Operating Practices

7A1: Check Before Calling

Always check that a frequency is clear before calling. Listen for a few moments to make sure no one is already using the frequency.

• Listen for at least 30 seconds before calling
• If you hear any signal, even faint, don't call
• Use an online SDR to check if a frequency is in use remotely

7A2: Listen Before Transmitting

Always listen before you transmit. This is the golden rule of amateur radio.

• Listen for ongoing conversations
• Check for digital mode signals you might not hear
• If in doubt, ask "Is this frequency in use?"

7A3: Calling Channels

Calling channels are designated frequencies for making initial contact. Once contact is established, move to a free frequency to continue the conversation.

• Don't hold a calling frequency for a long conversation
• The purpose is to establish contact, then QSY (change frequency)
• Keep calls short on the calling frequency

7A4: Procedure Words (Q Codes)

Amateur radio uses Q codes — three-letter codes that represent common phrases:

7A5: Station Identification

You must transmit your call sign:

• At the start and end of each transmission
• At least every 15 minutes during a long conversation
• When changing frequency, mode, or supervisor

7A6: Phonetic Alphabet

Use the NATO phonetic alphabet to spell your call sign clearly:

7A7: Listening Watch

After calling on a calling frequency, maintain a listening watch to see if anyone is calling you back.

7A8: Contest Operating

Contests are competitive events where amateurs try to make as many contacts as possible in a set time period.

• Exchanges are usually brief — signal report and location
• Contests can be intense — band conditions change rapidly
• Follow contest rules carefully
• Be mindful of other users — don't cause interference to non-contest contacts

7B1: What Are Band Plans?

Band plans are voluntary agreements that divide each amateur band into sections for different modes and activities.

• Band plans are voluntary — they complement the licence allocations
• They help prevent interference between different activities
• Managed by the RSGB in the UK

7B2: Licence Allocations vs Band Plans

It's important to understand the difference:

• Licence allocations — legal, define which frequencies you can use and at what power
• Band plans — voluntary, suggest which modes go where within the allocations
• You must follow your licence allocations
• You should follow band plans to be a good operator

7C1: How Repeaters Work

A repeater is an automated station that receives a signal on one frequency and retransmits it on another. This extends the range of portable and mobile stations.

• Transmit and receive on different frequencies (frequency pair)
• Usually located on high ground or tall towers for maximum coverage
• Foundation licensees can use repeaters (with their own call sign)
• Listen before transmitting — check the repeater is not already in use

7C2: CTCSS and Courtesy Tones

Many repeaters use CTCSS (Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System) — a sub-audible tone transmitted along with your signal to access the repeater.

• Each repeater has a specific CTCSS tone frequency
• The tone opens the repeater's squelch, allowing your signal through
• Courtesy tones are brief tones transmitted by the repeater after each transmission ends, indicating the repeater is free
• Don't interrupt during a courtesy tone — wait for it to finish

7D1: Propagation Beacons

Beacons are automated stations that transmit a continuous signal, usually on a fixed frequency. They help assess propagation conditions.

• Transmit continuously or at regular intervals
• Used to check if a band is "open" for long-distance communication
• Listen to beacons to assess current propagation conditions
• The Global Beacon Network provides worldwide coverage

7E1: Popular Digital Modes

7F1: Amateur Radio Satellites

Amateur radio satellites orbit the Earth and provide communication capabilities that would be impossible from the ground.

• Linear transponders — receive a band of frequencies and retransmit on another. Allow SSB and CW contacts via satellite.
• FM repeaters — simpler satellites that work like repeaters in space. Good for beginner satellite operators.
• Foundation licensees can use satellites with their own call sign
• Satellites have limited availability — they pass over at specific times

7G1: Low Power Operating

QRP means operating at low power — typically 5W or less for SSB, and 2.5W or less for CW.

• A challenge — making contacts with minimal power requires skill
• Better propagation conditions help — choosing the right band and time
• Efficient antennas make a big difference
• Digital modes like FT8 work well at QRP power levels
• The Foundation Licence allows up to 25W — so QRP is well within reach!

7H1: Logging Contacts

Keeping a log of your contacts is good practice and may be required by Ofcom. A log helps you remember who you've spoken to and provides a record of your activity.

• Call sign of the station you contacted
• Date and time of the contact (in UTC)
• Frequency or band used
• Mode (FM, SSB, CW, etc.)
• Signal report exchanged
• Name and location of the other station (if exchanged)

7H2: Special Event Stations

Special Event Stations (SES) are stations set up to celebrate or publicise a particular event. They have specific call sign requirements:

• Call signs must start with "GB" in the UK
• They operate for a limited time to mark an event
• Many amateurs collect SES contacts as a hobby