Role hub
Net Control Station (NCS)
Tools and discipline for running a structured net — check-ins, traffic, time references, and logging.
Net control reference
Net types
Directed vs tactical vs emergency
- Directed net: All traffic through NCS — club nets, ARES check-ins, routine roll calls. Use net script generator and ICS-211 roster.
- Tactical net: Incident-specific simplex or repeater — short callsigns, minimal chatter. See tactical callsigns and prowords.
- Emergency net: NCS controls all traffic; stations wait for assignment. Log everything in ICS-214 or net control log.
NCS shift checklist
Before you key up as net control
- Open net script — pre-fill net name, freq, NCS callsign, purpose.
- Load ICS-211 roster or net control log before first check-in.
- Display UTC clock — log times in UTC for ICS-214.
- Review prowords — no 10-codes on ham nets.
- SKYWARN activation? Keep spotter report form ready.
Net Control RefWorkflow step 3
Net Script GeneratorWorkflow step 3
World ClockWorkflow step 3
Time UtilityWorkflow step 3
UTC & Net TimesWorkflow step 3
Net Time Zone ConverterWorkflow step 3
Phonetic & Q-SignalsWorkflow step 3
10-Codes vs ProwordsWorkflow step 3
ICS-211 Check-In RosterWorkflow step 3
SKYWARN Spotter ReportWorkflow step 3
Net Control ReferenceDirected net scripts & logging
East TN nets: emcomm hub · SKYWARN D7 · MTEARS Monday 9 PM ET · spotter report
FAQ
Common questions
What does net control do on an emergency net?
NCS directs all traffic — check-ins, assignments, and priority messages. Stations do not talk unless called.
What is the difference between directed and tactical nets?
Directed nets route all traffic through NCS. Tactical nets use short incident callsigns with minimal formal structure.
Which KI4TQN tools should NCS open first?
Net control reference, net script generator, ICS-211 roster, and world clocks for UTC logging.