Before Transmitting
Listen first. Before keying up, monitor the frequency for a bit—there may already be a conversation in progress.
Announcing your presence. If you’d like to talk, simply give your call sign. You may add “monitoring” or “listening.”
Using “CQ” on a repeater is discouraged.
On DMR, operators typically include the Talk Group they are using.
Talking on a Repeater
Speak naturally, as if talking face-to-face.
Key the microphone, pause briefly, then speak.
Repeaters have a short delay. If you speak too soon, your first words may be clipped.
Finish speaking before un-keying the microphone.
Give your call sign clearly and slowly.
Language and Phonetics
Use plain English.
Avoid jargon whenever possible.Avoid Q-codes on repeaters.
Q-codes are Morse shorthand and are mainly used on HF SSB, contesting, and Field Day.
Common examples to avoid on repeaters: QSL, QSY, QRT, XYL.
Avoid phonetics unless requested.
When phonetics are needed, use standard phonetics (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, etc.).
Phonetics are commonly used when checking into nets.
Joining or Calling Others
Joining a conversation:
Give your call sign between transmissions. Avoid using “break break.” You should be acknowledged and invited in.Calling a specific station:
Say their call sign once or twice, then your call sign.If there is no response, clear the repeater or say you are monitoring.
Emergency Communications
In an emergency, give your call sign and say “emergency.”
Do not use “break break.”
Saying “emergency” clearly explains the interruption and gets attention quickly.
Identification (ID)
Identify according to FCC rules.
Most repeaters automatically ID every 10 minutes.
When you hear the repeater ID, that is a good time to give yours.
Clearing the Repeater
When finished, give your call sign and say you are clear.
You do not need to repeat the other station’s call sign.
Good Operating Practices
Avoid “ker-chunking.”
This is briefly keying the mic just to trigger the repeater.
If you need to test your signal, give your call sign and request a radio check.
Have fun!
These guidelines help you sound polished and courteous on the air.