HF radio transmission
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NGT Transceiver Getting Started Guide
Etiquette for the use of HF radio
There is a standard procedure for communicating over HF
radio. Before you begin transmitting, switch off scanning,
select a channel, then press PTT on the handset to initiate
tuning of the antenna. Listen to the channel that you are going
to use and ensure that there is no voice or data communication
taking place. You may need to wait until the channel is clear or
select another channel.
When you first establish communication with another station
it is customary to state their call sign and then your own using
the phonetic alphabet (see
‘Alpha Bravo One, this is Alpha Bravo Two. Do you receive
me? Over.’
In this example your call sign is AB2 and you are calling a
station with the call sign AB1. A call sign is a group of letters
and numbers issued by a government authority to identify a
station. The phonetic alphabet is used to ensure that your call
sign is understood.
The word ‘over’ is used to signify the end of your
transmission. The transceiver may be set up to transmit a short
beep when you release the PTT button on the handset. When
your conversation with the other party is finished, the party
that speaks last should say ‘out’.
Swearing or foul language should not be used—heavy
penalties can apply.
Keep communication as short as possible.
