CW Net Check-in Procedure
by Bill Carter, KG4FXG

It all started when I visited the web site WWW.QSL.NET/KI8DU and discovered CW Nets. Many CW Nets are traffic handling nets that pass along radiograms as a form of public service. They have slow nets that run about 5 to 8 words per minute.

Many weeks I would just listen and copy down what was sent on the nets, it was just as easy as copying W1AW code practice. Then it hit me. I want to check-in not just listen on the side lines. These nets are great for the beginner. You send about two words to check-in and about the same to checkout. The perfect QSO, nice and short, Right? After listening for awhile I just sent what another station did.

Here is how to check into a CW Net:
You: F
NCS (Net Control Station): F
You: de KG4FXG ge Bob qru K
NCS: ge Bill as next

Basically, you said this is KG4FXG good evening Bob no traffic and K which means go ahead. The NCS said good evening Bill, stand by (AS) and the "next" is a call for another station to check-in. Easy, isn’t it?

Here is how to check out:
NCS: FXG
You: c
NCS: qnx 73 k
You: tu Bob 73 de KG4FXG

NCS called you by sending your suffix, FXG. You sent C which means yes. The NCS sent QNX which excused you from the net..Easy! If you are interested, NCS will send you radiograms that will train you to receive, send and pass radiograms.

Remember that the slow nets are for the beginners. It is acceptable to make mistakes. There will always be someone out there slower than you so help them out and remember, courtesy at all times. There are some pretty neat QSO’s after the nets also, and you get to build new friendships. 73....BIll  (KG4FXG)

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