Joining a Practice Net

Quick Start Guide

Essential Details

Frequency: 462.725 MHz
Channel: 20 / Repeater 6
Repeater Call Sign: WRDC296 R1
PL Codes: Email ersnnets@gmail.com

When & Where

Monday 7:00 PM - Murphy's Repeater
Wednesday 7:00 PM - Arnold Summit Repeater
Saturday 9:00 AM - Arnold Summit Repeater
Duration: Typically 15-20 minutes
New to nets? Start by listening to get familiar with the format. You can join the visitor roll call when ready!

What to Expect

Our nets are welcoming to newcomers—don't worry about making mistakes. Listen first to get comfortable with the flow, then join during visitor roll call when ready. These practice nets focus on building skills, testing equipment, and sharing local emergency preparedness information.

Pre-Net Checklist

  1. Verify your GMRS license is current
  2. Set your radio to 462.725 MHz (Channel 20/Repeater 6)
  3. Configure PL/CTCSS tones if you have them (email for access)
  4. Test reception by listening for conversations or repeater identification
  5. Have ready: call sign, first name, and location
  6. Choose a good location with clear line-of-sight when possible
  7. Prepare announcements you'd like to share (optional)

How the Net Works

  • Check-In: Net Control calls for member check-ins first, then visitors
  • Member Roll Call: Regular participants called alphabetically by call sign suffix. e.g. `U951` for `WROU951`
  • Visitor Roll Call: New or visiting stations welcome to check in, wait for a gap in traffic
  • Comment Session: Open time for announcements and information sharing
  • Priority Traffic: Emergency messages can interrupt at any time

How to Check In

  1. Listen for your cue - Wait for Net Control to call for check-ins
  2. Wait for a clear pause before transmitting
  3. Give your information clearly: call sign, first name, location
    Example: "This is Bob, WABC123, Jay, Arnold" or "WXYZ789, Sarah, Forest Meadows"
  4. Mention traffic if you have information to share later
  5. Wait for acknowledgment from Net Control

For visitors: Wait until visitor roll call is announced, then follow the same format.

End of Net

Net Control makes a final call for missed stations, gives closing remarks, then returns the repeater to normal use. Informal conversations often continue after the official net.

Radio Etiquette

  • Keep transmissions brief to allow others to participate
  • Don't interrupt unless you have emergency traffic
  • Use proper call signs and identify yourself clearly
  • Listen actively and follow Net Control's instructions
  • Be patient with technical difficulties or new participants
  • Save casual conversations for after the net closes

Common Terms

Net Control (NC): Station managing the net
Check-in: Announcing your presence
Traffic: Information to share
PL/CTCSS: Privacy codes for repeater access
Repeater: Station extending radio range
Roll Call: Systematic calling of participants
QRT: Going off the air
73: Best wishes/goodbye

Troubleshooting

  • Can't hear the net: Check frequency (462.725 MHz), verify antenna, try better location
  • Can't access repeater: Ensure correct PL/CTCSS codes and TSQL settings
  • Weak signal: Move to higher ground, check antenna orientation
  • Net not starting: Verify time/day, check news page for schedule changes