FOREWORD

The Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC), Center for Army Lessons Learned
(CALL) cell compiled this handbook from extracts of technical manuals, lesson
outlines from the U.S. Army Signal School, and unit standing operating procedures
(SOPs). Other references include, but are not limited to, field manuals, quick
reference cards, manufacturers' web sites, and interviews with signal personnel.
The purpose of the radiotelephone (RTO) handbook is to provide a quick reference
guide for RTOs to support successful mission accomplishment. Supporting leaders
with reliable communications is a direct result of detailed planning, Soldiers' lives
hinge on our ability to plan tactical operations. Communications must support the
scheme of maneuver and be synchronized and integrated to put maximum focus on
a specific objective at a specific time to ensure the leader accomplishes the mission.
Today's battlefield is three-dimensional and signal operations require the same
application of thought. Soldiers must understand the requirements for success in a
tactical environment and leaders must keep Soldiers informed and updated on all
key information.

LAWRENCE H. SAUL
COL, FA
Director, Center for Army Lessons Learned
 RTO II HANDBOOK UPDATE

The Radiotelephone Operator (RTO) Handbook

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction iii

Chapter 1: User Information and References 1

Chapter 2: Compromise Procedures 9

Chapter 3: Operator Tasks 13

Chapter 4: Net Control Station (NCS) Tasks 23

Chapter 5: Precision Lightweight Global Positioning Receiver System 35

(PLGR) Tasks

Chapter 6: Automated Net Control Device (ANCD) Tasks 47

Chapter 7: RTO Packing List and Checklist 55

Chapter 8: Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services (PMCS) for 57

Advanced Systems Improvement Program (ASIP) Radio

Chapter 9: Troubleshooting Guide 61

Chapter 10: Field Expedient Antennas 67

Chapter 11: Advanced Systems Improvement Program (ASIP) Radio 69

Ranges and Battery Usage

Chapter 12: Force XXI Battle Command Brigade and Below Blue 73
Force Tracking (FBCB2/BFT)

Appendix A: Julian Date Calendar 99

Appendix B: World Time Chart (Time Conversion Table) 101

Appendix C: Radio Frequency Spectrum 103

Appendix D: Glossary 105

Conclusion 109

Note: This handbook contains numerous acronyms tailored to RTO procedures and
equipment. Refer to the Glossary for a definition of the acronyms.

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

Director Colonel Lawrence H. Saul

Managing Editor George J. Mordica, II

Editor, Layout, and Design Valerie Tystad

Catherine Elliott
Graphics and Cover Design
Mark Osterholm

Project Manager/Author Robert Ehrlich (Contractor)

Project Analysts Ralph Nichols

Tom Odom

Contributing Author Major Brian L. Williams

The Secretary of the Army has determined that the publication of this periodical is
necessary in the transaction of the public business as required by law of the
Department. Use of funds for printing this publication has been approved by
Commander, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, 1985, IAW AR 25-30.

Unless otherwise stated, whenever the masculine or feminine gender is used, both
are intended.

Note: Any publications referenced in this newsletter (other than the CALL
newsletters), such as ARs, FMs, and TMs must be obtained through your pinpoint
distribution system.

This information was deemed of immediate value to forces engaged in

the Global War on Terrorism and should not be necessarily construed
as approved Army policy or doctrine.

This information is furnished with the understanding that it is to be

used for defense purposes only, that it is to be afforded essentially the
same degree of security protection as such information is afforded by
the United States, that it is not to be revealed to another country or
international organization without the written consent of the Center for
Army Lessons Learned.

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Introduction
How to Select a Radiotelephone Operator (RTO)

Ralph D. Nichols, Senior Military Analyst and MAJ Brian Lionberger, Center
for Army Lessons Learned

The unit RTO provides maneuver leaders from platoon to brigade level a command
and control capability that is a critical component for mission success. The RTO is
more than simply a Soldier who carries the radio for the commander, the
commander’s driver, or personal security; although, they often serve these
functions. The RTO is the commander’s tactical information manager. The
process for selecting and training an RTO varies widely and is based on the role the
unit commander intends the RTO to perform; however, there are common factors
that every maneuver RTO should possess in order to enable effective unit command
and control.

Unit commanders should consider the following factors when selecting, training,
and employing their RTO. RTOs should:

• Be able to competently apply the four principles of providing effective

communications: plan, manage, train, and maintain.

• Be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

• Be able to receive a message and communicate it effectively.

• Be proficient in both traditional (map and compass, azimuth and

pace-count) and enhanced (Blue Force Tracker [BFT], Precision
Lightweight Global Positioning System Receiver [PLGR], and/or Force
XXI battle command brigade and below [FBCB2] enabled)
land-navigation skills.
• Be in outstanding physical condition, especially if the unit conducts
dismounted operations for any length of time. The added weight of the
communications equipment and supplies increases the difficulty of all
individual movement techniques.
• Be technically proficient in the operation of all required communications
systems and understand the limitations of that equipment. A dismounted
RTO must be proficient with the secure frequency modulation (FM),
tactical satellite (TACSAT) and high frequency (HF) radios. The RTO
must also be proficient with BFT, and/or FBCB2 terminals, as most
command vehicles and some lift aircraft have these systems.
• Understand the ranges and limitations of the communication equipment
and know and be able to apply employment techniques (e.g., positioning)
and field expedients (e.g., long-wire antennas) to mitigate the limitations
imposed by the environment. Operating in a dense urban environment,
traversing long distances and/or mountainous terrain, and inclement
weather can degrade communication range capabilities.

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• Possess and sustain combat driving skills and understand unit convoy
procedures in situations where the RTO is also the commander’s vehicle
driver. The RTO should be cross trained in and be able to assume the
duties of the vehicle crew-served weapon operator in extreme situations.
The RTO must have the ability to engage the enemy with lethal force
(within the established rules of engagement [ROE]) when required.

• Be a certified combat lifesaver. Understand and be able to quickly and

effectively apply appropriate medical evacuation (MEDEVAC)
procedures when required.

• Be familiar with FM 1-02, Terms and Graphics. RTOs must understand

that operational terms have specific meanings and they cannot change
them or paraphrase when receiving a message. They must understand
graphics so they can mark a map when receiving a spot report, situation
report (SITREP), and/or size, activity, location, unit, time, and equipment
(SALUTE) report.

• Be familiar with FM 1-02.1, Brevity Codes. If operating in a joint and/or

coalition/allied environment, RTOs must be familiar with appropriate
manuals and regulations.

• Have a general understanding of the military decision-making process

(MDMP). The RTO must understand and be able to communicate the
commander’s intent at all times.

• Use a headset in order to monitor the commander’s communications. This

capability enhances situational awareness and also provides the
commander with instantaneous reach-back capability to recall what was
communicated.

• Be trustworthy, and discreet. The RTO will see and hear much more than
most other junior enlisted Soldiers and will be expected to maintain
confidentiality.
• Be able to complete a call for fire. In many unit standing operating
procedures (SOPs), the RTO automatically submits a call for fire (“at my
command”) based on a subordinate’s report of troops in contact. This
technique allows for a more rapid employment of indirect fires but no
loss of command authority for execution.
• Be able to rapidly execute the unit SOP for assumption of command in
the event the commander becomes a casualty. Some unit SOPs give the
RTO significant authority in continuing operations when the commander
becomes a casualty and before the next leader in the chain of command
assumes control. Judgment, maturity, situational awareness, and a clear
understanding of commander’s intent are all essential qualities for an
RTO in these situations.
• Be able to train subordinate, replacement, or additional RTOs as the unit
mission dictates.
• Possess intangible personal qualities such as sound judgment, maturity,
and ability to work well with others (team player), be adaptive and

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flexible, and moreover think and act independently. The RTO must be
intelligent and maintain composure under duress, having the personal
courage and stamina to effectively perform and execute with little or no
guidance

Use these personal characteristics and skill sets when selecting an RTO. Like any
other Soldier, an RTO will be effective only to the extent that the commander and
unit leadership rigorously select, train, and sustain that Soldier for that job. A good
RTO will enhance command and control at the platoon through brigade level.

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CHAPTER 1
USER INFORMATION AND REFERENCES

This chapter provides a compendium of basic user information and references

necessary for all radiotelephone operators (RTOs). It is not a complete guide to
Single-Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS) or RTO duties.
Rather it is a start point and a handy reference for any Soldier who may be tasked
with RTO duties. Because the RTO is the small unit leader’s walking, talking
tactical operations center, this chapter also provides a similar start point for unit
leaders, from team to battalion, who need to be familiar with the SINCGARS and
RTO duties.

1. REFERENCES.

a. TM 11-5820-890-10-8, Operators Manual, SINCGARS Ground Combat

Net Radio, ICOM.

b. TM 11-5820-890-10-6, SINCGARS ICOM Ground Radios Operator’s

Pocket Guide.

c. TM 11-5820-890-10-7, SINCGARS ICOM Ground Radios NCS Pocket

Guide.

d. FM 11-32, Combat Net Radio Operations.

e. TM 11-5825-291-13, Satellite Signals Navigation Sets.

f. TB 11-5825-291-10-3, The PLGR Made Simple.

g. TB 380-41 (Change 1), Procedures for Safeguarding, Accounting and

Supply Control of COMSEC Material.

2. PURPOSE. This guide establishes procedures, guidelines, and information on

operating the SINCGARS radio system. It is designed to supplement unit level
RTO training and certification and act as a quick reference for RTOs when faced
with a communications problem.

3. GENERAL.

a. SINCGARS Advanced System Improvement Program (ASIP) is a “user

owned and operated” solid-state frequency modulation (FM) combat net
radio (CNR), that operates in the 30.000 to 87.995 MHz frequency range in
the single-channel (SC) or frequency hopping (FH) mode. The ASIP
replaces the RT-1523A and RT-1523B model SINCGARS. The ASIP is
compatible with the older SINCGARS and with North Atlantic Treaty
Organization (NATO) forces in SC, squelch off mode. It provides electronic
warfare (EW) protection and a reduced electromagnetic signature in the FH
mode.

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b. The AN/CYZ-10 automated net control device (ANCD) is a hand-held

device capable of receiving, storing, and transferring data between ANCDs
or between ANCD and an ASIP radio. The primary application for this
device is to fill the ASIP with FH data, time, communications security
(COMSEC), and loadset information. ANCDs are non-repairable controlled
cryptographic items (CCIs) and must be stored in accordance with (IAW)
TB 340-1 (change 1). Loaded ANCD with “Secret” information must be
stored in a 3-combination safe. ANCDs that are not loaded must be secured
with no less than two barrier protection, i.e., a locked door and wall locker
using a 200 series lock.

c. The AN/PSN-11 Precision Lightweight Global Positioning System (GPS)

Receiver (PLGR) is a hand-held GPS. The primary application for this
device is precision position location and land navigation via programmable
waypoints. The secondary application for this device is to update and verify
the date and time in the ASIP radio. The PLGR is a high dollar item and
should be safeguarded accordingly.
d. The ASIP and ANCD are CCIs and require double-barrier protection
IAW DA PAM 25-380-2. All unattended ASIP radios will be zeroed.
Radios will be reloaded when required using the ANCD.

e. Maintenance procedures are the same for the older SINCGARS radio.
The ASIP is accountable by serial number. When the RT-1523E has been
determined non-mission capable (NMC) by unit-level maintenance
personnel, it will be turned in to the forward support battalion (FSB), direct
support unit (DSU) for repairs. The DSU will then determine if the radio
will be replaced or held for repair in the shop. A property book transaction
(lateral transfer) is required should the radio be exchanged for a working
RT-1523F. Only company communications chiefs and/or RTOs will turn-in
equipment to the battalion communications section.

4. OPERATING PROCEDURES.

a. Net synchronization time (NET).

(1) The ASIP has an internal master clock. Each channel (1 through
6) also has the ability to maintain separate time. Time is primarily
loaded into the ASIP via the ANCD and alternately the PLGR. If the
ANCD is used, ensure the time in the ANCD has accurate ZULU
time stored. GPS ZULU time is the standard time zone used for all
division radios.

(2) The ZULU time stored in an ANCD will drift significantly over
time and if loaded into the ASIP will not allow communications with
other net members. All RTOs must verify accurate time in the ASIP
after loading their radios. All RTOs must also maintain accurate time
(hour, minute, and seconds) on a digital watch to quickly verify
time. Time must be within + or – 4 seconds to communicate with
other ASIPs. Accurate ZULU time can be obtained by the following
methods:

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(a) Calling the atomic clock: DSN 762-1401 Commercial

(202) 762-1401

(b) Via PLGR (must be + or – 1 second)

(c) Top of the hour on any 5 kHz frequency via high

frequency (HF) radios (PRC-104).

(3) Julian date (JD). The ASIP JD is the last two digits of the full
Julian date. See Appendix A (Julian date calendar) for the correct
Julian date. The JD is also automatically loaded via the ANCD. If a
net member loads the incorrect JD or accidentally changes the JD,
all communications with other net members will be lost.

(4) During FH operations, the net control station (NCS) will always
maintain accurate time and will operate a radio in the frequency
hopping master (FH-M) mode. The NCS for each net is the only
radio authorized to operate in the FH-M mode. This will ensure time
accuracy throughout the net. Should the NCS radio fail during any
part of the mission, the alternate NCS will switch his radio to the
FH-M mode.

b. Initial net opening. The battalion standard is "Hot Start" net opening
procedure. The procedure is covered in Chapter 3 (Operator Tasks).

c. Passive late net entry. This procedure allows a radio with correct hop set
and COMSEC information but inaccurate time (+ or – 59 seconds) to enter a
net. The procedures are covered in Chapter 3 (Operator Tasks).

d. Loadset.

(1) Loadsets are made up of the following components:

(a) TranSec key (TSK): Frequency hop data

(b) Esets: Net identifications (IDs) (example F302)

(c) COMSEC keys (traffic encryption key [TEK] and key

encryption key [KEK]): Transmission encryption keys

(d) Lockout sets: Restricted frequencies within the frequency

hop data.

(2) The ANCD transfers a loadset to an ASIP radio. This loadset is

transferred by a menu-driven procedure during normal loading
procedures of the ASIP with the ANCD.

(3) Net IDs are normally fixed and will follow the numbering
scheme listed below. Specific net IDs within the below listed ranges
are designated in the signal operating instructions (SOI).

Note: These are sample division standards only and may change
for real world contingencies or deployments

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FH000-099 (Theater/Joint)

FH100-299 (Corps/Service)

FH300-399 (1st BDE)

FH400-499 (2nd BDE)

FH500-599 (3rd BDE)

FH600-699 (AVN BDE)

FH700-799 (DIVARTY)

FH800-899 (DISCOM)

FH900-999 (DIV HQs)

e. Operations security (OPSEC). OPSEC is defined as any measure an

operator takes in order to safeguard information from the enemy. OPSEC
can be anything from minimizing the number of net IDs loaded into a radio,
to zeroing an ANCD or radio if capture by the enemy is imminent, thereby
denying the enemy the ability to exploit the ANCD or radio for intelligence
against U.S. forces. All personnel assigned to, attached to, or under the
operational control of the battalion will follow these procedures to
maximize OPSEC.

(1) Loadsets contain only the primary net used by the operator. If the
RTO requires additional nets, he will manually load the ASIP with
the required net. Minimize the number of channels used.

(2) ANCDs only contain the loadset and COMSEC required by the
operator.

(3) New editions of the SOI and COMSEC should not be distributed
below the battalion level until authorized by the brigade signal
officer (SIGO).

(4) All RTOs must know all compromise procedures and code words
prescribed in Chapter 2 (Compromise Procedures) and understand
the steps for each procedure.

(5) Safeguard any radio cheat sheets that list call signs and net IDs
and account for cheat sheets according to classification (for official
use only [FOUO], classified, secret, etc.). Whenever possible,
memorize this information.

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SINCGARS MANPACK System

SINCGARS Rucksack has
slots in the top flap.

SINCGARS Receiver/Transmitter

Battery Battery
Box

Latches Binding Post

Connector
Rucksack Manpack
Antenna

P1 RT System
RT Connector

Holding Battery Handset

Decal (Bottom of RT)

Figure 1

f. Common prowords: Common prowords are those words that are used on a
regular basis while conducting radio operations. They are NOT
interchangeable as the meanings are specific and clear to the receiver. An
example is “Say Again” versus “Repeat.” “Say Again” means to repeat the
last transmission, while “Repeat” is in reference to fire support to fire the
last mission again.

Proword Meaning
ALL AFTER I refer to the entire message that follows…
ALL BEFORE
I refer to the entire message that proceeds…
BREAK I now separate the text from other parts of the
message.

CORRECTION There is an error in this transmission.

Transmission will continue with the last word
correctly transmitted.

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GROUPS This message contains the number of groups

indicated by the numeral following.
I SAY AGAIN
I am repeating transmission or part indicated.
I SPELL
I shall spell the next word phonetically.

MESSAGE A message that requires recording is about to

follow. (Transmitted immediately after the call.)
This proword is not used on nets primarily
employed for conveying messages. It is intended
for use when messages are passed on tactical or
reporting net.

MORE TO FOLLOW Transmitting station has additional traffic for the

receiving station.

OUT This is the end of my transmission to you and no

answer is required or expected.

OVER This is the end of my transmission to you and a

response is necessary. Go ahead: transmit.

RADIO CHECK What is my signal strength and readability; how do

you hear me?

ROGER I have received your last transmission

satisfactorily, radio check is loud and clear.

SAY AGAIN Repeat all of your last transmission. Followed by

identification data means “repeat" (portion
indicated).

THIS IS This transmission is from the station whose

designator immediately follows.

TIME That which immediately follows is the time or

date-time group of the message.
WAIT
I must pause for a few seconds.

WAIT-OUT I must pause longer than a few seconds.

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WILCO I have received your transmission, understand it,

and will comply, to be used only by the addressee.
Since the meaning of ROGER is included in that
of WILCO, the two prowords are never used
together.

WORD AFTER I refer to the word of the message that follows.

WORD BEFORE I refer to the word of the message that precedes.

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CHAPTER 2
COMPROMISE PROCEDURES

Compromise of sensitive signal information, like death and taxes, is inevitable and
always unwelcome. Still the effects of compromise can be minimized through
common sense precautions and standardized corrective measures embedded in unit
standing operating procedures (SOPs). The operative word in dealing with
compromise is a common understanding of those procedures based on repetitive
drills. This chapter offers a possible template for units in establishing compromise
procedures. But remember like all such standardized procedures, these SOPs are
absolutely worthless if not practiced and understood by all in a unit.

1. PURPOSE. This chapter establishes procedures, guidelines, and information on

compromise procedures. It is designed to standardize the process for executing
compromise procedures. The compromise procedures reflect the steps used by the
division and brigade.

2. GENERAL. A compromise is defined as any communications security

(COMSEC) fill device or COMSEC-filled and functioning radio that falls into
enemy hands before the operator can zero the device. The procedures listed below
detail actions to take to minimize compromises, actions to take if a compromise is
imminent, and actions to take after a net becomes compromised.

3. PROCEDURES.

a. Minimizing compromise

(1) Automated net control devices (ANCDs) are not distributed

below the infantry company headquarters or below antitank platoon
headquarters level. Combat multipliers will not deploy with ANCDs
and will receive all radio fills from the maneuver element they are
supporting. Ensure all controlled cryptographic items (CCIs) are
properly accounted for and secured at all times.

(2) Signal operation instructions (SOI) data is not distributed below

battalion level. The new challenge and password is announced over
a secure command net daily at 0001 hours (ZULU).

(3) All command vehicles leaving the tactical operation center

(TOC) or headquarters command post secure their ANCDs at that
TOC or command post (CP).

(4) Excess ANCDs within a deployed unit are zeroed.

b. If compromise is imminent

(1) If carrying an ANCD, the operator immediately zeroes the

ANCD by hitting the red zero key four times, then removes the

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

COMSEC encryption key (CIK) and destroys it. By destroying the

ANCD’s CIK, the ANCD is inoperable.

(2) Operators announce on the radio, “ALL STATIONS THIS NET,

THIS IS (call sign) WATERGATE, WATERGATE,
WATERGATE!” and then immediately zero the COMSEC by
turning the function knob to “Z.” This message alerts other net
members that you have zeroed your radio’s COMSEC because you
are being captured. You may still use the radio, but only in a
non-secure mode, until you can receive another ANCD fill.

c. After a compromise

(1) If you suspect a net is compromised DO NOT announce over the

net, “THIS NET IS COMPROMISED!” Use an alternate secure net
to notify your higher headquarters and/or announce over the net,
“ALL STATIONS THIS NET, THIS IS (call sign) RED EYE, RED
EYE, RED EYE!” This message alerts other net members that you
suspect the net is compromised, and all classified traffic must come
to a halt.

(2) Compromised nets continue to operate on the compromised

traffic encryption key (TEK) until the net control station (NCS)
directs a change of the TEK or net identification (ID). The directive
will only come from the battalion signal officer.

(3) Once the mission allows, the NCS directs a net ID or TEK
change using the following code words:

Net ID:

RATTLESNAKE 1: Change to STRIKE NET 1

RATTLESNAKE 2: Change to STRIKE NET 2

RATTLESNAKE 3: Change to original NET ID

An alternate method is to change the Julian date (JD) on the radio

net using code words and leaving the net ID alone. Example:

Julian Date:

WARRIOR SPIRIT 1: Change JD + 3

WARRIOR SPIRIT 2: Change JD + 5

WARRIOR SPIRIT 3: Change JD + 7

(4) The NCS directs over-the-air-rekey (OTAR) using either the

automatic remote keying (AK) method or manual remote keying
(MK) method. The procedures for both tasks are covered in Chapter
4 (NCS Tasks). Once either method is executed, the NCS makes a
radio check with all net members. An alternate NCS acts as a

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“sweeper” and remains on the old net ID or TEK until all members
are notified and comply with the change.

(5) Actual STRIKE net IDs are found in the SOI and must be
memorized. STRIKE net IDs WILL NOT BE WRITTEN DOWN
ANYWHERE.

(6) Once the new net is established, it is clear for classified traffic
again.

(7) Code words used to initiate change of SOI editions are as

follows:

SOI:

COBRA: Change to B edition TEK/SOI

PYTHON: Change to C edition TEK/SOI

COTTONMOUTH: Change to original TEK/SOI

(8) The battalion has the capability to send new SOI information
electronically via the Advanced System Improvement Program
(ASIP) and ANCD using the broadcast method. The battalion will
only use this method as a last resort if other means of disseminating
the SOI information prove impossible or impractical. The broadcast
method is a very time intensive process because the ANCD will only
process data at a 16 kb/s rate and normally allows units to receive
one time period at a time. The procedure includes a polling feature
which allows the NCS to determine by automatic query if up to 16
net members (designated by special ID numbers) did or did not
receive the SOI information sent by broadcast.

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

(a) The following list assigns polling ID numbers for each

net member:

Unit/Section Polling #

A Co 1

B Co 2

C Co 3

D Co 4

Administrative and logistical

5
operations center (ALOC)

Combat trains (CBT TRNS) 6

Retrans 7

(b) SOI broadcast can handle up to 16 polling numbers.

Polling numbers 8-16 will only be assigned when required.

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CHAPTER 3
OPERATOR TASKS

The radiotelephone operator (RTO), like any other Soldier, has a standard set of
tasks to accomplish in training and actual operations. For the practiced RTO, such
tasks become almost second nature, especially those tasks that are daily
requirements. On occasion even an experienced operator may need to refresh
his/her memory when a less practiced requirement pops up. For less experienced
RTOs, the need for a standard list of tasks is self-evident. This chapter offers all
RTOs, both experienced and novice, a standard list of tasks and a quick guide on
how they are accomplished.

PURPOSE. To provide operators of Advanced System Improvement Program

(ASIP) radios with a quick reference to assist in task performance during training
and operations. Using this RTO handbook, the properly trained ASIP operator
should be able to perform, without assistance, all operator tasks.

Task 1 (Load single-channel [SC] frequency into ASIP): The ASIP

operator is required to perform this task in preparation for the employment
of SC communications, use of the CUE (key the radio) and ERF (electronic
remote fill) methods of late net entry, and for SC frequency updates. The
operator determines the required frequencies from the automated net control
device (ANCD) or another source. These frequencies are then loaded into
the radio by use of the receiver-transmitter (RT) keyboard.

Task 2 (Load communications security [COMSEC]/frequency hopping

[FH] data/sync time using the [ANCD]): This task is required in
preparation for a "Hot Start" net opening and, without sync time, for
COMSEC/FH data updates. Performance of this task involves the use of an
ANCD as a source of COMSEC keys, FH data (hopset, TransSec key
[TSK], and net identification [ID]), and sync time. By use of the integrated
COMSEC (ICOM) fill procedure, COMSEC, FH data, and sync time are
simultaneously loaded into all six channels of the ASIP radio. Upon
completion of the ICOM fill, the radio is fully prepared for secure,
frequency hopping communications.

Task 3 (Perform "Hot Start" net opening): This task is required when the
net has been down for any reason and is to become operational at a
prescribed time. This task involves loading the radio with COMSEC keys,
FH data, and sync time by use of the ICOM fill procedure (See Operator
Task 2) and calling the net control station (NCS) in secure frequency
hopping mode to request net entry.

Task 4 (Perform passive late net entry): This task is required when the
sync time in your radio becomes more than four seconds (plus or minus),
but less than one minute, different from net sync time. Passive late net entry
enables an individual operator to re-enter the net without action on the part
of the NCS or other net operators. This task makes use of a feature built into
the ASIP radio and involves two steps: placing the RT in passive late net
entry mode and waiting for the radio to adjust its sync time to that of the

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

net. When this method of late net entry does not work, the "Hot Start"
procedure or CUE (key the radio) and electronic remote fill (ERF) method
of late net entry should be used.

Task 5 (Receive net update ERF from NCS): This task is performed when
there is a requirement to change or update some element of FH data and the
operational situation makes it impossible or impractical to disseminate the
new data by physical connection of ANCD to ANCD. In such cases, the
NCS alerts net operators that they are to receive a net update ERF.
Operators then change the RT function from "SQ ON" to "LD," remaining
on the operational channel. The NCS sends the ERF on the operational
channel (not on manual (MAN) as during a "Cold Start" net opening). Once
the net update ERF has been sent, the new data may be made effective
immediately or stored for later implementation. (ERF, broadcast, and
over-the-air-rekey [OTAR] communications).

Task 6 (Perform CUE and ERF late net entry [LNE]): This task may be
required when a radio has been out of the net for some period or has lost its
sync time. The preferred action is to try passive late net entry first (See
Operator Task 4). This method requires the operator to load CUE and MAN
frequencies, “cue” the NCS in plain text (PT), repeat the “cue” until a
response is received, switch COMSEC to cipher text (CT) to receive the
NCS response, use SC mode, and receive and store an ERF when it is sent.
(A simpler method of re-entering the net when the passive method does not
work is the "Hot Start" procedures (See Operator Task 3).

Task 7 (Change net ID): This operator task is performed when there is a
requirement to communicate with a net or station that is not a part of the
operational loadset or loadsets, if more than one radio is being used.
Commanders, staff officers, drivers, and others who frequently move about
the battlefield should be able to perform this task without assistance. Use of
this procedure enables the operator to contact virtually any Single-Channel
Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS) net within division.

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 RTO II HANDBOOK UPDATE

PREPARATION TASK 1: Preparation Settings from MENU

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

a. Set RT volume 1. Press MENU Press MENU to display

2. Press digits (1-9) for VOL level
volume setting; (0) for Display reads WHSP if 0
whisper mode selected

b. Set RT channel 1. Press MENU (until CHAN) Display reads (1-6): (Q)
2. Press digits (1-6) for for CUE; (M) for Manual
channel desired: (0) for MAN;
(7) for CUE
c. Set RT mode 1. Press MENU (until PWR) Display reads (LO, M, HI,
2. Press CHG for desired PA)
PRW setting
d. Set RT mode 1. Press MENU (until MODE) Display reads (SC, FH,
2. Press CHG for desired FH-M)
MODE
e. Set COMSEC 1. Press MENU (until CMSC) Display reads (PT, CT,
2. Press CHG for desired TD, RV)
CMSC setting

f. Set backlight 1. Place RT in SQ ON Backlight lights (4 settings

2. Press FREQ/Backlight Low to High, then OFF)
3. Press CHG until desired
setting

Default settings are: VOL (5), CHAN (1), PWR (LO), MODE (FH), COMSEC
(CT).

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

OPERATOR TASK 1: Load Single-Channel Freq into ASIP

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

a. Prepare to perform 1. Obtain proper freq (Load CUE freq only if

task from ANCD directed) *

2. Set RT controls:** RT display shows

COMSEC to PT "GOOD" (or see unit
Mode to SC maintainer)
FCTN to Z-FH, TST,
and then to LD
CHAN to MAN, CUE,
or
1-6

b. Load SC frequency 1. Press: [FREQ] Display shows [00000] or

(freq) [30000]

2. Press: [CLR] Display shows [_____]

3. Enter 5-digits SC Display shows SC

freq. [XXXXX]

c. Store SC freq Press STO (within 7 sec) Display blinks once (data
is stored)

d. Prepare to 1. Repeat: Step b-1 for (As directed by NCS or

communicate each freq needed unit SOP)

2. Set: FCTN to SQ ON Loading of SC freq is

complete

*Only NCS and Alt NCS will load a CUE frequency.

**RT settings for ASIP are set via MENU.

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OPERATOR TASK 2: Load COMSEC/FH Data/Synch Time using the

ANCD*

1. Select: SOI Radio Supervisor

2. Send Receive Database; set up COMSEC time

3. Send to: Radio ANCD Stu Pc

4. Select: iCom Nonicom Abn Rcu Haveq

5. Connect to RT AUD/FILL Connector [ ]

6. Set FCTN switch to LD on RT [ ]

7. Do you want to include time? (Y/N)

8. Press [LOAD] on RT

9. Transfer in progress/Transfer successful

• The ICOM fill procedure loads the radio with COMSEC keys, FH data,
and synch time for all six ASIP channels.

• Select “RCU” to fill an RCU with COMSEC keys. Procedure is the same
as that shown for “ICOM.”
• Throughout this manual, when [ ] appears in the lower right corner of a
screen, you must press the down arrow on ANCD to proceed.
• Load time as part of ICOM fill during net openings and "Hot Start" late
net entry only, not net updates.
• RT settings for ASIP are set via MENU.

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

OPERATOR TASK 3: Perform "Hot Start" Net Opening

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

Load RT with (See Operator Task 2 for COMSEC/FH data and

COMSEC/FH, ICOM fill) time load into all 6
date, and time* channels of the RT

Enter net Call NCS in CT, FH, and "Hot Start" net
request to enter net opening is complete*

*All ASIP radios will accept time from an ANCD as part of a load set and from a
PLGR as a separate loading of time.

OPERATOR TASK 4: Perform Passive Late Net Entry (LNE)

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

Use passive method of (1) Press:

late net entry
FREQ Display shows [F XXX]
SYNC Display shows [LF XXX]

(2) Wait for radio traffic Display shows [F XXX]

to be heard (“L” is dropped)
(Do not press PTT)

(3) Call NCS and Passive LNE is complete*

re-enter net

*If traffic is not heard for three minutes or more after using passive late net entry
method, use the "Hot Start" procedure or CUE and ERF method. DO NOT KEY
THE HANDSET WHILE IN THE PASSIVE LATE NET ENTRY MODE, IT WILL
THROW YOUR SYNC TIME OFF.

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OPERATOR TASK 5: Receive Net Update ERF from NCS

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

Prepare to receive net update (1) Stay on net N/A

operational channel
(2) Set: FCTN to LD N/A

Receive and store net update (1) Standby for N/A

NCS to send ERF

(2) Note signal display Display shows [HF

activation XXX]

Press: STO Display shows [STO ]

Enter: X (1-6)* Display shows [STO

X];
blinks

Check communications (1) Set: CHAN to X N/A

FCTN to SQ
ON

(2) Call or respond to Net update ERF is

NCS complete**

*NCS will direct the channel for storage of ERF. When update becomes effective,
this channel becomes new net operational channel.

**It is assumed that the operator had the same COMSEC key loaded in channels
1-5.

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

OPERATOR TASK 6: Perform CUE and ERF Late Net Entry

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

Use CUE and ERF 1. Load CUE freq (and See Operator Task 1
method of LNE* MAN if not loaded

2. Set COMSEC to PT RT must be in PT to send

CUE

3. Press PTT (4-5 sec) Press PTT, but do not talk

4. Set (at once) NCS/Alt NCS will answer

COMSEC to CT in CT

5. Wait for answer N/A

6. Repeat every 15 CUE goes through only if

seconds until NCS net is quiet
answers

7. Request NCS send Go to MAN when NCS

you an ERF directs

8. Receive and store See Operator Task 4

ERF when sent

9. Re-enter: Net CUE and ERF LNE is

complete

*An operator having a loaded ANCD and access to GPS time may elect to re-enter
the net by use of the "Hot Start" procedure.

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OPERATOR TASK 7: Change Net ID

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

Set proper RT controls Set * FCTN to LD

CHAN to 1-6 (channel
in which data is stored)

Enter new net ID in RT Press:

FREQ Display shows: [F XXX]

CLR Display shows: [F ___]

ID numbers (3) Display shows: [F XXX]

STO Display blinks; net ID is

stored

Resume normal Set FCTN to SQ ON New net ID is now

communications CHAN to 1-6 (as available for use
desired)

*The ASIP radio allows a change of all three digits of a net ID with the MODE
switch set to FH or FH-M.

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CHAPTER 4
NET CONTROL STATION (NCS) TASKS

Without an effective net control station, a radio net will degenerate rapidly into
chaos under the stress of training. Actual combat only accelerates that process. It is
up to net NCS to maintain net procedures and discipline. As in the case with
operator tasks, the experienced NCS will know the routine tasks and be able to
perform them without hesitation. For non-routine tasks, the standard task list
provided here should help. Novice NCS personnel will also find this list and “how
to” guide useful.

PURPOSE. To provide NCS personnel with quick reference to assist in task

performance during training and operations. Using this radiotelephone (RTO)
handbook, properly trained NCS personnel should be able to perform, without
assistance, all NCS tasks.

Task 1 (Conduct "Hot Start" net opening): This task represents a basic
NCS requirement, to open the Single-Channel Ground and Airborne Radio
System (SINCGARS) secure, frequency hopping (FH) net. During use of
the "Hot Start" net opening procedure, NCS responsibilities are primarily
supervisory. Each operator loads the radio with communications security
(COMSEC) keys, FH data, and sync time in preparation for the net opening.
Upon completing the integrated COMSEC (ICOM) fill, the operator merely
calls the NCS in secure, FH mode and requests permission to enter the net.
NCS requirements are limited to ensuring that operations are provided the
required data for net opening and respond to operator requests for net entry.

Task 2 (Respond to CUE calls): An important feature of the SINCGARS

is its ability to be contacted by a non-FH radio, or a high frequency (HF)
radio lacking data or sync time, through a process known as “CUEing.” To
CUE, set the calling radio on the prescribed CUE frequency, press the
push-to-talk switch, and wait for a response. This action causes a “CUE”
message to appear in the receiver-transmitter (RT) display of the NCS and
alternate NCS radio.

Task 3 (Transmit updated FH data via net update electronic remote fill
[ERF]): This task enables the NCS to electronically transmit new FH data
to net operators when distribution by physical connection of automated
network control device (ANCD) to ANCD is impossible or impractical. This
procedure may be used to update (change) hopsets, TranSec keys (TSKs),
net identifications (IDs), and sync time. The task involves alerting net
operators, sending the ERF using the net operational channel, confirming
receipt of the ERF, and making a communications check when the changed
FH data is put into effect.

Task 4 (Transfer signal operating instructions [SOI] information using

Broadcast mode): This procedure enables an NCS to send SOI
electronically to net members wherever updating by physical connection of
ANCD to ANCD proves to be impossible or impractical. The Broadcast
mode requires approximately two minutes to transmit one time period of a

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

battalion SOI extract. The procedure includes a polling feature that allows
the NCS to determine by automatic query if up to 16 net operators
(designated by special ID numbers) did or did not receive the SOI
information sent by Broadcast mode.

Task 5 (Send traffic encryption key [TEK] to other NCSs using manual
remote keying [MK] method of over-the-air-rekey [OTAR]): This
procedure allows an NCS to transfer a TEK (not a key encryption key
[KEK]) electronically, OTAR to other NCSs. This capability is useful when
the tactical situation or terrain makes it impossible or impractical to pass
new TEK by physical connection of ANCD to ANCD. Receiving NCSs
store the new TEK in their ANCDs. The new TEK can then be passed to
operators by physical transfer. NCS Tasks 5 and 7 are performed together
by Source and Target NCSs, respectively.

Task 6 (Receive and store TEK sent by MK method OTAR): This task is
performed by target NCSs when a source NCS electronically transmits a
TEK using the MK method of OTAR. This procedure allows target NCSs to
store the new TEK in their ANCDs for physical distribution to net operators
when required. The sending NCS directs receiving NCSs to perform this
task as an integral part of the MK OTAR process. This task supplements
NCS Task 5 above.

Task 7 (Send TEK to net operators using the automatic remote keying
(AK) method of OTAR): This procedure enables an NCS to transfer
electronically a TEK (not a KEK) directly from the NCS ANCD to net
member radios. In the AK method, the TEK transferred to net member
radios automatically and instantaneously replaces the TEK being used.
Also, the KEK in the net member radio is automatically updated (changed)
during the AK procedure. After sending a TEK by AK OTAR, the source
NCS must load the new TEK. While the AK method of OTAR requires no
action on the part of the receiving net members, it is quite demanding of the
source NCS.

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NCS TASK 1: Conduct "Hot Start" Net Opening

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

Load NCS RT with See Operator Task 2 or COMSEC/FH data and

COMSEC/FH data and ICOM fill procedure time are loaded into all 6
time RT channels*

Load net RTs with Direct net members to Net member RTs are
COMSEC/FH data and perform Operator Task 3 prepared to enter FH,
time ("Hot Start") cipher text (CT) net upon
request

Admit members to net Respond to call in FH,

CT mode

*ANCD converts current date to two-digit Julian date.

NCS TASK 2: Respond to CUE Calls

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

Note “CUE" in RT 1. Switch to CUE Caller CUEs in PT,

display channel listens in CT

3. Call CUE caller on CUE caller gets response

CUE freq, in CT

3. Direct "CUEer" go to Must have MAN FREQ

MAN/CT loaded in MAN CHAN

4. Determine CUE
caller’s need

5. Provide ERF If "CUEer" wishes to

if appropriate (NCS enter net
Task 3)

6. Return to operational
channel

7. Displace if enemy has CUE and MAN freq. can

DF capability be DF’d

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

NCS TASK 3: Transmit Updated FH Data Via Net Update ERF

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

Prepare to send net 1. Obtain updated FH Obtain from signal officer

update ERF data and effective time (SIGO), ANCD or SOI, as
appropriate

2. Load new FH Perform ICOM fill or data

into NCS radio change
ESET in one channel

Prepare net operations 1. Alert net, update ERF Wait until the net is clear
for net update ERF is to be sent of operational traffic

2. Inform operators what Facilitates channel change

channel to store ERF when data is to store ERF
effective

3. Advise operators May be immediate or at

when new FH data is later specified time
effective

Send net update ERF 1. Set FTCN to LD If NCS RT is not in

Press for 3 seconds FH-M, set it there for
sending ERF

2. Press [LOAD] on RT RT display shows [HLD]

3. Enter channel where RT display shows

ERF date is stored [HFXXX], blinks, and
beeps

4. Press [ERF] on RT RT display shows

keypad [SEND],
beeps, and shows
[HFXXX]

5. Change FCTN from N/A

LD back to SQ ON

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 RTO II HANDBOOK UPDATE

NCS TASK 4: Transfer SOI Information Using Broadcast Mode

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

Prepare NCS 1. Ensure RT is set to SQ N/A (Normal NCS RT settings)

radio to send SOI ON, CT, and FH-M
by Broadcast
2. Change DATA from Broadcast (uses date mode set
OFF to 1200 to 1200 bps)

Prepare ANCD 1. Turn ANCD on Select:

for SOI data SOI Radio Supervisor
Broadcast #.
This screen will 2. Enter SOI qRef Group Net sufX Pyro
appear only if Tmpd Set C/s Find Memo
QREF file is
stored in ANCD 3. Enter SET Select: Choose Send Receive

4. Enter SEND Scroll ( / ) and press ENTR to

Select SOI set [ ]

5. Press down arrow SOI Set: (name) Edn: (name)

6. Press ( / ) to display; Do you want to transfer

and press ENTR to select QREF? # (Y/N)

7. Respond NO Do you want to specify groups

to send? (Y/N)

8. Respond YES Scroll ( / ) and press ENTR to

select groups [ ]

9. Press ( / ) to display; 1 group selected; keep selecting

and press ENTR (Y/N)

10. Enter YES to Do you want to specify a time

continue; NO to quit period to send? (Y/N)

11. Respond YES Enter time period ( # - #)

= ># #

12. Enter time period and Include suffix and smoke/pyro

press ENTR data? (Y/N)

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

13. Respond YES to Send to: Ancd Pc Broadcast

include; respond NO to Stu
exclude

14. Enter BROADCAST Enter ID for each polled ANCD

and 0 when done*
[]

15. Press down arrow Polled :

1234567890123456 = > # #

16. Enter IDs for polling Polled: 12*456**901*34*6= >

(see example); press ##
ENTR

17. Enter “0” to quit Do you want to save this SOI

set? (Y/N)

18. Respond YES (to save New SOI set name:

SOI data) =>??????????

19. Enter SOI set name Connect ANCD to RT

and press ENTR AUD/DATA [ ]

20. Press down arrow Press SEND to send (WAIT)

Prepare net 1. Say: Standby for Alerts net members to an

operator for Broadcast follow my immediate requirement
receipt of SOI instruction/ACK
Broadcast
2. After ACK, say Go to Ensures net radios and ANCDs
SQ ON, FH, CT, are properly prepared
DATA-1200

3. Say: Turn ANCD ON Select:

SOI Radio Supervisor

4. Say: Enter SOI qRef Group Net sufX Pyro

Tmpd Set C/s Find Memo

5. Say: Enter SET Select:

Choose Send Receive

6. Say: Enter RECEIVE Receive from:

Ancd Pc Broadcast Stu

NCS TASK 4: Cont.

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 RTO II HANDBOOK UPDATE

7. Say: Enter Enter broadcast ID (1 – 16): = >

BROADCAST ##

8. Say: Enter SOP Broadcast ID set to X Polling:

broadcast ID and press ON/OFF [ ]
ENTR

9. Say: Press down arrow Connect ANCD to RT

AUD/DATA [ ]

10. Say: Connect ANCD Emphasize AUD/DATA for

to RT AUD/DATA and ANCD connection
handset to AUD/FILL*

11. Say: When ready, Press RCV to receive (WAIT)

press down arrow and
ACK

Send SOI info 1. Say: Standby; broadcast Alerts operators that broadcast
by Broadcast will now be sent; press is about to be sent; coordinates
mode RCV now; send now pressing of SEND and RCV

2. Press [SEND] on NCS Processing. Please wait.

ANCD

Sending of SOI data completed

NCS TASK 4: Cont.

*ANCD connects to bottom fill port and handset is connected to top fill port

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

NCS TASK 5: Send TEK to Other NCSs Using MK Method of OTAR

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

Prepare source NCS 1. Set FCTN to SQ ON N/A

radio to send MK
OTAR 2. Set MODE to FH-M N/A

3. Set COMSEC to CT N/A

4. Set DATA to OFF N/A

Prepare source ANCD to 1. Turn ANCD on Select: SOI Radio

send MK OTAR Supervisor

2. Enter RADIO Send Receive Database

Setup Comsec Time

3. Enter COMSEC Vg Ld Rv Ak Mk vU

4. Enter MK Select key Quit

(name/number)

5. Press PgDn to display; Connect to RT and press

and ENTR to select [SEND] (WAIT)

6. Connect Source N/A

ANCD to RT using fill
cable

Prepare target NCSs to 1. Say: Standby for MK Target NCSs are

receive MK OTAR OTAR Acknowledge alerted; CT contact is
confirmed

2. After ACK, say: Make Readies target NCSs to

NCS Task 6 receive MK OTAR
preparations; ACK when
ready to receive MK
OTAR

3. After ACK, say: Provides final

OTAR will now be sent; coordination guidance
after receipt of OTAR for MK OTAR
return to Chan 1

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 RTO II HANDBOOK UPDATE

Send TEK by MK 1. Say: Go to chan 6

OTAR now; press [RCV] now N/A

2. Go to chan 6 and Transfer in progress/1

press [SEND] now keys transferred

3. Return to Chan 1 Prepares source NCS

radio for communicate
with target NCSs

4. Wait 30 sec after Informs target NCSs of

sending; say: OTAR TEK ID and effective
completed; TEK ID is time; advises source
XXXXXXXX; effective NCS which stations did
at (DTG), ACK and did not receive
OTAR

NCS TASK 5: Cont.

NCS TASK 6: Receive and Store TEK Sent by MK Method of OTAR

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

Prepare radio for receipt 1. Set FCTN to SQ ON N/A

of MK OTAR
2. Set COMSEC to CT N/A

3. Set DATA to OFF N/A

Prepare source ANCD to 1. Turn ANCD on Select:

send MK OTAR SOI Radio Supervisor

2. Enter RADIO Send Receive Database

Setup Comsec Time

3. Enter COMSEC Vg Ld Rv
Ak Mk vU

4. Enter RV Connect to RT
press [RCV] (WAIT)

5. Connect ANCD to RT N/A

AUD/FILL port

6. ACK to source NCS (Responds to source

when ready to receive NCS’s MK OTAR
OTAR instructions)

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

NCS TASK 7: Send TEK to Net Operators Using AK Method of OTAR

SUBTASKS ACTION RESULT

Prepare source NCS radio to 1. Set FCTN to LD N/A

send AK OTAR
2. Set MODE to N/A
FH-M

3. Set COMSEC to N/A

CT

4. Set DATA to OFF N/A

Prepare source ANCD to send 1. Turn ANCD on Select:

MK OTAR SOI Radio
Supervisor

2. Enter RADIO Send Receive

Database
Setup Comsec Time

3. Enter COMSEC Vg Ld Rv
Ak Mk vU

4. Enter AK Select key Quit

(name/number)

5. Press PgUp/PgDn Select key Quit

to KEK desired; (name/number)
press ENTR KEK

6. Enter QUIT Select key Quit

(name/number)

7. Press PgDn to Connect to RT and

TEK desired; press press [SEND] (Wait)
enter

Send AK OTAR 1. Say: Standby for Target operations are

MK OTAR alerted CT contact is
acknowledge confirmed

2. Press [SEND] on Transfer in

ANCD progress/1 keys
transferred

Vg Ld Rv
Ak Mk vU

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 RTO II HANDBOOK UPDATE

Load TEK sent by AK OTAR 1. Enter LD Select:

in NCS radio Tek Kek

2. Enter TEK Select key Quit

(name/number)
XMT

3. Press PgDn to Connect ANCD to

display and ENTR to RT
select

4. Enter Quit Press [LOAD] on RT

5. Connect ANCD to
RT AUD/FILL; press
[]

6. Press 1 keys transferred

[LOAD]/[STO]/and
[X]

Vg Ld Rv
Ak Mk vU

NCS TASK 7: Cont.

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CHAPTER 5
PRECISION LIGHTWEIGHT GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM
RECEIVER
(PLGR) TASKS

The ability for Soldiers to accurately determine their location has always been a
major problem. The Global Positioning System (GPS) has revolutionized land
navigation. Ideally, Soldiers should be able to determine their position accurately to
within 10 meters. But before such a standard can be achieved, Soldiers, and
particularly radiotelephone operators (RTOs), must be proficient in the use of GPS.

1. DEFINITION: The GPS is a satellite-based, radio navigational system. It

consists of a constellation with 24 active satellites that interface with a ground-,
air-, or sea-based receiver. Each satellite transmits data that enables the GPS
receiver to provide precise position and time to the user. The GPS receivers come
in several configurations, hand-held, vehicular-mounted, aircraft-mounted, and
water craft-mounted.

2. OPERATION: The GPS is based on satellite ranging. It calculates the user’s

position on earth by measuring the distance from a group of satellites in space to
the user’s location. For accurate three-dimensional data, the receiver must track
four or more satellites. Most GPS receivers provide the user with the number of
satellites that it is tracking and whether or not the signals are good. Some receivers
can be manually switched to track only three satellites if the user knows his
altitude. This method provides the user with accurate data much faster than that
provided by tracking four or more satellites. Each type receiver has a number of
mode keys that have a variety of functions. To better understand how the GPS
receiver operates, refer to the operators’ manual (TB 11-5825-291-10-2, Soldier’s
Guide for the PLGR (Precision Lightweight GPS Receiver).

3. CAPABILITIES: The GPS provides worldwide, 24-hour, all weather, day or

night coverage when the satellite constellation is complete. The GPS can locate the
position of the user accurately to within 21 meters 95 percent of the time. However,
the GPS has been known to accurately locate the position of the user within 8 to 10
meters. It can determine the distance and direction from the user to a programmed
location or the distance between two programmed locations called waypoints. It
provides exact date and time for the time zone in which the user is located. The data
supplied by the GPS is helpful for missions that require Soldiers to know their exact
location such as:

• Sighting

• Surveying

• Tactical reconnaissance

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

• Sensor emplacement.

• Artillery forward observing

• Close air support

• General navigation

• Mechanized maneuvers

• Engineer surveying

• Amphibious operations

• Parachute operations

• Signal intelligence

• Electronic warfare

• Ground-based forward air control

This data is displayed on the AN/PSN-11 and is also available from a serial data
port.

4. LIMITATIONS: A constellation of 24 satellites broadcasts precise signals for

use by navigational sets. The satellites are arranged in six rings that orbit the earth
twice each day. The GPS navigational signals are similar to light rays, so anything
that blocks the light will reduce or block the effectiveness of the signals. The more
unobstructed the view of the sky, the better the system performs.

5. COMPATIBILITY: All GPS receivers have primarily the same function, but
the input and control keys vary between the different receivers. The GPS can
reference and format position coordinates in any of the following systems:

• Degrees, minutes, seconds (DMS): Latitude/longitude-based system with

position expressed in degrees, minutes, and seconds.
• Degrees, minutes (DM): Latitude/longitude-based system with position
expressed in degrees and minutes.
• Universal traverse mercator (UTM): Grid zone system with the northing
and easting position expressed in meters.
• Military grid reference system (MGRS): Grid zone/grid square system
with coordinates of position expressed in meters.

The following is a list of land navigation subjects from other sections in which the
GPS can be used to assist Soldiers in navigating and map reading:

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 RTO II HANDBOOK UPDATE

• Grid coordinates. GPS makes determining a 4-, 6-, 8-, and 10-digit grid
coordinate of a location easy. On most GPS receivers, the position mode
will give the user a 10-digit grid coordinate to their present location.

• Distance and direction. The mode for determining distance and direction
depends on the GPS receiver being used. One thing the different types of
receivers have in common is that to determine direction and distance the
user must enter at least one-way point (WPT). When the receiver
measures direction and distance from the present location or from WPT to
WPT, the distance is measured in straight line only. Distance can be
measured in miles, yards, feet, kilometers, meters, or nautical knots or
feet. For determining direction, the user can select degrees, mils, or rads.
Depending on the receiver, the user can select true north, magnetic north,
or grid north.

• Navigational equipment and methods. Unlike the compass, the GPS

receiver when set on navigation mode (NAV) will guide the user to a
selected WPT by actually telling the user how far left or right the user has
drifted from the desired azimuth. With this option, the user can take the
most expeditious route possible, moving around an obstacle or area
without replotting and reorienting.

• Mounted land navigation. While in the NAV mode, the user can navigate
to a WPT using steering and distance, and the receiver will tell the user
how far he has yet to travel and at the current speed, how long it will take
to get to the WPT.

• Navigation in different types of terrain. The GPS is capable of being used

in any terrain, especially more open terrain like the desert.

• Unit sustainment. The GPS can be used to read coordinates to quickly

and accurately establish and verify land navigation courses.

6. CONCEPT OF OPERATION: The Precision Lightweight Global Positioning

System Receiver (PLGR) is a highly accurate satellite signal navigation set
(referred to as AN/PSN-11).

The AN/PSN-11 is designed for battlefield use anywhere in the world. It is sealed
watertight for all weather day or night operation. The AN/PSN-11 is held in the left
hand and operated with the thumb of the left hand. Capability is included for
installation in ground facilities and air, sea, and land vehicles. The AN/PSN-11 is
operated stand-alone using prime battery power and integral antenna. It can be used
with an external power source and external antenna.

The AN/PSN-11 provides the user with position coordinates, time, and navigation
information if no obstructions block the line-of-sight satellite signal from reaching
the antenna. Valid crypto keys are used to protect the AN/PSN-11 from
intentionally degraded satellite signals.

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

Many data fields, such as elevation, display units of information. The format
of the units can be changed to the most familiar format.

Map coordinates are entered as a WPT. When a WPT is selected as a

destination, the AN/PSN-11 provides steering indications, azimuth, and
range information to the destination. A desired course to a WPT is entered.
Offset distance from this course line is shown.

Up to 999 WPTs can be entered, stored, and selected as a destination. A

route is defined for navigation either start-to-end or end-to-start. The route
consists of up to nine legs (10 WPTs) linked together.

7. CHARACTERISTICS: The AN/PSN-11 is less than 9.5 inches long, 4.1

inches wide, and 2.6 inches deep. It weighs 2.75 pounds with all batteries in
place. The small size and light weight make the set easy to carry and use.
The durable plastic case is sealed for all-weather use. The AN/PSN-11
features make it easy to use. (These features are highlighted in the physical
description.)

Figure 1

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8. SETUP AND CONTROL: Setting up the operation parameters of the PLGR is

critical. This section describes the display, procedures, and principles used in
setting the AN/PSN-11 displays to suit the needs of the user. This display consists
of seven pages that allows the user to control the following parameters:

• Operating mode

• Type of satellites to use

• Coordinate system

• Units

• Magnetic variation

• Display customization

• Navigation display mode

• Elevation hold mode

• Time and error formats

• Datum

• Automatic off timer

• Datum port configuration

• AutoMark mode

To set the PLGR up for continuous operation:

Turn the PLGR ON. Once it has completed its built-in-test (BIT) press the MENU
key and move the cursor to SETUP. Activate the SETUP function.

<move> select
STATUS SETUP
INIT TEST
HELP <MORE>
P

Figure 2. Setup

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

The first screen allows the operator to set the operating mode and SV-type. Scroll
through the operating modes and select CONT and mixed for the SV-type.

SETUP MODE: CONT

Continuous POS
and VEL update
SV-TYPE: mixed P

Figure 3. Operating mode and SV-type

The second screen allows the operator to setup the units. Scroll through the
available coordinates and select MGRS-New and Metric. For the elevation (Elev)
select meter and mean sea level (MSL) and for the angle (ANGL) select degrees
(Deg) and magnetic (Mag).

SETUP UNITS
MGRS-New Metric
Elev: meter MSL
ANGL: Deg Mag P

Figure 4. Set up the units

The third screen should be set for the MAGVAR (Magnetic variation or
grid-magnetic [G-M] angle for your area). The operator can select calculate (Calc)
the degree or manually enter degrees as an easterly or westerly GM angle; for
example, E004.0 for the Fort Polk map sheet.

SETUP MAGVAR
TYPE: Calc deg
WWm 1995
P

Figure 5. Magnetic variation or G-M angle setup

The fourth screen of setup allows the operator to set the elevation hold (ELHold),
TIME, and error (ER). The operator should set the ELHold to automatic. As for
time, the operator needs to know from their present location how many hours they
are ahead of or behind Greenwich Mean Time. For example, during daylight
savings time, Fort Polk, LA. is Loc=Z-0500. To set the ERR, the operator selects
-+m to let him know in meters how accurate the PLGR is operating.

SETUP
ELHold: automatic
TIME: Loc=Z-0400
ERR:=+-m P

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Figure 6. Set elevation, time, hold, and error

The fifth screen of setup allows the operator to set the PLGR datum (DTM) to their
area of operation and to set the Automatic Off Timer. The PLGR has fifty-two map
datum sets available. The operator should set the PLGR datum to their area of
operation. For example, if your map datum is WGS-84, the operator sets the PLGR
to WGS-84. If the map is 1927 North America datum, the operator sets the datum to

NAS-C. The automatic timer off is used to turn the PLGR off after a prescribed
time once it has acquired a fixed position. The operator should set this mode to off.

SETUP DTM: NAS-C

NA27CONUS /Clk66
AUTOMATIC OFF
TIMER: off P

Figure 7. Set the PLGR datum

The sixth screen in setup is the in/out (I/O) port screen. This page allows the
operator to control serial communications, HAVEQUICK and 1PPS options. Select
Standard unless otherwise directed and select Off for HAVEQUICK and 1PPS.

SETUP I/O
SERIAL: Standard
HAVEQUICK: Off
1PPS: Off P

Figure 8. In/out port screen

The seventh screen is setup AUTOMARK. This feature allows the operator to have
the PLGR periodically wake-up, acquire a position fix, store the position as a WPT,
or return to the mode of operation it was previously in. The operator should set this
mode to off. The remaining pages for SETUP are for advanced GPS users.

SETUP AUTOMARK
MODE: off WP002
26-04-01 0935L
REPEAT 00h00m P

Figure 9. AUTOMARK setup

Once the PLGR is set up, the operator can obtain a position. This procedure is
accomplished by activating the position (POS) key. The position displayed is “old”

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

information until the receiver collects and calculates satellite data and displays the
current position. The receiver must be tracking three satellites to obtain a
two-dimensional fix position and four or more satellites for a three-dimensional fix
position. The third dimension is elevation.

9. WPT OPERATIONS: A WPT is the location of a point on a desired course

described by coordinates or a physical location. A normal mission consists of a
series of WPTs. The WPTs available on the AN/PSN-11 are 999 (numbered 01
through 999).

This paragraph describes the AN/PSN-11 WPT displays and WPT operations. The
WPT display pages are used to perform the following operations:

• Enter, edit, or review WPTs

• Copy WPTs

• Determine the distance between WPTs

• Calculate a new WPT

• Clear WPTs

• Define a mission route

To enter a WPT, the operator needs to press the waypoint (WP) key. When the
WPT menu appears, the ENTER function flashes. The operator presses the down
arrow key to activate this field. Now the operator enters a WPT name, grid zone
designator, 100,000-meter grid square identifier, 10-digit grid coordinate, and
elevation.

WP <move> sel
ENTER EDIT COPY
SR-CALC RNG CALC
DIST CLEAR ROUTE

Figure 10. Enter a WPT

To enter a WPT name, the operator presses the right arrow key until the first letter
of the word UNUSED (WP#) is flashing. Scroll up or down through the alphabet
changing the letter U to whatever is desired. For example, if the operator wanted to
name their WPT NORTH STAR, the operator scrolls down the alphabet until the
letter U is changed to the letter N. The operator repeats this process for the
remaining letters.

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WP002 UNUSED002
B MGRS-New
AN 00000e 00000n
No EL CLR P

Figure 11. Unused

WP002 NORTHSTAR
10T MGRS-New
EG 13130e 95750n
No EL CLR N

Figure 12. Change a name

Second line, the operator enters the grid zone designator for their area of operation.
For example, the Fort Polk area falls in the 15R zone.

Third line, the operator must enter a 10-digit grid coordinate with its 100,000-meter
grid square identifier. For example, if the WPT location is Carnis Village, Fort Polk
map sheet, the 100,000-meter grid square identifier is WQ. Then, the operator plots
the grid coordinates on the map and enters it into the PLGR.

Note: Operator plots 8-digit grid coordinates, however a 10-digit coordinate is

entered. Therefore, the 5th and 10th digit entered is a zero (0).

For the fourth line, if the elevation of the WPT is known, the operator can enter it.
If the elevation is not known, the operator can just leave the data as zero or No EL.
The operator moves the cursor until the Up and Down arrow symbol appears before
the letter P or N in bottom right corner. When activating the down arrow key the
operator stores the WPT into the PLGR’s memory. The PLGR notifies the operator
that the WPT has been stored.

Note: When entering numbers, the number lock (NUM LOCK) can be activated.
The letter N appears in the bottom right corner allowing the operator to use the
numbers on the keypad rather then scrolling up/down.

10. NAVIGATION: Navigation (NAV) is using the AN/PSN-11 to find your

present position, relative to other points. The AN/PSN-11 provides azimuth, range,
and steering information in a variety of formats. There are four navigation display
modes that may be accessed and selected. The navigation display mode selected
determines the type of information shown on the navigation displays. These
navigation displays give the user the most useful information for a certain mission
profile: SLOW, 2D FAST, 3D FAST, or CUSTOM.

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In SLOW NAV mode, the AN/PSN-11 performs two-dimensional (2D) NAV. Slow
NAV mode is used for land or sea, when the user cannot maintain the minimum
speed necessary (about 1.5 kmph).

In 2D FAST NAV mode, the AN/PSN-11 performs two-dimensional (2D) NAV.

2D fast NAV mode is used for land or sea, when the user can maintain the
minimum speed necessary for GPS to compute navigation parameters based on
velocity.

In 3D FAST NAV mode, the AN/PSN-11 performs three-dimensional (3D) NAV.

3D fast NAV mode has an APPROACH sub-mode. 3D fast NAV mode is used for
air, when the user can travel in three dimensions and can maintain the minimum
speed necessary for GPS to compute navigation parameters based on velocity.

In CUSTOM NAV mode, the AN/PSN-11 displays users’ navigational pages as

desired. It can be set up to support the individual user’s performance or mission
requirements. The following custom display modes are available:

• Direct

• Course to

• Course from

• Route

• Approach

To navigate with the PLGR on land in a dead-reckoning method, the PLGR NAV
mode is accomplished as follows:

The operator presses the NAV key activating the NAV function. The first screen
that appears is the NAV mode. For example, SLOW, 2D FAST, 3D FAST,
CUSTOM, DIRECT, CRS (course) TO, and CRS (course) FROM.

2D FAST DIRECT
WP002 NORTHSTAR002
P

Figure 13. Navigation mode

The operator selects the 2D FAST and DIRECT. The second line is the WPT to be
navigated. (To choose the desired WPT, scroll through the WPTs that are stored.)

To see the azimuth that the navigator should be traveling, go to the next page by
pressing the down arrow key. This page tells the navigator their current azimuth
(TRK=tracking) and the correct azimuth (AZ). The fourth line tells the navigator

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steering (STR), a direction (< >), and the number of degrees the navigator needs to
move to travel on the correct azimuth.

NORTHSTAR002 +-30m
TRK 305.3M
AZ 311.3M
STR >6 P

Figure 14. Azimuth

The third screen tells the navigator the range or distance to their WPT and how
much time (TTG2) it will take them to get to their WPT. This page also lets the
navigator know what the elevation difference is from their present location to the
WPT and by how much they will miss their WPT (MMD).

RNG 3598.55km
TTG2AN 0036:05
ELD -00050m
MMD2 30m P

Figure 15. Range or distance

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CHAPTER 6
AUTOMATED NET CONTROL DEVICE (ANCD) TASKS

The ANCD system replaced the paper version signal operating instructions (SOI),
the KYK 13, and MX 18290 Hopset Device.

The ANCD was designed with the capability of loading the Single-Channel Ground
and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS) radio with communications security
(COMSEC) and frequency hopping (FH) data without the use of the KYK 13 and
the MX 18290 (Hopset Device). The ANCD also provides the operators with
frequencies, call signs, suffixes, expanders, and other SOI information, except
Authentication Table. This chapter provides the knowledge radiotelephone
operators (RTOs) need to transfer COMSEC/FH data and SOI information from
ANCD to ANCD, extract SOI information from an ANCD, and load SINCGARS
radio using Mode 2 fill. The chapter also describes how to store data sent by
over-the-air rekeying (OTAR) and Broadcast mode

Characteristics of the ANCD

1. Size: 6.3" x 4.4" x 2.0"

2. Weight: Approximately 2 pounds with batteries

3. Power Source: 3 3 volt lithium batteries

4. Purpose: Used to transfer and store COMSEC keys; FH data; and display,
transfer, and store SOI information.

5. The ANCD eliminates the use of the KYK 13, KYX 15, KOI 18, MX
18290, and the paper SOI.

Main Menu

1. The main menu consists of three areas:

a. SOI pertains to SOI Information.

b. Radio pertains to COMSEC keys/FH data to be loaded into the

radio.

c. Supervisor pertains to areas performed by the supervisor “only.”

2. Selection of main menu areas:

a. Use the ARROW key function by pressing either the left or right
arrow keys, then press the ENTER key.

b. Press the corresponding capital letter on the keyboard to take you

directly to a specific topic. For example:

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

S - for signal operating instructions

R - for radio

U - for supervisor

Transfer COMSEC keys/FH data (controlled PE)

1. To transfer COMSEC keys/FH data, one ANCD must be selected as the

SOURCE ANCD and the other as the TARGET ANCD.

2. Turn on ANCD.

3. Enter RADIO.

4. Sub menu will display:

a. SEND used to send COMSEC keys/FH data to a radio, ANCD,

STU (secure telephone unit), and PC (personal computer).

b. RECEIVE used to receive COMSEC keys/FH data from ANCD,

CFD (COMSEC fill device), STU, PC, and MX (ECCM fill device
MX 18290)

c. DATABASE used to display, modify, remove, copy, and build

COMSEC keys/FH data.

d. SETUP used to set up ANCD to operate either on ICOM or

NONICOM.

e. COMSEC used to generate variables (VG), load (LD), receive

variables (RV), automatic key (AK), manual key (MK), and variable
update (VU).

f. TIME used to set the Julian date and the hours and minutes (24
hour) manually into the radio.

To transfer COMSEC keys/FH data one ANCD must be set up as the

SOURCE ANCD.

1. Press the ON/OFF key to turn on the ANCD of the Source ANCD.

2. Select RADIO: Depress the cursor on the keyboard, then press ENTER or
press “R” for radio.

3. Enter SEND.

4. Select ANCD, and press ENTER.

5. Select DATABASE, and press ENTER.

6. ANCD will ask: Do you want to include TIME? Y/N? ENTER “Y” for
yes.

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7. Connect both ANCDs with fill cable (W4) and press SEND on the ANCD
keyboard.

Note: The receiving ANCD must press RECEIVE on the ANCD Keyboard
within 20 seconds.

8. Display screen on the sending ANCD will show preparing to transfer time
and then both ANCDs will show TRANSFER IN PROGRESS. Once the
transfer has been completed, the display screen will show TRANSFER
SUCCESSFUL.

To receive COMSEC/HF data one ANCD must be set up as the TARGET

ANCD.

1. Turn on the ANCD.

2. Select RADIO, and press ENTER.

3. Select RECEIVE, and press ENTER.

4. Receive From: Select ANCD, and press ENTER.

5. Select DATABASE, and press ENTER.

6. Do you want to delete FH and COMSEC data? YES must be selected in

order to proceed.

7. Connect to ANCD, and press receive (RCV).

Notes: DO NOT press RCV until the SOURCE ANCD is ready.

Receive must be pressed within 20 seconds after SOURCE ANCD sends

data.

8. The TARGET ANCD display screen will show: TRANSFER IN

PROGRESS. Once transfer is complete, display screen will show:
TRANSFER SUCCESSFUL.

To perform before operations preventive maintenance checks and services

(PMCS) on SINCGARS radio and load the radio with required data the
following steps must be accomplished in the exact order:

1. Obtain the required single-channel frequencies from the ANCD when you
are operating in the division support command (DISCOM)

NET Time Period 01:

a. MAN

b. CUE

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Note: The MAN channel is normally loaded but NOT the CUE channel.
Channels 1 through 6 are loaded only if required by unit standing operating
procedures ( SOP).

2. Set RT controls.

a. FCTN to LD

b. MODE to SC

c. COMSEC to plain text (PT)/cipher text (CT)

d. CHAN to CUE/MAN/1-6

3. Press FREQ.

4. Press CLR.

5. Load frequency obtained from ANCD.

6. Press STO.

7. Repeat steps “C” through “F” for each single-channel frequency required
to be loaded.

8. Set FCTN to SQ.

Load COMSEC keys and FH data using Mode 2 fill.

1. Preparation of ANCD for Mode 2 fill.

a. Turn on ANCD and SINCGARS radio.

b. Set SINCGARS radio up to load COMSEC keys and FH data:

• COMSEC to CT

• FCTN to LD

• MODE to FH

• CHAN to MAN

• DATA to OFF

c. Select: RADIO on ANCD, and press ENTER.

d. Select: SEND, and press ENTER.

e. Select: RADIO, and press ENTER.

f. Select: ICOM, and press ENTER.

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g. Connect to RT AUD/Fill connector using the (W4) fill cable.

h. Set FCTN control knob on radio to LD.

i. Display will show: Do you want to include TIME? Y/N? ENTER

“N” for no.

Note: Time must be entered manually. The receiver-transmitter (RT)

is not set up to receive the clock from the ANCD, however for an
accurate time you can use the GPS (Global Positioning System) to
load the time into the RT.

j. Press LOAD on radio.

k. Display screen on ANCD will show: TRANSFER IN

PROGRESS; then: ICOM TRANSFER SUCCESSFUL.

Note: The Mode 2 fill procedure loads the radio with one load set
containing COMSEC keys and FH data for all 6 channels. If there is
more than one load set stored in the ANCD, the one shown as
“Default Identification” (DI) will be loaded into the radio when the
Mode 2 fill procedure is used.

Enter secure, frequency hopping net using "Hot Start" net opening
procedures.

1. Julian date calendar

a. Obtained from net control station (NCS)

b. Located in TM 11 5820 890 10 8 (SINCGARS) Operator’s

Manual page A 3 (Appendix A)

2. Procedure for loading Julian date into SINCGARS radio

a. Set: FCTN to LD.

b. Press: TIME (display shows “DD”).

c. Press: CLR (display shows “_ _”).

d. Enter: JULIAN DATE.

e. Press: STO (Julian date loaded into RT).

3. Procedure for loading SYNC time into SINCGARS radio

a. Turn on ANCD.

b. Enter: RADIO (display will show HH:MM:SS).

c. Press: TIME (display shows HHMM).

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

d. Press: CLR (display shows “_ _ _ _”).

e. Enter: HOUR (same as ANCD).

f. Enter: MINUTES (add 1 minute to clock on RT).

g. Press: STO (store time when clock on ANCD shows 60 or 00

seconds).

h. Set Channel Selector Switch to net ID in accordance with (IAW)

SOI.

4. Requirement to call NCS once data and SYNC time have been loaded
into the SINCGARS radio.

“NCS, THIS IS STATION (NR), OVER.”

Following the "Hot Start" net opening procedure, the SINCGARS radio in now
ready to communicate in the FH mode. CT net and net opening is completed for the
operator.

Quick and Dirty Loading

1. Install SINCGARS radio:

a. Install battery into battery box and connect to RT.

b. Connect whip antenna-to-antenna base hand tight.

c. Connect antenna base RT ANT hand tight.

d. Connect handset (H-250) to AUDIO DAT1.

2. Prepare RT to be loaded using ANCD:

a. Set FCTN knob to TST. Wait for GOOD on display.

b. Set FCTN knob to LD.

c. Set COMSEC knob to CT.

d. Set MODE knob to FH.

e. Clear audio alarm in handset to solid tone (press handset twice).

3. Prepare ANCD and load RT:

a. Turn on ANCD and enter RADIO at the main menu.

b. At next three screens SEND, RADIO, and ICOM press ENTER.

c. Follow guidance for next two steps by pressing down arrow.

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d. Enter Y at the next menu (TIME), then press LOAD on the RT.

4. Load single-channel (SC) frequency:

a. Set MODE knob to S3.

b. Set CHAN knob to desired position.

c. On the keypad press FREQ+CLR.

d. On the keypad enter the frequency given and press STO.

5. Set RF PWR to desired setting (LO, M, HI).

6. Set FCTN knob to SQ ON and conduct a radio check using proper

procedures and prowords.

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CHAPTER 7
RADIOTELEPHONE OPERATORS (RTOs) PACKING LIST AND
CHECKLIST

RTOs are required to understand their respective radio systems as well as the
tactical maneuver plan. RTOs are the commander’s ears and, as such, will
continuously monitor radio transmissions and report any tactical developments to
their commander as soon as possible. RTOs should not only carry the radio, but
also take an active role in monitoring and controlling the operation with minimal
guidance. As stated earlier, the RTO is the walking, talking, tactical operations
center (TOC) for the small unit leader.

Each RTO should have as a minimum:

• Appropriate radio system with two handsets, long-whip, and short whip
antennas

• Appropriate communications security (COMSEC) in the radio

• Communications exercise (COMMEX) time and place

• Challenge/password and number combination

• Effective change-over time

• Task force net identifications (IDs)/call sign quick reference (command

[CMD], operations and intelligence [O/I], aid and litter [A/L])
• Retrans plan (if applicable)

• Tactical plan/execution checklist

• Late net entry procedures

• Pen, pencil, and water proof paper or laminated reporting log sheets

• Digital watch (continuously updated with PLGR time)

• Pre-made field expedient 292 antenna

• Flashlight

• Poncho

• Extra batteries

• Map

• Extra BNC or barrel connectors (connects antenna to radio)

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CHAPTER 8
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE CHECKS AND SERVICES (PMCS)
FOR ADVANCED SYSTEMS IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (ASIP)
RADIOS

Just as any Soldier checks and maintains his weapon, the radiotelephone operator
(RTO) checks and maintains his equipment. The welfare of the entire unit rides on
the shoulders of the RTO. If the RTO does not maintain his equipment, he and his
unit will not be able to communicate. The unit that cannot communicate when
necessary, will not survive, much less accomplish its mission.

Item to Not Fully

Item # When Operator Procedure Mission
Check/Service Capable If:

1 Before CONTROLS a. Check for cracked or Broken control

During broken controls does not
After function
b. Check for loose properly*
controls
Loose control
c. Check for frozen does not
controls function
properly*
d. Check for missing
control knobs Frozen control
does not
function
properly*

Knob missing
and control does
not function
properly*

2 Before CABLES: a. Check for missing Cable missing

During RF (W2) cables
After RF (CG-3855) Cable is
RF (CG-3856) b. Check for proper damaged and
Audio/Data (W4) installation cannot be
used**
PA Power (CX c. Check for tightness
13303) of connectors
d. Check for obvious
damage to cables

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3 Before ANTENNAS: a. Check for proper Antenna is not

During AS-3683 installation properly
After AS-3900 grounded
AS-3916 b. Check for proper
AS-4266 grounding (vehicular Antenna part is
radios) broken and
cannot be used
c. Check for broken
antenna parts Antenna part is
missing
d. Check for tie-downs
and antenna tips

4 Before Power: a. Check for presence RT display does

of main battery not show
MANPACK "GOOD"
Vehicular b. Check for
Either Radio availability of vehicular Self-test ends
power with other than
"GOOD"
c. Move
communications
security (COMSEC)
from Z to PT, adjust
DIM, move FCTN from
OFF to Z-FH, check
that RT display lights

5 Before SELF-TEST a. With FCTN in Z-FH, RT display does

check that display not show
shows "GOOD" "GOOD"

b. Move FCTN to TST Self-test ends

and check that RT with other than
display shows "GOOD" "GOOD"
at end

Checklist: Cont.

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6 Before KEYPAD With Any test

receiver-transmitter frequency (0 -9)
(RT) set to CT, SC, LD, cannot be
and channel shown; entered in the
RT
a. Press FRQ, CLR, and
enter test frequency: Any test
frequency
CUE: 31000 cannot be stored
MAN: 32000 in RT.
CHAN 1: 43000
CHAN 2: 54000
CHAN 3: 65000
CHAN 4: 76000
CHAN 5: 87000
CHAN 6: 87975

b. Press STO for each

entry.

7 Before DATA a. Load single-channel SC Freq will not

LOADING: (SC) freq load

SC freq b. Load COMSEC key COMSEC key

COMSEC key will not load
FH data c. Load frequency
Sync time hopping (FH) data FH data will not
load
d. Load sync time***
Sync time will
not load

Checklist: Cont.

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

8 Before COMM a. Check for side tone. Side tone is not

Check:**** heard
b. Check voice comm
Voice/data in SC-PT and FH-CT Cannot
SC mode (check SQ OFF while communicate in
FH mode in SC mode.) SC-PT or
Plain text (PT) FH-CT voice
Cipher text (CT) c. If data comm modes
RXMT mode mission-required, check
data comm in FH-CT
using mission-related Cannot
data device. ***** communicate in
mission-require
d. If RXMT is d data mode
mission-required, check using
RXMT in all mission-related
mission-related modes data device.

Cannot
retransmit in
mission-related
modes.

Checklist: Cont.

* “Does not function properly” means that a control will not do what it is intended
to do; for example, turning the FCTN knob does not change the radio’s function. It
may be necessary to wait until Item 8 (Communications Check) to determine for
sure that some controls do or do not function properly.

** "Damaged and cannot be used” means that after visual inspection or

operational check, you determine that a piece of equipment is faulty and, therefore,
will not support your mission requirements or presents a safety hazard.

*** Use of the ICOM fill procedure is appropriate here, but separate checks of
COMSEC keys, FH data, and sync time elements are required.

**** Operators with special requirements (NCS for example) should check those
functions that are important to mission operations (ERF for example). Skip this step
if tactical situation prohibits transmitting.

***** Unless your mission is likely to require use of data mode or retransmission
operations, you do not need to perform these two checks.

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CHAPTER 9
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

Even with the most dedicated maintenance, “Murphy’s Law” affects the daily lives
of all radiotelephone operators (RTOs). The difference between an excellent RTO
and a poor one is his/her ability to figure out what is wrong and then fix it. This
chapter offers a short guide on troubleshooting common problems. Consider these
tips as “Immediate Action Drills” for the RTO.

Operator Troubleshooting Guide 1

STEPS CHECKS ACTIONS

1. Verify correct 1. Does automated net YES: Go to step 2

receiver-transmitter (RT) control device NO: Continue
control settings (ANCD) indicate that
data is being
transferred?

2. Does RT indicate YES: Problem is solved

that data has been NO: Go to step 2
received?

2. Verify ANCD data storage Does ANCD contain YES: Continue

loadset? NO: Load/replace
ANCD*, cont.

3. Ensure ANCD is functional 1. Is battery light low? YES: Replace battery,

cont.
NO: Go to step 4

2. Does integrated YES: Problem is solved

communications NO: Go to step 4
security (ICOM) fill
now load RT?

4. Ensure fill cable is 1. Is cable damaged, NO: Continue

serviceable cut, or broken? YES: Replace cable*,
cont.

2. Is fill cable YES: Continue

properly connected to NO: Reconnect, cont.
ANCD and RT?

3. Does ICOM fill YES: Problem solved

now load RT? NO: Go to step 5

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5. Re-run Single-Channel 1. Does RT pass all YES: Continue

Ground and Airborne Radio checks and tests? NO: See unit
System (SINCGARS) radio maintenance
preventive maintenance
system (PMS) 2. Does ICOM fill YES: Problem solved
now load RT? NO: See unit
maintenance

Operator Troubleshooting Guide: Cont.

* Where action is to "replace" ANCD and fill cable, it is anticipated that the
operator will borrow such an item for the purpose of troubleshooting. If borrowing
is not feasible, it will be necessary for the operator to contact unit maintenance to
obtain a substitute item or request assistance with the problem.

Operator Troubleshooting Guide 2

Operator is unable to contact the net control station (NCS)*

STEPS CHECKS ACTIONS

Verify correct RT control 1. Is FCTN switch set YES: Continue

settings to SQ ON? NO: GO to SQ ON,
cont.

2. IS CHAN switch set YES: Continue

to net operational NO: Change CHAN,
channel? cont.

3. Is COMSEC set to YES: Continue

cipher text (CT) (or NO: Reset COMSEC,
plain text [PT] if in cont.
use)?

4. Is MODE set to YES: Continue

frequency hopping NO: Change MODE,
(FH) (or cont.
single-channel [SC] if
in use)?

5. Is RF PWR set YES: Continue

properly for NCS NO: Change RF PWR,
location? cont.

6. Is VOL set to hear YES: Go to step 2

NCS or net traffic NO: Reset VOL, go to
step 2

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Verify ANCD data storage 1. Is transmission YES: Continue

encryption key (TEK) NO: Reconnect, cont.
loaded in operational
channel?

2. Can NCS now be YES: Problem is solved

contacted? NO: Go to step 5

Ensure ANCD is functional 1. Is correct net YES: Continue

identification (ID) NO: See unit
loaded in operational maintenance
channel?

2. Can NCS now be YES: Problem is solved

contacted NO: See unit
maintenance

Ensure fill cable is 1. Are ANCD and RT YES: Continue

serviceable times within +/- 2 NO: Use passive
seconds? LNE***, cont

2. Can NCS now be YES: Problem is solved

contacted? NO: Go to step 5

Re-run SINCGARS radio 1. Does RT pass all YES: Continue

PMS checks and tests? NO: See unit
maintenance

2. Can NCS now be YES: Problem is solved

contacted? NO: See unit
maintenance

Operator Troubleshooting Guide 2: Cont.

* If other traffic can be heard on the net, problem is assumed to rest with the NCS
station.

** ANCD time may not be valid if it has been more that 24 hours since ICOM fill of
radio

*** Passive late net entry (LNE)

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Operator Troubleshooting Guide 3

STEPS CHECKS ACTIONS

Perform passive late net 1. Does RT display YES: Wait for traffic on
entry (LNE) show: net, cont
"LF XXX"? NO: Adjust dim switch,
cont.

2. Is traffic heard and

"L" dropped from YES: Problem is solved
NO: Go to step 2
display?

Check VOL control 1. Is VOL set high YES: Go to step 3

setting enough to hear traffic? NO: Adjust VOL, cont.

2. Is traffic now heard? YES: Problem is solved

NO: Go to step 3

Ensure that handset is 1. Is handset YES: Go to step 4

working operational? NO: Replace item, cont.

2. Is traffic now heard? YES: Problem is solved

NO: Go to step 4

Verify sync time* 1. Are ANCD and RT YES: Go to step 5

times within +/- 2 NO: Reload sync time,
seconds? cont.

2. Is traffic now heard? YES: Problem is solved

NO: Go to step 5

Verify FH data 1. Is there FH data YES: Continue

loaded in the operational NO: Reload RT, cont.
channel?

2. Is traffic now heard? YES: Problem is solved

NO: Continue

3. Is correct net ID
loaded in operational YES: Go to step 6
NO: Change net ID, cont.
channel

4. Is traffic now heard? YES: Problem is solved

NO: Go to step 6

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Manpack only** - check 1. Does main battery YES: Replace battery,

main battery need to be changed? cont.
NO: Go to step 7

2. Is traffic now heard? YES: Problem is solved

NO: Go to step 7

Perform "Hot Start" net 1. Do COMSEC/FH data YES: Continue

entry load in RT? NO: Go to
Troubleshooting Guide 1

2. Is traffic now heard? YES: Problem is solved

NO: Continue ****

3. Can NCS be YES: Problem is solved

contacted? NO: See unit maintenance

Operator Troubleshooting Guide 3: Cont.

* ANCD time may not be valid if it has been more than 24 hours since ICOM fill of
radio.
** For vehicular radios, skip this step and continue with Step 7. Placing RF PWR
in HI and pressing PTT can check battery power. Signal display of 2 or less
indicates your battery is weak.

*** Operator has option of using CUE and ERF method of late net entry in lieu of
the "Hot Start" procedure if desired.

**** The possibility that there is no traffic on the net must be considered. Try to
contact your NCS to check serviceability of your radio

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CHAPTER 10
FIELD EXPEDIENT ANTENNAS

Communications are affected by a host of variables. Range sought, weather, terrain,

or atmospherics can affect signal strength without warning. Standard whip antennas
may not be up to the task, especially when transmitting under difficult conditions.
Field expedient antennas can dramatically improve both transmission and reception
ranges. The effective radiotelephone operator (RTO) knows how to set up such an
antenna and has the material needed to do so.

Field Expedient RC-292

Construction:

A B
Center-Core
GRA-50 or other
C Conductor
un-insulated wire

Core Insulator
Insulated copper B Outer Insulator
wire (i.e. WF-16)
C Outer-Braid
Conductor
Coax Cable
E Connection Blowup
B (See note 4)
D F

Figure 1

Parts List:

A) 65 feet of gutted 550 cord

B) 5 insulators

C) Four 6.5 feet lengths of antenna elements (16 gauge copper wire, see Note 2).

D) Three 1 foot long gutted 550 cord (see Note 3).

E) 50 feet of coax cable (RG-58 or RH-174)

F) Solderless BNC connector (see Note 4).

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Notes:

1) Insulators should be made of a semi-flexible plastic (i.e., spoons, flashlight

lenses, etc.).

2) Use wire from GRA-50 dipole antenna for the radiator element.

3) 550 cord end is tied in a loop to create a slip knot to put ends of sticks through
during execution.

4) Once coax is connected, use electrical tape to secure and cover bare wires.

Field Expedient Antenna Erection

Tree limb
20-30 feet high

Radiator

Ground Plane

4-6 foot sticks Canteen or rock to

throw over limb
Radio

Figure 2

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CHAPTER 11
ADVANCED SYSTEM IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (ASIP)

Radio Ranges And Battery Usage

As indicated in the previous chapter, there are numerous factors that affect the
range of a radio. This chapter examines the effects of two such factors: the radios
themselves and their batteries. Power settings and modes affect the ranges offered
by most radios. Battery life not only affects the length of time a radio will work, but
also how much power it can generate. Lower power settings obviously extend
battery life. Heavy transmission activity shortens battery life. An excellent
radiotelephone operator (RTO) knows from experience how long he can expect his
batteries to last in any operation. He also knows which mode offers the best balance
between transmission power and durability.

1. PURPOSE. Provide operators a guide to use as a planning tool for range

capabilities of the ASIP. Also, provide operators of the ASIP radios and associated
equipment general guidelines regarding the number of hours a particular type
battery is expected to remain serviceable.

2. GENERAL.

a. Planning ranges. The planning ranges for the ASIP are based on
line-of-sight (LOS) and are average for normal conditions. Ranges depend
upon location, sighting, weather, and antenna used. Use of the OE-254 will
increase ranges.

b. Battery usage. It is important to understand that the times presented are

the result of computations, as well as experience. Hours of service will vary
depending on how long the battery was in storage prior to use, temperature
when being used, and other factors that cannot be clearly defined. Even so,
these times offer the RTO a basis for planning battery requirements.

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3. PLANNING RANGES FOR THE ASIP.

TYPE COMM RF PWR RANGE

VOICE LOW (LO) 200 M TO 400 M

VOICE MEDIUM (M) 400 M TO 5 KM

VOICE HIGH (H) 5 KM TO 10 KM

VOICE PWR AMP (PA) 10 KM TO 40 KM

DATA 600-4800 BPS 3 KM TO 5 KM

16000 BPS 1 KM TO 3 KM

4. EXPECTED BATTERY LIFE.

MANPACK RADIO MAIN POWER

(BA5590 with RF set to HI)

VOICE/DATA (Frequency hopping [FH] ASIP

and cipher time [CT])

Normal (Operator) 33 hours

Heavy (NCS) TBD

Standby (STBY) 3 months

REMOTE CONTROL UNIT (RCU)

(BA5590 with RF set to HI)

VOICE/DATA (FH and CT) ASIP

Normal (Operator) TBD

Heavy (NCS) TBD

Standby (STBY) 3 months

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HOLD-UP BATTERY (HUB)

(BA5372)

USE ASIP

Back-up 6 months

Continuous or extended use Monthly

ANCD MAIN POWER

LOADED WITH 3 LOADED WITH 1

TYPE OF USE
BA5123s 9-volt

Normal (primary signal 30 hrs 10 hrs

operating instructions
[SOI] reference)

Heavy (net control 10 hrs 5 hrs

station [NCS]-frequent
data transfers)

Loaded in OFF position 2+ months 1+ month

PRECISION LIGHTWEIGHT GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM

RECEIVER
(PLGR) BATTERY

BATTERY TYPE NOMEN Continuous Use

Lithium (main) BA5800 20 hrs

AA-alkaline BA30588 8 hrs

Lithium (memory) LS6 1 year

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CHAPTER 12
FORCE XXI BATTLE COMMAND BRIGADE AND BELOW BLUE
FORCE TRACKING (FBCB2/BFT)

Knowing where friendly as well as threat elements are in a unit’s battlespace has
been a major concern in past conflicts. This concern is just as relevant today. The
FBCB2/BFT system allows the end user to track both friendly and threat elements
in near real time. A better understanding of the common operational picture (COP)
decreases the likelihood of fratricide, while it increases commanders’ abilities to
coordinate their unit’s assets against a given threat.

Purpose: To provide radiotelephone operators (RTOs) with a basic understanding

of the functions of the FBCB2/BFT system. This chapter contains step by step
instructions on message management, screen and map management and standard
reports, and preventative maintenance of the FBCB2/BFT system.

TASK: STARTUP PROCEDURES

The following tables list the startup/login sequence for the AN/UYK-128(V)
computer and associated peripheral equipment. Peripheral equipment consists of
Long Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System (LRAS3) (if equipped);
automatic chemical agent alarm (ACADA) (if equipped); radiation detection,
indication, and computation (RADIAC) (if equipped); military satellite
communications (MILSATCOM) (if equipped); Precision Lightweight Global
Positioning System Receiver (PLGR); Enhanced Position Location and Reporting
System (EPLRS) (if equipped); installation network center (INC); Single-Channel
Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS), and Advanced Sy

stem Improvement Program (ASIP) (if equipped, and system must be fully
operational before powering up the AN/UYK-128[V] computer).

Task: FBCB2/BFT initialization

Task Task Description

Number

1 Conduct preventative maintenance checks and services (PMCS)

before FBCB2/BFT startup procedures.

2 Place PLGR into operation.

3 Place LRAS3 into operation.*

4 Place ACADA into operation.*

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5 Place RADIAC into operation.*

6 Place MILSATCOM into operation.*

7 Place EPLRS into operation. Fill @ C or @ S message shows no

red lights.*

8 Place INC into operation. Green DS1 light on.*

9 Place SINCGARS ASIP into operation.*

10 Place MT-2011E into operation. Communications satellite

(COMSAT) status green once it is online (BFT only).

11 Power up FBCB2. See below task.

12 Log into FBCB2.

13 Verify EPLRS identification (ID) is same as FBCB2.*

14 Verify SINCGARS . network (NET) identification (ID)

frequency is same as FBCB2.*

* FBCB2 only

FBCB2/BFT initialization: Cont.

Task: AN/UKY-128 (FBCB2/BFT) computer startup

Task Task Description

Number

1 Startup and initialize all peripheral equipment.

Set the circuit breaker/toggle switch on the processor unit (PU)

2 to the "ON" position.

Press the display unit (DU) power (PWR) button for up to four
3 seconds and release after the green PWR light emitting diode
(LED) illuminates.

4 Select "CANCEL TIMEOUT" button on the "OPS

AUTO-LOGIN" dialog.
(Note: The FBCB2 count down timer has a 20 second time limit.
If the timer is allowed to go to zero, the FBCB2 system will
automatically begin to go online.)

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5 Check the color of both "GPS" and "ROUTER" dialog boxes

to determine your operational status.

(Note: Red indicates a problem that should be addressed before

proceeding to Step 6.)

Select "Done" in both the "GPS" and "ROUTER" dialog boxes

6
when initialization is complete.

7 Select "START."

8 Select "LOGIN." “Ops Login” window opens.

9 Select "PASSWORD" text box.

10 Type in your password.

11 Select "CONTINUE."

(Note: Always verify that the correct unit/role ID is displayed

before proceeding with login; otherwise, operators will not be able
to receive their own incoming FBCB2 messages, and the
operational status with be greatly degraded.)

12 Check the "Unit/Role" displayed in the function bar located in

the lower right-hand corner of the "Session Manger" screen."
(Note: Unit standing operating procedures (SOPs) often require
clearing logs and queues; therefore, you may want to go directly
to"Clear Logs and Queues" before proceeding to the next step.)

13 Select "OPS" in the "Session Manager" function bar. The

system proceeds to go online.

AN/UKY-128 (FBCB2/BFT) computer startup: Cont.

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TASK: SHUTDOWN PROCEDURES

The tables below list the shutdown sequence for the FBCB2/BFT system. The
AN/UYK-128(V) computer MUST be shut down first and then the following
peripheral equipment: PLGR (if equipped); EPLRS (if equipped); SINCGARS
ASIP (if equipped); INC; MILSATCOM (if equipped); LRAS3 (if equipped);
ACADA (if equipped); and RADIAC (if equipped).

Task: AN/UKY-128 (FBCB2/BFT) computer shutdown

Task
Number Task Description

1 Select F6 [Admin]. "Admin" window opens.

2 Select "Exit Ops." "Exit Ops" confirmation box opens.

3 Select "Yes." "Exit Ops" dialog box disappears.

4 Select "Cancel Timeout." "Ops Auto Login" box will close

5 Select "Start." "Start" option menu opens

6 Select "Shut Down." The "Shut Down" confirmation dialog

box opens.

Task: FBCB2/-BFT shutdown

Task Task Description

Number

1 Perform proper shutdown of the AN/UYK-128(V) computer.

2 Perform PLGR shutdown.

3 Perform SINCGARS ASIP shutdown.

4 Perform MT-2011 shutdown (if equipped).

5 Perform INC shutdown.*

6 Perform EPLRS shutdown (if equipped).*

7 Perform MILSATCOM shutdown (if equipped).

8 Perform RADIAC shutdown (if equipped).

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9 Perform ACADA shutdown (if equipped).

10 LRAS3 shutdown (if equipped).

* Only on terrestrial FBCB2

FBCB2/-BFT shutdown: Cont.

TASK: MANAGING MESSAGES

Task: Clear logs and queues

The FBCB2/BFT system continually accumulates messages that are stored in the
message logs and queues. A build up of messages reduces available system memory
and can cause the system to slow so much that simple tasks take several minutes to
complete. Operators must periodically delete these unnecessary messages from the
logs and queues. System must be offline in order to clear logs and queues.

Task Task Description

Number

1 Select "Start, FBCB2/Clear Logs and Queues." "Clear Logs

and Queues" dialog box opens.
(Caution: The next step will permanently delete all data that is
selected. Selecting "Reset System" will permanently delete ALL
data files.)

2 Select items to be cleared. "Option(s)" is shown with check

mark.

3 Select "Apply" to clear selected option(s). "Clear Logs and

Queues Status" dialog box opens.

4 Select "Close" when message "Completed Clear Logs and

Queues Operation" is displayed. "Clear Logs and Queues
Status" dialog box closes.

5 Select "Close" in "Clear Logs and Queues" dialog box.

Task: Reading a message

Messages, reports, operation orders (OPORDs), and overlays should be managed in

the FBCB2/BFT filing system to free space in system logs and queues. This
procedure speeds system processing. Files are user defined, but standardization by
SOP is recommended. Messages are saved to folders using the "Save/Save as"
functions in the message "Create" and "Read" screens.

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(Note: The flash, immediate, priority, and routine (FIPR) counter, located in the
center of the taskbar at the top of the screen, indicates the number of messages in
the FIPR by precedence: [F]lash, [I]mmediate, [P]riority, [R]outine.)

Task
Number Task Description

1 Select "FIPR" to open FIPR table.

2 Select desired precedence tab for the message you want to read.

3 Highlight the message you want to read.

4 Select "Display."

Task: Addressing messages

(Note: A delay may be experienced when opening these functions in

FBCB2/BFT.)

Users must understand some administrative tasks associated with message

management and screen management.

• Creating address groups: To make message addressing easier, users can

create address groups to help find individual addresses for a message or
to quickly add an entire group to a message.

Task Task Description

Number

1 Select F4 [Messages]. "Message" window opens.

2 Select "Create" tab.

3 Select "Edit Address Groups."

Enter an address group name in the "Name" field

4
located in the lower right-hand corner.

5 Select "New Group."

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6 a. Highlight an address in the database to be added to

the new address group.

b. Search for addresses in the database by typing an

address name in the "Search" field.

c. Select "Search" button to query the database to

highlight the address.

7 Highlight the address group to which you want the

address added.

8 Select "Add Address."

Repeat Steps 6, 7, and 8 to add all the desired addresses

to the new address group.

9 Select "OK" to finish building the address group.

10 Select "Close" to complete the action.

Creating address groups: Cont.

• Creating operator defined default address lists: FBCB2/BFT allows

users to create an operator-defined default address list for each message
type. FBCB2 ordinarily provides machine default addressees for all
combat messages. However, FBCB2/BFT has no default addressee lists
for any message, except the MAYDAY message. Default address lists
can be modified, if necessary, prior to sending a message. This
modification must be done from the “Long Form” of each message type.

Task Task Description

Number

1 Select F4 [Messages].

2 Select "Create" tab.

3 Select "Reports" in the "Message Type" field.

Select the message/report for which you want to

4 establish a default address list.

5 Select "Set Default Message Addressing."

6 Select "Addresses" tab.

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Highlight an address in the database to be added as a

7
default addressee.

8a Type in an addressee.

Select "Search" to highlight the address in the

8b
database.

9 Select "Add" to add the addressee as the default

address.

Repeat steps 7, 8, and 9 to add more than one addressee

to the message default address list.

10 Select "OK" to complete default addressing.

Select "Close" to complete setting default message

11 addresses.

(Note: Repeat Steps 3 through 10 to set a default address list for each
message/report type.)

Creating operator defined default address lists: Cont.

TASK: MAP MANAGEMENT

FBCB2 allows the user to view the following maps sheets:

• 1:1,000,000 compressed ARC digitized raster graphics (CADRG) maps

• 1:250,000 CADRG maps

• 1:100,000 CADRG maps

• Imagery map background (five meters with one meter of selected urban
areas)
• Underlying digital terrain elevation data (DTED) Level 1 and Level 2

FBC2-BFT provides the following map/navigation tools:

• “Center” on self

• “Center” on any other platform/unit on the screen

• “Center” on a pre-defined location

• “Scroll” the map view

• “Zoom” in/out

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• “Magnify” a specific area with the map screen

• Quickly create and send routes with way points

• Navigate along routes using “Steer to” capability

• Analyze terrain between points with "Line of sight" tool

• Analyze terrain around a point to determine dead space with "Circular

line of sight" tool

Use the Omni Pan box: FBCB2/BFT loads more map data into random access
memory (RAM) than is needed for the screen view. The Omni Pan box in the lower
right-hand corner of the screen represents the map area that is loaded. The rectangle
inside the box represents the screen view. The additional map area is readily
accessible by touching the screen and dragging the screen box inside the pan box.

(Note: Situational awareness (SA) is visible as dots in the pan box and indicates
both friendly and enemy just off the screen view. These icons do not fade in the
pan box.)

Task: Managing map sheets

Task Task Description

Number

1 Select F1 [Map]. "Map Control" window opens.

2 Select "Background" tab.

Select the desired scale and zoom multiplier desired from the
3 and 4 drop down menus.

Select the desired background type (CADRG, VPF, DTED,

5
Imager).

6 and 7 Adjust the brightness and contrast on the slide bars for best
view.

8 Select "Set Defaults" to save settings.

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Task: Find a unit/platform on the map

Task
Number Task Description

1 Select F1 [Map]. "Map Control" window opens.

2 Select "Center" tab.

3 Select the "Unit/Platform" tab.

4 Highlight the unit/platform you want to center the map on.

5 Select "OK."

Task: Find a location on the map

Task Task Description

Number

1 Select F1 [Map]. "Map Control" window opens.

2 Select "Center" tab.

3 Select "Location" tab.

4 Highlight the location you want to center the map on.

5 Select "OK."

Task: Define a location on the map

(Note: A pre-defined tactical information retrieval system (TIRS) overlay must be

created, disseminated, and displayed on the map first, in order to use this
functionality to quickly locate the TIRS.)

Task
Number Task Description

1 Select F1 [Map]. "Map Control" window opens.

2 Select "Center" tab.

3 Select "Location" tab.

4 Select "Edit Locations" tab.

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5 Type in a new group name in the "Group Name" window.

6 Type in a location name in the "Location Label" window.

7 Select "Fill Loc."

Select "OK." A folder with the group name entered and the
8 label location name entered will appear in the "Map
Control/Center/Location" window.

9 Select "Close" to close the window.

Define a location on the map: Cont.

Task: Line of sight tool

Line of sight (LOS) allows the Soldier to quickly determine the azimuth, distance,
and LOS between two points selected on the map screen and provides a visual view
of the terrain between the two points.

Task Task Description

Number

1 Select F7 [Apps]. "Apps" window opens.

2 Select "Line of Sight."

3 Select "Execute."

4 Select "Two Points."

5 Select "OK." "Line of Sight" window opens.

Enter the distance above ground in the "Dist Above Ground

6
(m)" window for LOS.

Select "Profile (show)." Cross-section profile of terrain between

7
the two points is displayed.

8 Either of the two points can be grabbed and dragged to a new

location to display same information between those two points
automatically. The new range, bearing, and cross-section profile
of terrain between the first point and a new second point is
displayed.

9 Select "Close" to turn off LOS.

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Task: Circular LOS tool

Circular LOS allows the Soldier to quickly determine LOS and dead space 360
degrees around a point selected on the map screen for a determined radius.

(Note: The DTED 1 and 2 maps which enable this function do not take into
account vegetation or man-made structures.)

Task
Number Task Description

1 Select F7 [Apps]. "Apps" window opens.

2 Select "Circular Line of Sight."

3 Select "Execute."

4 Select point on the screen.

5 Select "OK." "Circular Line of Sight" window opens.

6 Enter the distance above ground in the "Dist Above Ground

(m)" window for LOS.

7 Select "Profile (show)." Cross-section profile of terrain between

the two points is displayed.

8 Line of sight is indicated by the unshaded area, dead space is

indicated by the shading.

9 Select "Close" to turn off "Circular Line Of Sight."

TASK: BLUE PICTURE MANAGEMENT

Blue force situational awareness (SA) is possibly the most powerful capability
FBCB2/BFT brings to the war fighter. SA provides knowledge of where you are in
relation to other friendly forces, reported enemy, the map background in the area of
operations (AO), and your maneuver graphics and fire control measures. The Blue
picture in FBCB2/BFT is created:

• Automatically on platforms equipped with FBCB2/BFT

• By manually creating position reports for friendly elements that have

addresses in the database but no FBCB2/BFT system
• By manually creating and sending obstacle overlay to display friendly
elements without an address in the database

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Task: Create and send a Blue position report

Task
Number Task Description

1 Select F4 [Message]. "Message" window opens.

2 Select "Create" tab.

3 Select "Reports" from the "Message Type" menu.

4 Select "Position Report" from the "Reports" menu.

5 Select "Execute."

6 Open "Unit" drop down menu.

Highlight the address of the Blue entity for the "Position

7 Report."

or 8a Type in the addressee of the Blue entity for the "Position

Report."

and 8b Select "Search" to query the database to highlight the address.

Enter the Blue entity location (obtained via FM voice) by using

9 the keyboard or map function.

10 Select "NON EXERCISE TRACK" for Blue entities not

equipped with BFT.

11 Select the appropriate "Originator Environment/Category" for

the Blue entity.

12 Select "Save As."

13 Select a user folder to store Blue entity position reports.

14 Type in a file name for the position report.

15 Select "OK" to save the file to the user folder

16 Select "OK."

17 Select "Send."

18 Select "Close" to complete the action.

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TASK: RED SITUATIONAL AWARENESS

Red force SA is information about the enemy that is reported on the FBCB2/BFT
using a situation, activity, location, and time (SALT)/Spot report and automatically
displays on the map screens of all FBCB2 and provides an audible and banner
warning based on your platform’s proximity to the threat.

Task: SALT report

Task
Number Task Description

1 Select F3 [Combat Msgs]. The "Combat Messages" window

opens. SALT is the default tab.

2 Select equipment type with the drop down menu. Up to three

types of equipment may be selected.

3 Select equipment quantity by pressing [+] and [-].

4 Select "Activity" from the drop down menu.

5 Fill the location field by selecting "Map."

6 Fill location is completed by tapping on screen with stylus.

7a Fill the date-time group (DTG) field by selecting "Now."

or 7b To send a previous SALT report, select "DTG" and enter the

correct "Day/Hour/Minute."

8, 9, 10 Select "Send," "Save," and "Close" to complete SALT report.

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Task: Nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) report

NBC 1 reports are used to report initial observation of a suspected NBC event and
to populate the COP with an appropriate icon at the location of the suspected NBC
event. SA generated from an NBC 1 report does not fade on screens; it must be
deleted.

Task
Number Task Description

1 Select F3 [Combat Msgs]. "Combat Messages" window opens.

2 Select "NBC 1" tab.

Select "NBC Event Type" from the drop down menu (nuclear,
3 biological, chemical).

4 Select "Delivery Means" in the drop down menu.

5 Enter attack time 1 by selecting "Now."

6 Select "Map" to enter the grid coordinates of attack location 1.

Tap on the screen with the stylus at the location of the NBC
7 event. Repeat Steps 5, 6, and 7 to report two strike locations in a
single NBC report.

8, 9, 10 Select "Send," "Save," and "Close" to complete NBC 1 report.

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

Task: Obstacle report

Obstacle reports are used to report information about observed minefields and
obstacles (friendly or enemy) and to populate the COP with appropriate graphics or
icons.* SA from this report is passed to both FBCB2/BFT and FBCB2/EPLRS
equipped platforms. SA generated from an obstacle report does not fade on screens;
it must be deleted.

*(Note: Only minimum steps necessary to create an obstacle report are in this
handbook. Other optional fields may be used.)

Task
Number Task Description of Task

1 Select F4 [Messages].

2, 3, and 4 Select "Create" tab, "Reports," and "Obstacle Reports" from

the "Report" menu.

5 Select "Execute" tab.

6 Select "Obstacle Control Designator" (normally enemy).

7 Select "Obstacle Type" from the drop down menu.

8 Select "Impact on Movement" from the drop down menu.

Select "Obstacle Status" (normally execute) from the drop

9 down menu.

Enter "Obstacle Location" by selecting "Map" in the drop

10 down menu and touching the screen to outline the mined area;
the points will be entered into the message as shown.

Complete observation DTG by selecting "DTG," then

11 "NOW,"and "OK."

12 Select "Send" and "Close" to complete the Spot report.

Task: Bridge report

Bridge reports are used to report information about observed minefields and
obstacles (friendly or enemy) and to populate the COP with appropriate graphics or
icons. SA from this report is passed to both FBCB2/BFT and FBCB2/EPLRS
equipped platforms. SA generated from a bridge report does not fade on screens; it
must be deleted.

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Task
Number Task Description

1 Select F4 [Messages].

Select "Create" tab, "Reports," and "Bridge Report" from

2, 3, and 4
the "Report" menu.

5 Select "Execute."

6 Select "Bridge Type" from the drop down menu.

Enter bridge location by selecting "Map" and entering two

7
points representing the two ends of the breach or lane.

8 Select "Controlling Force" from the drop down menu.

9 and 10 Select "Send" and "Close" to complete Spot report.

TASK: MISSION DATA LOADER (MDL)

The MDL and the FBCB2 Create/ToughBook™ computer are used to disseminate
large messages (usually operations plans, operations orders, and overlays greater
than 576 bytes), map data files, and password files. They can also be used to “back
up” critical messages for reloading to hard drives.

Task: Create a Mission Data Load (MDL)

Task Task Description of Task

Number

1 Select "Start."

2 Select "FBCB2."

3 Select "Mission Data Load."

Select "Message Manager" to select files for the MDL.

4
(Note: All files on the FBCB2 will be made available for the MDL.)

5 Select "New Group." "Name" window will open.

Type in a name for the mission load. The "Mission Load Name"
6 will appear in the "Message Manager" window.

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

Highlight the "Mission Load Name" (located on right side of

"Message Manager" window) and a file (located in one of the
7
folders on the left side of "Message Manager" window) to be
placed in the MDL.

Select "Add Message to MDL." The selected file will appear

8
under the mission load.

9 Repeat Steps 7 and 8 until all files (overlays) have been added.

10 Select "Close."

11 Select "Start."

12 Select "FBCB2."

13 Select "Mission Data Load."

Select "Create MDL" to move the selected files to the MDL. The
14 "Mission Load Name" will appear in the "Available Data Files"
located on the left side of the "Mission Data Create" window.

15 Select "Mission."

16 Type in the mission name, point of contact (POC), and description

of files in the MDL.

17 Select "Store" from the drop down menu, and select "OK."

18 Highlight the "Mission Load Name" in the “Available Data

Files.”

19 Select "Add Data Files."

20 Select "Write Mission to MDL." The "Write Mission" window

opens.

21 Select portable media from the drop down menu.

Select "YES" with MDL connected to the ToughBook™

22 computer. The "Write Mission" window will appear again with
portable media filled in and available space indicated.

Select "OK." The “Write Mission” window will appear again

23
with message “The mission was successfully written."

24 Select "OK."

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Task: Load a mission from an MDL

Task
Number Task Description

1 Select "Start."

2 Select "FBCB2."

3 Select "Mission Data Load."

Select "Install MDL" to install a mission load from the MDL

4 onto FBCB2/BFT. The "Mission Data Extractor/Installer"
window opens.

5 Select "Portable Media" from the drop down menu. The

"Media Check" window opens.

6 Select "YES" with the MDL connected. A listing of the files on

the MDL will appear in the "Missions on MDL" window.

7 Highlight the files(s) to be extracted from the MDL.

Select "Extract." A window will appear indicating that the

8 extraction was successful and the selected mission load will
appear in the "Mission Extracted" window.

9 Select "OK."

10 Select "Install."

A window will appear asking if you want to install the extracted

11 file. Select "YES."

12 A window will appear notifying you that mission installation is

complete. Select "OK."

The mission data load is installed in the user folders with all
13 other saved messages and is accessed using F4 [Messages]
function key.

The overlays in the mission data load are available in the MDL
14 file folder and are posted to the screen in the same manner as
any other overlay in the FBCB2/BFT.

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 92
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE CHECKS AND SERVICES (PMCS)

Item to be Checked or Not Fully

Item Number Interval Procedures Mission
Serviced Capable if:

1 Weekly/Before Display unit (DU) Inspect for cracks or other severe damage
Mission to the Touchscreen. Degraded if
Touchscreen is cracked or has severe
scratches that would prevent Touchscreen
operation. Clean Touchscreen.
Hand-tighten grounding strap thumb
screw.

2 Weekly/Before Processor unit (PU) Hand tighten grounding strap thumb

Mission screw.
CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

3 Weekly/ Before Removable hard disk Ensure RHDDC is present, properly

Mission drive cartridge seated.
(RHDDC)

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

 4 Weekly/ Before PU batteries Check the battery tray/battery box inside
Mission the PU for charge. For PU (NSN
7021-01-475-0217/NSN 7021-01-487- 0579
/NSN 7021-01- 496-2126): Check front of
battery tray to ensure that the charge
indicator displays at least three LED bars.
For PU (NSN 7021- 01-474-3793/NSN
7021-01-487-0578/ NSN 7021-01-496-
4263): Press button twice on front of
battery box to display diagnostic codes.
Code “05” indicates battery/no charge.
Degraded if battery charge indicators show
that battery(s) have low charge/no charge.
With platform power up, turn circuit
breaker (CB) toggle switch to “ON”
position for two hours to recharge backup
batteries. Degraded if backup battery(s)
fail to charge.

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

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RTO II HANDBOOK
94
5 Weekly/Before RHDDC access door. Inspect RHDDC access door: Degraded if
Mission not secured properly, the seal will leak.

6 Weekly/Before Keyboard unit (KU) Inspect keyboard membrane seal (broken

Mission or torn membrane could allow moisture to
enter and damage KU). Inspect for
inoperable, missing/sticking keys.
Degraded if KU alpha, numeric. or enter
keys do not function.
CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

7 Weekly/Before Cable/ Mounting Tighten RAM-ball mount assembly, if RAM-Ball

Mission Hardware equipped. Inspect cables for evidence of cannot be
damage (frayed, broken, or bare wires). tightened to
Inspect all cable connections. (Properly prevent DU
mated, only the blue band is showing). movement.
Inspect
mounting
bolts/hardware
(Tighten and
secure)
 8 Weekly FBCB2 system Initialize system and verify the operational Local com
status of the FBCB2 system as follows: status shows a
“R” (red)
• Verify correct unit/role. indicator.

• Verify green LEDs are illuminated Unable to see

for PWR and CPU on the DU another
controls and indicators panel. platform’s icon
and unable to
• Verify local communications (com) send/receive
status is “G” green. Degraded if messages.
local com status indicator is “A”
amber. Status is unknown if
indicator is “W” (white).

Enter net and verify all is working.

(Note: For SINCGARS equipped platforms,

check to ensure you can see icons of
platforms within your platoon. For EPLRS
equipped platform, ensure that you can see

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

platform icon outside your local net ( platoon
1 to platoon 2).

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RTO II HANDBOOK
 96
9 After Mission FBCB2 system Verify AN/UYK-128 (V) computer and DU, PU, KU,
peripheral equipment are present, and/or
secured, and properly stowed to avoid peripheral
damage. equipment are
missing or
damaged and
thereby prevent
proper system
operation.

10 After Mission AN/UYK 128(V) Tighten RAM-ball mount assembly, if RAM-ball cannot
computer equipped. be tightened to
prevent DU
• Inspect cables for evidence of movement.
frayed, broken, or bare wires.
Cables are
missing or
CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

• Inspect all cable connectors

(properly mated, only the blue damaged.
band is showing).

• Inspect mounting bolts for

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

tightness, and verify mounting
hardware is secure.
 11 After Mission Processor Unit Securely fasten the RHDDC RHDDC access
access door. All four (or six) door is not
captive fasteners must be properly closed
evenly and securely tightened. due to
obstructions,
bad seal, and
broken
/missing/ loose
captive fastener.

12 After Mission PU, DU, and KU Safeguard with 5200 series

lock(s)/cables to secure PU,
DU, and KU as applicable to
your platform.

FBCB2

13 Weekly/Before Mission Peripheral equipment Ensure appropriate PLGR,

(PLGR, SINCGARS, role-specific peripheral SINCGARS,
RPLRS, MILSATCOM, equipment is present and RPLRS,
LRAS3, RADIAC, operational. MILSATCOM,
ACADA) LRAS3,

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

RADIAC,
ACADA (if
required per
role) are
missing or not
functioning.

97
RTO II HANDBOOK UPDATE
 98
BFT

14 After Mission MT-2011 transceiver Inspect for cracks and

evidence of damage. Inspect
cable connectors. Verify
transceiver is securely
mounted to bracket.
CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

 RTO II HANDBOOK

APPENDIX A
JULIAN DATE CALENDAR

Julian Date Calendar (Regular Year)

Day/ JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Mo

1 01 32 60 91 21 52 82 13 44 74 05 35
2 02 33 62 92 22 53 83 14 45 75 06 36
3 03 34 63 93 23 54 84 15 46 76 07 37
4 04 35 63 94 24 55 85 16 47 77 08 38
5 05 36 64 95 25 56 86 17 48 78 09 39
6 06 37 65 96 26 57 87 18 49 79 10 40
7 07 38 66 97 27 58 88 19 50 80 11 41
8 08 39 67 98 28 59 89 20 51 81 12 42
9 09 40 68 99 29 60 90 21 52 82 13 43
10 10 41 69 00 30 62 91 22 53 83 14 44
11 11 42 70 01 31 63 92 23 54 84 15 45
12 12 43 71 02 32 63 93 24 55 85 16 46
13 13 44 72 03 33 64 94 25 56 86 17 47
14 14 45 73 04 34 65 95 26 57 87 18 48
15 15 46 74 05 35 66 96 27 58 88 19 49
16 16 47 75 06 36 67 97 28 59 89 20 50
17 17 48 76 07 37 68 98 29 60 90 21 51
18 18 49 77 08 38 69 99 30 62 91 22 52
19 19 50 78 09 39 70 00 31 63 92 23 53
20 20 51 79 10 40 71 01 32 63 93 24 54
21 21 52 80 11 41 72 02 33 64 94 25 55
22 22 53 81 12 42 73 03 34 65 95 26 56
23 23 54 82 13 43 74 04 35 66 96 27 57
24 24 55 83 14 44 75 05 36 67 97 28 58
25 25 56 84 15 45 76 06 37 68 98 29 59
26 26 57 85 16 46 77 07 38 69 99 30 60
27 27 58 86 17 47 78 08 39 70 00 31 62
28 28 59 87 18 48 79 09 40 71 01 32 63
29 29 88 19 49 80 10 41 72 02 33 63
30 30 89 20 50 81 11 42 73 03 34 64
31 31 90 51 12 43 04 65

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Julian Date (Leap Year)

Day/ JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Mo

1 01 32 61 92 22 53 83 14 45 75 06 36
2 02 33 62 93 23 54 84 15 46 76 07 37
3 03 34 63 94 24 55 85 16 47 77 08 38
4 04 35 64 95 25 56 86 17 48 78 09 39
5 05 36 65 96 26 57 87 18 49 79 10 40
6 06 37 66 97 27 58 88 19 50 80 11 41
7 07 38 67 98 28 59 89 20 51 81 12 42
8 08 39 68 99 29 60 90 21 52 82 13 43
9 09 40 69 00 30 61 91 22 53 83 14 44
10 10 41 70 01 31 62 92 23 54 84 15 45
11 11 42 71 02 32 63 93 24 55 85 16 46
12 12 43 72 03 33 64 94 25 56 86 17 47
13 13 44 73 04 34 65 95 26 57 87 18 48
14 14 45 74 05 35 66 96 27 58 88 19 49
15 15 46 75 06 36 67 97 28 59 89 20 50
16 16 47 76 07 37 68 98 29 60 90 21 51
17 17 48 77 08 38 69 99 30 61 91 22 52
18 18 49 78 09 39 70 00 31 62 92 23 53
19 19 50 79 10 40 71 01 32 63 93 24 54
20 20 51 80 11 41 72 02 33 64 94 25 55
21 21 52 81 12 42 73 03 34 65 95 26 56
22 22 53 82 13 43 74 04 35 66 96 27 57
23 23 54 83 14 44 75 05 36 67 97 28 58
24 24 55 84 15 45 76 06 37 68 98 29 59
25 25 56 85 16 46 77 07 38 69 99 30 60
26 26 57 86 17 47 78 08 39 70 00 31 61
27 27 58 87 18 48 79 09 40 71 01 32 62
28 28 59 88 19 49 80 10 41 72 02 33 63
29 29 60 89 20 50 81 11 42 73 03 34 64
30 30 90 21 51 82 12 43 74 04 35 65
31 31 91 52 13 44 05 66

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APPENDIX B
WORLD TIME CHART (TIME CONVERSION TABLE)

GMT Zone Cities or Areas

GMT Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), Dakar, Dublin, London, Reykjavik

GMT-1 Cape Verde GMT+1 Algiers, Berlin, Danderyd, Madrid,

Milano, Paris, Rome, Vienna

GMT-2 Mid-Atlantic GMT+2 Cairo, Damascus, Holargos, Israel

GMT-3 Brazilia, Buenos Aires GMT+3 Kuwait, Moscow, Qatar, Riyadh

GMT-4 Antigua, Atlantica, Grenada GMT+4 Abu Dhabi, Muscat

GMT-5 Eastern United States (EST), Lima, GMT+5 Islamabad, Karachi

Montreal

GMT-6 Belize, Central United States (CST), GMT+6 Almaty, Dhaka

Houston, Mexico City

GMT-7 Mountain United States (MST) GMT+7 Bangkok, Jakarta

GMT-8 Pacific United States (PST), GMT+8 Beijing, Hong Kong, Singapore,
Vancouver Manila

GMT-9 Alaska GMT+9 Osaka, Tokyo

GMT-10 Hawaii GMT+1- Brisbane, Guam, Melbourne, Sydney

GMT-11 Samoa GMT+11 Magadan, Solomon Islands

GMT-12 Eniwetok GMT+12 Auckland, Fiji, Wellington

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World Time Chart

(Time Conversion Table)
-12 -11 -10 -9 -8 -7 -6 -5 -4 -3 -2 -1 GMT +1 +2 +3 +4 +5 +6 +7 +8 +9 +10 +11 +12
NN 1p 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN
1p 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 6
9 10 11 MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
MN 1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN
1a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 NN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 MN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Legend
Yesterday PM Today AM Today PM Tomorrow AM MN = Midnight NN = Noon

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APPENDIX C
RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) SPECTRUM

The Army uses several types of single-channel radios, that operate in different
frequencies across the RF spectrum as shown.

RF Spectrum Chart
.1MHz .3MHz 1MHz 3MHz 10MHz 30MHz 100MHz 300MHz 1GHz 3GHz

Tactical
FM
Radio

Tactical HF
(AM) Radio

AM
Broadcast

Tactical
Satellite
surface wave Radio

line-of-sight radio
sky wave
tropospheric scatter

LF MF HF VHF UHF

Figure 1

The Army uses the following single-channel radios:

Frequency modulation (FM) radio. The FM radio has a range of approximately

35 to 40 kilometers, which covers a brigade/battalion maneuver area. FM radio
transmissions are normally line-of-sight (LOS) and large terrain features can block
transmission. FM radios can transmit data.

High frequency (HF) radio. HF radio’s longer range overcomes terrain limitations
for users with greater dispersion. Using the improved high frequency radio (IHFR)
provides a versatile capability for short- and long-range communications. HF is the
only tactical communications asset that may achieve long-range communications
independent of terrestrial or satellite relays. HF communications may be either
voice or secure data. HF is also useful where LOS cannot be achieved. The
capabilities of the single-channel radio make it flexible, securable, mobile, and
reliable. However, the radio is the most detectable means of electronic
communications and is subject to intentional and unintentional electronic

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

interference. Good electronic protection and remoting techniques are highly

recommended.

Tactical satellite (TACSAT) radio. The use of satellite communications gives the
commander the greatest range. It is useful when users are separated by long
distances, such as rapid deployment forces and special operations units. The
single-channel TACSAT radio transmits in the ultra high frequency (UHF)/very
high frequency (VHF) range that requires the antenna to have LOS with the
satellite. Satellite access time must be requested in advance. This radio has a
narrow and wide bandwidth and can transmit data. These radios are used in
functional networks such as command, administrative, logistical, fire support, and
intelligence nets.

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APPENDIX D
GLOSSARY

ACADA automatic chemical agent detector

ANCD automated net control device

AO area of operations

ASIP Advanced Systems Improvement Program

BFT Blue Force Tracker

CADRG compressed ARC digitized raster graphics

CCI controlled cryptographic item

CIK communication security encryption key

CODEWORD one-word notice that refers to other information

COMMEX communications exercise

COMSEC communications security

COP common operational picture

CT cipher text

CUE to key the radio net

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

DTED digital terrain elevation data

DU display unit

EPLARS Enhanced Position Location and Reporting System

ERF electronic remote fill

FBCB2 Force XXI battle command brigade and below

FIPR flash, immediate, priority, routine

FM frequency modulation

GMT Greenwich Mean Time (ZULU)

GPS Global Positioning System

ICOM integrated communications security

ID identification

JD Julian date

KU keyboard unit

LOS line of sight

LRAS3 Long Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System

MANPACK man portable radio set

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 RTO II HANDBOOK UPDATE

MDL mission data load

NCS net control station

NET net synchronization time, also refers to a network

NET ID network identification

OPORD operations order

OTAR over-the-air rekey

PLGR Precision Lightweight Global Positioning System (GPS)

Receiver

PMCS preventive maintenance checks and services

Polling radio transmitting priority

Prowords proper words for radio transmission (not slang)

PT plain text

RADIAC radiation detection, indication, and computation

RAM random access memory

RCU remote control unit

RETRANS re-transmisson of a radio broadcast

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

RF radio frequency

RHDDC removable hard disk drive cartridge

RT receiver-transmitter

SA situational awareness

SALT size, activity, location, time

SINCGARS Single-Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System

SOI signal operating instructions

SOP standing operating procedures

TEK transmission encryption key

TIRS Tactical Information Retrieval System

VPF vector product information

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 RTO II HANDBOOK UPDATE

CONCLUSION

Although this handbook’s primary audience is the radiotelephone operator (RTO),

it must be stressed and clearly understood that a communications problem is
everyone’s concern until it is solved! As highly qualified representatives of the
Signal Corps, signal Soldiers are all trainers. When a user has a communications
problem, we try to educate them so they become self-reliant. If we fail to train
properly, we must not only do our work, but we must also do someone else’s work.
We must train as if we are going to war. This means we cannot accept the training
standard that communications assets go unescorted into threat areas days in
advance just to ensure communications are ready. Once in a tactical situation,
specific channels for accurate and timely intelligence, battle tracking, and
environmental and situational awareness must be developed. This information must
be disseminated to the lowest levels possible. All teams must get this information
promptly. The information ensures the teams understand and can support the
maneuver schemes and are synchronized with other battlefield functional areas
(BFAs) across the battlefield. Awareness of the enemy or threat enables the Soldier
to feel secure in their surroundings. As a RTO, you are tasked with great
responsibility. Plan for success and win the information war.

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NOTES

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

NOTES

112 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

 RTO II HANDBOOK UPDATE

NOTES

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CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

NOTES

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 RTO II HANDBOOK UPDATE

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CALL Web site is restricted to Department of Defense personnel. The URL is
[Link]

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CALL by using the Web site "Request for Information" or "Comment" link. We also
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that have been effective for you or your unit. You may send them to us in draft form or
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the Army, and CALL would like to include your ideas. Your name will appear in the
byline.
Contact us by:
PHONE: DSN 552-3035/2255; Commercial (913) 684-3035/2255
FAX: Commercial (913) 684-9564
MESSAGE: CDRUSACAC FT LEAVENWORTH, KS // ATZL-CTL//
MAIL: Center for Army Lessons Learned
ATTN: ATZL-CTL
10 Meade Ave, Building 50
Fort Leavenworth, KS 66027-1350
Additionally, we have developed a repository, the CALL Archives, that contain a
collection of operational records (OPORDS and FRAGOS) from recent and past military
operations. Much of the information in the CALL Archives is password-protected. You
may obtain your own password by accessing our Web site and visiting the CALL Archives
page. Click on "Restricted Access" and "CALL Archives Access Request." After you have
filled in the information and submitted the request form, we will mail you a password. You
may also request a password via STU III telephone or a SIPRNET e-mail account.

CALL's products are produced at Fort Leavenworth, KS, and are not distributed through
publication channels. Due to limited resources, CALL selectively provides its products for
distribution to units, organizations, agencies, and individuals and relies on them to
disseminate initial distribution of each publication to their subordinates. Contact your
appropriate higher element if your unit or office is not receiving initial distribution of
CALL publications.

Installation distribution centers TRADOC schools

Corps, divisions, and brigades ROTC headquarters
Special forces groups and battalions Combat training centers
Ranger battalions Regional support commands
Staff adjutant generals

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY 115

CENTER FOR ARMY LESSONS LEARNED

CALL PRODUCTS "ON-LINE"

Access information from CALL via the World Wide Web (www). CALL also offers
Web-based access to the CALL Archives. The CALL Home Page address is

[Link]

CALL produces the following publications:

BCTP Bulletins, CTC Bulletins, Newsletters, and Trends Products: These products are
periodic publications that provide current lessons learned/TTP and information from the
training centers.

Special Editions: Special Editions are newsletters related to a specific operation or

exercise. Special Editions are normally available prior to a deployment and targeted for
only those units deploying to a particular theater or preparing to deploy to the theater.

News From the Front: This product contains information and lessons on exercises,
real-world events, and subjects that inform and educate Soldiers and leaders. It provides an
opportunity for units and Soldiers to learn from each other by sharing information and
lessons. News From the Front can be accessed from the CALL Web site.

Training Techniques: Accessed from the CALL products page, this on-line publication
focuses on articles that primarily provide tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) at the
brigade and below level of warfare.

Handbooks: Handbooks are "how to" manuals on specific subjects such as rehearsals,
inactivation, and convoy operations.

Initial Impressions Reports: Initial impression reports are developed during and
immediately after a real-world operation and disseminated in the shortest time possible for
the follow-on units to use in educating personnel and supporting training prior to
deployment to a theater. Products that focus on training activities may also be provided to
support the follow-on unit.

To make requests for information or publications or to send in your own observations,

TTP, and articles, please use the CALL Request For Information (RFI) system at
[Link] There is also a link to the CALL RFI on each of
our major Web pages, or you may send email directly to:

callrfi@[Link]

Support CALL in the exchange of information by telling us about your successes so they
may be shared and become Army successes.

116 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY