ron@hpfcla.UUCP (08/20/85)
I thought this would be easy but....
I am looking for the standard format for Amateur Radio messages handled
in the net systems. I have listened in to several sessions and some
of the messages passed and still have some questions.
1. What is the "proper" format for the messages ?
2. What are the rules for word count within the message ?
3. Where can I get a list of the standard "ARL __" message
abbreviations ?
About 10 years ago I had this stuff but I don't remember where it came
from. I will be using my 2m HT on a camping trip to send whereabouts to
the wife and would like to be an orderly traffic originator.
Thanks for the responses (in advance)
Ron Miller WB4UWH
H-P
Ft. Collins Systems Div
Ft. Collins Colo
at {ihnp4}hpfcla!ronwheatley@inuxi.UUCP (Steven Wheatley) (08/28/85)
At least two references to traffic handling come to mind. One is any copy of the ARRL Handbook. The ARRL Operating Guide also gives a good explanation (1 chapter) on traffic handling. If you write the ARRL, or give them a call (1-203-666-1541) they will tell you how to get a bunch of free (except for an sase) info on traffic handling, i believe its the net directory package. It takes roughly 5 oz of postage plus a large sase (9x12 envelope). I have most of the above info if you only need a few references. steve
price%marlin@nosc.ARPA (James N. Price) (08/28/85)
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Ron--
While I'm not exactly an "iron man" of traffic, I have done a fair
amount of traffic handling in my days. Format-wise, the ARRL message
blanks, available at most ham stores and from the ARRL, are almost
self-explanatory. The message # is a serial number from your station,
the precedence is routine or higher, handling instructions (HX something)
are listed in the back of ARRL log books, the check is the number
of words in the text, and so on.
The only thing funny about the word count is that numbers are
spelled out unless they are a group like a frequency on 20
meters. Thus, a text line might be "have not heard from you in
twenty one days Xray Meet me on 14.250 at usual time" or some
such. The check of the words in quotes is 17. Xray and query
are used instead of period and question mark.
Also there are the ARL numbered messages which again are listed at
the back of the ARRL logbooks. Their purpose is to save time by using
canned text for things like county fairs, happy birthday, etc.
If you'd like an on-the-air sample, meet me on 3928 kHz, the Mission
Trail Net, at 8 p.m. Pacific Time--be glad to talk to you.
Also, I'm sure the ARRL puts out a small publication that explains
all this more precisely, probably for the cost of an SASE.
Happy traffic handling--73
Jim Price, K6ZH, San Diego, CA (PRICE@NOSC.ARPA)
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