FCC Question Pool Review

Technician Class (Element 2) • 2022-2026

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Question T2C10

From subelement T2 - T2C

T2C10
Answer: D

What information is contained in the preamble of a formal traffic message?

AThe email address of the originating station
BThe address of the intended recipient
CThe telephone number of the addressee
DInformation needed to track the message

Why is this correct?

The preamble contains tracking information essential for message handling, including message number, precedence (priority), origin date/time, originating station's call sign, and the check (word count). Options A, B, and C describe delivery details found in other parts of a radiogram - email addresses aren't part of radiograms, recipient addresses go in the address section, and phone numbers aren't standard radiogram components. The preamble's purpose is administrative tracking, not delivery information.

Memory tip

Remember: preamble = preliminary tracking data, not delivery details. Think of it like a shipping label's tracking number versus the destination address - different purposes, different sections. The 'pre' in preamble indicates it comes before the actual message content.

Learn more

In formal traffic handling through systems like the National Traffic System, the preamble serves as the message's administrative header, enabling accurate relay through multiple stations. This standardized format ensures messages maintain their integrity as they pass from operator to operator during emergency communications or routine traffic nets. Understanding radiogram structure helps operators participate effectively in organized amateur radio emergency communications networks.

Think about it

Why do you think formal traffic messages need standardized tracking information separate from the actual message content and delivery details?