CHAPTER 1
COMMUNICATIONS HARDWARE
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Upon completing this chapter, you should be able to do the following:
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Determine the equipment required for each communications system.
Identify the hardware setup procedures for radio systems.
Identify the use of COMMSPOTS.
Identify procedures and requirements for communications equipment as it
pertains to OTAR/OTAT functions.
Determine utilization, frequencies and watches needed for distress
communication equipment.
Interpret how to monitor circuit quality equipment.
The high-paced operations required of modern fleet
units demand communication systems that are capable
of providing high-speed, accurate, and secure
transmission and reception of intelligence. To keep
pace with the ever-increasing complexity of operations,
today’s communication systems are necessarily highly
sophisticated and versatile. For our ships and
submarines to operate effectively, whether
independently or as part of a battle group, they must
have communication systems and operators that are
capable of meeting this challenge.
In this chapter, we will discuss various aspects of
fleet communication systems. As a Radioman, you will
be responsible for knowing the different
communication systems used by the Navy and what
communication equipments make up a system.
COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS
Through equipment design and installation, many
equipments are compatible with each other and can be
used to accomplish various functions. Using this design
concept, nearly all the communication needs of a ship
can be met with fewer pieces of communications
equipment than were previously required.
Communications can be maintained at the highest
possible state of readiness when all levels of command
understand the capabilities and limitations of the
systems. Many communications failures are
attributable to poor administration rather than to
equipment failure or technical problems.
In this section, we will discuss predeployment
readiness; low-, high-, very-high-, ultra-high-, and
super-high-frequency communications systems; and
equipment components that comprise these systems.
UNDERWAY PREPARATION
Ships deploying to overseas areas must be in a state
of maximum operational and communications
readiness. Type commanders determine the level of
readiness of deploying ships and ensure they are
adequately prepared.
A check-off list is an excellent method to ensure
that step-by-step preparations are completed prior to a
deployment. This list should cover all aspects of
communications readiness and should begin well in
advance of the underway period. Some of the points to
be checked include scheduling of communications
assistance team (CAT) visits, maintenance and
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