NARS Nets are on Tuesday at 7:00 pm, and Wednesday at 8:00 pm.
A ham radio net is an organized on-air gathering of amateur radio operators who meet at a scheduled time and frequency to communicate, share information, practice operating skills, and provide a structured way for stations to check in. Nets can be held on local repeaters, simplex frequencies, HF bands, or digital networks.
Nets serve several important purposes:
Emergency Communications
One of the primary reasons for holding nets is to maintain readiness for emergency communications. Regular participation helps operators become familiar with proper radio procedures, message handling, and net discipline. When severe weather, natural disasters, or other emergencies occur, trained operators can quickly provide communications support when normal systems are unavailable.
Training and Practice
Nets give both new and experienced operators an opportunity to practice radio communications in a structured environment. Participants learn proper operating techniques, phonetics, signal reporting, directed net procedures, and efficient communication methods. Regular practice helps build operator confidence and competence.
Information Sharing
Many clubs and organizations use nets to distribute announcements, meeting information, event updates, and technical news. Club officers can communicate upcoming activities, public service events, training opportunities, and operating tips to members quickly and efficiently.
Building Community
Nets help strengthen the amateur radio community by bringing operators together on a regular basis. Members can become familiar with one another, welcome new hams, and maintain friendships. For many operators, the weekly club net is an important social activity that helps keep them active in the hobby.
Public Service Coordination
During public service events such as marathons, parades, bike rides, and community events, nets provide an organized communication channel for volunteers. A net control station can coordinate activities, track resources, and relay information among operators in the field.
Types of Nets
Common types of amateur radio nets include:
- Club Nets - Sponsored by local amateur radio clubs.
- Traffic Nets - Used to pass formal written messages.
- Emergency Nets - Activated during emergencies and disasters.
- Training Nets - Focused on education and operator development.
- Technical Nets - Discussions about equipment and operating techniques.
- Social or Ragchew Nets - Informal conversations among operators.
- Public Service Nets - Used during community events and exercises.
At the center of most nets is the Net Control Station (NCS), which manages the flow of communications, calls for check-ins, and ensures the net operates in an organized manner. Some clubs have a Net Logging Station (NLS) to allow the NCS to focus on communicating with stations checking in.
In simple terms, a ham radio net is the amateur radio equivalent of a regularly scheduled meeting held over the air. It helps operators stay connected, develop skills, share information, and maintain readiness to serve their communities when needed.