FCC Part 97

Contrary to popular belief, the FCC does not require you to identify every time you transmit. However, you must identify at least once every 10 minutes during a communication and at the end of your communication. This is often referred to as the "10-Minute Rule" and the "End Rule".

The 10-Minute Rule:
You must identify completely at least once every 10 minutes, measured from the end of your last transmitted call sign.
The "End" Rule:
You must state your call sign again at the conclusion of your final transmission with the other station.
No Pausing Necessary:
You do not need to disrupt the flow of a conversation to ID.

1 Hour Nets
  • 10-Minute Requirement: You must explicitly state your call sign every 10 minutes.
    If it has been over 10 minutes since your last ID, you must include your call sign in your very next transmission.
  • Checking In & Out: If you need to leave the 1-hour net early, proper procedure is to state your call sign and request permission from the NCS to "secure" your station.
  • End of Communication: When you are permanently done with your transmissions for the net, you must give your call sign one final time to legally conclude your contact

Callsign Frenching

"Callsign frenching" (or "Frenching a callsign") is an informal, somewhat controversial habit among amateur (ham) radio operators of stating the other station's call sign before their own when making a call (e.g., "W1XYZ, this is W2ABC").
This practice is not required by FCC regulations and is often discouraged in formal radio communication because it can lead to confusion, especially in noisy conditions or when multiple stations are calling simultaneously.
The FCC's rules for station identification (Part 97.119) do not mandate the order of call signs in a transmission, but they do require that the station identify itself at least once every 10 minutes and at the end of a communication.
In practice, many ham radio operators simply state their own call sign at the end of their transmission without "Frenching" the other station's call sign, which is generally considered clearer and more efficient for radio communication.

3-3-3

The 3-3-3 rule for radio is a universal communication protocol used by emergency groups, survivalists, and preppers to establish contact when traditional infrastructure (like cell towers or the internet) fails.
It outlines a specific schedule for when, where, and how long to use your two-way radio (such as CB, FRS, GMRS, or Ham radios) to conserve battery life while maximizing the chance of connecting with someone.
  • Every 3 hours: Turn on and monitor your radio at the top of every third hour (Noon, 3:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m., Midnight, 3:00 a.m., 6:00 a.m., and 9:00 a.m.) based on your local time.
  • For 3 minutes: Listen and/or transmit for 3 minutes to see if anyone is trying to reach you or to check in. If you have plenty of battery or are trying to establish a connection, you can listen for up to 15 minutes.
  • On Channel 3: Tune your radio to Channel 3. On GMRS and FRS walkie-talkies, this is typically Channel 3

Music

Playing music over ham radio is generally not allowed under FCC regulations, as it can interfere with other communications and is not considered a valid use of the amateur radio spectrum.

Unlicensed Operators

Unlicensed individuals are not legally allowed to operate ham radios. However, in practice, some unlicensed operators do transmit on amateur radio frequencies, which is illegal and can lead to interference with licensed communications.

Third-Party Communications

Third-Party Communications:
Unlicensed individuals may operate a ham station, but only under the direct supervision of a licensed control operator. International communications with third parties require specific agreements between the US and the foreign country.
Under Direct Supervision:
An unlicensed individual can operate a licensed station (such as an amateur/ham radio) if a licensed control operator is present, continuously supervising, and assumes responsibility for the transmissions.
Life-Threatening Emergencies:
Anyone can use any available radio to call for help to protect life or property, provided no other regular means of communication (like a cell phone) is available.
Licensed Radio Services:
You do not need an individual license to operate equipment in certain Personal Radio Services like Family Radio Service (FRS), Citizens Band (CB) radio, or marine VHF radios on non-commercial vessels.
Callsign Identification
When an unlicensed person operates a ham radio under the direct supervision of a licensed control operator, the station must identify using the licensed control operator's call sign.
The unlicensed individual is not permitted to use their own callsign, nor is there a requirement to announce that a third party is transmitting; the transmissions are legally considered those of the licensed station.

TOC

Tactical Operations Center (TOC)A ham radio TOC serves as the central command node during public service events, search and rescue operations, or disaster response. It integrates multiple radios, computers, and logging systems to track field teams and relay intelligence

40 Meters

How the 40m GhostNet Works
  • Core Software: Participation requires a computer connected to an HF transceiver using the JS8Call application.
  • Frequencies: The 40-meter band is commonly used for GhostNet communications, with specific frequencies like 7.078 MHz USB designated for JS8Call traffic.
  • Group Tags: Users identify themselves with group tags (e.g., @ghostnet) to facilitate communication and coordination within the network.
  • Scheduling: GhostNet hosts regular nets, often on Thursday evenings at 9 PM Eastern, where participants exchange information and check in.
  • OPSEC: The network emphasizes operational security, encouraging users to communicate directly without relying on centralized servers or infrastructure.

Plan

The GhostNet plan is a comprehensive strategy for establishing and maintaining a resilient, decentralized communication network using amateur radio technologies. It outlines the technical infrastructure, operational protocols, and community engagement necessary to create a robust digital emergency communication system that can function independently of traditional internet and cellular networks. The plan includes details on frequency allocation, software requirements, training programs, and coordination efforts to ensure effective communication during emergencies and disasters.

To create 4x6 sheets for field use, print the full plan PDF and cut into quarters.
Full Plan  |