How do I start a contact?
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Introduction
Using your license to access repeaters is an inherently social activity. While it can be a daunting task at first, you shouldn't be nervous. Other radio operators are looking to make friendly contacts just like you!
Procedure
- Let other operators know that you are there by saying your call sign!
- Simply announce your call sign and say "monitoring." Then stay on frequency and wait for a response.
- Phone a friend
- If you want to reach a particular station, say your friend's call sign and then your call sign.
- Stick around after the Nine O'Clock Net
- The net control station frequently calls out for any stations wanting after net contacts
Tips
- Don't call "CQ" in to a repeater as you would on a calling frequency
- Do not use CB lingo. There is no need to say "breaker, breaker" or anything like that. Simply announce your call sign.
- Sometimes there isn't anyone around to respond. That's OK. Try a different repeater or give it a try at a different time. Some repeaters are unused at one hour and come alive at another time of day. Keep trying!