I'm looking to get started with amateur radio. My grandfather was into it, and I inherited some things of his many years ago. Sadly, I wasn't really in a position to pursue the interest at the time, and after any gear I had was put into storage, it was quickly forgotten.
Something sparked my curiosity again, so I went looking through my things to see what equipment I actually had. I may have some other things in storage (it may have been cleared out, I can't depend on my parents to hold this stuff forever), but all I know at the moment is that I had pic related, a Yaesu Transceiver, tucked away in the corner of my garage. I haven't even gotten around to dusting it off yet.
It was (presumably) fully functional when I received it as it was used regularly, but that was many years ago.
I have no idea as to how I should test it. Is there anything I need to do before I plug it in and turn it on? I don't know if the vacuum tubes can go bad, or if I'll do damage to them if I just plug it in.
Oh, I should mention, I'm still unlicensed, and I really don't want the FCC busting down my door.
I plan on studying for the exam over the next few weeks, assuming this transceiver works, of course.