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| | | | | | | Many of us are aware that the NTS pages on the ARRL website had not been updated for some time. However, since their formation in 2023, the NTS 2.0 or NTS2 subcommittee teams have been working to bring NTS more up to date and new information has been provided on the committee’s website at https://nts2.arrl.org/. Unfortunately, confusion arose as traffic handlers found differences in the information provided on the two sites. I was pleased to hear from ARRL Director of Emergency Communications and Field Services Josh Johnston, KE5MHV, that the original NTS pages have been updated and maintenance remains ongoing. I encourage readers to check this out at https://www.arrl.org/nts. |
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| NTS Page on ARRL website. |
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| It looks much the same but note particularly the addition of the updated Numbered Radiograms and Handling Instructions. Under “Template Forms,” you will find that the old form FSD-218 is currently in the process of revision as well. (The FSD-218 included the information on the old “Pink Card” for those who go back that far.) This is great news and it is good to see these updates ongoing. Thanks to the staff at ARRL for their support. |
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| | | This net meets weekly via Zoom on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 PM Eastern Time and is open to all hams and non-hams who are interested in learning more about messaging handling via amateur radio. On November 4, 2026, the first Wednesday of the month, a new series will begin with the basics. Participants are encouraged to attend on the first Wednesday, but anyone is welcome at any session. Sessions are recorded and a link may be requested by emailing Net Manager Shawn Dodds, N1CVO. While the country set its clocks back an hour on Sunday November 1, the net remains on local time (7PM ET, 6PM CT, 5PM MT, and 4PM PT). The Zoom link, as well as more information about the net, can be found at https://nts2.arrl.org/virtual-nts-training-net/. |
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| | | | | Hello, NTS Treasure Hunters!
Well, the fifth NTS Treasure Hunt for 2026 is complete! Eighteen stations completed all four rounds in the July/August 2026 NTS Treasure Hunt. |
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| The Mug Award Winner for September/October 2026 is Dave Marcucci, KC1TLF.
A specially designed mug is awarded following a random drawing of all hunters who complete the hunt.
(Note: I have gotten behind on making the mugs due to family medical issues, but they are not forgotten. November is shaping up to be a good month to catch up on some things that have been put off, including the mugs.)
November/December 2026 NTS Treasure Hunt
This hunt will have at least four rounds. Can you get through all the rounds by December 26?
Here is the first-round question:
NR 1 R HXG AC8NP 21 TIFFIN OH NOV 3
NTS TREASURE HUNTERS
BT
THR1 HOW MIGHT A CHILD CONTACT
SANTA DURING THE HOLIDAYS VIA
AMATEUR RADIO QUERY ANSWER TO
DAN RINAMAN AC8NP TIFFIN OH
44883
BT
DAN AC8NP
Please remember to start your message with the THR1-5 answer, which means Treasure Hunt Round Number.
For more information on the Treasure Hunt, including alternative ways of participating in the hunt if one has no available access to traffic nets or the Digital Traffic Network, see https://nts2.arrl.org/treasure-hunt/.
If you have any comments or suggestions, please email Dan Rinaman, AC8NP, at ac8np@ac8np.com. |
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| | | As I think about the current state of NTS, I begin thinking about why we keep doing “this NTS thing” when we’re losing more traffic handlers than we are gaining. Is there good reason to keep going? Is it worth all the effort when we seem to talk to deaf ears? And if so, where do we go from here and how do we replace ourselves and keep the network and the system viable and reliable?
When I first became involved in amateur radio in 1980, I spent a year chasing DX, working all states, and all those things new amateurs do. In 1981, I decided to try traffic handling and I was hooked. Why? Was it the sense of accomplishment? These were the days of Novice licenses and CW slow speed nets. It took a lot of listening and learning to be able to take part in nets and relay messages, but it gave me a real sense of accomplishment. Not only that, but I found a community of like-minded amateur radio traffic handlers where I developed lasting friendships. It was also an inviting reprieve from the everyday trials of life.
I’m now more than a few years older and still enjoying this aspect of the hobby. I still feel a sense of accomplishment when I can relay a message from coast to coast, net control a traffic net, and give a presentation to a club or convention gathering, either in person or via the internet. I also have friends from many years ago, along with many new ones.
For me today, however, amateur radio takes on an additional important reason for involvement. We live in a somewhat turbulent world, and we have become increasingly dependent on technology that not only allows for instant communication but governs so much of our daily lives. How will we be able to keep in touch not only with family and friends, but with all others who provide for our daily needs?
As radio operators we have a unique ability to provide for communication needs. Our fellow ARES participants can be invaluable in assisting emergency communicators, but most are not trained in how to get an important message to someone some distance away. We can provide that help if we have a viable and reliable service, but it appears we cannot do that without more preparation and training.
While there are many communications services out there, I would hope that ARRL’s two emergency communications programs can work together to train and be prepared as much as possible if, or more likely when, a need arises. What if each one of us does our part to promote and train those who will come after us?
Food for some hopefully constructive thought! I’m interested in hearing yours.
-- Marcia Forde, KW1U, kw1u@comcast.net |
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| | | I recently heard from a fellow amateur who inquired how a message submitted on the Radiogram Portal got to its delivery point. In other words, what was the workflow? It occurred to me from other comments I have heard that many folks don’t really understand the operation of the Portal. Here I attempt to summarize four basic steps: a message creator; a database; retrieval; and entry into a radio network.
A message creator allows anyone to send a message through the National Traffic System. Designed primarily for the non-licensed public, it is used frequently by licensed amateurs with limited or no access to the NTS messaging network, and involves going to https://nts2.arrl.org/radiogram/ and submitting the required information. The software converts the information into radiogram format and adds the radiogram to a database.
The database stores the message, where it remains while awaiting retrieval.
Retrieval is accomplished by experienced traffic handlers who, having applied and been approved for “Radiogrammer” status and who have received email notification of message availability, may now log into the database and accept a message by adding both their message number and their call sign, which then becomes the station of origin. They mark the message as being handled, returning later to note it had been sent. The message remains in the database but is no longer available for retrieval by another Radiogrammer.
Entry into a radio network (NTS) is accomplished by the Radiogrammer taking the message to a traffic net or Digital Traffic Network for relay or delivery.
It is important to remember that the one submitting the message is not the station of origin but is a “third party.” The station of origin is an amateur with the capability and opportunity to put the message out over the air. The submitter may have a call sign, but that does not make him/her the station of origin.
Remember also that a service message regarding message status goes to the station of origin and not the submitter, even if the submitter has a call sign. On the other hand, a reply to the submitter does go the submitter. This applies to all message traffic and not just those retrieved from the Portal. |
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| | | In 2025, Radio Relay International (RRI) introduced a new radiogram precedence called “Certified,” abbreviated as “C.” This new precedence was then accepted by the ARRL NTS2 Subcommittee to maintain consistency and avoid confusion. Information was publicized by RRI and is also described on the NTS2 website at https://nts2.arrl.org/introducing-the-certified-precedence/. This new precedence was an attempt to resolve, at least in part, the problem of long delivery delays and loss of messages traveling through the NTS. One might compare this to the US Postal System’s use of Priority or Express mail. It requires special handling. Some of the features of this new precedence include: Messages must be delivered within 48 hours of origination. Of course, this requires that the time filed block in the preamble contains that time in UTC. By 48 hours hence, no matter where it is in the relay of that message, the operator holding it must make the delivery via phone, text or email. (Think of the proverbial “hot potato,” or maybe the children’s game, “Tag, you’re it.”) Criteria for use of this precedence include: The message shall be transmitted only as the result of a prior direct relationship or transaction between the originator (signatory) and addressee. The originator shall have a reasonable expectation that the address, phone number, and other contact information contained in the radiogram address has been verified as both timely and correct before origination (in other words, address data cannot be harvested from online directories or the like). The message transmitted must be unique in character. In other words, the precedence may not be used for “bulk” messages that often contain a common text, and which are addressed to individuals with whom the originator has no prior relationship.
Some confusion appears to exist due to the different usage of the letter “C” in the preamble as either the precedence “C” or the handling instruction “HXC.” Remember the precedence comes immediately after the message number, which may then be followed by the optional handling instruction (HX_).
Because this precedence is quite new and there have been relatively few such messages, many may have either not heard about or have forgotten about it. I hope all traffic handlers and Net Managers will help get the word out in their traffic handling training and monthly reports to their constituents. |
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| | | This concept of an NTS contest was introduced in the September 2026 issue of The NTS Letter. It is an opportunity to test our skills while operating in a low-key contest, which should be a lot of fun. The following article was posted in the ARRLNTS group at groups.io and I believe it is worth reading. A lot of effort has gone into this project already and the question remains whether there are enough folks out there who think it worthwhile. It is hoped that readers of this newsletter will check out the website and comment to the author. -- KW1U
I'm John, KC1VMZ, and I was inspired by a few random things:
1) Christine, N1AUP, reaching out in an ARES net about the desires expressed in Marcia's HamX presentation by Shawn, N1CVO 2) The general problem we have with needing people to volunteer and step up to do new interesting things 3) My involvement in Western MA ARES and the belief we need to do more in ARES to be prepared in handling traffic 4) My professional skills as a software engineer being applied in other areas of amateur radio (www.kc1vmz.com)
With that, I set out to create an internet-based application that would be useful in allowing operators to become better versed in traffic handling.
Let them be accountable for sending and receiving traffic whose complexity can be governed by a contest setting.
The experience is game-ified to be engaging and is currently focused on growing experience rather than who can do the most or be the fastest.
Contest is the word, but this is not meant to be “high-stakes-I-need-to-win.”NTS is meant to be the winner by raising up the next rounds of traffic handlers.
This conversation is meant to determine two things: 1) Is it worth it? 2) Is this the right solution?
I've gotten a great deal of help from Virtual NTS Training Net Manager Shawn, N1CVO, to help make sure that the application is technically correct. There are judgement calls we have both made based on our unique experiences. But the engagement of folks like you all here is key — to help determine if this effort is worth the time and investment and ongoing cost, and if we're close on how to actually do it.
So, if you're keen to engage more, please reach out to us at arrlnts.groups.io or to me privately at kc1vmz@gmail.com.
Thanks! -- John Rokici, KC1VMZ |
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| | | Missouri Section Traffic Manager Don Rogers, KDØPYG, reports, “While not overly unique, one of our ARES districts is doing on-air and live message handling training. The goal is to have all ARES members in the district proficient in moving formal priority and welfare traffic along, integrating into the section traffic net in an emergency. |
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| | | Virginia Launching DMR Traffic & Training Net in January 2027
Virginia has about 21,000 licensed hams, of which 9,200 (45%) are Technicians. Unless a Technician is CW-capable and on HF, they miss out in participating on Section-level 80-meter traffic nets. Concurrently, NTS misses out on additional capabilities that Technicians and hams who may be limited to VHF/UHF can contribute to handling radiograms. To address this situation and fill gaps in current HF net coverage, ARRL VA has partnered with DMRVA to launch a traffic and training net in January 2027. DMRVA currently links 28 DMR repeaters across Virginia and is seeking to expand its coverage. The traffic net will operate on the Virginia Statewide Talkgroup, 3151. Hams can join the net through a nearby DMRVA repeater or a hotspot. Note, however, that TG 3151 is not linked between Brandmeister and DMRVA.
ARRL VA is now recruiting volunteers to fill net positions including Net Manager, Net Control Stations, net liaison stations, NTS training presenters, and interested traffic handlers. The net schedule is under development. See ARRL VA DMR Net Info or contact the Virginia STM, George Stone, WA1JQC, at wa1jqc@arrl.net for further information. -- George Stone, WA1JQC, Virginia Section Traffic Manager Digital Voice Net in New England
A new digital voice traffic net was launched on October 1, 2026. The New England Digital Voice Traffic Net (NEDVTN) is the brainchild of Mike Shepherd, W1VEG. It is a region net covering all of New England and, while it is an independent net, it operates according to NTS protocol and liaises with NTS nets throughout New England. According to the net manager, W1VEG, it is hoped to attract those who are confined to VHF/UHF operations and encourage them to learn the skills of traffic handling and to provide outlets for message traffic. Mike reports that the net is going well so far, and it has had some good participation. Check out Mike’s website at www.NEDVTN.net. |
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| | | Recently, representatives from Radio Relay International (RRI) and ARRL met to review the existing list of handling instructions. Their review resulted in the removal of obsolete references, modifications to existing instructions, and the addition of new HX codes to better support emergency communications operations. The revised list is now in effect throughout ARRL National Traffic System (NTS) and RRI traffic networks. (See https://nts2.arrl.org/hx-handling-instructions/.)
This month, we turn our attention to HXA, a handling instruction that addresses how a radiogram should be delivered to its recipient. Under the revised handling instructions, HXA indicates that delivery by email and/or text message is preferred.
As many of us know, amateur radio traffic handling continues to evolve alongside the communication methods available to the public. While traditional delivery methods remain important, email and text messaging can provide a quick and practical way to get a message to its intended recipient.
What does this mean for us as traffic handlers? When a message carries HXA, email and/or text message delivery is preferred. Our responsibility is to make a reasonable effort to honor that preference when the necessary contact information and resources are available, while following the applicable traffic-handling procedures.
As we work through the HX codes each month, it is important that we all understand their meanings and apply them consistently. Accurate handling instructions help us deliver messages efficiently and maintain the reliability of the National Traffic System.
Until next month, keep the traffic moving! 73. -- Roy Watts, W8ROY |
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| | | Jo Ann was introduced to amateur radio and electronics in 1966 when dating her soon-to-be husband, John, while spending time in his radio repair shop. She and John had just graduated from high school, and he was waiting to be called up into the US Air Force.
They were married in May, 1967, in Biloxi, Mississippi, where he was stationed at Keesler AFB. Living in a duplex only 100 yards from the beach and 10 feet above sea level was fun until Cat 5 Hurricane Camille destroyed their home on August 17, 1969. Having survived in a hangar on base, they returned to find total devastation.
The TV news was airing video of the destruction and their parents could see the duplex was destroyed. There was no telephone, power, water, or other service in the area, and so no way to contact their parents with the news they had survived.
On the second or third day, the Red Cross moved in with a group of amateur radio operators who set up near the beach and started creating ARRL Radiogram messages to send Health and Welfare status to families. Shortly thereafter, Jo Ann’s parents received a radiogram stating she and John had survived the storm.
Jo Ann, who had always been interested in radio, said she was going to get her license and give back for what these hams had done for her and John. However, the recovery from Camille, a hospital stay, having to work during John’s college after the USAF, and having a daughter delayed her until 1979 when she passed her General-class license test.
Within months, she helped build her first rig, a Heathkit HW-101, and found the 7290 traffic net, which had been in operation since 1953. Good to her word, she began the process of giving back to ham radio. She held every office except Treasurer from 1979 until 1986, where once again she had to take time to be involved in her teenage daughter’s many school and extracurricular activities.
During her 8 years, she was Manager, Asst. Manager, Secretary, NCS on 7290 as well as NTS Transcontinental Corps (TCC) station, Region Five Rep, and was inducted into the ARRL A1 Operator club and received the 7290 Traffic Net Whitney Nugget Award, as well as a couple of other local awards.
When leaving the 7290 in 1987, the net was strong, moving considerable traffic with good NCS. However, when returning in 2005 after marrying off her daughter, she found the net had slipped into a lull with little traffic and weak NCS coverage. She was almost immediately elected Asst. Manager (many remembering her from years before) and then Manager, which she has remained until the present.
The 7290 net returned to a well-respected traffic, public service, and general emergency net, with over 450 regular members. Traffic is still in the range of 250 to 300 messages per month (formal ARRL Radiograms). The Texas State Operations Center (SOC) involves the 7290 Traffic Net any time it stands up, for backup and auxiliary communications.
Jo Ann has never liked attention, saying if you get on a pedestal, you have farther to fall when you mess up. But even though she doesn’t talk about it, she has done a herculean job as manager of the 7290 Traffic Net. She is the West Gulf Division Assistant Director for NTS, the North Texas ARRL Assistant Section Manager for NTS, North Texas Section Traffic Manager, North Texas Section District Eight ARES District Emergency Coordinator, and 7290 Traffic Net Manager. She also received the North Texas ARRL Section “2020 Ham of the Year” and the 2023 ARRL National George Hart Distinguished Service Award.
She and her husband founded the Longview East Texas Amateur Radio Club, Upshur Area Amateur Radio Club, and Upshur County ARES team. Both she and her husband were officers in the Garland Amateur Radio Club when they lived in the Dallas area.
Jo Ann has conducted over 40 in-person traffic handling training sessions at Ham-Com, hamfests, clubs, and ARES/RACES groups using the “Traffic Handling Training” booklet she prepared and of which she has printed approximately 1,000 copies. In addition, she has done numerous Zoom classes and on-air training sessions, which she still does on the 7290 Traffic Net the first Wednesday and following Saturday of each month.
Her husband John says she still has all the messages she has handled, stored in boxes in the attic. He estimates there are tens of thousands of messages. He says, “I think she has repaid any debt she felt.” However, she was not just repaying a debt, she also has enjoyed her years involved in the traffic system and nets. |
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| John, W5BWC, and Jo Ann, KA5AZK, Keith. |
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The NTS® Letter is published monthly and is free of charge to ARRL members. Subscribe: www.arrl.org/opt-in-out
If anyone has not received copies of The NTS Letter by email, be sure to check www.arrl.org/opt-in-out to confirm that you are opted in. If you don't see The NTS Letter listed among the publications you are opted into, click on "Edit," and you will have the opportunity to check the box to receive The NTS Letter. If you have missed any issues, you can find them all at www.nts2.arrl.org/nts-letter-issues as well as on the ARRL website.
Editor: Marcia Forde, KW1U, Section Traffic Manager -- Eastern Massachusetts, Western Massachusetts, and Rhode Island
ARRL Emergency Communications and Field Services Director: Josh Johnston, KE5MHV |
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NTS® is a program of ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio®. No other organization works harder than ARRL to promote and protect amateur radio! ARRL members enjoy many benefits and services including digital magazines, e-newsletters, online learning (learn.arrl.org), and technical support. Membership also supports programs for radio clubs, on-air contests, Logbook of The World®, ARRL Field Day, and the all-volunteer ARRL Field Organization. |
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The NTS Letter is published every month (12 times each year). ARRL members can unsubscribe on their Member profile page at www.arrl.org/opt-in-out. Copyright © 2026 American Radio Relay League, Incorporated. Use and distribution of this publication, or any portion thereof, is permitted for non-commercial or educational purposes, with attribution. All other purposes require written permission. |
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