New Procedure Update/Reminder 19 December 2007

The new SOP procedure goes into effect on 1 January 2008 and it appears that we are well on the road to implementing the changes. We have held several practice sessions which have shed some light on the procedures and we have made changes to the procedures based on those sessions.

It is important for everyone to continually check the Region One Web Site for the latest update on the NCS and Member procedures. Some key point to remember are below:.

Pre-net.

If you require “on-air” tune up time, please do so before the pre-net time. The pre-net starts at fifteen minutes prior to net opening. Please do not transmit during this time as this time is to be used by the NCS to appoint the ANCS and to establish primary and secondary frequencies.

Check in.

The procedure is as follows:

Say NCS call sign (then un-key, listen for a clear channel), THIS IS (say your call sign in phonetics), list your traffic or say NO TRAFFIC

It is imperative that you use phonetics when you identify your station. It is also important you attempt to insure the channel is clear before transmitting. With propagation the way it is right now, this method may not always be effective in minimizing doubling but if we all get into the habit of for the procedure, when conditions improve, we will have an even more effective net.

Continuity Check.

The NCS or ANCS will conduct continuity checks throughout the net. “Roll Call-Radio Check” is no longer used, which means there is be no roll-call made by state for the radio checks. The new SOP is very specific that all stations checked into the net be available during the entire net time. The NCS will no longer chase the stations that missed continuity check but will close out the station if no response is received.

Finally everyone’s patience and support is required to make this new SOP viable, so I ask all members to be patient as we all, including the Net Control Stations, make the transition. The NCS stations are encouraged to use the new procedure so that we can work out any problems before the start date.

I want to thank the Region Staff and particularly AFF1O for their support during the transition. I also want to thank the Net Control Stations and all Region One Members for their support to Air Force MARS. Happy Holidays to all.

signed

Robert Harrison, AFF1N/AFA1QD

Region One

Voice Network Manager