Editing Net operation (section)

{{Short description|Gathering of radio stations}}
A '''radio net''' is three or more radio stations communicating with each other on a common [[Communication channel|channel]] or [[frequency]].<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|url=http://www.mars.af.mil/Portals/59/documents/Regs/AFMARS%20NTM%202016%20RevA.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220151824/http://www.mars.af.mil/Portals/59/documents/Regs/AFMARS%20NTM%202016%20RevA.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 20, 2018|title=Air Force MARS National Training Manual 2016}}</ref>  A net is essentially a moderated conference call conducted over two-way radio, typically in half-duplex operating conditions. The use of half-duplex operation requires a very particular set of operating procedures to be followed in order to avoid inefficiencies and chaos.

Nets operate either on schedule or continuously (continuous watch). Nets operating on schedule handle traffic only at definite, prearranged times and in accordance with a prearranged schedule of intercommunication. Nets operating continuously are prepared to handle traffic at any time; they maintain operators on duty at all stations in the net at all times. When practicable, messages relating to schedules will be transmitted by a means of signal communication other than radio.<ref>U.S. Army Field Manual FM 24-5</ref>

Net operations:
* allow participants to conduct ordered conferences among participants who usually have common [[information]] needs or related functions to perform
* are characterized by adherence to [[standardization|standard]] formats and procedures, and
* are responsive to a common supervisory [[station (telecommunication)|station]], called the ''"[[net control station]]",'' which permits access to the net and maintains net operational discipline.