OFFICIAL RELAY STATION


    This is a traffic-handling appointment that is open to all classes 
of license.  This appointment applies equally to all modes and all 
parts of the spectrum.  It is for traffic-handlers, regardless of 
mode employed or part of the spectrum used.

    The potential value of the skilled operator with traffic know-how 
to his country and community is enhanced by his ability and the 
readiness of his station to function in the community interest in case 
of emergency.  Traffic awareness and experience are often the signs by 
which mature amateurs may be distinguished.

    Traditionally, there have been considerable differences between 
procedures for traffic handling by cw, phone, RTTY, ASCII, packet and 
other modes.  Appointment requirements for ORS do not deal with these, 
but with factors equally applicable to all modes.  The appointed ORS 
may confine activities to one mode or one part of the spectrum if he 
wishes.  There is no versatility requirement, although versatility 
does indeed make it possible for anyone to perform a more complete 
public service.  There is, however, the expectation that the ORS will 
set the example in traffic handling however it is done.  To the extent 
that he is deficient in performing traffic functions by any mode, to 
that extent he does not meet the qualifications for the appointment.  
Here are the basic requirements:

    1.  Full ARRL membership and Novice Class license or higher.

    2.  Code and/or voice transmission capability.

    3.  Transmissions, by whatever mode, must be of the highest 
quality, both technically and operationally.  For example, cw signals 
must be pure, chirpless, clickless, code sending must be well spaced 
and properly formed.  Voice transmission must be of proper modulation 
percentage or deviation, precisely enunciated with minimum distortion.  
RTTY must be clickless, proper shift, etc.  

    4.  All ORS are expected to follow standard ARRL operating 
practices (message form, ending signals, abbreviations or prowords, 
courtesy, etc.).

    5.  Regular participation in traffic activities, either free-lance 
or ARRL-sponsored.  The latter is encouraged, but not required.

    6.  Handle all record communications speedily and reliably and set 
the example in efficient operating procedures.  All traffic is relayed 
or delivered promptly after receipt.  

    7.  Report monthly to the STM, including a breakdown of traffic 
handled during the past calendar month.


FSD-107
(1288)


|       |   |         Deputy Manager, Field Services, ARRL.
|       |___|         The ARRL Amateur Radio Emergency Service, the ARRL
| uck   |   |urder    National Traffic System, The Amateur Auxiliary to
------  |   |         the FCC's Field Operations Bureau, the ARRL
     KY1T             Field Organization and the ARRL Monitoring System.
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lhurder%arrlhq.UUCP@uhasun.hartford.edu   Prodigy - MGTS39A   BIX - ARRL.