The Empire Slow Speed Net

The Empire Slow Speed Net (ESS) is a CW traffic and training net meeting daily at 6 pm Eastern time (standard or DST, whichever is in effect) on 3566 kHz. Net name notwithstanding, all stations regardless of location are warmly invited to check in; we have had checkins from Florida to Nova Scotia and as far west as Wyoming.

Net operating speed is a nominal 10 wpm, although the net members will make every effort possible to accommodate those requiring a slower speed. ESS is an independent net founded in 1955 by Nat Harrington, KR2RA (ex-K2DYB, SK). While not formally affiliated with the National Traffic System (NTS), it follows standard net procedures and many of its members also participate in NTS nets-thus, messages for all parts of the U.S. and Canada can be readily accepted.

If you are interested in learning net procedure and traffic handling, or just want to join a group of friendly and helpful operators ranging from very experienced to traffic neophytes, please drop in on ESS. To help the new member, a few of the basic procedures are briefly outlined below; no station should hesitate to check in, however, for fear that lack of experience will be held against them.

In summary, we offer a core of experienced traffic-handlers; unlimited patience with newcomers, and (usually) QRM-free frequencies. Please contact net manager Anne Fanelli WI2G, 541 Schultz Road, Elma NY 14059 tel (716) 652-6719 (e-mail [email protected]) for further information. We hope to see you soon!

To check into the net: Wait until the net control station (NCS) calls the net or finishes acknowledging another station: then send a single letter or two short letters. When the NCS repeats the letter(s) you sent, send your call and indicate whether you have traffic and (if so) its destination.

Example:

(overscored letters AS are sent as one character).

If you are new to the net or to that particular NCS, they may ask you then for your name and QTH.

Sometimes several stations try to check in simultaneously. If the NCS recognizes another station, wait until they acknowledge the other station or calls the net again and repeat the procedure.

Once you are checked into the net, the NCS assumes that you are standing by attentively. Normally, do not transmit unless the NCS calls you (s/he may use your entire call or only your suffix); if the NCS calls you and pauses, indicate your attention by sending "HR." Unless your departure is unavoidable, remain on the net until the NCS excuses you (QNX) or the net is over (QNF). If you wish to address the NCS, wait for a net call or a pause in the proceedings and then send your suffix. The NCS will acknowledge with your suffix and you can then, for example, ask to be excused (PSE QNX). Do not call any other net member unless directed by the NCS. Keep all exchanges on the net courteous but brief.

To pass your traffic, or if another station has traffic for your QTH, the NCS will usually send you off the net frequency. Thus: WB2ABC WB2XYZ DWN 5 SYRACUSE 1. You will then QSY 5 kHz down from the net frequency and establish contact with WB2ABC. When s/he is ready (QRV), send your message. After s/he acknowledges complete receipt (QSL), return to the net frequency and indicate your return to the NCS by sending your suffix. A convenient "pink card" with correct message form, a list of the QN signals used in net operation, other Q-signals and other abbreviations can be obtained from the ARRL here: In brief: Only one station at a time can transmit on the net frequency. The NCS is in charge. Transmit only when they call on you and as directed by them. Have fun, and welcome to the world of CW traffic handling!