OPERATING GUIDELINES
SANDRA, Inc. Membership Form (web ver. 1.7; 02/22/2023)
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Introduction
There are times when guidelines for doing various things in life must be established in order to keep things running smoothly. No one is perfect and we all need an occasional reminder!
Some newcomers to the repeater systems want very much to do right in the eyes of their peers, so much so that some don't even get on the air for fear of doing something wrong. They sit back and listen to the more experienced operator and try to establish in their own mind what the correct procedures are. They know the regulations specify what is right and wrong, but nothing is mentioned about correct operating procedures.
The San Diego Repeater Association (SANDRA) has established the below procedures to be used when operating SANDRA repeaters. These procedures were written to establish maximum service for the greatest number of amateurs. The repeaters must be usable and listenable in order to have stations that are willing to monitor. Otherwise, we lose the opportunity to enjoy this part of amateur radio. We encourage you to use our repeaters and have an enjoyable time doing so. SANDRA is an ARRL Affiliated Club.
Setting An Example
From time to time, some of us unknowingly slip into some poor operating habits. Maybe it's time we all take a few moments to think of what we say and how we say it. Some become lazy and comfortable with sloppy procedures and don't even realize it. It becomes a subconscious action and things like shortened call signs, bad slang, cursing, etc., become part of our on the air vocabulary. Do we really need to express ourselves in this manner?
Many non-hams monitor amateur radio frequencies with scanners. Watch your language and your manners. Please don't bring disrepute on the Amateur Radio Service. Non-hams who ride in our vehicles, or listen on scanners, are unlikely to get excited about ham radio if they hear this unimpressive slang. People already know these words, and if they pursue this great hobby why should we give them the impression that language of this nature is commonly accepted? We reap what we sow. Therefore, the following points will make amateur radio a better place for all of us.
The Meaning Of "Break"
The word "Break" has several different and very specific meanings in amateur radio. Break should never be used when you simply want to join a conversation in progress. Use your call sign for that. The use of the word break can be used to terminate a message with one station and start a message to another during the same transmission. Example: "WB6XYZ, message received. BREAK. WB6WLV, have you arrived at your office yet?"
Break can be utilized to interrupt an ongoing conversation with traffic of a higher priority. The frequency should be released immediately to the station calling break. You should transmit "Station calling break go ahead with your priority traffic." You must not simply say "I acknowledge the break," then finish your conversation before relinquishing the frequency.
The most critical use of break is when someone calls "break, break, break" or "break emergency". This indicates emergency traffic. All other stations must release the frequency immediately and stand by to assist if necessary.
Tactfully educate those who use "break" in an improper manner.
General Responsibilities
Use proper ethics of amateur radio when operating.
You are expected to know and adhere to all applicable FCC and SANDRA rules, regulations, procedures and guidelines. Be a courteous operator and lead others by your positive example. Use your call sign. "Break" has specific meanings. (See The Meaning Of "Break" above.) Kerchunking the repeaters are not appreciated. (Kerchunking is transmitting for a second or less without saying anything.) Wait for the courtesy tone before transmitting.
Most repeaters have a transmit timeout timer, usually set for about 2 1/2 minutes. You should be able to say what is needed in that time. The "just a minute while I drop it" every minute is very annoying to listeners. Many people listen to the frequencies, but do not enter the conversation, so be aware of what is being said.
Remember, our repeaters are open and available for use by all licensed amateur radio operators. SANDRA has a large membership base. Everyone should be given the opportunity to utilize the equipment. Do not monopolize the repeaters.
SANDRA discourages joking around or horseplay on its repeaters. Some people think it's
funny, but in reality it is very unprofessional. If there is malicious interference, do not confirm, acknowledge, or discuss the problem. We ask that you check the repeater input for any station causing interference and forward the information to SANDRA. This can be done via telephone or e-mail.
Full call signs are to be used as per FCC regulations.
Make your conversations interesting. People turn their radios on for good conversation, not the same old problem from last month. Do not operate the radio if intoxicated.
Membership dues pay for repeater maintenance and other associated operating expenses. If you use a repeater regularly, please support us by joining SANDRA.