26 Questions
What is the primary limitation of portable radios' range?
The wattage of the radio signal transmitted
What is the main advantage of using a mobile radio over a portable radio?
Increased range due to higher antenna
Why is trunked radio systems important for public safety?
To allow multiple users to operate on fewer frequencies
What is the primary function of repeater sites in conventional radio systems?
To expand the communications range of the radio system
What is the typical power source for a mobile radio?
Vehicle power system
What determines the maximum range of a portable radio?
All of the above
What should you do before transmitting on a conventional radio?
Think before speaking and collect your thoughts
What is the primary reason for adjusting the positioning of microphones?
To reduce wind noise and other external noise
What does 10-33 code signify?
Emergency traffic follows, hold routine messages
What is the recommended practice when using a conventional radio repeater system?
Wait a few seconds after keying the talk button before speaking
Why is it important to avoid parking too near buildings or under power lines?
To prevent radio dead spots and ensure clear transmission
What does 10-4 code signify?
Message received, affirmative, ok
What is the purpose of the 10-code system?
To provide a standardized way of communicating on radios
What should you do when listening to a conversation on a conventional radio?
Listen carefully to ensure nobody else is talking
What is the significance of the 10-12 code?
Standby
Why is it important to avoid blocking portable transmissions with your body?
To enable the signal to reach the receiver
What is the main difference between conventional and trunked systems?
Conventional systems have more idle time
What is the first rule of the ABC2 Rules of Radio Transmission?
ACCURACY
What is the purpose of using the Phonetic Alphabet during radio transmissions?
To improve clarity and understanding
What should you do when initiating radio transmissions?
State your badge number and then your location
Why is it important to maintain your composure during highly stressful situations on the radio?
To reduce stress and increase understanding
What should you avoid when using the radio during emergencies?
Shouting over the microphone
Why is plain language important in multi-agency, multijurisdictional events?
It improves interoperability
How should you hold the microphone during radio transmissions?
One inch from your lips at a 45-degree angle
What is the correct way to acknowledge radio transmissions directed to you?
All of the above
What is the purpose of assigning frequencies to each radio in conventional systems?
To allow for multiple users
Study Notes
Radio Equipment and Operations
- Portable radios: handheld receiver-transmitters powered by a battery, with a limited range (approximately 1 mile) due to low power and shorter integrated antenna.
- Mobile radios: mounted in a vehicle, powered by the vehicle's battery, with a higher antenna, increasing the effective range.
Trunked Radio Systems
- Allow multiple users to operate on fewer frequencies, assigned to tower sites.
- Importance: efficient use of limited radio spectrum resources.
Conventional Radio Systems
- Use radio-to-radio communication or repeater sites to expand the communication range.
- Repeaters use more powerful radios and taller towers to receive and retransmit signals.
- Conventional systems traditionally use more frequencies, with several frequencies sitting idle for long periods.
ABC2 Rules of Radio Transmission
- A: Accuracy - ensure the message is received without errors.
- B: Brevity - avoid using unnecessary or repetitive words.
- C: Courtesy - respect reflected in tone of voice.
- C2: Clarity - ability to be understood, speaking clearly and concisely.
Improving Transmissions During Emergencies
- Minimize noise around you, avoiding wind noise and screams.
- Maintain composure and keep calm during stressful situations.
- Do not shout, as it can over-modulate the microphone and disrupt communications.
Initiating and Acknowledging Radio Transmissions
- When initiating traffic, state your badge number and the identifier of the person you are contacting.
- Provide your location when initiating contact or when responding to a call.
- Acknowledge radio transmissions by saying "understood", using the appropriate 10-code, or identifying yourself by badge number.
Interoperability and Plain Language
- Use plain language for multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional, and multi-discipline events to improve interoperability.
- Avoid using private codes or terms during these events.
- Language or terms may be unique to one jurisdiction or discipline and may not be common to others.
Phonetic Alphabet
- Used to improve clarity and understanding over the radio.
- Law enforcement in Missouri generally uses the Police (LAPD) Phonetic alphabet.
- Some agencies may use the International (military) alphabet.
Radio/Microphone Techniques
- Position the microphone at a 45-degree angle to avoid picking up breath sounds.
- Hold the microphone one inch from your lips, adjusting for volume and external noise.
- Listen before transmitting to ensure nobody else is talking.
- Think before speaking to avoid dead air or unprofessional transmissions.
- Key (push the talk button) and wait a few seconds before speaking, allowing the electronics to catch up.
- Be aware of the location of your radio antenna and its impact on transmission.
10-Code
- A list of codes used to convey common messages, such as:
- 10-1: poor reception
- 10-2: good reception
- 10-3: stop transmitting
- 10-4: message received, affirmative, ok
- 10-5: relay this information to
- ...and many more
This quiz covers the functions and limitations of portable radios, including their range and power sources. It also touches on the differences between trunked and conventional radios.
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