In Iraq, amateur radio's voice is muted - Los Angeles Times

In Iraq, amateur radio's voice is muted - Los Angeles Times: "BAGHDAD -- Whenever he gets a spare moment away from his electronics repair shop, Abdul Karim Hadi sneaks off to what he calls the 'radio shack' in the corner of his bedroom, flips a switch and escapes to the outside world.

Hadi could use the Internet or a cellphone to connect with friends near and far, but his choice is decidedly more retro.

Radio
Radio
click to enlarge

Graphic: A look into Iraq
Interactive Feature
Graphic: A look into Iraq
(Flash)

Related
- Iraq coalition casualty count - icasualties.org
- MORE IRAQ WAR COVERAGE

Related Stories
- U.S. shifts Sunni strategy in Iraq
- Iraqi political factions jointly pressure Kurds
- Recent California military deaths

'With ham radio, you can meet people around the world,' said Hadi, 48, who has been 'hamming' since 1978. 'It's also a hobby you can do on your own. And once you have your own equipment, it's free.'"