How do weekly amateur radio nets work?
DISCLOSURE: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase anything through one of these links we will earn a commission.
Question by carl w: How do weekly amateur radio nets work?
Im new to HAM radio, and Im trying to start some conversations/get involved with clubs and stuff. What is the procedure when listening to a “net”. for example, there is one tonight in my area at 8pm. when i listen to the proper freqency, what will i be required to do? What is the process? What are the rules as to who talks when? etc.
73
KC9QFF
Best answer:
Answer by Daniel K
Carl – It is really easy. Just sign in when they call for sign ins. Listen to a few others do it before you sign in. You may just need to say your call but maybe a location and name too.
After everyone signs in, they may do a “roundtable” where everyone speaks in turn. They will tell you what to do. If the club has a website, you may try to e-mail the moderator of the net ahead of time to ask questions.
They are a friendly bunch so you’ll probably feel welcome right away even if you don’t do everything perfect.
Have fun!
Give your answer to this question below!
When I first got my ticket I was in your shoes…and a little mic shy to be honest. Here is what I did:
On a piece of paper I wrote my name, my call, and my grid square/location. I tuned to the frequency the net was to be held on and I listened to the preamble before check-ins were called for and jotted down any additional information the control operator requested upon check-in. When I decided to check-in I just went for it and gave the info requested. One good habit to get into (in my opinion) when checking into the net is to transmit “This is…” and let the courtesy tone beep then follow with “Call, Name, XYZ” (where XYZ= requested info.) If I wanted to check-in simply for the head count I’ll follow “XYZ” with “In-and-out.” You can always call for a “re-check” later when another round of check-ins are called for if you have something to add to or ask the net.
At least the first few times I did in and out just so that my call and name could be heard. And don’t worry about any mistakes, the net will most likely remain friendly and courteous.
I hope this helps!! It worked for me.