CHAPTER 1

COMMUNICATIONS HARDWARE

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completing this chapter, you should be able to do the following:

l Determine the equipment required for each communications system.

l Identify the hardware setup procedures for radio systems.

l Identify the use of COMMSPOTS.

l Identify procedures and requirements for communications equipment as it pertains to OTAR/OTAT functions.

l Determine utilization, frequencies and watches needed for distress communication equipment.

l 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 operational checks of equipment and antennas, and consumable supply levels.

The Basic Operational Communications Doctrine (U), NWP 4 (NWP 6-01), provides suggested minimum check-off sheets, including a predeployment check-off sheet and a preunderway

check-off sheet. The first sheet provides a timetable of required checks and objectives. The second sheet is tailored to individual ships and unique requirements.