This type of net is a directed net, meaning a net controller controls the flow of traffic.That makes it a formal net with rules people follow, but it doesn’t mean that it has to have a formal tone. The only parts of the script that are actually vital are:
- Identifying yourself with your call sign at the start and every ten minutes afterward, and again at the close,
- Stating that a net is starting (by agreement, people should stop using the frequency for general purposes at that time),
- Asking for emergency or priority traffic, and giving instructions on how to break into the net with such traffic,
- Stating that the net is over and the frequency is open for normal use again.
Feeling nervous? That’s normal, just remember that no one *owns* an amateur frequency or has a right to use it exclusively. Nets work only because all operators agree to follow the Net Controller. Whatever the Net Controller does is right by definition. Especially for a net like the BORED Net, it’s very casual and low pressure, and no one is keeping count of awkward moments. Nothing is at stake! Even if it’s the first time you’ve tried being a net controller, once you read the first word you already have more experience than most of the people checking in. Relax and have fun.
Keith W6KME
keith@w6kme.org