911 Operator Test Radio Communication Protocols 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the purpose of a 'patch' in radio communications?
- Repairing a damaged radio antenna
- Connecting two or more radio channels so users on each can communicate (Correct answer)
- Encrypting a channel for secure transmission
- Reducing background noise on a channel
Correct answer: Connecting two or more radio channels so users on each can communicate
A patch links two different radio channels or systems together, allowing personnel on separate channels or agencies to communicate with each other.
Question 2: Which of the following best describes 'simplex' radio operation?
- Transmission and reception occur on two different frequencies simultaneously
- Transmission and reception occur on the same frequency but not simultaneously (Correct answer)
- Multiple users share an automated frequency-switching system
- A single repeater serves an entire region
Correct answer: Transmission and reception occur on the same frequency but not simultaneously
Simplex operation uses a single frequency for both transmission and reception, meaning only one party can talk at a time.
Question 3: When a dispatcher says 'go ahead' after a unit calls in, what is the unit expected to do?
- Proceed to the next call location
- Begin transmitting its full message or request (Correct answer)
- Wait for further instructions
- Confirm it is on the correct channel
Correct answer: Begin transmitting its full message or request
'Go ahead' is a signal from the receiving station that it is ready to receive the calling unit's full transmission.
Question 4: What is the correct way to correct an error made during a radio transmission?
- Ignore it and continue
- Say 'correction' and then state the correct information (Correct answer)
- End the transmission and start over
- Use the word 'negative' to cancel the error
Correct answer: Say 'correction' and then state the correct information
The word 'correction' signals to the listener that the previous statement was an error and the information following is accurate.
Question 5: What is the significance of a 'dead spot' in radio coverage?
- A radio channel with no active talkgroups assigned
- A geographic area where radio signals are weak or unable to be received (Correct answer)
- A frequency reserved for emergency use only
- A time of day when all non-emergency traffic is prohibited
Correct answer: A geographic area where radio signals are weak or unable to be received
Dead spots are geographic areas where terrain, buildings, or distance prevent adequate radio signal reception, creating communication gaps.
Question 6: A unit transmits 'Show me out at [address], Code 6.' What does Code 6 typically mean in many U.S. jurisdictions?
- Officer requesting backup immediately
- Officer is out of service for lunch
- Officer is on scene investigating, do not disturb unless urgent (Correct answer)
- Officer is transporting a subject
Correct answer: Officer is on scene investigating, do not disturb unless urgent
Code 6 commonly means the officer is out of the vehicle and investigating on scene, requesting minimal radio interruption unless it is urgent.
Question 7: What does it mean if a dispatcher broadcasts 'all units, stand by for priority traffic'?
- All units should immediately respond to dispatch
- Units should clear the channel and wait for an important transmission (Correct answer)
- Units should switch to the backup channel
- Non-emergency calls are suspended for the shift
Correct answer: Units should clear the channel and wait for an important transmission
This announcement clears the channel of routine traffic so the important or emergency message can be broadcast without interference.
911 Operator Test Radio Communication Protocols 3
What is the purpose of a 'patch' in radio communications?