Nets

What is an Amateur Radio Net?

An amateur radio net, or simply ham net, is an "on-the-air" gathering of amateur radio operators. Most nets convene on a regular schedule and specific frequency, and are organized for a particular purpose, such as relaying messages, discussing a common topic of interest, in severe weather (for example, during a Skywarn activation), emergencies, or simply as a regular gathering of friends for conversation.

Amateur radio nets also allow the regular testing of equipment such as radio's, antenna's and coax etc... to make sure all is in working condition in case emergency use is required. It also allows for the testing of the repeater system to ensure the equipment is functioning as expected.

Net operation:

Nets operate more or less formally depending on their purpose and organization. Groups of nets may organize and operate in collaboration for a common purpose, such as to pass along emergency messages in time of disaster. One such system of nets is the National Traffic System (NTS), organized and operated by members of the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) to handle routine and emergency messages on a nationwide and local basis

Formal operation:

A formal, or directed net has a single net control station (NCS) that manages its operation for a given session. The NCS operator calls the net to order at its designated start time, periodically calls for participants to join, listens for them to answer (or check in) keeps track of the roster of stations for that particular net session, and generally orchestrates the operation of the net.

A different station might be designated NCS for each net session. Overall operation and scheduling of NCS assignments and net sessions is managed by the net manager.

The OARS club Nets are all Formally operated and have a designated net control station or operator (NCS/NCO). 


Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amateur_radio_net