Technician License Class Chapter 6 Communicating with Other Hams.

Technician License Class Chapter 6 Communicating with Other Hams

Phonetic Alphabet  When communicating by amateur radio, you will be exposed to (and will be using) a phonetic alphabet, or “phonetics”.

Phonetic Alphabet  The use of a standard phonetic alphabet avoids confusion.  Many English letters sound the same.  B,C, D, E, G, P, T, V, Z  F, S  M, N  Letters are pronounced differently in different languages.  In German, “Y” is pronounced “Upsilon”.

Phonetic Alphabet  A standard set of words, each word representing a letter of the alphabet.  First letter of the word is the letter that the word represents.  The FCC recommends the use of phonetics when identifying your station.  §97.119(b)(2)

Phonetic Alphabet  Preferred alphabet is the International Radiotelephony Spelling Alphabet.  ICAO Phonetic Alphabet.  ITU Phonetic Alphabet.  NATO Phonetic Alphabet.  Military Phonetic Alphabet.

Phonetic Alphabet LetterPhoneticPronunciationLetterPhoneticPronunciation AAlphaAL-fahNNovemberno-VEM-ber BBravoBRAH-vohOOscarOSS-cah CCharlieCHAR-leePPapapah-PAH DDeltaDEL-tahQQuebeckeh-BECK EEchoECK-ohRRomeorow-ME-oh FFoxtrotFOKS-trotSSierrasee-AIR-ah GGolfGOLFTTangoTANG-go HHotelhoh-TELUUniformYOU-nee-form IIndiaIN-dee-ahVVictorVIK-tah JJuliettJEW-lee-ettWWhiskeyWISS-key KKiloKEY-lohXX-rayECKS-ray LLimaLEE-mahYYankeeYANG-key MMikeMIKEZZuluZOO-loo

Phonetic Alphabet  The use of country names or names of major cites is common.  e.g. – Denmark, Germany, Tokyo, Yokohama, etc.  Avoid non-standard or “cute” phonetics.  Especially for DX contacts.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  General Principles.  It is important to remember that communicating by radio is different than talking face-to-face.  You cannot see facial expressions.  You cannot see body language.  You cannot see hand gestures.  If CW or data, you cannot hear tone of voice.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  General Principles.  Identify often.  Use phonetics.  Only one person can talk at a time.  Need way to indicate when you are finished & it is time for the other person to talk.  On CW or data, use the prosign “K”, “KN”, or “=” (BK).  On phone, use the proword “OVER”.  Speak clearly & distinctly.  Conditions may make speech difficult to understand.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  General Principles.  Procedural Signals.  Procedural signals are words, phrases, or special characters that have a specific meaning.  Used to increase the efficiency of communications.  On voice, procedural signals are words or phrases called “prowords”.  On CW & digital modes, procedural signals are special characters called “prosigns”.  1 or 2 characters.  If 2 characters, sent as a single character on CW.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  General Principles.  Procedural Signals. ProwordProsignMeaning OVERK or KNEnd of transmission & response is expected. OUTSKEnd of transmission & no response is expected. AREnd of message. ROGERRMessage received. WILCOMessage received & will comply.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  General Principles.  Q-signals or Q-code.  The letter “Q” followed by 2 additional letters.  Conveys an entire thought or sentence.  Adding a “?” changes it to a question.  Originally developed by commercial radio telegraphers for traffic handling.  Primarily intended for CW operations.  Commonly used on voice.  “Purists” say using Q-signals on voice is poor operating technique, but nearly everyone does it.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  General Principles.  Q-signals. Q-signalMeaningQ-signalMeaning QRMInterference (signals).QSBYour signals are fading. QRNInterference (noise).QSLI acknowledge receipt. QROIncrease power.QSYChange frequency. QRPDecrease power.QTHMy location is ___. QRXI will call you again at ___. QRZI am calling you.QLF

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  General Principles.  Jargon.  Hams almost have a language of their own.  Many words & expressions are common, but have special meanings in amateur radio.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  General Principles.  Jargon.  Handle – Name.  Amateurs used it long before the CB’ers did.  Old Man (OM) – Male amateur of any age.  Young Lady (YL) – Female amateur of any age.  XYL – Wife.  Harmonic(s) – Child or children.  Silent Key (SK) – Amateur who has passed away.  Fine Business (FB) – Excellent.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  General Principles.  Jargon.  73 – Best regards (sort of).  88 – Love and kisses.  Final – Last transmission of contact.  Ragchew (Ragchewing) – Long conversation.  Reading the Mail – Listening to another conversation.  Roundtable – Several hams in one conversation.  Generally take turns in some order.  “Go around the table”.  DX (DX’ing) – Contacting other countries.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  General Principles.  Jargon.  807 – Beer or other alcoholic beverage.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Using a Frequency.  Hams often tend to “hang out” on certain frequencies.  Local VHF/UHF repeater.  Favorite frequency for meeting friends.  NO amateur or group of amateurs has priority on the use of any frequency.  Not even established nets.  Exception: Actual emergency communications.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Signal Reports.  Upon establishing contact, it is customary to tell the other operator how you are copying his signal.  Signal reports are sent as 2 or 3 numbers using the R-S-T system.  Signal reports for FM contacts are different & will be discussed when we talk about repeater contacts.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Signal Reports.  R-S-T system.  1 st digit is Readability.  How well you can understand the signal on a scale of 1 to 5.  2 nd digit is Strength.  Relative strength of the signal on a scale of 1 to 9.  3 rd digit is Tone.  Purity of the signal on a scale of 1 to 9.  Not used for voice transmissions.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Signal Reports.  Readability (1-5).  1 = Unreadable.  2 = Barely readable, occasional word distinguishable.  3 = Readable with considerable difficulty.  4 = Readable with practically no difficulty.  5 = Perfectly readable.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Signal Reports.  Strength (1-9).  1 = Faint signals, barely perceptible.  2 = Very weak signals.  3 = Weak signals.  4 = Fair signals.  5 = Fairly good signals.  6 = Good signals.  7 = Moderately strong signals.  8 = Strong signals.  9 = Extremely strong signals.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Signal Reports.  Tone (1-9).  1 = 60-cycle AC or less, very rough & broad.  2 = Very rough AC, very harsh & broad.  3 = Rough AC tone, rectified but not filtered.  4 = Rough note, some trace of filtering.  5 = Filtered rectified AC but strongly ripple-modulated.  6 = Filtered tone, definite trace of ripple modulation.  7 = Near pure tone, trace of ripple modulation.  8 = Near perfect tone, slight trace of modulation.  9 = Perfect tone, no trace of ripple or modulation.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Power Level.  Often you tell the other operator how much power you are running.  QRP operation is considered a transmitter output power of 5-10 watts or less.  QRO operation is considered a transmitter output power of 500 watts or more.  Remember the FCC rules say to always use the minimum power necessary to accomplish the desired communications.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Locators.  You normally tell the other operator where you are located.  Method varies.  May be as simple as city & state or country.  May be latitude & longitude.  Maidenhead Locator System.  a.k.a. – “Maidenhead grid” or simply “grid”.  Especially popular for VHF/UHF/microwave operations.  Some HF contests contact value is determined by grid.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Maidenhead Locators.  Adopted at a VHF/UHF conference in Maidenhead, England, in 1980.  Developed by Dr. John Morris, G4ANB.  The earth is divided into 18 rows of 18 fields.  A field is 10° latitude high by 20° longitude wide.  A field is denoted by a pair of upper-case letters (A-R, A-R).  Each field is divided into 100 squares.  A square is 1° latitude high by 2° longitude wide.  A square is denoted by a pair of numbers (0-9, 0-9).

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Maidenhead Locators. Each square can be divided into 24 rows of 24 subsquares. A subsquare is 2.5’ latitude high by 5’ longitude wide. A subsquare is denoted by a pair of lower-case letters (a-x, a- x). No 2 points in the same subsquare are farther than 7.5 miles apart. Any point on the earth can be specified with good precision with just 6 characters.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Maidenhead Locators.  For example:  The locator for W1AW in Newington, CT, is:  FN31 or FN31pr.  The locator for rhe WVARA meeting location is:  EM69 or EM69hk.  The locator for this building is:  EM69 or EM69js.

Contact Basics  Maidenhead Locators.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Appropriate Topics.  Choose your topics carefully.  Avoid controversial or confrontational subjects.  e.g. – Politics & religion are generally discouraged.  Obscene & indecent language absolutely prohibited by regulation.  Remember, radio is a big party line !  Many people are listening.

Contact Basics  Contact Contents.  Signing Off.  Just like on telephone, it is rude to simply stop talking.  Customary to use one of the following:  73 – OM to OM contact.  88 – OM to YL contact.  33 – YL to YL contact.  Remember: You are required to identify your station when you sign off.  Other station’s call sign is optional.

Contact Basics  Advising and Assisting.  Amateur radio operators have a long tradition of helping each other.  100 years ago there were no books or classes.  Hams taught themselves or learned from others.  The tradition continues.  More jargon: An “Elmer” is an amateur who helps and advises a new amateur, either in technical or procedural matters.

Contact Basics  Advising and Assisting.  Methods and Procedures.  Good operators are made, not born.  Listen & learn from others.  Ask questions.  Practice.  When giving advice:  Off the air, if possible.  Use kind & helpful tone.

Contact Basics  Advising and Assisting.  Methods and Procedures.  Most common mistakes are in technique.  Not listening or not listening long enough before transmitting.  Transmitting too soon or late.  Not familiar enough with radio.

Contact Basics  Advising and Assisting.  Radio and Antenna Checks.  Often you need an on-the-air check of how your station is working.  Best method is to call a friend & ask him to meet you on the air for a check.  Next choice is to call “CQ” and ask for a radio check.  Last resort is to break into an existing conversation & ask for a radio check.  Many will consider this rude, especially if you don’t know either operator.

Contact Basics  Advising and Assisting.  Radio and Antenna Checks.  When replying to a request for a radio check:  Be certain to give an accurate and detailed report.  Be certain to specifically address the suspected problem.  e.g. – If asked about audio distortion, don’t just give a RST report.

Contact Basics  Advising and Assisting.  Radio and Antenna Checks.  Frequently we want to compare different antennas.  Only sure way of doing this is with an on-the-air comparison by another station.  Same rules apply as when asking for a radio check.  Be certain to give an accurate signal report.

Contact Basics  Advising and Assisting.  Noting Violations.  The Amateur Radio Service is primarily self-policed.  The ARRL has established an Official Observer (OO) program to monitor our frequencies for potential rules violations, both technical and procedural.  If you hear a possible violation:  Diplomatically advise operator of problem.  DO NOT violate the rules yourself in order to make the notification.

Contact Basics  Logging and Confirming Contacts.  Station Logs.  Amateur radio stations are no longer required by the FCC to maintain a logbook.  It is a good idea to keep one anyway.  Record of contacts for awards and contests.  Record of propagation conditions.  Proof to the FCC whether you were operating at a particular time on a particular frequency or not.  Most hams log all HF & non-FM VHF/UHF contacts.  Maybe not log contacts with friends you frequently talk to.

Contact Basics  Logging and Confirming Contacts.  Station Logs.  Contents of Log.  At a minimum, a log entry should include:  Date & time of contact.  Call sign of station contacted.  Frequency or band contact was made on.  Mode used to make the contact.

Contact Basics  Logging and Confirming Contacts.  Station Logs.  Contents of Log.  Optionally, a log entry may include:  Signal reports (RST) sent/received.  Name & call sign of any guest operators.  Any other information you may want to keep.  e.g. – Operator’s name, power, antenna used, notes, etc.

Contact Basics  Logging and Confirming Contacts.  Station Logs.  We used to keep logs on paper.

Contact Basics  Logging and Confirming Contacts.  Station Logs.  Computer logging programs.  Now nearly everyone uses a computer program.  Automatically fill in date & time.  Some programs can connect to your radio & automatically fill in frequency & mode.  Easy to track progress towards awards.  Most programs can print QSL cards or labels.  Some programs can print QSL address labels or envelopes.  Most will read and write ADIF files.  For transferring information between programs.

Contact Basics  Logging and Confirming Contacts.  Confirming Contacts.  Almost all awards require that the contacts necessary to earn the award be confirmed.  Contacts can be confirmed by:  Paper.  QSL cards.  Any written document.  Electronically.  Logbook of the World (LoTW).  eQSL.cc.

Contact Basics  Logging and Confirming Contacts.  Confirming Contacts.  QSL cards.  Traditional method of confirming contacts.  Normally a printed postcard with contact information.  Many varied designs.  Many standard designs.  Many custom designs.  Some exotic designs.  Many amateurs exchange QSL cards just for the cards themselves.

Contact Basics

 Logging and Confirming Contacts.  Confirming Contacts.  Logbook of the World (LoTW).  Designed by ARRL to confirm contacts for DXCC award.  Can now be used for all ARRL-sponsored awards.  WAS.  VUCC.  Triple-Play.  Can also be used for awards sponsored by CQ Magazine.  CQ DX, USACA, WAZ, WPX, etc.

Contact Basics  Logging and Confirming Contacts.  Confirming Contacts.  eQSL.cc.  Electronic QSL system introduced before LoTW was available.  eQSL’s are not valid for any ARRL award (DXCC, WAS, etc.).

T2B10 -- Which Q signal indicates that you are receiving interference from other stations? A.QRM B.QRN C.QTH D.QSB

T2B11 -- Which Q signal indicates that you are changing frequency? A.QRU B.QSY C.QSL D.QRZ

T8C05 -- What is a grid locator? A.A letter-number designator assigned to a geographic location B.A letter-number designator assigned to an azimuth and elevation C.An instrument for neutralizing a final amplifier D.An instrument for radio direction finding

Band Plans  List what portions of each band are used for different modes or types of communications.  Gentlemen’s agreements based on accepted usage.  Not a part of FCC rules, but…. § 97.101(a) In all respects not specifically covered by FCC Rules each amateur station must be operated in accordance with good engineering and good amateur practice.

Band Plans  Group together operations using the same or similar types of modes.  May protect certain portions of a band for weak signal work.  May reserve certain portions of a band for “DX” contacts.  Specify repeater frequency pairs & simplex channels for VHF/UHF FM operations.

Band Plans  Definitions and Finding Band Plans.  Definitions.  DX Window – A portion of the band reserved for contacts with stations outside of the lower 48.  Beacons – Automated transmissions used to tell when a band is “open” to a given location.

Band Plans  Definitions and Finding Band Plans.  Definitions.  Weak Signal – Operations on VHF, UHF, & above involving long distances where the expected signals are much weaker than local signals.  Normally CW or SSB.  Every band from 50 MHz & up has segments available to CW and SSB operations.  Earth-moon-earth (EME).  a.k.a. – Moonbounce.

Band Plans  Definitions and Finding Band Plans.  Definitions.  Satellite Uplinks & Downlinks – Frequencies used by earth stations to send transmissions to or receive transmissions from amateur radio satellites.  Simplex – Transmitting and receiving on the same frequency.  Repeater Inputs & Outputs – The pairs of frequencies used by repeaters.  Control Links – Frequencies used to control repeaters, remotely-controlled stations or satellites.

Band Plans  Calling Frequencies and Beacons.  Calling frequencies.  Frequencies used to establish contact.  After contact is made, move to another frequency to talk.  Only have to monitor one frequency instead of entire band.  Can be useful for detecting band openings.  Beacons.  Network of low-power, automated transmitters around the world used to detect propagation conditions.  HF & 6m.

Band Plans  Why Band Plans are Needed.  The FCC rules do not go far enough in providing for a fair distribution of the available band space to various types of operations.  By its nature, FM communications work better when “channelized”.  A standard band plan allows amateurs to readily use repeaters outside of their home area.

Band Plans  Who Makes Band Plans?  The amateur community as a whole.  The band plans evolved over years of common usage.  Sometimes special interest groups pick out frequencies to “hang out” on.  QRP on 7040 kHz.  AM on 3885 kHz.  SSTV on 14.230 MHz.  etc.

Band Plans  Rules About Band Plans.  Band plans are considered “good amateur practice” by the FCC.  When a conflict arises, the FCC will normally side with the station following the band plan.

T2B01 -- What is the term used to describe an amateur station that is transmitting and receiving on the same frequency? A.Full duplex communication B.Diplex communication C.Simplex communication D.Multiplex communication

T2B13 -- Which of the following is true of the use of SSB phone in amateur bands above 50 MHz? A.It is permitted only by holders of a General Class or higher license B.It is permitted only on repeaters C.It is permitted in at least some portion of all the amateur bands above 50 MHz D.It is permitted only on when power is limited to no more than 100 watts

Making Contacts  Repeater Contacts.  If you want to talk to anyone who will answer:  Listen to make sure repeater is not in use.  Ask if repeater is in use.  Say your call sign.  May add “MONITORING” or “LISTENING”.

Making Contacts  Repeater Contacts.  If you want to talk to a specific station:  Listen to make sure repeater is not in use.  Ask if repeater is in use.  Say their call sign.  Say “THIS IS” or “FROM”.  Say your call sign.

Making Contacts  Repeater Contacts.  During the contact:  Identify your station legally.  Every 10 minutes.  At end of conversation.  Keep transmissions short.  To comply with FCC rules, repeaters have a time-out timer limiting each transmission to 3 minutes or less.  Leave breaks between transmission to listen for another station needing to use the repeater.  Courtesy beep.

Making Contacts  Repeater Contacts.  Signal reports.  Remember, you are receiving the REPEATER, and not the station you are talking to!  S-meter readings are meaningless!

Making Contacts  Repeater Contacts.  Signal reports.  Give a verbal description of how well the repeater is hearing the other stations.  Full quieting – No noise is heard along with signal.  White noise – Some noise is heard along with signal.  Scratchy – Noise almost as strong as voice.  Mobile flutter or picket-fencing – Rapid fading due to multi- path conditions.  Breaking up – Occasional words or syllables heard, mostly inaudible.

Making Contacts  FM Simplex Contacts.  Always try to use simplex rather than a repeater, if practical.  Frees up the repeater for those you need it.  Same rules apply as for repeater contacts.  Listen to make sure frequency is not in use.  Ask if frequency is in use.  S-meter readings are somewhat useful, but a verbal description is more meaningful.

Making Contacts  Simplex Channels.  The band plans specify several frequencies for FM simplex operations.  In between repeater input & output frequency segments.  One simplex frequency on each band is designated the National Emergency and Calling Frequency.  6m  52.525 MHz.  2m  146.520 MHz.  70cm  446.000 MHz.

Making Contacts  The Origin of CQ. French was, and still is, the official language for international postal services, and the word, sécurité, was used to mean "safety" or "pay attention". It is still used in this sense in international telecommunications. The letters CQ, when pronounced in French, resemble the first two syllables of sécurité, and were therefore used as shorthand for the word.

Making Contacts  SSB, CW, and Digital Contacts.  If you want to talk to any station that will answer using voice:  Listen to make sure frequency is not in use.  Ask if frequency is in use.  Say “CQ” three times.  Say “THIS IS”.  Say your call sign phonetically twice.  Listen for answer.  Repeat as necessary.

Making Contacts  SSB, CW, and Digital Contacts.  If you want to talk to any station that will answer using CW or digital modes:  Listen to make sure frequency is not in use.  Ask if frequency is in use  Send “QRL?”.

Making Contacts  SSB, CW, and Digital Contacts.  If you want to talk to any station that will answer using CW or digital modes:  Send “CQ” three times.  Send “DE”.  Send your call sign two or three times.  Send “K”.  Listen for answer.  Repeat as necessary.

Making Contacts  SSB, CW, and Digital Contacts.  CQ can be restricted to certain groups of stations, if desired.  Examples:  “CQ DX”.  “CQ TEXAS”.  “CQ EUROPE”.  “CQ CONTEST”.

Making Contacts  SSB, CW, and Digital Contacts.  If you want to talk to a specific station using voice:  Listen to make sure frequency is not in use.  Ask if frequency is in use.

Making Contacts  SSB, CW, and Digital Contacts.  If you want to talk to a specific station using voice:  Say their call sign 1-3 times.  Phonetics may or may not be necessary.  Say “THIS IS”.  Say your call sign 1-2 times.  Phonetics may or may not be necessary.  Listen for answer.  Repeat as necessary.

Making Contacts  SSB, CW, and Digital Contacts.  If you want to talk to a specific station using CW or digital modes:  Listen to make sure frequency is not in use.  Send their call sign 1-3 times.  Send “DE”.  Send your call sign 1-3 times.  Send “K” or “KN”.  Listen for answer.  Repeat as necessary.

Making Contacts  SSB, CW, and Digital Contacts.  During the contact.  Avoid “doubling”.  On voice, say “OVER” or “GO AHEAD” at the end of your transmission.  On CW or digital modes send “K” or “KN” at the end of your transmission.

Making Contacts  Taking Turns and Breaking In.  Breaking in.  It is usually considered poor manners to break in on a conversation in progress.  Break in by saying/sending your call sign at the break between transmissions.

Making Contacts  Taking Turns and Breaking In.  Nets & roundtables.  Often you may find yourself talking to more than one station at once.  This is called a roundtable.  Always try to pass the conversation to the next person in turn, keeping the same order.  Always specify who you are passing the conversation to.

T2A02 -- What is the national calling frequency for FM simplex operations in the 70 cm band? A.146.520 MHz B.145.000 MHz C.432.100 MHz D.446.000 MHz

T2A04 -- What is an appropriate way to call another station on a repeater if you know the other station's call sign? A.Say break, break then say the station's call sign B.Say the station's call sign then identify with your call sign C.Say CQ three times then the other station's call sign D.Wait for the station to call CQ then answer it

T2A05 -- How should you respond to a station calling CQ? A.Transmit CQ followed by the other station’s call sign B.Transmit your call sign followed by the other station’s call sign C.Transmit the other station’s call sign followed by your call sign D.Transmit a signal report followed by your call sign

T2A08 -- What is the meaning of the procedural signal “CQ”? A.Call on the quarter hour B.A new antenna is being tested (no station should answer) C.Only the called station should transmit D.Calling any station

T2A09 -- What brief statement is often transmitted in place of “CQ” to indicate that you are listening on a repeater? A.The words “Hello test” followed by your call sign B.Your call sign C.The repeater call sign followed by your call sign D.The letters “QSY” followed by your call sign

T2A12 -- Which of the following is a guideline to use when choosing an operating frequency for calling CQ? A.Listen first to be sure that no one else is using the frequency B.Ask if the frequency is in use C.Make sure you are in your assigned band D.All of these choices are correct

T2B12 -- Under what circumstances should you consider communicating via simplex rather than a repeater? A.When the stations can communicate directly without using a repeater B.Only when you have an endorsement for simplex operation on your license C.Only when third party traffic is not being passed D.Only if you have simplex modulation capability

T7B10 -- What might be the problem if you receive a report that your audio signal through the repeater is distorted or unintelligible? A.Your transmitter may be slightly off frequency B.Your batteries may be running low C.You could be in a bad location D.All of these choices are correct

Using Repeaters  As a Technician class licensee, you will undoubtedly be using repeaters.  Because of the way repeaters work, there are some operating techniques that need to be different from simplex contacts.

Using Repeaters  Repeaters are located in high locations and enhance the range of VHF & UHF stations, especially mobile & handheld stations.  Repeaters use duplex operation.  Repeater transmits on frequency “A” and receives on frequency “B”.  User transmits on frequency “B” and receives on frequency “A”.

Using Repeaters  Finding Repeaters.  Look at the band plan.  Tune across the band segments that are listed as “repeater outputs”.  Use a repeater directory.  Printed.  Online.

Using Repeaters Repeater Offset or Shift.  Repeaters receive on one frequency (input) and transmit on another (output).  Repeaters are normally referred to by their output frequency.  e.g. – 146.685 MHz or just ”685”.  Difference between the input and output frequencies is:  Called the repeater offset or split.  f input - f output  Specified by the band plan.

Using Repeaters Repeater Offset or Shift. BandRepeater Output FrequencyOffset 10m29.6-29.7 MHz-100 kHz 6m 51.0 MHz to 52.0 MHz-500 kHz 52.0 MHz to 54.0 MHz-1.0 MHz 2m 145.1 MHz to 145.5 MHz-600 kHz 146.6 MHz to 147.0 MHz-600 kHz 147.0 MHz to 147.4 MHz+600 kHz 1.25m223.0 MHz to 225.0 MHz-1.6 MHz 70cm 442.0 MHz to 446.0 MHz+5.0 MHz 446.0 MHz to 450.0 MHz-5.0 MHz

Using Repeaters  Repeater Offset or Shift.  Most modern transceivers automatically set the shift when tuned to a repeater segment in the band plan.

Using Repeaters Repeater Access Tones.  Often repeater operators need to prevent unwanted signals from activating the repeater.  Distant signals intended for a different repeater on the same frequency.  Interference from other nearby transmitters.

Using Repeaters  Repeater Access Tones.  Continuous sub-audible tone.  Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System (CTCSS).  a.k.a. – Private Line® (PL)  Tone burst at beginning of transmission.  Single tone or series of tones.  Single 1800 Hz tone common in Europe.  Digital Coded Squelch (DCS).  Continuous stream of sub-audible digital data.

Using Repeaters  Repeater Access Tones.  Most common method is CTCSS.  Most transceivers have a “Tone” setting.  Frequency – Frequency of the sub-audible tone.  Encode (ENC) – Transmit a sub-audible tone to access the repeater.  Decode (DEC) – Must receive a sub-audible tone from the repeater to receive it.  Encode-Decode – Both ENC & DEC.

Using Repeaters  Repeater Access Tones.  A repeater directory will tell you if a tone is needed to access a repeater.  Often the repeater itself will tell you if a tone is needed as part of a voice identification.

Using Repeaters  Accessing a Repeater.  Set radio to repeater output frequency.  Set correct offset.  Probably set automatically by radio.  Set any required access tone.  Adjust squelch control until noise just goes away.  Listen to see if repeater is in use.

Using Repeaters  Accessing a Repeater. Press the PTT button and say your call sign followed by “TESTING”. Release the PTT button. You will hear the repeater carrier for a second or two followed by a brief burst of noise. The burst of noise is called a “squelch tail”.

Using Repeaters  ID and Control Topics.  Time-out timer.  Most repeaters include provisions to limit the length of a single transmission to 3 minutes or less.  Required for stations operating under automatic or remote control.  Timer normally resets when repeater transmitter stops transmitting or when “courtesy beep” is heard.  Period of time between user stopping transmitting & courtesy beep ensures another station can break in if necessary.

Using Repeaters  Repeater Systems.  Basic Repeater System.  All equipment at same location.  May use the same or separate antennas.  Duplexer used to isolate transmitter & receiver.  Components.  Transmitter.  Receiver.  Antenna system & duplexer.  Controller.

Using Repeaters  Repeater Systems.

Using Repeaters  Repeater Systems.  Repeater controller.  Device that controls the operation of the repeater.  CW & voice identification.  Repeater access (CTCSS, etc.).  Time-out timer.  Courtesy beep.  Enable/disable repeater.  Remote receiver(s).

Using Repeaters  Repeater Systems.  Multiple-site repeaters.  Some repeaters may be split between different sites.  Transmitter at one site & receiver at another.  Transmitter & receiver at one site & additional receivers at other sites.

Using Repeaters  Repeater Systems.  Linked repeaters.  Two or more repeaters may be linked together so that they all retransmit the same communications simultaneously.  Increased coverage area, or  Different bands, or  Both.

Using Repeaters  Repeater Systems.  Multiple-site repeaters and linked repeaters need some means of connecting sites together.  Telephone.  Internet.  Radio.  Radio link is called an auxiliary station.  Usually on 1.25m or 70cm bands.

Using Repeaters  Open, special use and private repeaters.  Most repeaters are “open” repeaters.  Any amateur is welcome to use the system for any legitimate amateur radio purpose.  Some repeaters are “closed” or private repeaters.  Use of the repeater is restricted to “authorized” users.  e.g. - Club members, subscribers, etc.  Some repeaters are “special use” repeaters.  Use of the repeater is restricted to certain types of use.  e.g. - Emergency communications & drills, etc.

Using Repeaters  Digital repeater systems.  Several systems have been developed to link repeaters over the internet.  Internet radio linking project (IRLP).  Echolink.  WIRES II.  D-STAR.

Using Repeaters  Digital repeater systems.  IRLP & Echolink use the voice-over internet protocol (VoIP) to link repeaters over the internet.  Same technology used by online telephone providers such as Skype, magicJack, BasicTalk, etc.

Using Repeaters  Digital repeater systems.  IRLP requires that all audio input to the system come from a radio link.  Computer users can listen to conversations, but cannot talk.  EchoLink allows input from a computer.  Users must hold a valid amateur radio license.

Using Repeaters  Digital repeater systems.  Making an IRLP or Echolink contact. 1.Use the DTMF keypad on your transceiver to enter the local repeater access code to request internet connection.  Varies from repeater to repeater.  May require membership in a club. 2.Use the DTMF keypad on your transceiver to enter the 4-digit node ID of remote repeater. 3.Now linked to remote repeater.

Using Repeaters  Digital repeater systems.  D-STAR.  Public protocol developed by the Japan Amateur Radio League (JARL).  Currently Icom is only manufacturer selling D-STAR capable equipment.  WIRES II.  Proprietary system developed by Yaesu.

T2A01 -- What is the most common repeater frequency offset in the 2 meter band? A.Plus 500 kHz B.Plus or minus 600 kHz C.Minus 500 kHz D.Only plus 600 kHz

T2A03 -- What is a common repeater frequency offset in the 70 cm band? A.Plus or minus 5 MHz B.Plus or minus 600 kHz C.Minus 600 kHz D.Plus 600 kHz

T2B02 -- What is the term used to describe the use of a sub-audible tone transmitted with normal voice audio to open the squelch of a receiver? A.Carrier squelch B.Tone burst C.DTMF D.CTCSS

T2B04 -- Which of the following common problems might cause you to be able to hear but not access a repeater even when transmitting with the proper offset? A.The repeater receiver may require an audio tone burst for access B.The repeater receiver may require a CTCSS tone for access C.The repeater receiver may require a DCS tone sequence for access D.All of these choices are correct

T4B11 -- Which of the following describes the common meaning of the term "repeater offset"? A.The distance between the repeater’s transmit and receive antennas B.The time delay before the repeater timer resets C.The difference between the repeater’s transmit and receive frequencies D.Matching the antenna impedance to the feed line impedance

T8C06 -- How is access to an IRLP node accomplished? A.By obtaining a password which is sent via voice to the node B.By using DTMF signals C.By entering the proper Internet password D.By using CTCSS tone codes

T8C09 -- How might you obtain a list of active nodes that use VoIP? A.From the FCC Rulebook B.From your local emergency coordinator C.From a repeater directory D.From the local repeater frequency coordinator

T8C10 -- How do you select a specific IRLP node when using a portable transceiver? A.Choose a specific CTCSS tone B.Choose the correct DSC tone C.Access the repeater autopatch D.Use the keypad to transmit the IRLP node ID

T8C12 -- What is meant by Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) as used in amateur radio? A.A set of rules specifying how to identify your station when linked over the Internet to another station B.A set of guidelines for working DX during contests using Internet access C.A technique for measuring the modulation quality of a transmitter using remote sites monitored via the Internet D.A method of delivering voice communications over the Internet using digital techniques

T8C13 -- What is the Internet Radio Linking Project (IRLP)? A.A technique to connect amateur radio systems, such as repeaters, via the Internet using Voice Over Internet Protocol B.A system for providing access to websites via amateur radio C.A system for informing amateurs in real time of the frequency of active DX stations D.A technique for measuring signal strength of an amateur transmitter via the Internet

Nets Net is Short for “Network”. Evolved over the years to share and exchange information in an organized way.  Types of nets.  Social.  Traffic.  Emergency and public service.

Nets  Types of Nets.  Social nets.  Groups of amateur gathering together to discuss a common topic or just to chit-chat.  Most common type.  Least formal.

Nets  Types of Nets.  Social nets.  A special type of social net is the mobile service net.  Caters to mobile operators.  Traffic conditions.  Place to meet other stations while traveling.  East Coast Amateur Radio Service (EastCARS).  South Coast Amateur Radio Service (SouthCARS).  Midwest Amateur Radio Service (MidCARS).  Maritime Mobile Service Net.  Nautical weather conditions.

Nets  Types of Nets.  Traffic nets.  Traffic refers to formal messages that are relayed via amateur radio.  Formal structure to ensure accuracy & efficiency.  Most important job is to transmit message EXACTLY as received.  National Traffic System (NTS).

Nets  Types of Nets.  Traffic nets.

Nets  Types of Nets.  Emergency and public service nets.  Emergency nets.  Strategic nets provide communications support into & out of the disaster area.  Typically use a formal message format.  Tactical nets provide support within the disaster area.  Typically use informal traffic.  Health & welfare traffic.  Inquiries regarding condition of friends & family in the disaster area.

Nets  Types of Nets.  Emergency and public service nets.  Public service nets.  Provide communications for public service events such as parades, walk-a-thons, bike rally's, etc.  Must provide a service to the public.  e.g. -- Safety observers.  Be careful to avoid business communications.  Excellent practice for emergency nets.

Nets  Net Structure and Participation.  Net control station (NCS).  Traffic cop who controls the flow of information.  Follow check-in and check-out procedures.  Listen to learn how the net operates.  Communications discipline is vital.  Learn and follow procedures.  Speak only when directed, and only to whom directed.  Follow through with your commitments.

Nets  Net Structure and Participation.  Emergency nets.  Maintaining net discipline is especially important.  Once you have checked into the net, DO NOT TRANSMIT unless specifically told to do so by the NCS.  Emergency traffic will ALWAYS be handled before any other traffic.

Nets  Traffic Handling.  The most import task is to accurately and efficiently transfer information.  Not just emergency & disaster nets.  To improve efficiency, a standardized message format is used.

Nets  Traffic Handling.  The most import task is to accurately and efficiently transfer information.  Not just emergency & disaster nets.  To improve efficiency, a standardized message format is used.  a.k.a. – Formal message.

Nets  Traffic Handling.  Formal messages include a preamble which contains:  Information about how the message is to be handled.  Information needed to track progress of message through the NTS.

Nets  Traffic Handling.  Preamble.  Number – A number assigned by the originating station to uniquely identify the message.  Precedence – Specifies how quickly the message is to be handled.  EMERGENCY  Priority  Routine  Welfare

Nets  Traffic Handling.  Preamble.  Handling Instructions – Special instructions on how to handle the message.  Station of Origin – Call sign of station originating the message.  Check – Number of words or groups of characters in the message.  Used to check that message was accurately received.

Nets  Traffic Handling.  Preamble.  Place of Origin – City & State where the message was originated from.  Time & Date – Date and time that the message was originated.  Time is optional.  Address – Complete name an address of person the message is to be delivered to.  Include telephone number if possible.

Nets  Traffic Handling.  Text.  The text of the message comes after the preamble.  Keep text short and simple.  Normally 25 words or less.  ARL Numbered Radiograms.  Pre-defined phrases commonly used in messages.  Increase efficiency by reducing the number of words required in the message.

Nets  Traffic Handling.  Signature.  Name of person sending the message.

 Finding Nets.  ARRL Net Directory.  http://www.arrl.org/arrl-net-directory-search http://www.arrl.org/arrl-net-directory-search  WVARA website.  Indiana HF nets.  Local area VHF/UHF nets.  Other internet sites.

T2C03 -- What should be done to insure that voice message traffic containing proper names and unusual words are copied correctly by the receiving station? A.The entire message should be repeated at least four times B.Such messages must be limited to no more than 10 words C.Such words and terms should be spelled out using a standard phonetic alphabet D.All of these choices are correct

T2C06 -- Which of the following is an accepted practice to get the immediate attention of a net control station when reporting an emergency? A.Repeat the words SOS three times followed by the call sign of the reporting station B.Press the push-to-talk button three times C.Begin your transmission by saying "Priority" or "Emergency" followed by your call sign D.Play a pre-recorded emergency alert tone followed by your call sign

T2C07 -- Which of the following is an accepted practice for an amateur operator who has checked into an emergency traffic net? A.Provided that the frequency is quiet, announce the station call sign and location every 5 minutes B.Move 5 kHz away from the net's frequency and use high power to ask other hams to keep clear of the net frequency C.Remain on frequency without transmitting until asked to do so by the net control station D.All of the choices are correct

T2C08 -- Which of the following is a characteristic of good emergency traffic handling? A.Passing messages exactly as received B.Making decisions as to whether or not messages should be relayed or delivered C.Communicating messages to the news media for broadcast outside the disaster area D.All of these choices are correct

T2C10 -- What is the preamble in a formal traffic message? A.The first paragraph of the message text B.The message number C.The priority handling indicator for the message D.The information needed to track the message as it passes through the amateur radio traffic handling system

T2C11 -- What is meant by the term “check” in reference to a formal traffic message? A.The check is a count of the number of words or word equivalents in the text portion of the message B.The check is the value of a money order attached to the message C.The check is a list of stations that have relayed the message D. The check is a box on the message form that tells you the message was received

Communications for Public Service  Public Service Communications.  Providing communications support for:  Emergencies & disasters.  Severe weather, earthquakes, hurricanes, etc.  Disaster preparedness drills.  Non-emergency public service events.  Parades, walk-a-thons, etc.  Good training for actual emergencies.

Communications for Public Service  Public Service Operating Guidelines.  Safety first!  Do not become part of the problem.  Maintain radio discipline.  Do not be part of the event.  Your role should be strictly communications.  Protect personal information.  NEVER send confidential information via radio without consent.

Communications for Public Service  Public Service Operating Guidelines.  Never speculate or guess.  If you don’t know the answer, go to an event official.  Never give out unauthorized information.  Only event officials should talk to the media or to the general public.

Communications for Public Service  Tactical Communications.  Communications at the scene of the event is normally done using informal traffic.  Normally VHF or UHF only.  Use of tactical call signs can improve efficiency.  e.g. – EOC, Race Control, Shelter 1, etc.  Normal identification using your FCC-assigned call sign is still required!  At end of each exchange.  Not less than every 10 minutes.

Communications for Public Service  ARES.  Part of ARRL field organization.  Not defined in FCC rules.  Supports both governmental and non-governmental agencies.  Red Cross, etc.

Communications for Public Service  ARES.  Parke County Emergency Coordinator (EC).  Sutton Doty, AD0TY 10818 South US Highway 41 Rosedale, IN 47874 smdoty@gmail.com

Communications for Public Service  RACES.  Part of FEMA, SEMA, or local EMA.  Defined in FCC rules.  § 97.407.  Supports governmental agencies.  Stations registered with EMA.  Only transmit communications authorized by EMA.  Presidential War Powers Act.

Communications for Public Service  Emergencies and Disaster Relief.  Providing emergency communications is one of the basic purposes of the Amateur Radio Service as specified in the FCC Rules.  Emergency communications have absolute priority over all other types of communications.  The FCC may declare a “temporary state of communications emergency”.  Prohibit normal communications on or near frequencies used for disaster relief operations.

Communications for Public Service  Threats to Life and Property. §97.403 Safety of life and protection of property. No provision of these rules prevents the use by an amateur station of any means of radiocommunication at its disposal to provide essential communication needs in connection with the immediate safety of human life and immediate protection of property when normal communication systems are not available.

Communications for Public Service  Distress Calls.  There are 3 internationally recognized emergency signals.  Safety signal.  Urgency signal.  Distress signal.

Communications for Public Service  Distress Calls.  How to send an emergency signal.  Send signal 3 times.  Identify your station.  Send information about emergency.  Type of emergency.  Location.  Type of assistance needed.  Listen for response.  Repeat.

Communications for Public Service  Distress Calls.  How to respond to an emergency signal.  Suspend all other communications IMMEDIATELY!  Write down EVERYTHING the station in distress transmits.  Make certain your are the station who can BEST handle the emergency.  Answer the station.  Contact the appropriate authorities.

Communications for Public Service  Distress Calls.  Safety signal.  Important safety information, normally concerning meteorological conditions.  Sécurité.  The French word “sécurité” which means safety.

Communications for Public Service  Distress Calls.  Urgency signal.  Emergency, but no immediate threat to life or property.  Pan-Pan.  From the French word “panne” which refers to a mechanical failure or breakdown.

Communications for Public Service  Distress Calls.  Distress signal.  Emergency with an immediate threat to life or property.  Mayday (voice).  From the French phrase “venez m’aider” which means “come help me”.  SOS (Morse code).  Originally “CQD”.

Communications for Public Service  Emergency Communications Training.  Join a local emergency communications group.  ARES, RACES, SATERN, etc.  Participate in drills and exercises.  ARRL on-line training.  FEMA on-line training.  Annual Simulated Emergency Test (SET).  Put together a “go-kit”.

Communications for Public Service  Emergency Communications and Your Employer.  The FCC Rules state, “No amateur station shall transmit…communications in which the station licensee or control operator has a pecuniary interest, including communications on behalf of an employer….”  Amateur radio clubs made up of employees of a company are permitted.  Communications must not be “on the clock”.

Communications for Public Service  Emergency Communications and Your Employer. The paragraph in the book concerning participating in training exercises and drills on behalf of your employer is WRONG! NOTE: It has been corrected on the errata sheet.

Communications for Public Service  Emergency Communications and Your Employer.  The FCC Rules actually say: §97.403(a)(3)(i) -- A station licensee or control station operator may participate on behalf of an employer in an emergency preparedness or disaster readiness test or drill, limited to the duration and scope of such test or drill, and operational testing immediately prior to such test or drill. Tests or drills that are not government-sponsored are limited to a total time of one hour per week; except that no more than twice in any calendar year, they may be conducted for a period not to exceed 72 hours.

Communications for Public Service  Emergency Communications and Your Employer.  The drill or exercise DOES NOT have to be government-sponsored.  If not government-sponsored, then there are limits on how often they can be held & how long they can last.  Your employer DOES NOT have to be a governmental agency.  There IS NO requirement for a waiver from the FCC.

T2C01 -- When do the FCC rules NOT apply to the operation of an amateur station? A.When operating a RACES station B.When operating under special FEMA rules C.When operating under special ARES rules D.Never, FCC rules always apply

T2C04 -- What do RACES and ARES have in common? A.They represent the two largest ham clubs in the United States B.Both organizations broadcast road and weather information C.Neither may handle emergency traffic supporting public service agencies D.Both organizations may provide communications during emergencies

T2C05 -- Which of the following describes the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES)? A.A radio service using amateur frequencies for emergency management or civil defense communications B.A radio service using amateur stations for emergency management or civil defense communications C.An emergency service using amateur operators certified by a civil defense organization as being enrolled in that organization D.All of these choices are correct

T2C09 -- Are amateur station control operators ever permitted to operate outside the frequency privileges of their license class? A.No B.Yes, but only when part of a FEMA emergency plan C.Yes, but only when part of a RACES emergency plan D.Yes, but only if necessary in situations involving the immediate safety of human life or protection of property

T2C12 -- What is the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES)? A.Licensed amateurs who have voluntarily registered their qualifications and equipment for communications duty in the public service B.Licensed amateurs who are members of the military and who voluntarily agreed to provide message handling services in the case of an emergency C.A training program that provides licensing courses for those interested in obtaining an amateur license to use during emergencies D.A training program that certifies amateur operators for membership in the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  On-air activities provide incentive to get on the radio.  Learn about propagation as you search for specific stations on various bands.  Improve operating skills.  Fun!

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  DX’ing.  Contacting stations far away – a tradition since the first days of radio.  On HF, means contacting stations in other countries.  You would be surprised what constitutes another country!  On VHF/UHF, means contacting stations outside your normal coverage area.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  Awards.  Can get certificates or plaques for certain operating achievements.  a.k.a. – Collecting “wallpaper”.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  Awards.  DX Century Club (DXCC).  Contacting 100 different entities (countries).

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  Awards.  Worked All States (WAS).  Contacting all 50 states.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  Awards.  VHF/UHF Century Club (VUCC).  Contacting 100 grid squares on VHF/UHF.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  Awards.  Worked All Indiana (WAI).  Contacting all 92 Indiana counties.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  Contesting.  Try to make as many contacts as possible during a specific time period.  May be limited to specific bands and/or modes.  NEVER any contests on 60m, 30m, 17m, or 12m.  Must accurately exchange specific information as efficiently as possible.  Excellent way to improve emergency operating skills.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  Contesting.  Operating in a VHF or UHF contest is different than chatting on your local FM repeater.  Use weak-signal techniques.  CW and/or SSB modes.  VHF/UHF multi-mode transceiver.  Horizontally-polarized antennas.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  Contesting.  ARRL Sweepstakes.  State QSO Parties.  Some REALLY strange awards.  VHF/UHF contests.  RTTY contests.  CQ World Wide DX Contest.  Contest calendars.  http://www.hornucopia.com/contestcal

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  Contesting.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  ARRL Field Day.  Set up a portable multi-station operation using emergency power and make as many contacts as you can in a 24-hour period.  Any station in North America can participate  Largest operating event of the year.  Like a contest except no awards.  Just bragging rights.  4 th full weekend in June.  June 25-26, 2016.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  ARRL Field Day.  Some groups concentrate on setting up under emergency conditions.  Some groups concentrate on making as many contacts as possible.  Some groups use Field Day as a social event.  Lots of food!!!

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  ARRL Field Day.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  Fox Hunting.  Many amateurs participate in hidden transmitter hunts.  Fox hunting is fun.  Fox hunting is good training for real- world situations.  Stuck transmitters.  Interference & jamming.  Search and rescue (SAR).  ELT’s & EPIRB’s.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  DX’ing, Awards and Contesting.  Special Events.  Special event stations operate for a short period of time to commemorate some event or activity.  Not longer than 15 days.  1x1 call sign.

T7A09 -- Which of the following devices is most useful for VHF weak-signal communication? A.A quarter-wave vertical antenna B.A multi-mode VHF transceiver C.An omni-directional antenna D.A mobile VHF FM transceiver

T8C01 -- Which of the following methods is used to locate sources of noise interference or jamming? A.Echolocation B.Doppler radar C.Radio direction finding D.Phase locking

T8C02 -- Which of these items would be useful for a hidden transmitter hunt? A.Calibrated SWR meter B.A directional antenna C.A calibrated noise bridge D.All of these choices are correct

T8C03 -- What popular operating activity involves contacting as many stations as possible during a specified period of time? A.Contesting B.Net operations C.Public service events D.Simulated emergency exercises

T8C04 -- Which of the following is good procedure when contacting another station in a radio contest? A.Be sure to sign only the last two letters of your call if there is a pileup calling the station B.Work the station twice to be sure that you are in his log C.Send only the minimum information needed for proper identification and the contest exchange D.All of these choices are correct

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  Satellites.  OSCAR  Orbiting Satellite Carrying Amateur Radio.  OSCAR 1 launched December 12, 1961.  1 st private (non-governmental) satellite.  1 st satellite launched as a secondary payload into a separate orbit.  International Space Station.  Most astronauts have amateur radio license.  Operate station on ISS during spare time.  NA1SS, RS0ISS, DP0ISS

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  Satellites.  Types of amateur satellites:  Linear transverter.  Any emission type, but primarily CW & SSB.  FM Repeater.  Similar to your local VHF or UHF repeater.  Digital.  Packet store & forward.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  Satellites.  Definitions & terms:  Uplink – Earth stations to satellite.  Downlink – Satellite to earth stations.  Beacon – signal from satellite with information about satellite operating conditions.  Doppler shift – shift in frequency due to relative motion between satellite and earth station.  LEO – Low earth orbit.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  Satellites.  Definitions & terms:  Spin fading – Caused by rotation of satellite.  PACSAT – Packet radio satellite.  Tracking software – Gives beam heading and times when satellite is in view.  Telecommand – One-way transmissions to initiate, modify or terminate functions of a device at a distance.  Telemetry – One-way transmission of measurements at a distance from the measuring instrument.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  Satellites.  Definitions & terms:  When using satellites, the term “mode” means something different.  Bands satellite is using for uplink and downlink.  Mode U/V = 70cm uplink, 2m downlink.  Mode V/U = 2m uplink, 70cm downlink.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  Satellites.  Satellite tracking software.  Gives information about current location of satellite.  Displays current position of satellite on a map.  Tells you where to point your antenna.  Tells you the effects of Doppler shift on satellite frequency.  Uses Keplerian elements to determine current satellite position.  Named after Johannes Kepler.  A set of numbers that define the current orbit of a satellite.  Periodically updated as orbit changes.

T8B01 -- Who may be the control operator of a station communicating through an amateur satellite or space station? A.Only an Amateur Extra Class operator B.A General Class licensee or higher licensee who has a satellite operator certification C.Only an Amateur Extra Class operator who is also an AMSAT member D.Any amateur whose license privileges allow them to transmit on the satellite uplink frequency

T8B02 -- How much transmitter power should be used on the uplink frequency of an amateur satellite or space station? A.The maximum power of your transmitter B.The minimum amount of power needed to complete the contact C.No more than half the rating of your linear amplifier D.Never more than 1 watt

T8B03 -- Which of the following are provided by satellite tracking programs? A.Maps showing the real-time position of the satellite track over the earth B.The time, azimuth, and elevation of the start, maximum altitude, and end of a pass C.The apparent frequency of the satellite transmission, including effects of Doppler shift D.All of these answers are correct

T8B04 -- Which amateur stations may make contact with an amateur station on the International Space Station using 2 meter and 70 cm band amateur radio frequencies? A.Only members of amateur radio clubs at NASA facilities B.Any amateur holding a Technician or higher class license C.Only the astronaut's family members who are hams D.You cannot talk to the ISS on amateur radio frequencies

T8B05 -- What is a satellite beacon? A.The primary transmit antenna on the satellite B.An indicator light that that shows where to point your antenna C.A reflective surface on the satellite D.A transmission from a space station that contains information about a satellite

T8B06 -- Which of the following are inputs to a satellite tracking program? A.The weight of the satellite B.The Keplerian elements C.The last observed time of zero Doppler shift D.All of these answers are correct

T8B07 -- With regard to satellite communications, what is Doppler shift? A.A change in the satellite orbit B.A mode where the satellite receives signals on one band and transmits on another C.An observed change in signal frequency caused by relative motion between the satellite and the earth station D.A special digital communications mode for some satellites

T8B08 -- What is meant by the statement that a satellite is operating in mode U/V? A.The satellite uplink is in the 15 meter band and the downlink is in the 10 meter band B.The satellite uplink is in the 70 cm band and the downlink is in the 2 meter band C.The satellite operates using ultraviolet frequencies D.The satellite frequencies are usually variable

T8B09 -- What causes spin fading when referring to satellite signals? A.Circular polarized noise interference radiated from the sun B.Rotation of the satellite and its antennas C.Doppler shift of the received signal D.Interfering signals within the satellite uplink band

T8B10 -- What do the initials LEO tell you about an amateur satellite? A.The satellite battery is in Low Energy Operation mode B.The satellite is performing a Lunar Ejection Orbit maneuver C.The satellite is in a Low Earth Orbit D.The satellite uses Light Emitting Optics

T8B11 -- What is a commonly used method of sending signals to and from a digital satellite? A.USB AFSK B.PSK31 C.FM Packet D.WSJT

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  Special Modes.  Video.  Slow Scan TV (SSTV)  Sending snap-shot pictures.  Amateur TV (ATV)  Similar to commercial analog TV.  NTSC.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  Special Modes.  Meteor scatter and moonbounce.  Meteor scatter.  Bounce signals off ionized trails behind meteors.  Trails last up to several seconds.  Contacts of more then 1,000 miles away possible.  Primarily 6m.  Moonbounce.  a.k.a. – EME (earth-moon-earth).  Contacts up to 12,000 miles away possible.

Special Activities, Modes and Techniques  Special Modes.  Radio control.  Telecommand.  Normally 50 MHz.  1W maximum power output.  No on-air identification required.  Label with call, name, & address.

T1A07 -- What is the FCC Part 97 definition of telemetry? A.An information bulletin issued by the FCC B.A one-way transmission to initiate, modify or terminate functions of a device at a distance C.A one-way transmission of measurements at a distance from the measuring instrument D.An information bulletin from a VEC

T1A13 -- What is the FCC Part 97 definition of telecommand? A.An instruction bulletin issued by the FCC B.A one-way radio transmission of measurements at a distance from the measuring instrument C.A one-way transmission to initiate, modify or terminate functions of a device at a distance D.An instruction from a VEC

T8C07 -- What is the maximum power allowed when transmitting telecommand signals to radio controlled models? A.500 milliwatts B.1 watt C.25 watts D.1500 watts

T8C08 -- What is required in place of on-air station identification when sending signals to a radio control model using amateur frequencies? A.Voice identification must be transmitted every 10 minutes B.Morse code ID must be sent once per hour C.A label indicating the licensee’s name, call sign and address must be affixed to the transmitter D.A flag must be affixed to the transmitter antenna with the station call sign in 1 inch high letters or larger

T8D04 -- What type of transmission is indicated by the term NTSC? A.A Normal Transmission mode in Static Circuit B.A special mode for earth satellite uplink C.An analog fast scan color TV signal D.A frame compression scheme for TV signals

Technician License Class Chapter 9 Safety

Electrical Safety  Electrical Injuries.  An electrical current flowing through the human body can cause injuries in the following ways:  Heating of body tissue (burns).  Interference with electrical function of cells (shock).  Involuntary muscle contractions.  Heart fibrillation.  Loss of muscle control.  Can’t let go!

Electrical Safety  Electrical Injuries.  Even small currents can cause problems.  Voltages over about 30V are considered potentially dangerous.

Electrical Safety  Electrical Injuries. CurrentReaction <1 mANot perceptible. 1 mAFaint tingle. 5 mASlight shock. Not painful, but unpleasant. 6-30 mAPainful shock, loss of muscle control (can’t let go). Ventricular fibrillation. 50-150 mAExtreme pain, respiratory arrest, severe muscular contractions. Death possible. 1.0-4.3 AHeart stops, muscular contraction, nerve damage. Death likely. 10 ACardiac arrest, severe burns. Death probable.

Electrical Safety  Electrical Injuries.  Avoiding electrical hazards.  Never assume power is off!  Check with a voltmeter first.  Never bypass safety interlocks!  Discharge capacitors.  If you MUST work on live circuit:  Have a safety observer.  Remove watch and jewelry.  Keep one hand in pocket.  Avoid shorting batteries.

Electrical Safety  Electrical Injuries.  Response to electrical injury.  Remove power.  Install a clearly labeled master ON/OFF switch & make certain family members know where it is.  CPR.  All family members should be trained in CPR.

Electrical Safety  AC Safety Grounding.  Normally, no special wiring is required.  Some amplifiers require 220 VAC.  Always use 3-wire power cords.  Use ground fault current interrupter (GFCI) circuit breakers.

Electrical Safety  AC Safety Grounding.  Make certain that all outlets are wired correctly.  Connect black wire to brass terminal.  Hot.  Connect white wire to silver terminal.  Neutral.  Connect green or bare wire to green terminal.  Safety Ground.

Electrical Safety  AC Safety Grounding.  RF burns.  House wiring ground system adequate for 60 Hz.  House wiring grounds NOT adequate for RF frequencies.  More likely to act as an antenna.  Bond all station equipment to a common RF ground point.  Separate wire from each piece fo equipment to ground.  DO NOT “daisy-chain” the equipment grounds.  Common RF ground point should be a short copper bar or pipe connected to an outside RF ground using wide copper strap or braid.

Electrical Safety  Lightning.  Antennas are not struck any more frequently than trees or tall structures.  Ground all antennas & towers.  Short, direct connections.  No sharp turns.  Use lightning arrestors.  Disconnect antenna cables and power cords during storms.  Disconnect telephone lines from computer modems.

T0A01 -- Which of the following is a safety hazard of a 12-volt storage battery? A.Touching both terminals with the hands can cause electrical shock B.Shorting the terminals can cause burns, fire, or an explosion C.RF emissions from the battery D.All of these choices are correct

T0A02 -- How does current flowing through the body cause a health hazard? A.By heating tissue B.It disrupts the electrical functions of cells C.It causes involuntary muscle contractions D.All of these choices are correct

T0A03 -- What is connected to the green wire in a three-wire electrical AC plug? A.Neutral B.Hot C.Safety ground D.The white wire

T0A06 -- What is a good way to guard against electrical shock at your station? A.Use three-wire cords and plugs for all AC powered equipment B.Connect all AC powered station equipment to a common safety ground C.Use a circuit protected by a ground-fault interrupter D.All of these choices are correct

T0A07 -- Which of these precautions should be taken when installing devices for lightning protection in a coaxial cable feed line? A.Include a parallel bypass switch for each protector so that it can be switched out of the circuit when running high power B.Include a series switch in the ground line of each protector to prevent RF overload from inadvertently damaging the protector C.Keep the ground wires from each protector separate and connected to station ground D.Ground all of the protectors to a common plate which is in turn connected to an external ground

T0A08 -- What safety equipment should always be included in home-built equipment that is powered from 120V AC power circuits? A.A fuse or circuit breaker in series with the AC hot conductor B.An AC voltmeter across the incoming power source C.An inductor in series with the AC power source D.A capacitor across the AC power source

T0A11 -- What kind of hazard might exist in a power supply when it is turned off and disconnected? A.Static electricity could damage the grounding system B.Circulating currents inside the transformer might cause damage C.The fuse might blow if you remove the cover D.You might receive an electric shock from the charged* stored in large capacitors * Typo in question pool. Should be “charge”.

T0B10 -- Which of the following is true concerning grounding conductors used for lightning protection? A.Only non-insulated wire must be used B.Wires must be carefully routed with precise right-angle bends C.Sharp bends must be avoided D.Common grounds must be avoided

T0B11 -- Which of the following establishes grounding requirements for an amateur radio tower or antenna? A.FCC Part 97 Rules B.Local electrical codes C.FAA tower lighting regulations D.Underwriters Laboratories' recommended practices

T0B12 -- Which of the following is good practice when installing ground wires on a tower for lightning protection? A.Put a loop in the ground connection to prevent water damage to the ground system B.Make sure that all bends in the ground wires are clean, right angle bends C.Ensure that connections are short and direct D.All of these choices are correct

RF Exposure  Electromagnetic energy can be absorbed by physical objects and cause changes.  Type of change depends on intensity and frequency of the energy.  At best, change in temperature.  At worst, change in molecular structure.

RF Exposure  Non-ionizing radiation.  Only effect is heating.  Radio frequencies.  Ionizing radiation.  Strips electrons from atoms.  Ultra-violet light.  X-rays.  Gamma rays.

RF Exposure

 Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE).  Maximum exposure limit set by FCC Rules.  Amateurs must evaluate their stations to ensure MPE’s are not exceeded.  To avoid exceeding MPE’s:  Prevent access to high RF-level areas.  Avoid directing high-level RF fields towards occupied areas.

RF Exposure  Power Density.  Intensity of an RF field is described by its power density.  Measured in mW/cm 2.

RF Exposure  Power Density.  Transmitter power.  Higher power, higher risk.  Antenna gain and proximity.  Directional antennas focus available energy.  Being physically close or standing in the beam direction increases risk.  Controlling power & distance is the basis of maintaining RF safety.

RF Exposure  Exposure Limits.  MPE’s vary with frequency.  Body absorbs RF energy at different rates for different frequencies.  Different parts of body absorb RF energy at different rates based on size.  FCC Rules define two “environments” with different MPE’s for each.  Controlled environment.  Uncontrolled environment.

RF Exposure  Exposure Limits.  Controlled environment.  You know where people are standing in relation to your antenna and you can do something about it.  People in the controlled environment are aware of the RF exposure and are knowledgeable about the risks involved.  More power is allowed because you can make adjustments if needed.  Exposure is averaged over a 6-minute period.

RF Exposure  Exposure Limits.  Uncontrolled environment.  You have no idea, or have no control of people near your antenna.  People in the uncontrolled environment are not aware of the RF exposure and do not know anything about the risks involved.  Less power is allowed because you have to assume the worst-case scenario.  Exposure is averaged over a 30-minute period.

RF Exposure  Exposure Limits.

RF Exposure  Averaging and Duty Cycle.  For RF exposure purposes, the average transmitter power is reduced by a factor based on the mode.  Based on the percentage of time that the signal is at full power.

RF Exposure  Averaging and Duty Cycle. ModeDuty Cycle Factor CW40% SSB Voice25% SSB Voice w/Comp40% SSB Digital100% SSB SSTV100% AM Voice (50% mod)50% AM Voice (100% mod)25% FM Voice100% FM Digital100%

RF Exposure  Averaging and Duty Cycle.  For RF exposure purposes, the average transmitter power is further reduced by the ratio of transmit time to total time.  More listen & less talk  reduced exposure.

RF Exposure  Averaging and Duty Cycle.  Average power is calculated as: P AVG = P PEP x (Mode Factor) x (Transmit Time) / (Total Time)

RF Exposure  Averaging and Duty Cycle.  Also must consider the antenna gain & feedline losses.  If antenna has 8 db gain & feedline has 2 dB loss, then net gain is +6 dB.  Need to multiply average power by 4.

RF Exposure  Evaluating Exposures.  All fixed stations must perform an exposure evaluation.  Mobile & handheld stations are exempt.  Below certain lower power levels, no evaluation is required.  Varies with frequency.  Example: below 50 W at VHF.

RF Exposure  Evaluating Exposures.  Several methods are available to do the evaluation.  Use tables/formulas found in FCC OET Bulletin 65.  Use computer modeling software.  Based on formulas found in FCC OET Bulletin 65.  Use calibrated equipment to directly measure the field strength.  Equipment is extremely expensive.

RF Exposure  Evaluating Exposures.  Calculate ERP in direction of maximum radiation.  Include mode factor, duty cycle, antenna gain, & feedline loss.  Use tables, formulas, or modeling software to determine minimum distance from antenna to stay below MPE.  Repeat for each transmitter & band.

RF Exposure  Exposure Safety Measures.  Locate antennas away from areas people can access.  Locate antennas away from property line.  Mount antenna as high as possible.  Do not point directional antennas towards occupied areas.  Use lower gain antennas or lower avarage transmitter power.

RF Exposure  Exposure Safety Measures.  Regardless of the exposure evaluation results, make sure that people cannot come into contact with your antennas.  RF burns are painful!

T0C01 -- What type of radiation are VHF and UHF radio signals? A.Gamma radiation B.Ionizing radiation C.Alpha radiation D.Non-ionizing radiation

T0C02 -- Which of the following frequencies has the lowest value for Maximum Permissible Exposure limit? A.3.5 MHz B.50 MHz C.440 MHz D.1296 MHz

T0C03 -- What is the maximum power level that an amateur radio station may use at VHF frequencies before an RF exposure evaluation is required? A.1500 watts PEP transmitter output B.1 watt forward power C.50 watts PEP at the antenna D.50 watts PEP reflected power

T0C04 -- What factors affect the RF exposure of people near an amateur station antenna? A.Frequency and power level of the RF field B.Distance from the antenna to a person C.Radiation pattern of the antenna D.All of these choices are correct

T0C05 -- Why do exposure limits vary with frequency? A.Lower frequency RF fields have more energy than higher frequency fields B.Lower frequency RF fields do not penetrate the human body C.Higher frequency RF fields are transient in nature D.The human body absorbs more RF energy at some frequencies than at others

T0C06 -- Which of the following is an acceptable method to determine that your station complies with FCC RF exposure regulations? A.By calculation based on FCC OET Bulletin 65 B.By calculation based on computer modeling C.By measurement of field strength using calibrated equipment D.All of these choices are correct

T0C07 -- What could happen if a person accidentally touched your antenna while you were transmitting? A.Touching the antenna could cause television interference B.They might receive a painful RF burn C.They might develop radiation poisoning D.All of these choices are correct

T0C08 -- Which of the following actions might amateur operators take to prevent exposure to RF radiation in excess of FCC- supplied limits? A.Relocate antennas B.Relocate the transmitter C.Increase the duty cycle D.All of these choices are correct

T0C09 -- How can you make sure your station stays in compliance with RF safety regulations? A.By informing the FCC of any changes made in your station B.By re-evaluating the station whenever an item of equipment is changed C.By making sure your antennas have low SWR D.All of these choices are correct

T0C10 -- Why is duty cycle one of the factors used to determine safe RF radiation exposure levels? A.It affects the average exposure of people to radiation B.It affects the peak exposure of people to radiation C.It takes into account the antenna feed line loss D.It takes into account the thermal effects of the final amplifier

T0C11 -- What is the definition of duty cycle during the averaging time for RF exposure? A.The difference between the lowest power output and the highest power output of a transmitter B.The difference between the PEP and average power output of a transmitter C.The percentage of time that a transmitter is transmitting D.The percentage of time that a transmitter is not transmitting

T0C12 -- How does RF radiation differ from ionizing radiation (radioactivity)? A.RF radiation does not have sufficient energy to cause genetic damage B.RF radiation can only be detected with an RF dosimeter C.RF radiation is limited in range to a few feet D.RF radiation is perfectly safe

T0C13 -- If the averaging time for exposure is 6 minutes, how much power density is permitted if the signal is present for 3 minutes and absent for 3 minutes rather than being present for the entire 6 minutes? A.3 times as much B.1/2 as much C.2 times as much D.There is no adjustment allowed for shorter exposure times

Mechanical Safety  Mobile Installations.  Secure all equipment.  Place equipment where you can operate it safely while driving.

Mechanical Safety Putting Up Antennas and Supports.  Install antennas & supports so that they  Are clear of trees and power lines.  Won’t hit anyone or cross power lines if they fall.  Minimum of 10 feet from power lines.  Are properly grounded.

Mechanical Safety Putting Up Antennas and Supports. Wear proper clothing, hard hat and eye protection. Climbing harness. Gin pole Used for lifting tower sections and antennas. Lower a crank-up tower before climbing. Don’t work alone!

T0B01 -- When should members of a tower work team wear a hard hat and safety glasses? A.At all times except when climbing the tower B.At all times except when belted firmly to the tower C.At all times when any work is being done on the tower D.Only when the tower exceeds 30 feet in height

T0B02 -- What is a good precaution to observe before climbing an antenna tower? A.Make sure that you wear a grounded wrist strap B.Remove all tower grounding connections C.Put on a climbing harness and safety glasses D.All of the these choices are correct

T0B03 -- Under what circumstances is it safe to climb a tower without a helper or observer? A.When no electrical work is being performed B.When no mechanical work is being performed C.When the work being done is not more than 20 feet above the ground D.Never

T0B04 -- Which of the following is an important safety precaution to observe when putting up an antenna tower? A.Wear a ground strap connected to your wrist at all times B.Insulate the base of the tower to avoid lightning strikes C.Look for and stay clear of any overhead electrical wires D.All of these choices are correct

T0B05 -- What is the purpose of a gin pole? A.To temporarily replace guy wires B.To be used in place of a safety harness C.To lift tower sections or antennas D.To provide a temporary ground

T0B06 -- What is the minimum safe distance from a power line to allow when installing an antenna? A.Half the width of your property B.The height of the power line above ground C.1/2 wavelength at the operating frequency D.So that if the antenna falls unexpectedly, no part of it can come closer than 10 feet to the power wires

T0B07 -- Which of the following is an important safety rule to remember when using a crank-up tower? A.This type of tower must never be painted B.This type of tower must never be grounded C.This type of tower must never be climbed unless it is in the fully retracted position D.All of these choices are correct

T0B08 -- What is considered to be a proper grounding method for a tower? A.A single four-foot ground rod, driven into the ground no more than 12 inches from the base B.A ferrite-core RF choke connected between the tower and ground C.Separate eight-foot long ground rods for each tower leg, bonded to the tower and each other D.A connection between the tower base and a cold water pipe

T0B09 -- Why should you avoid attaching an antenna to a utility pole? A.The antenna will not work properly because of induced voltages B.The utility company will charge you an extra monthly fee C.The antenna could contact high-voltage power wires D.All of these choices are correct

Questions?

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Technician License Class Chapter 6 Communicating with Other Hams.

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