ares, nts, ntsd the scary monsters. national traffic system (nts), (ntsd), wl2k system & ares a...

ARES, NTS, NTSDARES, NTS, NTSDThe scary monsters The scary monsters

National Traffic System (NTS), National Traffic System (NTS), (NTSD) , WL2K System & ARES (NTSD) , WL2K System & ARES A IntroductionA Introduction

Chuck Verdon Chuck Verdon W5KAVW5KAV

Pacific Area Digital Coordinator Pacific Area Digital Coordinator NTSDNTSD

Pacific Area Digital HubPacific Area Digital Hub

Member ARRL/NTS Winlink Member ARRL/NTS Winlink CommitteeCommittee

TCC Rep Cycle 1 & 2TCC Rep Cycle 1 & 2

NCS Pacific Area Net (PAN)NCS Pacific Area Net (PAN)

NCS Region 7 net (DRN7)NCS Region 7 net (DRN7)

NCS Noon time net 3970KhzNCS Noon time net 3970Khz

Washington traffic RepWashington traffic Rep

Updated Jan 2013Updated Jan 2013

QuestionsQuestions

• Questions ?? Questions ?? • I have Questions ??I have Questions ??• I know you have Questions ??I know you have Questions ??

• Hopefully I can answer SomeHopefully I can answer Some• Dispel SomeDispel Some• Correct Some Correct Some

National Traffic System (NTS)National Traffic System (NTS) Messaging Basics Messaging Basics

OutlineOutline• What is the National Traffic System?What is the National Traffic System?• Advantages of NTS MessagingAdvantages of NTS Messaging• NTS Hierarchy and modesNTS Hierarchy and modes• The ARRL Radiogram FormThe ARRL Radiogram Form• ARL Abbreviated TextsARL Abbreviated Texts• How to Deliver an NTS MessageHow to Deliver an NTS Message• NTS DigitalNTS Digital• Local NTS Contacts & NetsLocal NTS Contacts & Nets• Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources

What is the National Traffic System (NTS)?What is the National Traffic System (NTS)?

The “RELAY” in American Radio The “RELAY” in American Radio RelayRelay League (ARRL) League (ARRL)

Started in 1915 as the formal ARRL system to relay Started in 1915 as the formal ARRL system to relay messages around the countrymessages around the country

Transmit & Receive Modes: Voice, CW, DigitalTransmit & Receive Modes: Voice, CW, Digital

NTS and Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES)NTS and Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES)

Requirements to join: Requirements to join: AnyAny levellevel Ham license & Ham license & interestinterest

ARRL Field Organization Appointments: Official Relay ARRL Field Organization Appointments: Official Relay Station (ORS), Digital Relay Station (DRS) & Section Station (ORS), Digital Relay Station (DRS) & Section Traffic Manager (STM), Area Digital Coordinator Traffic Manager (STM), Area Digital Coordinator (ADC), Area/Regional MBO/Hub.(ADC), Area/Regional MBO/Hub.

Advantages of NTS MessagingAdvantages of NTS Messaging

Wireless! Send them from anywhere.Wireless! Send them from anywhere. Use a little HT or a big base stationUse a little HT or a big base station Standard FormatStandard Format AccountabilityAccountability NTS Nets meet dailyNTS Nets meet daily Speed (digipeater vs. email)Speed (digipeater vs. email) When all else fails…When all else fails… Fun, good practice & helpful!Fun, good practice & helpful!

NTS AreasNTS Areas

PANPAN

CANCAN

EANEAN

NTS/NTSD National Messaging, Section, NTS/NTSD National Messaging, Section, Region, AreaRegion, Area

The current resources of the manual The current resources of the manual NTS system and NTSD shall be NTS system and NTSD shall be

preserved as a fundamental backup preserved as a fundamental backup system for national messaging.system for national messaging.

The scope of these communications The scope of these communications are being dramatically enhanced by are being dramatically enhanced by

the addition of;the addition of;

Radio-email servicesRadio-email services

NTS Hierarchy and ModesNTS Hierarchy and Modes

US and Canada organized into Area, US and Canada organized into Area, Region, and Local NetsRegion, and Local Nets• 3 Areas3 Areas• 12 Regions12 Regions

Traffic Flow:Traffic Flow:

Section/ Local Section/ Local

NetsNets

Region NetsRegion Nets

Area NetsArea Nets Area NetsArea Nets

TCCTCC

Region NetsRegion Nets

Section / Local Section / Local

NetsNets

VHF/UHF Phone, HF Phone, CW, DigitalVHF/UHF Phone, HF Phone, CW, Digital

HF Phone, CW, DigitalHF Phone, CW, Digital

ARES & NTS ARES & NTS COMMUNICATIONSCOMMUNICATIONS

The NTS manages a schedule of manual nets at Area, The NTS manages a schedule of manual nets at Area, Region and Section/Local level to move formal NTS Region and Section/Local level to move formal NTS text Radiograms nationally. These NTS manual nets text Radiograms nationally. These NTS manual nets

meet periodically or continuously as warranted by the meet periodically or continuously as warranted by the nature of an ongoing emergency.nature of an ongoing emergency.

So Whats been missing mostly !So Whats been missing mostly !

At Section level the NTS nets and operators At Section level the NTS nets and operators interfacing directly with ARES® stations and provide interfacing directly with ARES® stations and provide

in-Section messaging support.in-Section messaging support.

ARES Communications LayerARES Communications LayerAll of the ARRL Sections provide ARES® communications through All of the ARRL Sections provide ARES® communications through

interfaces with government and private relief organizations. interfaces with government and private relief organizations.

The means include, but are not limited to:Tactical voice The means include, but are not limited to:Tactical voice communications to/from fixed and field sites;communications to/from fixed and field sites;

Formal ARRL Radiogram text messaging to/from fixed and Formal ARRL Radiogram text messaging to/from fixed and

field sites ;APRS/GPS, Echolink, IRLP, ATV, TCP/IP, mesh, D-Star, field sites ;APRS/GPS, Echolink, IRLP, ATV, TCP/IP, mesh, D-Star,

and other digital services; Packet radio digital text messaging and and other digital services; Packet radio digital text messaging and keyboard chat.keyboard chat.

The NTS/NTSD can provide Section level and Section-to-Section The NTS/NTSD can provide Section level and Section-to-Section messaging. These services, taken in their entirety are the messaging. These services, taken in their entirety are the

interface to ICS/NIMS via the Logistics Section or ACS.interface to ICS/NIMS via the Logistics Section or ACS.

The scope of these communications may be dramatically The scope of these communications may be dramatically

enhanced by the addition of Radio-email services.enhanced by the addition of Radio-email services.

Lets talk about layer's of communicationsLets talk about layer's of communicationsARES, NTS, and NTSDARES, NTS, and NTSD

Did you know that NTS & NTSD is the Did you know that NTS & NTSD is the traffic arm of ARES, Fact not fiction !traffic arm of ARES, Fact not fiction !

District nets = ARES & ?? mostly Voice District nets = ARES & ?? mostly Voice

Section nets = ARES & NTS HF Voice netsSection nets = ARES & NTS HF Voice nets

2 AND 6 meters, some digital HF(NTSD)2 AND 6 meters, some digital HF(NTSD)

LOTS OF VHF DIGITAL (non NTSD)LOTS OF VHF DIGITAL (non NTSD)

Division nets/Division nets/Regional nets = ARES/NTS Regional nets = ARES/NTS Voice, Some CW and (NTSD)DigitalVoice, Some CW and (NTSD)Digital

Area nets = ARES/NTS/TCC Voice, CW, Area nets = ARES/NTS/TCC Voice, CW, (NTSD) Digital (NTSD) Digital

NTS COMMUNICATIONSNTS COMMUNICATIONS

11stst let talk about let talk about Message FormatMessage Format

The ARRL RadiogramThe ARRL Radiogram

The basic'sThe basic's

Did you know that the ARRL Did you know that the ARRL message form has the same message form has the same

basic information as thebasic information as the

FEMA form ICS-213FEMA form ICS-213

704 R C N2GS 14 CHESTER NJ 1830 JUL 2704 R C N2GS 14 CHESTER NJ 1830 JUL 2

GREG SZPUNAR N2GSGREG SZPUNAR N2GS

JOE SMITH KC2XXYJOE SMITH KC2XXY1234 SECOND ST1234 SECOND STSUMMIT NJ 07901SUMMIT NJ 07901

650-123-4567650-123-4567

aaustin AK2US 7/2/03 2112 EDT ustin AK2US 7/2/03 2112 EDT

THIS IS THE ARRL RADIOGRAM THIS IS THE ARRL RADIOGRAM

FORM XRAY DETAIL TO FORM XRAY DETAIL TO

FOLLOW XRAY HAVE FUN 73 FOLLOW XRAY HAVE FUN 73

ARRL Radiogram FormARRL Radiogram Form

Preamble:Preamble: Message number, precedence, Message number, precedence, HX (optional handling code), station of HX (optional handling code), station of origin, check (text word count), place of origin, check (text word count), place of origin, time filed (optional), and date.origin, time filed (optional), and date.

Addressee: Addressee: Name, call sign (if a ham), Name, call sign (if a ham), full street address, city, 2-letter state full street address, city, 2-letter state abbreviation, zip code (very important) & abbreviation, zip code (very important) & telephone (be sure to include area code).telephone (be sure to include area code).

This Radio Message was received at:This Radio Message was received at:Station identification and location.Station identification and location.

Text:Text: No maximum for ECOM trafficNo maximum for ECOM traffic, , 5 words per line, 25 words for general5 words per line, 25 words for generalevery day traffic 35 words maximum every day traffic 35 words maximum

Use the word “xray” for a period (.) and Use the word “xray” for a period (.) and “query” for a question mark (?). Last word “query” for a question mark (?). Last word in salutation (e.g., “73”, “Love”, etc.)in salutation (e.g., “73”, “Love”, etc.)

Signature:Signature: (Write-in above REC’D block) (Write-in above REC’D block) Name & call sign of person who wrote the Name & call sign of person who wrote the message – include full phone number if not a message – include full phone number if not a Ham or if new to NTS.Ham or if new to NTS.

REC’D & SENT:REC’D & SENT: Record the names and call sign Record the names and call sign of the person you rec’d the message from of the person you rec’d the message from and/or sent/forwarded the message to, along and/or sent/forwarded the message to, along with the date & time (EST/EDT or Z).with the date & time (EST/EDT or Z).

704 R C N2GS 14 CHESTER NJ 1830 J UL 2

GREG SZPUNAR N2GS

J OE SMI TH KC2XXY1234 SECOND STSUMMI T, NJ 07901

650- 123- 4567

austin AK2US 7/2/03 2112 EDT

THIS IS THIS IS THE ARRL RADIOGRAM THE ARRL RADIOGRAM

FORM XRAY DETAILFORM XRAY DETAIL TO FOLLOW TO FOLLOW

XRAY HAVE FUNXRAY HAVE FUN 7373


GREG SZPUNAR N2GS


650- 123- 4567






GREG SZPUNAR N2GS


650- 123- 4567





NumberNumber Assigned by the message originatorAssigned by the message originator No standard way of numbering messagesNo standard way of numbering messages Consecutive (1, 2, 3..., starting over at the new year or Consecutive (1, 2, 3..., starting over at the new year or

monthly)monthly) Order by month & number (507 = 7th you originated in Order by month & number (507 = 7th you originated in

May; May; 11244 = 244th message you originated in November11244 = 244th message you originated in November

Precedence (Emergency, P, W, or R)Precedence (Emergency, P, W, or R) Emergency (life or death urgency in a declared Emergency (life or death urgency in a declared

emergency) always spelled outemergency) always spelled out P = Priority (official traffic in a declared emergency)P = Priority (official traffic in a declared emergency) W = Health & Welfare (used only in a declared emergency)W = Health & Welfare (used only in a declared emergency) R = Routine (everything else – most frequently used)R = Routine (everything else – most frequently used)

Radiogram Form Detail (1 of 6)Radiogram Form Detail (1 of 6)


1.1. (Optional) HX or Handling Code – A, B, C, D, E, F or G(Optional) HX or Handling Code – A, B, C, D, E, F or GA.A. Collect landline delivery authorized within ___ miles of addressee or unlimited if Collect landline delivery authorized within ___ miles of addressee or unlimited if

blankblank(A150 = collect call authorized w/in 150 miles; A = collect call authorized (A150 = collect call authorized w/in 150 miles; A = collect call authorized regardless of miles)regardless of miles)

B.B. Cancel message if not delivered within ___ hours of filing time & service originating Cancel message if not delivered within ___ hours of filing time & service originating station station (B72 = cancel if not delivered within 72 hrs and send message to originator to (B72 = cancel if not delivered within 72 hrs and send message to originator to notify them)notify them)

C.C. Confirmation of delivery requested by originating station (“TOD YOUR 1014 JULY 4 Confirmation of delivery requested by originating station (“TOD YOUR 1014 JULY 4 1330 PST XRAY 73” or if issues “ARL SIXTY SEVEN 1014 PHONE 650 555 1212 1330 PST XRAY 73” or if issues “ARL SIXTY SEVEN 1014 PHONE 650 555 1212 INCORRECT NO REPLACEMENT FOUND SENT RADIOGRAM INSTEAD XRAY 73”INCORRECT NO REPLACEMENT FOUND SENT RADIOGRAM INSTEAD XRAY 73”

D.D. Report your identity & time/date rec’d message plus time/date delivered or sent to Report your identity & time/date rec’d message plus time/date delivered or sent to anotheranother

E.E. Delivering station to get reply from addressee Delivering station to get reply from addressee andand send to originator as a new send to originator as a new messagemessage

F.F. Hold delivery until ___ (numbered day of month) – great for birthday or anniversary Hold delivery until ___ (numbered day of month) – great for birthday or anniversary messages messages (F14 = deliver on 14(F14 = deliver on 14thth of the month; F1 = deliver on the 1 of the month; F1 = deliver on the 1stst of month after date of month after date filed)filed)

G.G. Delivery by mail or toll call not required, service originating station (often ignored).Delivery by mail or toll call not required, service originating station (often ignored).



1.1. Station of Origin: Station of Origin: Call sign of station who put the message into NTS Call sign of station who put the message into NTS formatformat; If N2GS ; If N2GS prepares message 1207 for a fellow ham, then puts it onto an NTS packet BBS for prepares message 1207 for a fellow ham, then puts it onto an NTS packet BBS for relay to Vermont, the originator is... N2GS. If WB2W prepares message 23 for his relay to Vermont, the originator is... N2GS. If WB2W prepares message 23 for his non-ham neighbor then gives it to N2GS to relay to any NTS net, the originator is... non-ham neighbor then gives it to N2GS to relay to any NTS net, the originator is... WB2W.WB2W.

2.2. Check: Check: The word count in body text only (do not count the address or signature); The word count in body text only (do not count the address or signature); precede with “ARL” if any of the ARL numbered texts are used (e.g., ARL 7).precede with “ARL” if any of the ARL numbered texts are used (e.g., ARL 7).

3.3. Place of Origin: Place of Origin: The city & state where the message was written.The city & state where the message was written.

4.4. (Optional) Time Filed: (Optional) Time Filed: This is not used much... 24-hr format & time zoneThis is not used much... 24-hr format & time zone

5.5. Date: Date: Month (non-numeric – abbreviated) & day number message was created e.g., Month (non-numeric – abbreviated) & day number message was created e.g., Sep 21).Sep 21).



To:To: Name, call sign (if going to a ham), street address or P.O. Box, city, state Name, call sign (if going to a ham), street address or P.O. Box, city, state (abbreviated) & zip code. Note: Digital and packet NTS messages are (abbreviated) & zip code. Note: Digital and packet NTS messages are routed via zip code.routed via zip code.

Telephone Number:Telephone Number: Be sure to include the area code and double-check the number!!!Be sure to include the area code and double-check the number!!!

This Radio Message was received at: This Radio Message was received at: Your station identification, date received, and your location. More received-Your station identification, date received, and your location. More received-from detail will go in the “REC’D” block after body text and signature.from detail will go in the “REC’D” block after body text and signature.


JOE SMITH KC2XXYJOE SMITH KC2XXY1234 SECOND ST1234 SECOND STSUMMIT NJ 07901SUMMIT NJ 07901

650-123-4567650-123-4567

Text:Text: 25 words maximum, 5 per line; Use “xray” for a period (.) and “query” 25 words maximum, 5 per line; Use “xray” for a period (.) and “query” for a question mark (?).for a question mark (?).

Signature:Signature: There is no “Signature” field, just write-in below text; There is no “Signature” field, just write-in below text; Name & call Name & call sign of author – include phone number if not a ham or if not known on an NTS sign of author – include phone number if not a ham or if not known on an NTS net.net.


THIS IS THE ARRL RADIOGRAMTHIS IS THE ARRL RADIOGRAM

FORM XRAY DETAIL TO FOLLOW FORM XRAY DETAIL TO FOLLOW

XRAY HAVE FUN 73 XRAY HAVE FUN 73

GREG SZPUNAR N2GSGREG SZPUNAR N2GS

REC’D:REC’D: Call sign from whom Call sign from whom youyou received the message and date & time of received the message and date & time of receipt. Time may be either your local time (EST/EDT) or Zulu time. Make sure receipt. Time may be either your local time (EST/EDT) or Zulu time. Make sure date agrees with time (Zulu is 5 hours ahead of EST – can cause date to roll date agrees with time (Zulu is 5 hours ahead of EST – can cause date to roll forward).forward).

SENT:SENT: Call sign Call sign youyou sentsent or passed the message to, or to whom you or passed the message to, or to whom you delivereddelivered it, with date & time. Also good to note delivery method for your own reference it, with date & time. Also good to note delivery method for your own reference (i.e., via phone or left on Tom’s voicemail). Always leave your call back number (i.e., via phone or left on Tom’s voicemail). Always leave your call back number if message was left on voicemail!if message was left on voicemail!


Austin AK2US 7/2/03 2112 EDTAustin AK2US 7/2/03 2112 EDT

ARL Numbered TextsARL Numbered TextsPurpose & How CountedPurpose & How Counted

ARL Numbered Texts replace common phrases ARL Numbered Texts replace common phrases in message body text (i.e., Happy Birthday, in message body text (i.e., Happy Birthday, Greetings by amateur radio, etc.)Greetings by amateur radio, etc.)

Use of ARL texts reduce total message word Use of ARL texts reduce total message word count – faster and more consistent transmission count – faster and more consistent transmission of textof text

Translated before delivery of message to Translated before delivery of message to addresseeaddressee

ARL text numbers are always spelled-out in ARL text numbers are always spelled-out in words words (i.e., ARL SEVEN or ARL FORTY SIX)(i.e., ARL SEVEN or ARL FORTY SIX)

Message word count (check) is written as “ARL Message word count (check) is written as “ARL #” (e.g., ARL 4 or ARL 15) to alert operators that #” (e.g., ARL 4 or ARL 15) to alert operators that message includes at least one ARL numbered message includes at least one ARL numbered text.text.

ARL Numbered Texts (Examples)ARL Numbered Texts (Examples)

ARL FORTY SIX = Greetings on your birthday and ARL FORTY SIX = Greetings on your birthday and best wishes for many more to come.best wishes for many more to come.

ARL FORTY SEVEN = Your message ______ to ______ ARL FORTY SEVEN = Your message ______ to ______ delivered _______ _______UTCdelivered _______ _______UTC

ARL FIFTY = Greetings by amateur radio.ARL FIFTY = Greetings by amateur radio. ARL FIFTY ONE = Greetings by amateur radio. This ARL FIFTY ONE = Greetings by amateur radio. This

message is sent as a free public service by ham message is sent as a free public service by ham radio operators at _______. Am having a wonderful radio operators at _______. Am having a wonderful time.time.

ARL SIXTY SEVEN = Your message number _____ ARL SIXTY SEVEN = Your message number _____ undeliverable because of ______. Please advise.undeliverable because of ______. Please advise.

How to Deliver an NTS MessageHow to Deliver an NTS Message

Preferred delivery is via telephone.Preferred delivery is via telephone.

Okay to leave on voicemail or answering Okay to leave on voicemail or answering machine IF you are comfortable you reached machine IF you are comfortable you reached the right person.the right person.

Radiogram postcard if cannot reach by Radiogram postcard if cannot reach by phone.phone.

Service originating station to inform if cannot Service originating station to inform if cannot deliver or if they requested confirmation.deliver or if they requested confirmation.

Record Keeping & Reporting (PSHR)Record Keeping & Reporting (PSHR)

Use a log sheet to keep track of your messagesUse a log sheet to keep track of your messages

Use a PSHR log sheet to tally monthly points for Use a PSHR log sheet to tally monthly points for Public Service Honor RollPublic Service Honor Roll

Report message count (originated, sent, receivedReport message count (originated, sent, received& delivered) to STM monthly& delivered) to STM monthly

Report PSHR totals to STM Report PSHR totals to STM

Not to Replace Traditional NTSNot to Replace Traditional NTSThe The NTSD NTSD

A Complementary systemA Complementary system

Stations always needed at all levelsStations always needed at all levels

NTS/NTSD NTS/NTSD COMMUNICATIONSCOMMUNICATIONS

Digital Mode HistoryDigital Mode History

RTTY- After WWII, 5 level Baudot code, RTTY- After WWII, 5 level Baudot code, mechanical teletypewriters, paper tape storage.mechanical teletypewriters, paper tape storage.

NoisyNoisy Signals subject to selective fading and drop out Signals subject to selective fading and drop out

errors.errors. Equipment relatively available via surplus routeEquipment relatively available via surplus route Some units as big as a sub-compact carSome units as big as a sub-compact car AMTOR- Still 5 bit code, but with limited error AMTOR- Still 5 bit code, but with limited error

correction.correction. Burst mode-requires fast transmit/receive Burst mode-requires fast transmit/receive

switchingswitching

FCC Authorizes ASCII- late 70'sFCC Authorizes ASCII- late 70's7 bit code- with some error detection7 bit code- with some error detection

HF Packet- 300 baud, Long bursts, error HF Packet- 300 baud, Long bursts, error correcting but needing large signal to correcting but needing large signal to noise ratio to properly decodenoise ratio to properly decode

Net result- Many retries, slows down Net result- Many retries, slows down transfer ratetransfer rate

First integrated system- APLINKFirst integrated system- APLINK(Amtor/Packet Link)(Amtor/Packet Link)

Bulletin Board System incorporating Bulletin Board System incorporating Amtor on HF with transfer of data to VHF Amtor on HF with transfer of data to VHF PacketPacket

Highly successful but suffers from Highly successful but suffers from selective fadingselective fading

With 5 bit encoding- only capital letters.With 5 bit encoding- only capital letters. No compressionNo compression No file transferNo file transfer

Classic Winlink- Win 3.11/Win 95Classic Winlink- Win 3.11/Win 95Win 98, 2000, XPWin 98, 2000, XP

Modules for AMTOR, CLOVER, PACTOR 1,2, and 3Modules for AMTOR, CLOVER, PACTOR 1,2, and 3 Along with VHF PacketAlong with VHF Packet Scanner function allowing multiple auto calls Scanner function allowing multiple auto calls

varying in time, frequency, mode, based upon varying in time, frequency, mode, based upon propagation.propagation.

Multiple forwarding pathsMultiple forwarding paths With SCS proprietary modem for Pactor 2 and 3 With SCS proprietary modem for Pactor 2 and 3

allows automatic frequency control, automatic allows automatic frequency control, automatic power level controlpower level control

Compressed and binary transfer of dataCompressed and binary transfer of data

Winlink 3.0 ComponentsWinlink 3.0 Components

Message Manager -Forwarding fileMessage Manager -Forwarding file User ManagerUser Manager Event LogEvent Log PCTSCS - HF Pactor modulePCTSCS - HF Pactor module PKT VHF- VHF Packet ModulePKT VHF- VHF Packet Module Scanner- scanning, busy detector, Scanner- scanning, busy detector,

event scheduling and reschedulingevent scheduling and rescheduling

Typical Forwarding FileTypical Forwarding File

NTSAK K4WWV W8UL KW1UNTSAK K4WWV W8UL KW1U NTSAL W5KAV K4WWV W8UL KW1U W1WCGNTSAL W5KAV K4WWV W8UL KW1U W1WCG NTSAB W5KAV K4WWV W8UL KW1U W1WCGNTSAB W5KAV K4WWV W8UL KW1U W1WCG NTSAZ W5KAV K4WWV W8UL KW1U W1WCGNTSAZ W5KAV K4WWV W8UL KW1U W1WCG NTSAR W5KAV K4WWV W8UL KW1UNTSAR W5KAV K4WWV W8UL KW1U NTSB* W5KAV K4WWV W8UL KW1UNTSB* W5KAV K4WWV W8UL KW1U NTSCA W5KAV K4WWV W8ULNTSCA W5KAV K4WWV W8UL NTSCO W5KAV K4WWV W8ULNTSCO W5KAV K4WWV W8UL

Autocall

Winlink 2000 (aka WL2K)Winlink 2000 (aka WL2K)

Developed by Winlink Classic Developed by Winlink Classic Programmers in late 1990'sProgrammers in late 1990's

Uses Pactor 1, 2, and 3, VHF/UHF Packet Uses Pactor 1, 2, and 3, VHF/UHF Packet Sound Card Winmor module, TelnetSound Card Winmor module, Telnet

Forwarding via Internet; Radio all the way Forwarding via Internet; Radio all the way via NTSD if infrastructure failsvia NTSD if infrastructure fails

Radio-email and Integration of NTS NTSD Radio-email and Integration of NTS NTSD and ARESand ARES

Chapter 6 Methods and Practices Chapter 6 Methods and Practices Guideline (MPG)Guideline (MPG)

Advantages of NTS DigitalAdvantages of NTS Digital

Available 24/7, 365 days a yearAvailable 24/7, 365 days a year Error FreeError Free Frequency, Time, Propagation AgileFrequency, Time, Propagation Agile FasterFaster Able to respond and adapt quicker to urgent Able to respond and adapt quicker to urgent

needs like disaster messagesneeds like disaster messages Multiple redundant routing pathsMultiple redundant routing paths NTSD exists at and incorporates all levels of NTSD exists at and incorporates all levels of

traditional NTS from TCC, through Area, Region, traditional NTS from TCC, through Area, Region, Section and Local .Section and Local .

NTSD National Messaging, Section, NTSD National Messaging, Section, Region, AreaRegion, Area

The NTS Digital (NTSD) manages a fleet of The NTS Digital (NTSD) manages a fleet of Digital Hub stations (MBOs), Target Stations Digital Hub stations (MBOs), Target Stations

and individual NTSD station operators on and individual NTSD station operators on packet and HF PacTor radio to move NTS text packet and HF PacTor radio to move NTS text

Radiograms nationally. MBOs provide for Radiograms nationally. MBOs provide for uploading and downloading Radiograms by uploading and downloading Radiograms by connecting stations and also forward sorted connecting stations and also forward sorted Radiograms to other MBOs for posting within Radiograms to other MBOs for posting within

range of delivery outlets.range of delivery outlets.

Mail or message Box operations (MBO's)Mail or message Box operations (MBO's)

NTSD and PactorNTSD and Pactor HF NTSD Operates almost exclusively in the automatic control sub-HF NTSD Operates almost exclusively in the automatic control sub-

bandsbands 3.585 - 3.600 MHz3.585 - 3.600 MHz7.100 - 7.105 MHz7.100 - 7.105 MHz10.140 - 10.150 MHz10.140 - 10.150 MHz14.095 - 14.0995 MHz14.095 - 14.0995 MHz14.1005 - 14.1120 MHz14.1005 - 14.1120 MHz

Using Pactor 1, 2, and Pactor 3. Using Pactor 1, 2, and Pactor 3.

• Pactor 2 and 3 are proprietary modesPactor 2 and 3 are proprietary modes..

All pactor connects start out at Pactor 1 and then shift up to higher All pactor connects start out at Pactor 1 and then shift up to higher speed if the equipment at both ends is compatible.speed if the equipment at both ends is compatible.

Bandwidth for Pactor 1 and 2 is 500 Hz. pactor 3 will expand its Bandwidth for Pactor 1 and 2 is 500 Hz. pactor 3 will expand its

bandwidth up to 2.4 KHz at highest speeds.bandwidth up to 2.4 KHz at highest speeds.

Pacific Area HUB/MBOsPacific Area HUB/MBOs

K6RXX 6RN CA (REGION 6 HUB)K6RXX 6RN CA (REGION 6 HUB) K6HTN 6RN CA (ALT REGION HUB)K6HTN 6RN CA (ALT REGION HUB) K7EK 7RN WA (HF RMS, VHF/HF MBO)K7EK 7RN WA (HF RMS, VHF/HF MBO) K7BDU 7RN WA (REGION 7 HUB) K7BDU 7RN WA (REGION 7 HUB) N7IE 12RN UT (ALT REGION 12 HUB)N7IE 12RN UT (ALT REGION 12 HUB) W5KAV 7RN WA (PADC) (PACIFIC HUB) W5KAV 7RN WA (PADC) (PACIFIC HUB) WB6OTS 12RN AZ (REGION 12 HUB)WB6OTS 12RN AZ (REGION 12 HUB) KC7ZZ 12RN AZ (ALT REGION 12 HUB)KC7ZZ 12RN AZ (ALT REGION 12 HUB) VE7GN 7RN BC (ALT REGION 7 HUB)VE7GN 7RN BC (ALT REGION 7 HUB)

Central and Eastern Area HubsCentral and Eastern Area Hubs

KW1U Massachusetts (Area Hub)KW1U Massachusetts (Area Hub) WX4J Florida (Alt Eastern Hub)WX4J Florida (Alt Eastern Hub) KB0OFD Missouri (Central Area Hub)KB0OFD Missouri (Central Area Hub) W1WCG Connecticut (Alt Eastern)W1WCG Connecticut (Alt Eastern) WB9FHP Indiana (Alt Central Hub)WB9FHP Indiana (Alt Central Hub) WB2FTX New Jersey (PADC & Hub)WB2FTX New Jersey (PADC & Hub)

W5KAV NTSD StationW5KAV NTSD Station

HFHF ICOM 746 PROICOM 746 PRO SCS PTC-IIUSB ModemSCS PTC-IIUSB Modem Multi band G5RVMulti band G5RV 6 element beam with 6 element beam with

40 meter add-on kit40 meter add-on kit Computer- Pentium 4 Computer- Pentium 4

200 Ghz- Win XP200 Ghz- Win XP Classic Winlink 3.0Classic Winlink 3.0 PK88 for packet portPK88 for packet port

VHFVHF

FBB 7.00i BBS SoftwareFBB 7.00i BBS Software

Pentium 100 Mhz running Pentium 100 Mhz running

Linux in UbuntuLinux in Ubuntu

Kantronics KPC-3 plusKantronics KPC-3 plus

Yaesu FT8100, 50 wattsYaesu FT8100, 50 watts

Diamond dual band Vertical Diamond dual band Vertical

Local NTS DigitalLocal NTS Digital

Basic equipment requirementsBasic equipment requirements•2M rig2M rig•TNC capable of 1200 baud VHF PacketTNC capable of 1200 baud VHF Packet•Terminal ProgramTerminal Program

OROR•Soundcard interface and software Soundcard interface and software

capable of emulating Packetcapable of emulating Packet•ComputerComputer

Outpost Packet Message ManagerOutpost Packet Message Manager

Outpost is a Windows-based packet message client that lets you Outpost is a Windows-based packet message client that lets you send and receive packet messages with almost any Amateur Radio send and receive packet messages with almost any Amateur Radio Bulletin Board System (BBS) or TNC Personal Mail Box.Bulletin Board System (BBS) or TNC Personal Mail Box.

Hides the complexity of the native packet environment and Hides the complexity of the native packet environment and shorten the learning curve shorten the learning curve

Provide an MS Windows-based packet messaging client Provide an MS Windows-based packet messaging client Automate the packet message handling environment Automate the packet message handling environment Create a program that behaves like your email client that you have Create a program that behaves like your email client that you have

at work or home… at work or home… …create, send, receive, read, delete, reply to, or forward …create, send, receive, read, delete, reply to, or forward messages messages

Automates the origination and formatting of NTS messages.Automates the origination and formatting of NTS messages. Focus on the message not the mediumFocus on the message not the medium Freeware: http://www.outpostpm.org/Freeware: http://www.outpostpm.org/

WL2K Global Network to the ARES® WL2K Global Network to the ARES® LayerLayer


The WL2K global network provides messaging in full email The WL2K global network provides messaging in full email format allowing multiple addressees, multiple copies, and format allowing multiple addressees, multiple copies, and

binary attachments. Addressees may include all WL2K binary attachments. Addressees may include all WL2K network client accounts and public internet addressees.network client accounts and public internet addressees.

All equipped ARES® stations may exchange Radio-email All equipped ARES® stations may exchange Radio-email via WL2K on telnet/internet, or through any WL2K Gateway via WL2K on telnet/internet, or through any WL2K Gateway

using packet radio, HF PacTor, or WINMOR. Routing of using packet radio, HF PacTor, or WINMOR. Routing of Radio-email traffic is fully automatic and dynamic. Any Radio-email traffic is fully automatic and dynamic. Any

station may connect to WL2K via any connection method or station may connect to WL2K via any connection method or locationlocation

Delivery time for such Radio-email traffic is within about Delivery time for such Radio-email traffic is within about ten minutes to anywhere in the world - limited primarily by ten minutes to anywhere in the world - limited primarily by

the speed of the radio connections at the upload and the speed of the radio connections at the upload and download points. Once a message is posted on the CMS it download points. Once a message is posted on the CMS it

is available for download in short order.is available for download in short order.

Email traffic is compressed using the B2F protocol to Email traffic is compressed using the B2F protocol to reduce spectrum use and to enhance privacy.reduce spectrum use and to enhance privacy.


All ARES®/NTS stations within Section “last mile” All ARES®/NTS stations within Section “last mile” infrastructure loss situations can exchange email infrastructure loss situations can exchange email

between their stations via RMS-Packet Gateways, with between their stations via RMS-Packet Gateways, with RMS-Relay installed, without the use of the local RMS-Relay installed, without the use of the local

ground infrastructure (i.e., without telephone or ISP ground infrastructure (i.e., without telephone or ISP connections to the stations or the Gateway). Thus local connections to the stations or the Gateway). Thus local emergency Radio-email traffic can be handled in spite emergency Radio-email traffic can be handled in spite of total infrastructure loss. Radio-email going to/from of total infrastructure loss. Radio-email going to/from outside this local domain may be passed via the HF outside this local domain may be passed via the HF PacTor connection of the RMS-Relay module to any PacTor connection of the RMS-Relay module to any

WL2K HF Gateway station, Target Station in the WL2K HF Gateway station, Target Station in the county. county.

HF PacTor Gateways may also use RMS-Relay.HF PacTor Gateways may also use RMS-Relay.


All ARES®/NTS stations within Section “last mile” All ARES®/NTS stations within Section “last mile” infrastructure loss situations can connect to the infrastructure loss situations can connect to the

WL2K network via packet, HF PacTor, or WINMOR, WL2K network via packet, HF PacTor, or WINMOR, Gateways via numerous operating Gateways Gateways via numerous operating Gateways

throughout the country with available throughout the country with available infrastructure.infrastructure.

Don't fall asleep now we are not to the good partDon't fall asleep now we are not to the good part


All ARES®/NTS/NTSD stations in the Section’s “last All ARES®/NTS/NTSD stations in the Section’s “last mile” can pass Radio-email directly between their mile” can pass Radio-email directly between their

stations using AirMail or RMS-Express client software stations using AirMail or RMS-Express client software using packet, HF PacTor, or WINMOR, and may using packet, HF PacTor, or WINMOR, and may

likewise use this peer-to-peer mode to pass Radio-likewise use this peer-to-peer mode to pass Radio-email to properly equipped stations throughout the email to properly equipped stations throughout the

NTS/NTSD and ARES® stations in other Sections.NTS/NTSD and ARES® stations in other Sections.

Officials at served agencies may send emails via Officials at served agencies may send emails via amateur radio from their own computers linked to amateur radio from their own computers linked to ARES®/NTS/NTSD WL2K stations on site. Both the ARES®/NTS/NTSD WL2K stations on site. Both the

AirMail and the Paclink clients have built-in servers AirMail and the Paclink clients have built-in servers to interface with external email applications to interface with external email applications

connected via in-house Ethernet or other networking connected via in-house Ethernet or other networking

including WiFi and IRincluding WiFi and IR..

ARES® and NTS/NTSD Sharing the ARES® and NTS/NTSD Sharing the WL2K LayerWL2K Layer


The addition of the WL2K Radio-email layer for NTS/NTSD stations enables all ARES®, NTS and NTSD stations to intercommunicate on a common network.

All ARRL Field Organization stations providing All ARRL Field Organization stations providing emergency communications may work together as emergency communications may work together as

one teamone team to achieve total served-agency and public to achieve total served-agency and public interoperability.interoperability. This includes properly equipped This includes properly equipped ARESMAT deployments anywhere in the country.ARESMAT deployments anywhere in the country.

All served agency and public email messages All served agency and public email messages may be delivered automatically to the addressee’s may be delivered automatically to the addressee’s server anywhere including to those on the public server anywhere including to those on the public internet via a protective firewall and spam filter internet via a protective firewall and spam filter

(white list).(white list).


Sheltered public victims may originate Radio-email Sheltered public victims may originate Radio-email through an ARES®/NTS WL2K station to loved one’s through an ARES®/NTS WL2K station to loved one’s

internet addresses outside the “last mile” for internet addresses outside the “last mile” for automatic delivery and replies.automatic delivery and replies.

Sheltered public victims not prepared to Sheltered public victims not prepared to provide email addresses for loved ones may originate provide email addresses for loved ones may originate

ARRL text Radiograms or Radio-email traffic which ARRL text Radiograms or Radio-email traffic which may be forwarded via WL2K to the stations of the may be forwarded via WL2K to the stations of the

NTS/NTSD for distribution and delivery (see the next NTS/NTSD for distribution and delivery (see the next section below).section below).

Any field station using a basic text editor may Any field station using a basic text editor may prepare Batch Files containing multiple NTS prepare Batch Files containing multiple NTS

Radiogram messages.Radiogram messages.


Batch files in the stipulated format may be sent Batch files in the stipulated format may be sent via WL2K to NTS/NTSD stations and may be via WL2K to NTS/NTSD stations and may be

directly imported into the NTSD MBO system for directly imported into the NTSD MBO system for distribution and delivery. NTSD stations may distribution and delivery. NTSD stations may

likewise export sorted Batch Files of NTS likewise export sorted Batch Files of NTS Radiograms which may be moved via WL2K to Radiograms which may be moved via WL2K to

other MBOs or directly to Section outlets other MBOs or directly to Section outlets anywhere in the US.anywhere in the US.

Batch files are files with multiple messagesBatch files are files with multiple messages

Included within them, they can have 2, 10 or 50 Included within them, they can have 2, 10 or 50 or more.or more.


In areas of the country outside the “last mile” large In areas of the country outside the “last mile” large volumes of NTS radiogram traffic and Radio-email volumes of NTS radiogram traffic and Radio-email

traffic may be transferred between NTSD MBO traffic may be transferred between NTSD MBO stations or Target Stations via HF, or VHF along with stations or Target Stations via HF, or VHF along with

telnet/internet connections to the WL2K network.telnet/internet connections to the WL2K network.

Remember Remember you do not neyou do not need ed the internetthe internet to to connect to a NTSD MBO or Target Stations or connect to a NTSD MBO or Target Stations or

RMS. RMS.

If needed you can connect point to point to another If needed you can connect point to point to another station using any of the WL2K software or Airmail. station using any of the WL2K software or Airmail.

The WL2K network uses the internet for message The WL2K network uses the internet for message forwarding where available. This is a sensible choice forwarding where available. This is a sensible choice

to take advantage of the speed of the internet as to take advantage of the speed of the internet as well as to reduce spectrum loading during well as to reduce spectrum loading during

emergencies. Radio backup in depth is available as emergencies. Radio backup in depth is available as shown in the next sections below.shown in the next sections below.


All ARES® and NTS Radio-email traffic from the All ARES® and NTS Radio-email traffic from the amateur staff as well as from served officials may be amateur staff as well as from served officials may be

moved within and outside of the “last mile” to moved within and outside of the “last mile” to addressees without the use of any intermediate addressees without the use of any intermediate

amateur relaying manpower.amateur relaying manpower.

Thus the bridge between ARES®, NTS and the Thus the bridge between ARES®, NTS and the NTSD has been established to greatly integrate the NTSD has been established to greatly integrate the

operations of the entire Field Organization.operations of the entire Field Organization.

Total Infrastructure-Loss Radio-Email MessagingTotal Infrastructure-Loss Radio-Email Messaging


In the very unlikely event of total national In the very unlikely event of total national internet loss, or the inability to access WL2K internet loss, or the inability to access WL2K

in a given area, the means has been in a given area, the means has been developed within the NTS/NTSD to transfer developed within the NTS/NTSD to transfer

Radio-email manually, nation-wide. The WL2K Radio-email manually, nation-wide. The WL2K Via AirMail and RMS-Express client software Via AirMail and RMS-Express client software

permits permits station-to-station transfers and station-to-station transfers and intermediate station relays of email formatted intermediate station relays of email formatted

message traffic message traffic “without any use of the “without any use of the internet over”internet over” VHFVHF, , UHFUHF and and HFHF..


All ARES® and NTS/NTSD stations equipped with All ARES® and NTS/NTSD stations equipped with AirMail or RMS-Express may use packet, HF PacTor, or AirMail or RMS-Express may use packet, HF PacTor, or

HF WINMOR to directly exchange Radio-email HF WINMOR to directly exchange Radio-email messaging using full email format as well as carrying messaging using full email format as well as carrying NTS Radiograms (attached as Batch Files). The NTSD NTS Radiograms (attached as Batch Files). The NTSD

has deployed this capability (2011-2012).has deployed this capability (2011-2012).

The direct transfer of Radio-email traffic via The direct transfer of Radio-email traffic via packet or HF radio permits handling emergency packet or HF radio permits handling emergency

communications messaging totally independent of the communications messaging totally independent of the infrastructure and the WL2K system if necessary.infrastructure and the WL2K system if necessary.


Direct transfers of Radio-email traffic may be Direct transfers of Radio-email traffic may be accomplished until a receiving station has the accomplished until a receiving station has the capability to re-file the Radio-email, including capability to re-file the Radio-email, including NTSD Batch Files carried by Radio-email, onto NTSD Batch Files carried by Radio-email, onto

the WL2K network, the NTSD MBO, or the the WL2K network, the NTSD MBO, or the public internet.public internet.

· The current resources of the manual · The current resources of the manual NTS system and NTSD shall be preserved as a NTS system and NTSD shall be preserved as a

fundamental backup system for national fundamental backup system for national messaging.messaging.


For the first time the ARES®/NTS/NTSD For the first time the ARES®/NTS/NTSD team can now move messages in full email team can now move messages in full email

format, as well as NTS text message format, as well as NTS text message format, anywhere in the country within format, anywhere in the country within minutes. This can be done via the WL2K minutes. This can be done via the WL2K

network or network or radio-all-the-way directly by the radio-all-the-way directly by the fleet of properly equipped fleet of properly equipped

ARES®/NTS/NTSD stations.ARES®/NTS/NTSD stations. The delivery of The delivery of text Radiogram traffic still depends upon text Radiogram traffic still depends upon

NTS and ARES® stations in the destination NTS and ARES® stations in the destination Section.Section.

PROTOCOLSPROTOCOLS

See the MPG Chapter 6 and the Plain Text and See the MPG Chapter 6 and the Plain Text and Batch File support documents posted on this site Batch File support documents posted on this site

for the methods used for establishing Target for the methods used for establishing Target Stations, preparing Radiogram Batch Files for Stations, preparing Radiogram Batch Files for

direct submission to the NTSD, and the Types of direct submission to the NTSD, and the Types of Radio-email developed for securing the bridge Radio-email developed for securing the bridge

between ARES®, NTS and NTSD for all emergency between ARES®, NTS and NTSD for all emergency communications.communications.

The objective of the integration of ARES®, NTS The objective of the integration of ARES®, NTS and NTSD in this manner is to provide for total and NTSD in this manner is to provide for total

agency interoperability nation-wide.agency interoperability nation-wide.

http://wx4j.com/MPG6_NTSD_RADIOEMAIL.htmhttp://wx4j.com/MPG6_NTSD_RADIOEMAIL.htm

PROTOCOLSPROTOCOLS

Since these protocols apply nation-wide, common Since these protocols apply nation-wide, common software and hardware may be used in all software and hardware may be used in all

Sections, and throughout the NTS and NTSD they Sections, and throughout the NTS and NTSD they may be used for the exchange of Radio-email and may be used for the exchange of Radio-email and Radiogram traffic in full cooperation with ARES®. Radiogram traffic in full cooperation with ARES®.

Likewise, this commonality of software and Likewise, this commonality of software and hardware makes it much more efficient for hardware makes it much more efficient for

ARESMAT deployment anywhere in the U. S. ARESMAT deployment anywhere in the U. S. ARESMAT may also establish Gateway services ARESMAT may also establish Gateway services

ad-hoc anywhere including those operating RMS-ad-hoc anywhere including those operating RMS-Relay for local automatic Radio-email service. Relay for local automatic Radio-email service.

Radio-email gives ARESMAT the ready means to Radio-email gives ARESMAT the ready means to stay in contact with their home jurisdictions.stay in contact with their home jurisdictions.

SUMMARY SLIDESUMMARY SLIDE

`

ARRL, ARES, NTS & NTSD Digital Contacts

ARES WWA SEC Frank Wolfe NM7RARES WWA SEC Frank Wolfe NM7R

ARES EWA SEC Gordon Grove WA7LNCARES EWA SEC Gordon Grove WA7LNC

WWA Section Traffic Manager -NTSWWA Section Traffic Manager -NTS

Bill FrazierBill Frazier

EWA Section Traffic Manager -NTS EWA Section Traffic Manager -NTS

W7ARC Donald L. Felgenhauer K7BFLW7ARC Donald L. Felgenhauer K7BFL

Chuck Verdon W5KAVChuck Verdon W5KAV

Pacific Area Digital Coordinator- NTSDPacific Area Digital Coordinator- NTSD

Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources

ARRL Net DirectoryARRL Net Directory – Excellent NTS reference – Excellent NTS reference with net listings by state ($5 from ARRL). with net listings by state ($5 from ARRL). Online version is accessible free at the ARRL Online version is accessible free at the ARRL web site (www.arrl.org).web site (www.arrl.org).

Public Service Communication ManualPublic Service Communication Manual – – Detailed reference on NTS message handling Detailed reference on NTS message handling available on ARRL web site.available on ARRL web site.

WX4J web SiteWX4J web Sitehttp://wx4j.com/MPG6_NTSD_RADIOEMAIL.htm

http://wx4j.com/BTHV1201.htmhttp://wx4j.com/BTHV1201.htm

AcknowlegementsAcknowlegements

Pinkney Foster, KG6ILA, Pinkney Foster, KG6ILA, Section Traffic Manager Section Traffic Manager ARRL Santa Clara Valley Section ARRL Santa Clara Valley Section [email protected]@arrl.net whose whose presentation “presentation “National Traffic System (NTS)National Traffic System (NTS)Messaging BasicsMessaging Basics” inspired the message handling components of ” inspired the message handling components of this presentation.this presentation.

Jim Oberhofer, KN6PE, Jim Oberhofer, KN6PE, author of Outpost Packet author of Outpost Packet Message Manager, and the resulting description included in this Message Manager, and the resulting description included in this presentation. presentation.

Al Nollmeyer, W3YVQAl Nollmeyer, W3YVQ Chair ARRL NTS Winlink Chair ARRL NTS Winlink Committee, STM Maryland, one of the authors ARRL guidelinesCommittee, STM Maryland, one of the authors ARRL guidelines

and practices and the ARRL PSCMand practices and the ARRL PSCM

Dave Struebel, WB2FTX Dave Struebel, WB2FTX Section Traffic Manager for Section Traffic Manager for Northern NJ. Eastern Area Digital Coordinator for NTS Digital. NTS Northern NJ. Eastern Area Digital Coordinator for NTS Digital. NTS Digital Hub Eastern Area and TCC functions Digital Hub Eastern Area and TCC functions

Questions? Questions?

ICS 213 General Message FormICS 213 General Message Form

BackgroundBackground

The ICS 213 General Message Form began as a multipart The ICS 213 General Message Form began as a multipart

self-copying form for use as an interoffice memo. self-copying form for use as an interoffice memo.

The layout and use of the 213 form has changed The layout and use of the 213 form has changed

significantly since its inception. The 213 has significantly since its inception. The 213 has

become the basic written communications document become the basic written communications document

between all areas of emergency response. Users are between all areas of emergency response. Users are

often located at separate locations and use the 213 often located at separate locations and use the 213

form to communicate real time events.form to communicate real time events.

ICS213 General Message FormICS213 General Message Form

Messages originate at one location, are transmitted to Messages originate at one location, are transmitted to another site, and a response may be returned to the another site, and a response may be returned to the originator. The reply message can be combined with originator. The reply message can be combined with

the original message for the convenience of the the original message for the convenience of the

Originator.Originator.

The format of the 213 message form is specified by The format of the 213 message form is specified by

the served agency. Just as the Incident Command the served agency. Just as the Incident Command

System is adaptable to various incidents, the System is adaptable to various incidents, the

methods of communications are matched to the methods of communications are matched to the

situation. situation.


The 213 message form may be transmitted by voice, The 213 message form may be transmitted by voice,

digital, or even hand carried to get the job done.digital, or even hand carried to get the job done.

The form 213 can be found at the FEMA ICS Resource The form 213 can be found at the FEMA ICS Resource

Center website at:Center website at:

http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/ICSResource/ICSResCntr_Forms.htmhttp://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/ICSResource/ICSResCntr_Forms.htm

The form 213 is specified by the Served Agency.The form 213 is specified by the Served Agency.

ICS213 General Message FromICS213 General Message From

ARES RoleARES Role

The ARES communications volunteer is committed to The ARES communications volunteer is committed to accurately, rapidly handling information for the benefit of accurately, rapidly handling information for the benefit of

the served agency. ARES operators rely on their the served agency. ARES operators rely on their equipment, training, and ingenuity in meeting the demands equipment, training, and ingenuity in meeting the demands

of served agency communications. of served agency communications.

ARES members must keep abreast of new applications ARES members must keep abreast of new applications

and techniques in emergency communications. ARES role in and techniques in emergency communications. ARES role in emergency communications is to move information from emergency communications is to move information from point A to point B at the request of the Served Agency. point A to point B at the request of the Served Agency.

ARES volunteers perform this task using communications ARES volunteers perform this task using communications procedures developed to provide accurate rapid emergency procedures developed to provide accurate rapid emergency

communicationscommunications

ICS213 General Message FormICS213 General Message FormLet’s take a closer look at each of the message Let’s take a closer look at each of the message

elements.elements.

HEADERHEADER

The information in both the TO: and FROM: lines must The information in both the TO: and FROM: lines must

contain sufficient information to deliver the message. contain sufficient information to deliver the message.

Obviously this will include the Name, Location, and Obviously this will include the Name, Location, and

Title or Position, for each party. Title or Position, for each party.

An example TO: line would look like this: An example TO: line would look like this:

TO: Ralph Schmitz Shelter East Shelter Manager TO: Ralph Schmitz Shelter East Shelter Manager


FROM: line would look like this:FROM: line would look like this:

FROM: Carl Flackscheid EOC CommanderFROM: Carl Flackscheid EOC Commander

The subject line is a concise title for the message that The subject line is a concise title for the message that highlights the important point of the messagehighlights the important point of the message

ICS 213 General Message FormICS 213 General Message Form

ICS213 General Message FormICS213 General Message FormA SUBJECT Line might read as follows:A SUBJECT Line might read as follows:

SUBJECT: SITREP RequestSUBJECT: SITREP Request

The person originating the message will complete the The person originating the message will complete the

HEADER information and the MESSAGE TEXT. You may be HEADER information and the MESSAGE TEXT. You may be

given verbal instructions to “Send a message to X given verbal instructions to “Send a message to X

telling them . . . . “.telling them . . . . “.

You will then fill out the 213 form, get the message You will then fill out the 213 form, get the message

okayed by the originator and send the messageokayed by the originator and send the message

ICS General Message FormICS General Message Form

MESSAGE TEXTMESSAGE TEXT

The message text area contains the The message text area contains the information to be transmitted. The information to be transmitted. The message should be concise with message should be concise with

non-essential words eliminated. non-essential words eliminated.

Be direct and to the point. Be direct and to the point.


Punctuation in the message is indicated with the word Punctuation in the message is indicated with the word

X-Ray. Punctuation, such as commas, parens, question X-Ray. Punctuation, such as commas, parens, question marks are generally not essential to the information and marks are generally not essential to the information and

should not be used. Do not end the message text with an X-should not be used. Do not end the message text with an X-Ray. Each word or group of numbers in the text is counted Ray. Each word or group of numbers in the text is counted as one word. The sending station can do many things to as one word. The sending station can do many things to

clarify the “words” in the text when sending the message. clarify the “words” in the text when sending the message. We will look at these techniques when sending a sample We will look at these techniques when sending a sample

message. The message text area is defined during message message. The message text area is defined during message transmission by the proword BREAK immediately before the transmission by the proword BREAK immediately before the

first word of the text and immediately following the last first word of the text and immediately following the last word of the text.word of the text.


SIGNATURESIGNATURE

This identifies the sender of the message (or reply) This identifies the sender of the message (or reply) and should contain enough information toand should contain enough information to

locate the sender if a reply is received.locate the sender if a reply is received.


REPLYREPLY

The reply message follows the same guidelines as the The reply message follows the same guidelines as the Message Text.Message Text.

Note: The reply message should reference the Note: The reply message should reference the message number of the original message.message number of the original message.

This allows the receiving station to match the reply with This allows the receiving station to match the reply with the original message.the original message.


Completing The 213Completing The 213

PREAMBLEPREAMBLE

The basic 213 form does not contain the pre-printed The basic 213 form does not contain the pre-printed ‘Radiogram’ format for the preamble.‘Radiogram’ format for the preamble.

The trained ARES operator The trained ARES operator writes the preamble items on writes the preamble items on the top margin of the 213 formthe top margin of the 213 form. Sending the 213 form . Sending the 213 form

begins with the same preamble used in the NTS format.begins with the same preamble used in the NTS format.


No. precedence HX Origin Stn chk Place of Origin Time DateNo. precedence HX Origin Stn chk Place of Origin Time Date

32 routine hxe kc0hse 16 Eagle shelter 1210 23 32 routine hxe kc0hse 16 Eagle shelter 1210 23 junjun

To:To: Izzy Bagodonuts EOC Izzy Bagodonuts EOC PostionPostion Red Cross Mass Care Red Cross Mass Care

From:From: Claire daylight Eagle shelter Claire daylight Eagle shelter PostionPostion shelter manager shelter manager

Subject:Subject: Additional clients Additional clients Date:Date: 23 Jun Time: 1200 23 Jun Time: 1200

TEXTTEXT

45 CLIENTS ARRIVING 1500HRS. X NEED 45 ADDITIONAL 45 CLIENTS ARRIVING 1500HRS. X NEED 45 ADDITIONAL MEALS COTS BLANKETS CARE KITS X REPLY WITH ETAMEALS COTS BLANKETS CARE KITS X REPLY WITH ETA

Signature:Signature: Claire daylight eagle Claire daylight eagle Postion Postion: shelter manager: shelter manager

ICS213 General Message FormICS213 General Message FormTransmitting the Form 213 MessageTransmitting the Form 213 Message

You begin with the phrase, You begin with the phrase,

This is Eagle Shelter, MESSAGE FOLLOWS. Then start with theThis is Eagle Shelter, MESSAGE FOLLOWS. Then start with the

preamble:preamble:

Message follows number Three Four, Routine, Hotel Xray Echo, Message follows number Three Four, Routine, Hotel Xray Echo,

Callsign KC0HSE, I SPELL Kilo Charlie Zero Hotel Sierra Echo, Callsign KC0HSE, I SPELL Kilo Charlie Zero Hotel Sierra Echo,

Figures,one six, Figures,one six,

From: Eagle Shelter, From: Eagle Shelter,

Figures one two one zero, figures two three June.Figures one two one zero, figures two three June.

(unkey your mic to give the receiving station the chance to catch up.)(unkey your mic to give the receiving station the chance to catch up.)

ICS213 General Message FormICS213 General Message FormTO: Izzy, I SPELL India Zulu Zulu Yankee Izzy, TO: Izzy, I SPELL India Zulu Zulu Yankee Izzy,

Bagodonuts, I SPELL Bravo Alpha Gulf Oscar Delta Oscar November Bagodonuts, I SPELL Bravo Alpha Gulf Oscar Delta Oscar November Uniform Tango Sierra, Bagodonuts, EOC, Red Cross Mass CareUniform Tango Sierra, Bagodonuts, EOC, Red Cross Mass Care

FROM: Claire, I SPELL Charlie Lima Alpha India Romeo Echo, Claire, FROM: Claire, I SPELL Charlie Lima Alpha India Romeo Echo, Claire, Daylight, I SPELL Delta Alpha Yankee Lima India Gulf Hotel Tango, Daylight, I SPELL Delta Alpha Yankee Lima India Gulf Hotel Tango,

Daylight, Eagle Shelter, Shelter Manager.Daylight, Eagle Shelter, Shelter Manager.

Additional Clients, FIGURES Two Three June, FIGURES one two Additional Clients, FIGURES Two Three June, FIGURES one two zero zerozero zero

BREAK BREAK

(unkey your mic to give the receiving station a chance to catch up)(unkey your mic to give the receiving station a chance to catch up)


TEXTTEXT

BREAKBREAK

Figures four five clients arriving Figures one five zero zero Figures four five clients arriving Figures one five zero zero Hotel Romeo Sierra XRAY need Figures four five Hotel Romeo Sierra XRAY need Figures four five additional meals cots blankets care kits XRAY reply additional meals cots blankets care kits XRAY reply

with I Spell Echo Tango Alpha with I Spell Echo Tango Alpha

BREAKBREAK

(unkey giving the receiving station a chance to catch up)(unkey giving the receiving station a chance to catch up)


Signed: Claire Daylight Eagle shelter ManagerSigned: Claire Daylight Eagle shelter Manager

BREAK no more OVERBREAK no more OVER

You do not need to spell the signature phonetically becauseYou do not need to spell the signature phonetically because you sent that information as part of the TO line.you sent that information as part of the TO line.

Hopefully, the receiving station responds after a short delay Hopefully, the receiving station responds after a short delay by saying, by saying, “N0ZGE ROGER OUT.”“N0ZGE ROGER OUT.”


The reply message has it’s own preamble. The reply is treated as The reply message has it’s own preamble. The reply is treated as

a new message originated by the station sending the reply. a new message originated by the station sending the reply.

The message number would be the serial number assigned by the The message number would be the serial number assigned by the station entering the reply message into the radio net. station entering the reply message into the radio net.

The remaining items in the preamble: Precedence, Instructions – ifThe remaining items in the preamble: Precedence, Instructions – if

any, Originating station, Check – words in the Reply text, any, Originating station, Check – words in the Reply text,

Place of origin, Time Date, all apply to the sending station.Place of origin, Time Date, all apply to the sending station.

ICS213 General Message FormICS213 General Message FormThe Header: To, From, Subject, Date, Time will be found on the The Header: To, From, Subject, Date, Time will be found on the

original message. original message.

The To and From lines will probably be reversed to show the sender The To and From lines will probably be reversed to show the sender and receiver of the reply message.and receiver of the reply message.

The Subject contains the addition of the message number of the The Subject contains the addition of the message number of the original message to allow the receiving station to match the reply to original message to allow the receiving station to match the reply to

the original message.the original message.

The message text and signature follow the same guides as the The message text and signature follow the same guides as the original outgoing message.original outgoing message.

ICS213 General message FormICS213 General message FormNote there are a couple of small changes in procedure in Note there are a couple of small changes in procedure in

transmitting a reply message. You alert the receiving station by transmitting a reply message. You alert the receiving station by starting with the phrase REPLY FOLLOWS. The receiving station starting with the phrase REPLY FOLLOWS. The receiving station now is ready for the additional information in the Subject line of now is ready for the additional information in the Subject line of

the message. the message.

The subject line of the original message was “Additional Clients”The subject line of the original message was “Additional Clients”

The subject line of the reply message is The subject line of the reply message is

““REPLY Additional clients MSG32”REPLY Additional clients MSG32”

This provides the receiving operator with the subject and This provides the receiving operator with the subject and message number of the original message.message number of the original message.

Finally Finally

Remember, personnel may be changing at locations on a rotating Remember, personnel may be changing at locations on a rotating shift schedule. A message request for anything may have to be shift schedule. A message request for anything may have to be

passed onto another shift before the reply message arrives.passed onto another shift before the reply message arrives.

Providing a copy of the original message provides the current Providing a copy of the original message provides the current shelter manager with the whole story.shelter manager with the whole story.



Questions ? Questions ?

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