Introduction to Emergency Communications

Course Description

This is an introductory training course for new hams who may be interested in Emergency Communications. It is the first in a series of courses offered to prepare for participation in Emergency Communications in Santa Clara County.

Intended Audience

New hams who may be interested in Emergency Communications

Prerequisites

Valid Technician class or higher Amateur Radio license

Format

In person, 3½ hours

Students should bring

• Copy of course materials (see below)
• Pen/pencil and pad of paper
• 2m/70cm dual-band HT radio (if you have one) with instruction manual.
  (If you don’t have one, you will be loaned one for the exercise.)

Learning Objectives

• Explain VHF/UHF FM technology used in EmComm
• Use band plans, frequency lists, repeater directories
• Configure their radio for simplex and duplex operations
• Participated in a directed net
• Make direct contacts
• Describe the use of packet mode in EmComm
• Select and EmComm radio and accessories
• Understand local EmComm organizations
• Understand what to do next, after this class
• Make real on-the-air contacts with a Net Control operator

Topics Covered

• VHF/UHF simplex and duplex (repeaters: tone, offset)
• Voice operating techniques (with directed net exercises)
• Additional EmComm modes (Packet, APRS, HF)
• Radios and accessories for EmComm
• EmComm organizations (county; SPECS/SVECS, cities)
• On-air exercise