Response: To maintain high quality communications.
HF propagation frequently dictates that only with a relay station is it possible to cover specific paths across the 800 miles of the length of the state, not to mention the physical diversity of its mountain ranges, valleys and sprawling cities.
Once a relay station is activated and involved, it is expected to stay in the net control loop) until there is other direction by the NCS. If conditions are such that NCS cannot maintain control of the net, NCS may then turn net control over to a relay station. When satisfactory conditions return the relay station returns control to the NCS unless otherwise directed.
On original activation of a net, an NCS may use different means to determine which relay stations are active and usable on a particular net. On our state net it is typically determined from the 'net roll call' which includes the relay stations as the first order of call. However, specific calls to relay stations may be made in advance of net by a heads-up operator.
In a situation where path conditions vary widely between stations the NCS may assign a group of stations to a particular relay station for the duration of the net. Such an assignment may be on the main net frequency or may be on a sub-frequency as determined by both relay station and the NCS.
There can be other factors which dictate the use of a relay station. For instance, activity at the NCS may be so involved, hectic or interrupted that it is prudent for the NCS to have a relay station take over the entire net activity as alternate NCS. Much depends upon the location of and the condition of the physical facility for the original NCS. Some systems have the NCS in the EOC while others prefer the NCS to be at a quieter, but adjacent location, or one otherwise in close contact with the EOC.
Query: What factors do you look for in a relay station?
Answer: a mix of operational, technical and managerial abilities, much as one would look for in a net control station operator for high frequency operations.
Has the operator demonstrated good practices, such as these: Shown an ability to handle multiple simultaneous calls without confusion? Use staccato traffic, i.e., rapid fire cryptic words that cut through noise and interference? Or is the person 'long winded'? Have tone hearing ability; i.e., to recognize voices? Is there a 'command voice'; and can it be used without being heavy handed? What kind of 'presence' does the operator have?
Is there experience in emergency response? Is there dedication to the level of service required for a relay station? Can the operator develop assistants to provide relief and backup help at his/her location? Are there physical or mental restraints that can affect the operator? (consideration is required as operation hours can be unexpected and extensive).
A relay station must be capable of a quick frequency change when conditions warrant that action at the request of the NCS. This may be to a different frequency on the same band or a change to another band, such as to 160 meters from 80, or to 80 from 40, etc.
A relay station may need multiple antennas, emergency power source and several radios, as well as fax, packet, and other systems, as well as a pager.
Of course, one could say that in an emergency any station could be a relay station. However, the above aspects are worth considering when selecting a relay station. Not all of the factors will be found in one operator, but at least have them in mind when you make a selection.
[This two-part series was edited from an article originated by Howard Shepherd, W6US, Manager McArthur Relay, Alternate NCS, California Emergency Services Net, State of California Auxiliary Communications Service.]