Operating Practices & Repeaters
Good Operating Practice
The Advanced license gives you the most privileges — and the most responsibility. Here are the operating practices you need to know.
Repeater Operation
Repeaters receive on one frequency and simultaneously retransmit on another, extending the range of low-power stations. Key points:
- Offset: The difference between the repeater's input and output frequencies. On 2m in Australia: typically ±600 kHz. On 70cm: typically ±5 MHz.
- CTCSS (Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System): A sub-audible tone (e.g., 91.5 Hz) that your radio transmits alongside your voice. The repeater only opens when it detects the correct tone — prevents false triggering from noise or other signals.
- Timeout timer: Most repeaters have a timer (typically 3-5 minutes). If you transmit too long, the repeater drops your signal. Keep transmissions short and leave gaps for others.
- Linked repeaters: Multiple repeaters linked together via the internet (IRLP, EchoLink) or microwave links, allowing wide-area coverage.
Making a Call
On a Repeater (FM)
- Listen first — make sure the repeater isn't in use
- Key up briefly and say your callsign: "VK2ABC listening" or "VK2ABC monitoring"
- Wait for a response. If calling a specific station: "VK2XYZ, this is VK2ABC"
On HF (SSB)
- Find a clear frequency. Ask: "Is this frequency in use?" and listen
- Call CQ: "CQ CQ CQ, this is VK2ABC, Victor Kilo Two Alpha Bravo Charlie, calling CQ and listening"
- Or answer someone's CQ: "VK2XYZ, this is VK2ABC"
Signal Reports — The RST System
| R (Readability) | S (Strength) | T (Tone, CW only) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 = Unreadable | 1 = Faint | 1 = Rough/harsh |
| 3 = Readable with difficulty | 5 = Fair | 5 = Musical |
| 5 = Perfectly readable | 9 = Extremely strong | 9 = Perfect tone |
A typical good signal report on SSB is "59" (perfectly readable, extremely strong). On CW it might be "599".
Emergency Communications
Amateur radio can be vital in emergencies when other communications fail:
- MAYDAY: Immediate threat to life — all stations must stop and listen
- PAN PAN: Urgent but not life-threatening
- In Australia, WICEN (Wireless Institute Civil Emergency Network) coordinates amateur emergency communications
- You may break any frequency allocation rules during a genuine emergency to save life or property
Exam point: In a genuine emergency where life is at risk, you are permitted to use any means of radio communication at your disposal — the normal rules about frequency allocations and power are suspended until the emergency is resolved.