.    Over the years, as we've grown, we've been at Bayfront Park, the Flagler Dog Track and now the Fair Expo (Youth Fair).    

Q.    How does this compare to the local computer shows that I see advertised?

A,    First of all, we've been doing this longer than any of them.   We have a following, a reputation, and if you've been to one of theirs, you'll see ours has a LOT more to see.   We aren't doing this in a small hotel ballroom.   This is the big time as far as electronics and computer conventions are concerned.    We don't hit you up with lots of charges just to get in.  Our parking is free and tickets are only $5 in advance, and that's good both days.   

Q.    Where is the Fair Expo Center?

A.     How old are you?   If you're over 25 you might remember this site as 'the Youth Fair'    Today they like to call it 'The Expo.'    It's on the huge public property near Coral Way and 107 Ave, right next to FIU's Tamiami Campus.    If you've been to 'The Fair/Youth Fair/Expo, or what ever you want to call it, think of the buildings where the displays were set up... that's where the Hamboree is located.   Sorry, the midway rides aren't here... you'll have to wait for the Fair in March.  

Q.    My significant other is demanding that I clean out the garage... can you help?

A.     You bet.   If you have a bunch of technical stuff piling up and you need to make room, our Swap Shop is your solution.    For the price of a table, you'll be able to sell your used equipment to people who are interested in what you have.   Don't put up with sitting in the Florida sun trying to sell your gear to the 'baby clothes and furniture' crowd.    Bring it to the Hamboree and be in air-conditioned comfort for you and your potential buyers.   You'll even have fun looking at (or buying) the other seller's stuff.

Q.   I am interested in going to the Hamfest... however, I am in Orlando. Is there going to be a carpool/vanpool from Orlando? Or perhaps are there enough Orlando-area people interested to start one?   JBL

A.   Not that we know of... but maybe someone else in Orlando is reading this and would like to share the costs.    Click here to contact JLB

Q.  I got this card in the mail, where's the form I fill out?

A.  Everything is right here on this webpage. All the forms, all the information is right here. Much more info than we could mail in a packet! Simply click on the appropriate link on the left hand side column. You can print out your reservation form, maps, hotel info, etc. It's all available right here on the site!
You wish to buy tickets? Click on the "tickets" link on the webpage, print out the form, fill it out, and mail it in with your payment.

Q.  What happened to the flyer I used to get in the mail?

A.  Our show runs as a non profit and if it wasn't for our extensive volunteer staff, we could never afford to run a show this size. All of the funds we generate from our show go right back into show operations. The great majority of our attendees have internet access and it just makes sense to take advantage of this resource. The cost savings allowed us to mail to more hams and also have more funds to make the Hamboree a better show.   Have questions? Feel free to email our staff by going to "contact info" section on this page.

Q: Are tickets available at the door?

A:  Well, there's no door, it's really more of a gate...   But seriously folks, we will sell tickets at $7 at the windows just outside the front gate starting at 8 AM.   Gates open at 9 AM.   Exact change and singles are always appreciated.   If you're a vendor and need additional tickets, we can help you at the vendor entrance when you pick up the will-call package.   

Q.    Is this the last FAQ  question?

A.    Only if you don't ask anything else.    Send your questions here.