Through written evaluation the applicant will identify:
The difference between a frequency and a channel

On the left are a band of frequencies coming out of the blue.  Within that band is the frequency assigned to SAR for use in Oregon. 
155.805Mhz

On the right are channels on any given radio.

"What a minute," you say, "Them ain't channels, thems doors."

Well you are right and I know the radio purists will be calling before long.  But stick with me.  A channel is like a door that only a certain frequency will open.

Now any channel/door can be programmed to open for any given frequency.  But we know  that any given frequency will, of course, remain the same.  It is a universal constant.  That's true all over the world and for all I know all over the Universe.

But the channels (alright...doors) could be programmed to open to just about anything.  Yep!  You got it.  You've got to be careful working with any radio that isn't familiar to you.   Channel 1 on one radio could be set up for the SAR frequency.  On another radio, Channel 1 could be set up on the Coast Guard frequency while say... Channel 4 is set up for the SAR frequency. Things could get embarrassing to say the least.

So, Bottom Line!   Always make sure you know what frequencies are assigned to what doors (sorry, couldn't help myself), okay, channels on any radio you are using.

I hope I have made what can be a tough subject a little easier to grasp.  Good Luck. Happy radioing.

And if any of those pesky radio purists come nosing around looking for me, tell them to dial "I-800- I'm Smart"  Mensa is taking pesky calls this month.

By Joe Doman N8SAR
Coos County Search and Rescue