Standard Qualification 2: Difference between revisions

In SQ-1, some basic radio communication etiquette was discussed. In SQ-2, we are going to get slightly more advanced.

Certain radio frequencies are ''controlled'' or ''uncontrolled''. This is a fancy way of saying that some environments have stricter standards on brevity and use of prowords (or "procedure words"), while others are far more laid back. Generally speaking, short-wave radios designed for communication within a fireteam or squad are ''uncontrolled.'' Conversely, radio frequencies with a decent range that are communicating with a completely different element (e.g full squad to another full squad), and/or a command element, are ''controlled.''

A common error used in mass media is when characters, when speaking over the radio, ending a transmission with "over and out". This is because the terms "over" and "out" are not only ''not'' synonymous, their meanings are opposites. When communicating a message, if the person speaking is expecting a reply, the message is ended with "over". If said person does ''not'' expect or want a reply, they say "out". Thus, saying "over and out" is an oxymoron, because ''technically'' the character is indicating they both do and do not want a reply.

 

 

 

 

Throughout the above conversation, there are points where the conversation could intuitively have been expected to end, yet it didn't. In fact, after Bravo Two told Alpha One they are approaching the objective, it's entirely reasonable that Alpha One not respond at all. It could have been interpreted as simply informative with a response being unwanted. As the element leaders keep giving or receiving replies they do not expect, they become distracted. A certain level of multi-tasking comes with the job, but the distraction in this situation is ''unexpected'' when it ''doesn't need to be.'' This detracts from the leader's ability to concentrate on leading their element, which could spell disaster.

 

Consider the same conversation when "over" and "out" are used.

 

 

''Bravo Two, this is Alpha One. We are approaching the objective.'' '''Over.'''<br/>

''Roger that. Will advise when set.'' '''Out.'''

 

</blockquote>When used properly, it is very clear and easy to determine when a reply is wanted or desired versus when the conversation has come to a close. Everytime "out" is used the recipient knows they are being expected to say something back. Then, once Alpha One says "out", the leader of Bravo Two knows he does not need to say anything, and can now fully focus his attention on whatever objective his element needs to tackle.