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This is a map of the world produced for amateur radio operators, made by the Japanese Trio Kenwood (now Kenwood) Corporation. The map shows political boundaries, time zones, intriguing transportation devices, and, of course, useful information for amateur radio operators. Country codes are shown for each country or region in red letters alongside more specific black regional identification numbers in the largest countries. The ITU zones of the world, as they stood at the time, are shown in red numbering. ITU zones are used to manage the global radio spectrum and are subject to much scrutiny, criticism, and debate as to their exact borders.
Amateur (ham) radio operation has been a popular hobby for millions of people for over a century. Radio operators must be licensed and are usually given a call sign before operating. Ham radio operation is a widespread and international phenomenon: all countries except Yemen and North Korea issue radio licenses to their citizens. Amateur radio operation is most popular in North America, Europe, and certain East Asian countries. International communication is a key goal of many ham radio operators, with the most prestigious award by the American Radio Relay League being the DX Century Club, which "hams can earn by confirming on the air contacts with 100 countries."
The Trio Corporation was formed as the Kasuga Radio Company in 1946, and renamed in 1960 before expanding to the United States. Kenwood had been a subsidiary brand until 1986 when the company again renamed itself, again to appeal more to an international audience. The company specializes in amateur radio transceivers, hi-fi systems, and other communications equipment.
The map can be dated by looking at political boundaries; it was created sometime between the fall of South Vietnam and the fall of the Soviet Union. This is supported by the changing name of the Kenwood Corporation.
