ADDENDUM TO SIGNAL OFFICE INSTRUCTIONS INTERNAL CIRCULATION STATION 53A.
SERVICE MESSAGES.
Particulars of all Service messages received on the teleprinters from HQ SO will be entered immediately on receipt in the appropriate columns to the Teleprinter Service Register (Form Circ/1). Both copies will then be passes without delay to the Duty Signalmaster who will:
1. Place the top copies in numerical order in the Signalmaster's Service "IN" file.
2. Distribute the carbon copies to the Supervisor of the Department concerned suitably endorsed for action.
Departmental Supervisor will sign and return the carbon copies to the Duty Signalmaster, and after checking that suitable action has been taken will place them in numerical order in the tray marked "CARBON COPIES" in the Signalmaster's office.
These carbon copies will be collected hourly by Control and passed on to the Chief Signalmaster for information.
All service messages addresses to O.C. Station concerning operations will be dealt with by the Duty Signalmaster. The O.C. Station will be advised by telephone what action has to be taken and carbon copies passed to the Chief Signalmaster.
All service messages originated at this Station will be scrutinised and initialled by the Duty Signal master. They will then be passed to the Teleprinters where all particulars will be entered in the appropriate columns of the Teleprinter Register (Form Circ/2) After transmission, both teleprinted copies together with the manuscript will be returned to the Duty Signalmaster who will:
Check the accuracy of the transmission.
Place the top, copies in numerical order in the Duty Signalmaster's "OUT" File.
Place the carbon copies together with manuscripts in numerical order in the tray marked "CARBON COPIES SVC" in the Signalmaster's office.
Carbon copies of Service messages relating to QRX's before being placed in the tray marked "SVC" will be first passed to Supt, Registry and Codes returned to the Duty Signalmaster suitable endorsed to the effect that the contents have been noted and action taken.
At midnight, all top copies of Service messages (i.e. SVC and HQS) will be passed to the Registry where they will be placed in numerical order in their appropriate files. These files will be submitted to the O.C. Station for security by 09:00 hours daily.
Carbon copies of Service messages relating to more than one …. no more text available.
At least thirty minutes before Skeds are due, the Register Clerk will have prepared the relevant logs, Signal Register, Signals Plans together with the messages, tapes and call-sign tapes, and place them in the hatchway (in the tray provided for this purpose) leading form the Registry to the Signal Office.
The Duty Signalmaster will be responsible for checking the messages on hand with the individual Signal Register for each Plan. He will then hand them to the Superintendent, together with any additional Signalmater's Instructions regarding any particular SKED.
The Superintendent will check for "Special Instructions" requests for repetitions, etc concerning any particular Plan, and bring them to the notice of the operators nominated to work each Sked.
The Operators concerned will:
Collect their respective Signal Plans, Logs, messages and relevant tapes ten minutes before Sked times.
Arrange the messages in correct order of transmission in accordance with the "A" serial number shown in the top left corner of the messages, unless and message bears the W/T QSP prefix when it will take priority over all other messages.
Check the call band with the call-sign card or Signal Plan to ensure accuracy, also check the tape for mutilations.
Make sure that the "Special Instructions" if any, are fully understood.
On completion of a particular Sked, the operator concerned will return logs, Signal Plans, Signal Registers, OUT messages and tapes to the Superintendent.
The Superintendent will:
Check logs and messages for particulars of the traffic cleared or sent Blind.
Extract information required for traffic reports.
Initial logs and return all documents to registry in the tray marked "IN LOGS".
The Registry Clerk will:
Enter particulars of all messages cleared in the main and individual signal Registers.
Place all messages cleared in the Dead Traffic File.
Return logs, Signal Plans, and live messages to the filing cabinet.
Return all cleared message tapes.
Destroy all cleared message tapes.
IN MESSAGES.
All messages received on the W/T circuits will be passed immediately to the Superintendent for security. he will then pass them to the Register Clerk.
The Register Clerk will:
Number each message with a serial number next in order of sequence in the main Register.
Enter all particulars in the main "IN" Register and the individual signals Register (Form Circ/5).
Place them in the hatchway (in the tray provided marked "CODES" leading from the Registry to the Codes Room.
The Supervisor Codes will:
Collect the messages from the tray.
Enter all particulars in the appropriate columns of the Codes Register for "IN" messages (Form Circ/8).
Ensure that the messages are de-coded immediately.
When the messages have been de-coded, complete the remaining columns in the Codes Register for "IN" messages.
Place the originals and the de-coded messages in the tray marked "TELEPRINTERS".
Indecipherable messages will be copied on the GREEN message form and laced in the tray marked "TELEPRINTERS" for onward transmission.
After the necessary particulars have been extracted by Codes, Fighting French messages will be placed in the tray marked "TELEPRINTERS" for onward transmission.
The Register clerk will:
Complete the column "Date/Filed" in the individual Signal Register (Form Circ/5) and file the W/T copy.
Enter the time of receipt from Codes in the Main Register and pass the manuscript copy to the Teleprinters.
Particulars of all messages passed to the Teleprinters for transmission to HQ Signal Office will be entered in the appropriate columns of the Teleprinter Register (Form Circ/4).
The messages will be teleprinted in numerical order as far as possible and an acknowledgement obtained.
After transmission, messages will be checked and when found correct, HQ Signal Office instructed to release.
Teleprinted top copies and the manuscripts will be returned to the Registry. The time of receipt from the teleprinters entered in the main Register and the individual Signal Register completed.
The top copies and the manuscripts will then be passed to Codes for filling.
CIRCULATION.
M/C B/C Messages.
Particulars of all M/C B/C messages received on the teleprinters from HQ Signal Office will be entered immediately on receipt in the appropriate column of the Teleprinter Register B/C's. The top copy will be passed to the Registrar without delay. The carbon copy will be placed in the Signalmaster's tray.
On receipt of a M/C B/C message from the teleprinters the Registrar will enter the message:
On the main B/c register.
on the Individual Plan Register BC/10.
The message will then be passed to the Codes Supervisor.
The Codes Supervisor will enter up the relevant particulars on the Codes B/C Register BC/2 and pass the message to the Marker Channel Broadcast Codes Supervisor, who will enter on her Check Sheet BC/11 against the Originators Number, the Serial number of the message. The message will than be given to a coder for en-coding.
The encoded message will then be passed to the Codes Supervisor who will complete the "Form Codes" column on the BC/2.
The Codes Supervisor will then pass the encoded message to the Registrar who will complete the appropriate columns in the B/C Main Register.
The message will then be passed to the Perforator Operator who will perforate it and after checking will store the tape in the Perforator Room under the appropriate plan name.
The Perforator will hand back the message form to the Registrar who will complete the "Form Perforator" column in the B/C Main register and will place the message in the appropriate Marker Channel Plan Folder to await transmission.
Further messages for this B/C Plan will follow the same procedure.
In the absence of live traffic, Security Traffic will be provided to make up a total of three messages per broadcast. This Security Traffic will be obtained from the M/C B/C Codes Supervisor.
Six hours before any individual broadcast is due to commence, the Duty Signalmaster will make his final allocation from the M/C B/C Plan Register BC/10 and enter on form BC/9 the three messages which are allocated, adding the serial numbers of messages on hand in the appropriate column. The B/C10 will then be returned to the Registrar. From the BC/9 the Signalmaster will abstract the serial numbers allocated to this broadcast and enter on Form BC/8 the plan name, times of broadcast, date, marker channel callsigns and serial numbers in the places provided.
The Signalmaster will allot messages, in the absence of any priority, in order of originator's numbers. There will be on degree of Priority on Broadcast messages, to be used only in emergency and messages bearing this priority will take precedence on the broadcast over all other non-priority traffic received on the Station. More than one priority message will be dealt with in originator's number order.
The Signalmaster will then pass the B/C to the M/C B/C Codes supervisor who will add the Traffic Indicator Signals and W/T numbers and allot any security traffic necessary. the BC/8 is then passed to the Registrar together with all traffic shown on the allocation which has not already been passed through that channel.
The Registrar will pin the BC/8 to the encoded message and pass to the Signalmaster for final checking.
The Signalmaster will ensure that the Traffic Indicator Signals, Marker Channel Callsigns and W/T Numbers are correct. He will sign and time the BC/9 and add the W/T Numbers and Groups to his BC/9.
The Registrar will have the BC/8 and message forms to the Perforator who will complete the final B/C tape in accordance with Marker Channel B/C procedure.
When checked, this tape will be wound on a reel and passed, together with the BC/8 and message, to the Registrar to await transmission.
Thirty minutes before a broadcast is due, the Registrar will place the plan folder and perforated messages on the Signal office hatchway. The Duty Briefing N.C.O. will collect the plan folder and perforated messages and place them with the correct log book. He will check to ensure that all details are correct and ready to hand over to the operator.
Fifteen minutes before the broadcast is due to commence, he will detail an operator for the sked and will explain in detail all the sked particulars.
The Duty Operator will, on receiving the log, messages and tape, ensure that she is fully conversant with the details of the sked. The operator will proceed to the transmitting position at least ten minutes before the B/C is due to commence and will ensure that the equipment is in order and ready for operating.
On completion of the broadcast, the Duty Operator will return the log, messages and tape to the Duty Briefing N.C.O. who will check all details and then report to the Duty Signalmaster that the broadcast has been transmitted correctly.
The Duty Briefing N.C.O. will return the plan folder and perforated messages to the Registrar who will enter the time of broadcast on the BC/10 and replace the plan folder and perforated messages in the appropriate pigeon holes.
The procedure laid down in the above para's will be adopted for the second broadcast.
Wheatstone system.
The Wheatstone system was an automated telegraph system that replaced a human operator with machines capable of sending and recording Morse code at a consistent fast rate. The system included a perforator, which prepared punched paper tape called a Wheatstone slip, a transmitter that read the tape and converted the symbols into dots and dashes encoded as mark and space electric currents on the telegraph line, and a receiver at the other end of the telegraph line that printed the Morse symbols. The system was invented by Charles Wheatstone. Enhancements could be made so that it was a duplex system, able to send and receive on the same line simultaneously.
The Wheatstone slip was a paper tape that contained holes in a pattern to control the mark and space signals on the telegraph line. The paper tape was from 0.46 to 0.48 inches in width, (but the standard width is from 0.472 to 0.475 inches) and a standard thickness of 0.004 to 0.0045 inches. Olive oil coating lubricated the punch process. There were three rows of holes. The middle row forms a rack so that a star wheel can move the paper forward. Every used position on the tape has a middle hole punched. The top hole indicates when to turn on the mark signal on the line, and the bottom hole says to turn off the mark signal. Each vertical column represents a time interval in the Morse code, including the spacing between the holes. The holes are spaced 0.1 inches apart. A column of three holes turns on the mark at the beginning of the interval, and turns it off at the end making a dot. If there is a top hole without a bottom, and then the next column has a bottom without a top hole, mark is on for three intervals, and a dash is represented. If there is only a centre hole, then nothing changes, and this would normally be used to put in space between letters and words.
The Wheatstone perforator was a development of Alexander Bain's 1848 manually operated hole punch machine for his "fast telegraph". It produced Wheatstone slips using three buttons (or keys) labelled "A", "A1" and "A2". "A" punched the pattern for dot, "A1" punched the pattern for space, and "A2" punched the dash pattern in two columns. The keys were so difficult to press that fist-held rubber-tipped mallets were used to depress them and operate the punches. Using this, invalid combinations of holes could not be produced. The blank paper tape was fed in from the right over a roller and came out the left side. It was oriented in a vertical plane. The paper punches were labelled with numbers: 1 for the top hole of the dot, 2 for the sprocket hole for dot, and 3 for the bottom hole for dot. When a dash was punched, extra hole punches to the right punched a centre hole with number 4 and a bottom hole with number 5. The perforator was introduced in 1867. It enabled transmission speeds on a telegraph line to increase to 70 words per minute. The very first message ever punched onto a tape was "SOS EIOS". The manual perforator was subsequently replaced by keyboard perforators like the Gell keyboard perforator or Kleinschmidt keyboard perforator.
Each of the keys had a spring to restore its position after pressing. Each key moved a corresponding lever underneath the instrument. The other end of the levers protruded up into the back of the mechanism. Each punch rod also had a spring to put it back in place after punching a hole. For space and dot keying (A or A1) the star wheel was only allowed to turn one position by a pawl, and the paper tape only moved forward one position. However, when key A2 was hit, the corresponding lever B2 raised a bar (h) which allowed another lever attached to the pawl to move further back when the star wheel rotated, and the wheel could turn two positions, for a dash. The distance the paper tape moved for each position was determined by how far lever k moved, and its range of movement had to be set by adjusting screws i and t. A flat spring g stored energy from the punch to move the paper. The force of the spring was determined by adjusting screws n and n'. A guide roller (r) with a groove was pressed by an adjustable spring to press the pawl against the star wheel. The star wheel was on a frame with a piece sticking out the left hand side as a lever. When the operator wanted to insert paper tape, this lever was pulled, and the star wheel retracted from the paper.
The Wheatstone transmitter read a paper tape (Wheatstone slip) and converted the dot pattern into mark and space symbols on the telegraph line. It worked by two rods alternately rising up to sample the holes in the tape. First of all the top hole was probed, and if the rod could go through, it moved a compound lever that connected the mark signal to the line. With no hole the lever remained unmoved. Next the top hole rod dropped and the bottom hole rod checked whether there was a bottom hole in the tape. If there was, the compound lever was moved back to connect the space signal on the line. If there was no hole, the compound lever was left alone as it was. An extra switch enabled the transmitter to be bypassed so that a Morse key could be used instead.
The Wheatstone receiver converted the signal on the telegraph line to an inked pattern on a paper strip. An electromagnet electrically connected to the telegraph line moved an inking wheel to press against the paper. A clockwork mechanism advanced the paper tape, and turned the inking wheel, and an ink supply wheel. The paper advance speed could be adjusted between 7 and 60 feet per minute. Power to the clockwork had three sources: it could be a coiled spring, a weight, or an electric motor. Paper spools were stored in drawers beneath the reader to allow quick change when one was exhausted. The ink supply wheel turned in an inkwell. The machine was started and stopped by use of a lever. In electrical characteristics, the electromagnet had two windings, each of 100 ohms resistance. These could be connected in parallel or series to achieve a 50 or 200 ohm resistance, to better match the telegraph line. Other maintenance that might have been required was cleaning of the marker and supply wheels, adjusting the armature-coil spacing to avoid a marking or spacing bias, and cleaning the sounding tongue and contact points.
The Wheatstone telegram consisted of strips of paper tape with the Morse code printed on it, pasted on a form. The telegram would later be retyped to make a final presentable message for the recipient.
Particulars of all Service messages received on the teleprinters from HQ SO will be entered immediately on receipt in the appropriate columns to the Teleprinter Service Register (Form Circ/1). Both copies will then be passes without delay to the Duty Signalmaster who will:
1. Place the top copies in numerical order in the Signalmaster's Service "IN" file.
2. Distribute the carbon copies to the Supervisor of the Department concerned suitably endorsed for action.
Departmental Supervisor will sign and return the carbon copies to the Duty Signalmaster, and after checking that suitable action has been taken will place them in numerical order in the tray marked "CARBON COPIES" in the Signalmaster's office.
These carbon copies will be collected hourly by Control and passed on to the Chief Signalmaster for information.
All service messages addresses to O.C. Station concerning operations will be dealt with by the Duty Signalmaster. The O.C. Station will be advised by telephone what action has to be taken and carbon copies passed to the Chief Signalmaster.
All service messages originated at this Station will be scrutinised and initialled by the Duty Signal master. They will then be passed to the Teleprinters where all particulars will be entered in the appropriate columns of the Teleprinter Register (Form Circ/2) After transmission, both teleprinted copies together with the manuscript will be returned to the Duty Signalmaster who will:
Check the accuracy of the transmission.
Place the top, copies in numerical order in the Duty Signalmaster's "OUT" File.
Place the carbon copies together with manuscripts in numerical order in the tray marked "CARBON COPIES SVC" in the Signalmaster's office.
Carbon copies of Service messages relating to QRX's before being placed in the tray marked "SVC" will be first passed to Supt, Registry and Codes returned to the Duty Signalmaster suitable endorsed to the effect that the contents have been noted and action taken.
At midnight, all top copies of Service messages (i.e. SVC and HQS) will be passed to the Registry where they will be placed in numerical order in their appropriate files. These files will be submitted to the O.C. Station for security by 09:00 hours daily.
Carbon copies of Service messages relating to more than one …. no more text available.
At least thirty minutes before Skeds are due, the Register Clerk will have prepared the relevant logs, Signal Register, Signals Plans together with the messages, tapes and call-sign tapes, and place them in the hatchway (in the tray provided for this purpose) leading form the Registry to the Signal Office.
The Duty Signalmaster will be responsible for checking the messages on hand with the individual Signal Register for each Plan. He will then hand them to the Superintendent, together with any additional Signalmater's Instructions regarding any particular SKED.
The Superintendent will check for "Special Instructions" requests for repetitions, etc concerning any particular Plan, and bring them to the notice of the operators nominated to work each Sked.
The Operators concerned will:
Collect their respective Signal Plans, Logs, messages and relevant tapes ten minutes before Sked times.
Arrange the messages in correct order of transmission in accordance with the "A" serial number shown in the top left corner of the messages, unless and message bears the W/T QSP prefix when it will take priority over all other messages.
Check the call band with the call-sign card or Signal Plan to ensure accuracy, also check the tape for mutilations.
Make sure that the "Special Instructions" if any, are fully understood.
On completion of a particular Sked, the operator concerned will return logs, Signal Plans, Signal Registers, OUT messages and tapes to the Superintendent.
The Superintendent will:
Check logs and messages for particulars of the traffic cleared or sent Blind.
Extract information required for traffic reports.
Initial logs and return all documents to registry in the tray marked "IN LOGS".
The Registry Clerk will:
Enter particulars of all messages cleared in the main and individual signal Registers.
Place all messages cleared in the Dead Traffic File.
Return logs, Signal Plans, and live messages to the filing cabinet.
Return all cleared message tapes.
Destroy all cleared message tapes.
IN MESSAGES.
All messages received on the W/T circuits will be passed immediately to the Superintendent for security. he will then pass them to the Register Clerk.
The Register Clerk will:
Number each message with a serial number next in order of sequence in the main Register.
Enter all particulars in the main "IN" Register and the individual signals Register (Form Circ/5).
Place them in the hatchway (in the tray provided marked "CODES" leading from the Registry to the Codes Room.
The Supervisor Codes will:
Collect the messages from the tray.
Enter all particulars in the appropriate columns of the Codes Register for "IN" messages (Form Circ/8).
Ensure that the messages are de-coded immediately.
When the messages have been de-coded, complete the remaining columns in the Codes Register for "IN" messages.
Place the originals and the de-coded messages in the tray marked "TELEPRINTERS".
Indecipherable messages will be copied on the GREEN message form and laced in the tray marked "TELEPRINTERS" for onward transmission.
After the necessary particulars have been extracted by Codes, Fighting French messages will be placed in the tray marked "TELEPRINTERS" for onward transmission.
The Register clerk will:
Complete the column "Date/Filed" in the individual Signal Register (Form Circ/5) and file the W/T copy.
Enter the time of receipt from Codes in the Main Register and pass the manuscript copy to the Teleprinters.
Particulars of all messages passed to the Teleprinters for transmission to HQ Signal Office will be entered in the appropriate columns of the Teleprinter Register (Form Circ/4).
The messages will be teleprinted in numerical order as far as possible and an acknowledgement obtained.
After transmission, messages will be checked and when found correct, HQ Signal Office instructed to release.
Teleprinted top copies and the manuscripts will be returned to the Registry. The time of receipt from the teleprinters entered in the main Register and the individual Signal Register completed.
The top copies and the manuscripts will then be passed to Codes for filling.
CIRCULATION.
M/C B/C Messages.
Particulars of all M/C B/C messages received on the teleprinters from HQ Signal Office will be entered immediately on receipt in the appropriate column of the Teleprinter Register B/C's. The top copy will be passed to the Registrar without delay. The carbon copy will be placed in the Signalmaster's tray.
On receipt of a M/C B/C message from the teleprinters the Registrar will enter the message:
On the main B/c register.
on the Individual Plan Register BC/10.
The message will then be passed to the Codes Supervisor.
The Codes Supervisor will enter up the relevant particulars on the Codes B/C Register BC/2 and pass the message to the Marker Channel Broadcast Codes Supervisor, who will enter on her Check Sheet BC/11 against the Originators Number, the Serial number of the message. The message will than be given to a coder for en-coding.
The encoded message will then be passed to the Codes Supervisor who will complete the "Form Codes" column on the BC/2.
The Codes Supervisor will then pass the encoded message to the Registrar who will complete the appropriate columns in the B/C Main Register.
The message will then be passed to the Perforator Operator who will perforate it and after checking will store the tape in the Perforator Room under the appropriate plan name.
The Perforator will hand back the message form to the Registrar who will complete the "Form Perforator" column in the B/C Main register and will place the message in the appropriate Marker Channel Plan Folder to await transmission.
Further messages for this B/C Plan will follow the same procedure.
In the absence of live traffic, Security Traffic will be provided to make up a total of three messages per broadcast. This Security Traffic will be obtained from the M/C B/C Codes Supervisor.
Six hours before any individual broadcast is due to commence, the Duty Signalmaster will make his final allocation from the M/C B/C Plan Register BC/10 and enter on form BC/9 the three messages which are allocated, adding the serial numbers of messages on hand in the appropriate column. The B/C10 will then be returned to the Registrar. From the BC/9 the Signalmaster will abstract the serial numbers allocated to this broadcast and enter on Form BC/8 the plan name, times of broadcast, date, marker channel callsigns and serial numbers in the places provided.
The Signalmaster will allot messages, in the absence of any priority, in order of originator's numbers. There will be on degree of Priority on Broadcast messages, to be used only in emergency and messages bearing this priority will take precedence on the broadcast over all other non-priority traffic received on the Station. More than one priority message will be dealt with in originator's number order.
The Signalmaster will then pass the B/C to the M/C B/C Codes supervisor who will add the Traffic Indicator Signals and W/T numbers and allot any security traffic necessary. the BC/8 is then passed to the Registrar together with all traffic shown on the allocation which has not already been passed through that channel.
The Registrar will pin the BC/8 to the encoded message and pass to the Signalmaster for final checking.
The Signalmaster will ensure that the Traffic Indicator Signals, Marker Channel Callsigns and W/T Numbers are correct. He will sign and time the BC/9 and add the W/T Numbers and Groups to his BC/9.
The Registrar will have the BC/8 and message forms to the Perforator who will complete the final B/C tape in accordance with Marker Channel B/C procedure.
When checked, this tape will be wound on a reel and passed, together with the BC/8 and message, to the Registrar to await transmission.
Thirty minutes before a broadcast is due, the Registrar will place the plan folder and perforated messages on the Signal office hatchway. The Duty Briefing N.C.O. will collect the plan folder and perforated messages and place them with the correct log book. He will check to ensure that all details are correct and ready to hand over to the operator.
Fifteen minutes before the broadcast is due to commence, he will detail an operator for the sked and will explain in detail all the sked particulars.
The Duty Operator will, on receiving the log, messages and tape, ensure that she is fully conversant with the details of the sked. The operator will proceed to the transmitting position at least ten minutes before the B/C is due to commence and will ensure that the equipment is in order and ready for operating.
On completion of the broadcast, the Duty Operator will return the log, messages and tape to the Duty Briefing N.C.O. who will check all details and then report to the Duty Signalmaster that the broadcast has been transmitted correctly.
The Duty Briefing N.C.O. will return the plan folder and perforated messages to the Registrar who will enter the time of broadcast on the BC/10 and replace the plan folder and perforated messages in the appropriate pigeon holes.
The procedure laid down in the above para's will be adopted for the second broadcast.
Wheatstone system.
The Wheatstone system was an automated telegraph system that replaced a human operator with machines capable of sending and recording Morse code at a consistent fast rate. The system included a perforator, which prepared punched paper tape called a Wheatstone slip, a transmitter that read the tape and converted the symbols into dots and dashes encoded as mark and space electric currents on the telegraph line, and a receiver at the other end of the telegraph line that printed the Morse symbols. The system was invented by Charles Wheatstone. Enhancements could be made so that it was a duplex system, able to send and receive on the same line simultaneously.
The Wheatstone slip was a paper tape that contained holes in a pattern to control the mark and space signals on the telegraph line. The paper tape was from 0.46 to 0.48 inches in width, (but the standard width is from 0.472 to 0.475 inches) and a standard thickness of 0.004 to 0.0045 inches. Olive oil coating lubricated the punch process. There were three rows of holes. The middle row forms a rack so that a star wheel can move the paper forward. Every used position on the tape has a middle hole punched. The top hole indicates when to turn on the mark signal on the line, and the bottom hole says to turn off the mark signal. Each vertical column represents a time interval in the Morse code, including the spacing between the holes. The holes are spaced 0.1 inches apart. A column of three holes turns on the mark at the beginning of the interval, and turns it off at the end making a dot. If there is a top hole without a bottom, and then the next column has a bottom without a top hole, mark is on for three intervals, and a dash is represented. If there is only a centre hole, then nothing changes, and this would normally be used to put in space between letters and words.
The Wheatstone perforator was a development of Alexander Bain's 1848 manually operated hole punch machine for his "fast telegraph". It produced Wheatstone slips using three buttons (or keys) labelled "A", "A1" and "A2". "A" punched the pattern for dot, "A1" punched the pattern for space, and "A2" punched the dash pattern in two columns. The keys were so difficult to press that fist-held rubber-tipped mallets were used to depress them and operate the punches. Using this, invalid combinations of holes could not be produced. The blank paper tape was fed in from the right over a roller and came out the left side. It was oriented in a vertical plane. The paper punches were labelled with numbers: 1 for the top hole of the dot, 2 for the sprocket hole for dot, and 3 for the bottom hole for dot. When a dash was punched, extra hole punches to the right punched a centre hole with number 4 and a bottom hole with number 5. The perforator was introduced in 1867. It enabled transmission speeds on a telegraph line to increase to 70 words per minute. The very first message ever punched onto a tape was "SOS EIOS". The manual perforator was subsequently replaced by keyboard perforators like the Gell keyboard perforator or Kleinschmidt keyboard perforator.
Each of the keys had a spring to restore its position after pressing. Each key moved a corresponding lever underneath the instrument. The other end of the levers protruded up into the back of the mechanism. Each punch rod also had a spring to put it back in place after punching a hole. For space and dot keying (A or A1) the star wheel was only allowed to turn one position by a pawl, and the paper tape only moved forward one position. However, when key A2 was hit, the corresponding lever B2 raised a bar (h) which allowed another lever attached to the pawl to move further back when the star wheel rotated, and the wheel could turn two positions, for a dash. The distance the paper tape moved for each position was determined by how far lever k moved, and its range of movement had to be set by adjusting screws i and t. A flat spring g stored energy from the punch to move the paper. The force of the spring was determined by adjusting screws n and n'. A guide roller (r) with a groove was pressed by an adjustable spring to press the pawl against the star wheel. The star wheel was on a frame with a piece sticking out the left hand side as a lever. When the operator wanted to insert paper tape, this lever was pulled, and the star wheel retracted from the paper.
The Wheatstone transmitter read a paper tape (Wheatstone slip) and converted the dot pattern into mark and space symbols on the telegraph line. It worked by two rods alternately rising up to sample the holes in the tape. First of all the top hole was probed, and if the rod could go through, it moved a compound lever that connected the mark signal to the line. With no hole the lever remained unmoved. Next the top hole rod dropped and the bottom hole rod checked whether there was a bottom hole in the tape. If there was, the compound lever was moved back to connect the space signal on the line. If there was no hole, the compound lever was left alone as it was. An extra switch enabled the transmitter to be bypassed so that a Morse key could be used instead.
The Wheatstone receiver converted the signal on the telegraph line to an inked pattern on a paper strip. An electromagnet electrically connected to the telegraph line moved an inking wheel to press against the paper. A clockwork mechanism advanced the paper tape, and turned the inking wheel, and an ink supply wheel. The paper advance speed could be adjusted between 7 and 60 feet per minute. Power to the clockwork had three sources: it could be a coiled spring, a weight, or an electric motor. Paper spools were stored in drawers beneath the reader to allow quick change when one was exhausted. The ink supply wheel turned in an inkwell. The machine was started and stopped by use of a lever. In electrical characteristics, the electromagnet had two windings, each of 100 ohms resistance. These could be connected in parallel or series to achieve a 50 or 200 ohm resistance, to better match the telegraph line. Other maintenance that might have been required was cleaning of the marker and supply wheels, adjusting the armature-coil spacing to avoid a marking or spacing bias, and cleaning the sounding tongue and contact points.
The Wheatstone telegram consisted of strips of paper tape with the Morse code printed on it, pasted on a form. The telegram would later be retyped to make a final presentable message for the recipient.
SECURITY MESSAGES.
Messages by D.R.
All security messages arriving by D.R. will be checked and acknowledged by the Control Clerk.
The control clerk will pass the security messages to the Marker Channel Broadcast Coder Supervisor who will check them and place them in the Security Messages Plan Folder at the same time entering the numbers on the B/C 21 on the inside cover of the folder.
When security messages are needed the M/C B/C Codes Supervisor will select the messages required in the correct sequence from the Security Message Plan Folder of the correct plan at the same time entering in the B/C 21 the W/T number given and the date transmitted.
When each multiple of 8 has been reached the M/C B/C Codes Supervisor will inform the Duty Signalmaster who will send a service message to HQ Code Section giving them the number of security messages remaining in that particular plan. When only 8 messages remain in any particular folder the M/C B/C Codes Supervisor will inform the Codes Supervisor who in turn will notify the O.C. Station that the emergency line has been reached.
Messages by teleprinter.
Security messages received from HQ by teleprinter will be handed direct to the M/C B/C Codes Supervisor who will place them in the Individual Plan Security Folder and enter the HQ's Number on the BC/ 21.
Afterwards action will be taken as in para A. 2, 3 and 4 as necessary.
TRANSMISSION & RECEPTION OF MESSAGES FROM ONE STATION TO BE ENCODED OR DECODED AT ANOTHER STATION.
Stations 53 A and 53C only, are quoted in the following example which deals with JEDBURGH traffic received via an outstation.
These messages will not be identifiable as JEDBURGH messages at the time of receipt. They will be passed to Registration in the normal manner. Registration will give each message an "A" srl. number and pass it to CODES in the usual way.
Each JEDBURGH message for relay will contain routing instructions "en clair". These will consist of two letters repeated to make up a four letter group (e.g. GVGV) followed by the Pad number.
This will enable Codes to identify messages quickly and with certainty and either re-route, decode, or, if not in possession of the Pad, pass to the correct Station for decoding. Re-routing without decoding can only occur if multi-way Pads are used.
After CODES have decided that any particular message or messages are from a JEDBURGH party, they will prepare a SKELETON copy on a green form for onward transmission to HQ Signal Office.
For example "Passing a message from 53A to 53C.
A1234 (Being the "A" Srl. No. supplied by Registration) from JEDBURGH party via ACTOR.
"Message passed to 53C for decoding on set number … Pad/number/numbers … under local AC number …"
Codes will also insert in the Service Instruction of the original copy:
- Live message for decoding.
- Identity Group.
- Set number.
- Pad number/numbers.
Green Form will then be pinned to the original message and both copies sent to Registration.
Registration will:
Enter the appropriate particulars in the local AC (53A to 53C) Register.
Allocate to the ORIGINAL message a local AC number.
Enter the local AC number in the appropriate place on the SKELETON copy (Green Form).
Pass the Green Form to Teleprinters for onward transmission to HQ Signal Office.
Despatch the ORIGINAL message to Station 53C without delay.
Complete the appropriate columns in the main register.
Enter in remarks column of the main register, "Forwarded to Station 53C (See AC number …)".
Upon receipt Station 53C will:
Enter the time handed in to Station 53C in the T.H.I. space on the front of the message form. T.H.I. if passed by the Teleprinter, will be the time of "Release" if by DRLS the T.H.I. will be shown on the original copy.
Enter in the main IN Register showing "A" Serial No. in the extreme left hand column.
The Duty Signalmaster will personally:
Register the message.
Pass the message to O i/c Codes or in her absence Codes Duty Supervisor.
The O i/c Codes, or in her absence the Duty Supervisor, will encode the message personally and pass both the T/Poopy and encoded version back to the Signalmaster.
The Duty Signalmaster will file the T/P copy in the special confidential file maintained for QTP messages and will pass the encoded version to the Supervisor for clearance in the normal way.
The O.C. Station 53A and Chief Signalmaster Special Forces HQ will be responsible for ensuring that the clear version of the message is not handled by more than the necessary minimum of people.
CONFIDENTIAL MESSAGES.
Certain messages will be transmitted which are of the "Decipher yourself" variety.
Messages will be offered as QTP.
Personal codes will be held at Station 53A.
Upon receipt of a QTP message at Station 53A the Duty Signalmaster will be informed immediately.
The Duty Signalmaster Station 53A will inform the Duty Signalmaster at HQ Signal office that a QTP message has been received quoting serial number and both Signalmasters will record the conversation in the Signalmaster's diaries.
The message will be decoded at Station 53A by the Officier i/c Codes in person, or in her absence by the Codes Supervisor in person.
Upon receipt of the message at HQ Signal office the T/P operator will pass the message to the Duty Signalmaster.
The Duty Signalmaster will personally:
- Register the message.
- Produce the necessary number of "Ormig" copies.
- Place the message in envelope(s) addressed to the addressee(s) and sealed with a TOP SECRET label.
- Despatch the message.
- Record time of dispatch in the Signalmaster's diary.
The docket showing time of receipt of message wil be returned to the Signalmaster in person.
The T/P copies of the message will be filed in a special confidential file maintained by the Signalmaster.
The O/C Station 53A and Chief Signalmaster HQ Signal Office will take steps to ensure that the clear version of the message is NOT handed by more than the necessary minimum of people.
Method of handling OUTWARD QTP messages.
The messages should be handed in to the Signal Office Special Forces HQ enclosed in an envelope marked QTP, addressed to the Duty Signalmaster and sealed with a TOP SECRET label.
The Duty Signalmaster will personally:
- Register the message.
- Pass the message to the teleprinter operator for transmission to Station 53A.
- Inform the Duty Signalmaster of Station 53A by telephone.
Duty Signalmaster Special Forces HQ and Station 53A will record the conversation in the Signalmaster's diaries.
When the message has been cleared on the teleprinter, the T/P operator will pass the original and T/P copy to the Duty Signalmaster who will file both copies in the special confidential file maintained for QTP messages.
Upon receipt of the message of Station 53A the T/P operator will pass it to the Duty Signalmaster.
DISTRIBUTION OF MESSAGES.
PREFIXING MESSAGES THAT ARE INTENDED FOR LIMITED DISTRIBUTION.
The prefix FORRE on messages to and from S.P.U's and INSUL on messages to and from Special Forces units, indicates limited distribution, the distribution being indicated by the personal name of the officer or officers for whom the message is intended, being included in the text.
These prefixes will be inserted in the text of the message immediately before the originators number and will be immediately followed by the name of the officer or names of the officers to whom alone distribution is to be made.
When such a message is received as either an "IN" or an "OUT" message, a record of the originator's number and the address to and from will be kept by the Signal Office concerned. And the only other reference, unless the addressee himself specifically requests further distribution.
It will be the responsibility of the officer originating such a message to indicate to the Signal Office concerned where any officer to whom such a message is addressed is to be found. This will be done by inserting the Telegraphic Address of the unit in the normal "Address to" space on the message form.
If there is uncertainty as to an officer's location, the message may be addressed to several Telegraphic Addresses. It will then be the responsibility of the Signal office which finally clears the message to notify the originating Signal Office that the message, has, in fact, been cleared.
FORRE and INSUL messages any be originated only by Grade II Officers and above.
When a message using these prefixes is received at the base station the words FORRE or INSUL will be removed from the beginning of the text and will be typed or teleprinted above the text, immediately after the addressees "From" and "To"
e.e. FROM CHANTILLY
TO WATERMARK
FORRE
XYZ123 FOR SMITH ETC.
No other distribution prefixes will be used with FORRE and INSUL messages.
RESPONSIBILITIES.
Signalmaster.
He is responsible for:
Allocating of live messages to a particular broadcast and ensuring that the messages received in time on the Station are broadcast.
Checking indicator signals, W/T numbers and messages, allocated by the Marker Channel Code Supervisor.
Securing that in no department of the Signal office is there undue delay.
Teleprinter Operator.
Is responsible for entering each Marker Channel B/C message on the B/C, handling the top copy of it to the Regissrar, and placing the carbon copy in the Signalmaster's tray.
Registrar.
She will enter all particulars required neatly in her various registers at the appropriate times.
She will also be responsible for Taking B/C form to the Signalmaster for checking and to the Perforator room for perforating.
Storing completed tapes prior to broadcasts.
Preparing all logs and tapes 30 minutes before a broadcast is due.
Codes Supervisor.
This is the senior Codes N.C.O. on duty. She is responsible for keeping all details necessary for completing the Codes Register, but is not concerned except in an administrative manner with the detailed preparation of M/C B/C messages, which is the responsibility of the M/C B/C Codes Supervisor. She will also watch that messages are encoded, unless in exceptional cases, in O/N order.
M/C B/C Codes Supervisor.
She will be an N.C.O. detailed by the Codes Supervisor. She will be responsible for:
Allotting indicator signals and W/T numbers for individual broadcasts, which she will take from the Indicator Signal Figure Group book kept by her.
Keeping a stock of Security Traffic to be transmitted when there is insufficient live traffic and allotting this to broadcasts.
Perforator Operator and Checker.
She will be responsible for perforating the message in accordance with the laid down procedure, working from B/C 8.
She will mark in green ink the MAX spare parts before and after the Channel call-sign.
She will write in ink on the beginning of each broadcast traffic tape the plan name, the indicator signal, the W/t number and groups of each message and the Marker Channel call-sign perforated.
e.g. BERLIN. ZAQ 54 12/36 34/30 56/35 BCD
All checking must be done at a speed in which the checker knows she is competent.
Control Clerk.
Will show on the Ops. list:
At the head, all Marker Channel frequencies with their associated call-signs.
All B/C plan names and time with the Marker Channel frequencies employed.
As a separate list, the B/C plan names, times and Marker Channel call-signs employed.
She will be responsible for detaching from any new plans made active, the Traffic Indicator Code Figures and distributing to Signalmaster and Codes.
W/T Superintendent.
The Floor Superintendent will see that all operators are correctly feeding in their tapes, are checking their traffic on the air, and are switching the frequencies at the appropriate time.
The Briefing N.C.O.
The Briefing N.C.O. must ensure that an operator detailed for a B/C collects the log, tape and traffic in plenty of time and that the operator fully understands all the details concerning the B/C before it commences.
W/T Operator.
Is responsible for obtaining the B/C log together with traffic and tape at least 15 minutes before the B/C is due to commence.
Checking the Marker Channel call-sign on the traffic tape and the associated frequencies with the B/C plan and B/C 8.
Checking that the traffic is sent out correctly and on the correct frequencies.
CONTROL CLERK.
It is the duty of the Control Clerk to see that the Operations Board in the Signal office is kept up to date.
The Control Clerk will prepare, under instructions from the Chief Signalmaster, daily Operations List, showing all schedules for the following day. The Operational List will contain the time of all schedules, including QRX's and Crack Signals and the Home Station's frequencies and the angle of shoot for each schedule. (What are Crack Signals?)
The Control Clerk will be responsible for the safe custody and filing of all Signal Plans and will keep a Main List of all plans, showing whether active or non-active.
The Control Clerk will be responsible for the preparing of Plan Cards for all Signal Plans. Upon receipt of a notification from HQ Signal office that an Outstation has become active, will:
- place the appropriate Plan card in the Outstation's folder in the Signal Office.
- enter the Outstation's schedules upon the operations board in the Signal office.
- notify the Chief Signalmaster that the Outstation has become active.
- enter the relevant particulars in the current operational list.
- enter the relevant particulars of the Outstation concerned upon the Outstation's Record Board in the Control Room.
- transfer the Outstation concerned from non-active to active in the Main List.
Incidental alterations in the operational programme will be communicated to the Duty Signalmaster and to the Transmitter Room of the Station concerned in writing by the Control Clerk and a written acknowledgement of receipt will be obtained. This receipt will be acknowledged to the Chief Signalmaster, who will thus have a continuous record in writing of the change of communication.
The operational programme will be scrutinised daily by the Control Clerk in conjunction with the plans and with any operational or service messages which affect the arrangements. Telephonic alterations communicated by HQ Signal Office will be accepted, but, at the time of receipt of such telephonic instruction, a request will be made for their confirmation in writing within 36 hours of the recept of such instructions. Failure to receive such confirmation in writing will be reported in writing to the Chief Signalmaster and, if necessary, to the Station Commander.
The Control Clerk will be responsible for the destruction of expired operational lists from the transmitter station.
The Control Clerk will enter upon the plan card of each concerned Outstation, the remark in red capitals "SPECIAL PROCEDURE. SEE CALL SIGN CARD". A copy of the instructions as sent to each Outstation will be pinned by the Control Clerk to the Signal Plan concerned and the plan will be marked with the letters "SC" in prominent red capitals.
The Control Clerk will be responsible for the storage of all crystals not in use at the transmitter hut. A record of all crystals on charge to the station will be kept.
CIPHER SUPERVISOR.
The Cipher Supervisor is responsible to the Duty Signalmaster for the efficient running of the Cipher Department.
She will be responsible for seeing that messages are:
- correctly enciphered for despatch to an Outstation.
- correctly deciphered for despatch to HQ Signal office.
After the message has been enciphered it will be the responsibility of the Cipher Supervisor to see that it bears:
- the name of the Outstation.
- The serial number.
- The W/T number.
- The required degree of Priority (if any).
After the message has been deciphered, it will be the responsibility of the Cipher Supervisor to see that it bears the name of the Outstation, the serial and W/T numbers and any degree of Priority. In deciphering messages, letters will not be altered. Where a mutilation occurs, the message will be sent from the Cipher Department as received, any suggested interpretation being sent as a separate service message.
Cipher workings will be filed for reference if necessary.
HQ Signal Office will be informed should any message prove to be indecipherable and the Cipher Supervisor will be responsible for inserting in the log of the Outstation concerned a note asking the Outstation to check and repeat the message. This will be signed and timed by the Signalmaster.
The Cipher Supervisor on duty from 22:00 hours to 23:59 hours daily will see that the callsign and operational list to be teleprinted to HQ is submitted to the Duty Signalmaster by 23:59 hours.
REGISTER CLERKS.
The Register Clerks on duty will be responsible for maintaining the station register and Outstation folders.
They will further be responsible for:
- Allotting W/T numbers to outgoing messages.
- collecting messages from operators engaged in receiving traffic.
- write the "C" Serial number in front of the "A" serial number, e.g. C1674/A1234.
- pass to CODES for decoding in the normal manner.
- Issuing and recovering Outstation folders and all tapes for automatic working.
- Ensuring prompt circulation of incoming and outgoing messages.
- Issuing and maintaining supplies of stationery within the Signal Office.
- W/T numbers on messages will be selected at random.
- The Register Clerk will be responsible for passing out to the Perforating Supervisor all messages to be perforated and for
ensuring that they have been perforated and checked.
- The Register Clerk on duty during the day will be responsible, with the Signalmaster, for making out the Broadcast
Allocation form and will ensure that it is checked by the Duty Signalmaster well before broadcast time.
CODES will:
- Enter the double Serial number (as shown above) in the CODES IN Register.
- After decoding, write the decoded version on a green form in the normal manner and pass the messages back to
Registration, bearing the following particulars:
- Name of Code plan via name of W/T plan.
- In the Service Instruction "Received at Station 53A, decoded at Station 53C".
REGISTRATION will enter all relevant particulars in the appropriate columns of the main W/T IN register, file the original W/T copies in a special file marked "Jedburgh messages received via Station 53A" and pass the green form to Teleprinters.
TELEPRINTERS will:
- Teleprint the double serial number in the manner shown above.
- Ensure that the ROUTINE and SERVICE instructions are correctly teleprinted in HQ.
- HQ Signal Office will NOT clear the messages of these description until the decoded versions bearing the double serial
numbers (See para "CODES" above) have been received from 53C.
The detail of the above instruction refers to JEDBURGH messages received via agents but the method can be equally well applied to any message received at one Station for decoding at another, e.g.
- For BARDSEA traffic received over agents circuit, substitute BARDSEA for JEDBURGH and the appropriate stations for "A"
and "C", in above wording.
- For agents traffic received over JEDBURGH circuit, substitute OUTSTATION for JEDBURGH and JEDBURGH for OUTSTATION,
Station "A for Station C" and Station "C for Station A".
It is frequently necessary to transmit message from a Station that does not hold the necessary code. The message will, therefore, have to be encoded at a different Station.
The following example deals with a message for an agent sent over a Jedburgh link.
When a message is originated by a country section and passed by HQ Signal Office for an agent controlled by Station 53A to be broadcast by Station 53C:
HQ will register the message in the "C" and "A" registers and give ita 53C/53A double serial number.
The message will be sent in full to Station 53A and in Skeleton to Station 53C.
In the version sent to Station 53A the Service Instructions will include "To be encoded at 53A for x mission by broadcast/two wat sked from 53C" and will, therefore, take the following form, e.g.
"A1235/C6028. Priority "B" (if for broadcast) Section F.F. To SNORTER via WISECRACK. B/C number, prefix, date, Originators number. Service instruction: to be encoded at 53A for mission by broadcast from 53C" (text of message).
The Skeleton version sent to Station 53C will take the same form as the version to Station 53A except that it will not include the text, and service instructions will read "Message passed to 53A for encoding", e.g.
C6028/A1235 Priority B (if for broadcast) Section F.F. TO SNORTER via WISECRACK B/C number prefix date. originators number. Service instruction: "Message passed to 53A for encoding".
The message will then be dealt with a manner similar to the procedure set out for inward messages. (See Spec. Sig. Instruction No. 35) The encoded versions bearing the service Instruction (via Broadcast/Two way sked … Station 53C).
In the two hourly traffic report the encoding Station will advise HQ Signal Office, that a particular message has been forwarded to the transmitting Station, e.g. (a message encoded at 53A to be broadcast/two way sked from 53C).
"To 53C A1235 AC610"
HQ Signal Office will then be in a position to follow the flow of traffic and ensure that this particular message is passed to the OUTSTATION concerned and a final clearance can be expected from the transmitting Station (53C).
When no traffic is passed between stations, a "NIL" return will be shown in the appropriate columns, e.g.
"To 53C NIL NIL"
The above example deals with a case between Station 53A and 53C, but any message for encoding at one station and transmission from another can be handled in a similar manner.
SUPERINTENDENT.
The Duty Superintendent is responsible to the Signalmaster for the efficient working of each schedule. To that end he will, twenty minutes before each schedule, test or supervise the testing of the appropriate transmitter and remote control and satisfy himself that all the equipment is ready to operate the schedule.
He will keep a Superintendent Diary, in which he will enter all details of operations.
He will deputise for the Duty Signalmaster should the latter be called away from the office.
He will hand over to the relieving Superintendent the completed Superintendent's Diary up to the moment of handling over and he will enter in it the time of each handling over. He will acquaint the relieving Superintendent of all the details of schedules actually in progress at the time of taking over, and in particular, will point out to him any additional schedules which may have been arranged during his tour of duty.
Where two shifts overlap in time, the Sergeant in charge of the first relief on duty will be Duty Superintendent.
The incoming Superintendent will satisfy himself that all equipment for the operation of which he is responsible is in correct working order. He will enter the time of taking over in the Superintendent's Diary and at once acquaint himself with the state of operations.
The Duty Superintendent will indicate on the board provided for the purpose the names of the operators detailed to work the schedules. He will collect the Outstation's folder and any tapes for automatic transmission from the Registry and hand them in to the operator detailed for the schedule.
The Duty Superintendent will total at the bottom of each page of his diary the number of messages sent and received during his period of duty and will carry the totals to the top of the next page. The Superintendent on duty at the end of the day will rule off the page at 23:59 hours so that there ia a clear dividing line between the end of one day and the beginning of the next.
He will be responsible for entering the time and date of any QRX made with an Outstation on the QRX board and in the Signalmaster's QRX return.
He will be responsible for seeing that all personnel of his relief report for duty at the specified time.
He will submit to the Signalmaster every two hours a Traffic Return.
TECHNICAL MAINTENANCE OFFICER.
The Technical Maintenance Officer is responsible to the Station Commander for the maintenance of all Technical and Domestic equipment on the Station.
Signal Office.
Maintenance of all Receiving sets, Electrical Recording apparatus, Undulator and associated equipment, wide Band amplifiers, Keying and Switching systems, maintenance and adjustment of Creed High Speed Heads, Wheatstone Slip Checking apparatus and Electrical installation of the Signal Office Buildings.
He will see that all faults reported by the Duty Signalmasters and Post Office Equipment and major Typex faults have been reported to the proper authorities. He will be responsible for all Technical Records and their upkeep, for seeing that routine tests are carried out on Inter-station emergency cable systems and when faults occur, that they are reported to the Post Office Engineering Department without delay, stating type of fault from the initial tests carried out. He is responsible also for the maintenance of the receiving Rhombic Aerials and associated masts, stays and feeder cables.
Transmitter Station.
He is responsible for the discipline of all technical personnel, that an efficient relief service is maintained to cover the 24 hour working period at the Transmitter Station, for the maintenance of all Transmitters, Masts, Stays and Aerial systems, that all feeding routes are kept in good working order and that Routine Tests are carried out; also for the maintenance of emergency plants at both the Transmitter and Receiving sites.
Motor Transport Section.
He will see that all vehicles are in good running order, that minor faults are cleared on the Station and that major faults are dealt with as per STS Routine instructions. He will supervise all Transport Petrol Returns, STS Forms appertaining to the Station and ensure that these are sent in to HQ on the correct dates.
OPERATORS W/T.
The operator or operators detailed to work a schedule will work each schedule to the best of their ability and will strictly observe procedure as laid down in the Procedure Manual.
A schedule will normally be worked by the operator i/c schedule, but where two of more operators are detailed to listen on a schedule, the Superintendent may, at his discretion, detail one of the other operators to work the schedule.
Accurate logs will be kept of all schedules.
An operator will, on assuming possession of a log book, enter the date, time and his or her signature at the commencement of the schedule. At the conclusion of the schedule the operator will sign the log, giving the time at which the schedule concluded. The operator may give any useful comments regarding the working of the skeds. His frequencies and call-signs should also appear on his log.
The operator will be responsible for ensuring that messages sent blind are sent once only and that they are encoded on the front of the message form as having been sent blind.
The operator will draw the attention of the Superintendent to any irregularities during a schedule.
OPERATORS KEYBOARD.
Preparation of Broadcast Message Tapes.
The keyboard-perforator operator, upon receiving a message from the Register Clerk, will perforate the message in accordance with the Broadcast procedure and will mark the tape at its commencement with the word "START" followed by the Outstation's name and the serial number and W/T number of the message. She will then mark the enciphered message "Perforated by (signature, time and date) hand the tapes and the enciphered message to the Checker and will record in her register the time of delivery.
Preparation of Call-Sign tapes.
The keyboard perforator operator, on receiving an Outstation's call sign card from the Cipher Supervisor will prepare a tape bearing the Outstation's call-sign and will make the tape into a loop. The keyboard perforator operator will write on the call-sign tape in red ink the name of the Outstation, the call-sign and date and will hand the tape and call-sign card to the checker.
CHECKERS.
Checking of Message Tapes.
The checker, on receipt of a message from the keyboard perforator operator will insert the tapes into the checking machine and will read the tapes against the enciphered messages.
If the tapes are correct, the Checker will hand them, together with the enciphered message, to the Register Clerk.
If any of the tapes are incorrect, the Checker will hand the incorrect tapes or tape and the enciphered message back to the keyboard perforator operator for re-perforating. On receipt of the re-perforated message she will re-check the whole message.
When the message is checked and found correct, she will sign it on the back (Checked by… (signature, time and date).
The Checker will initial the B/C 4 form and enter the time of checking in the appropriate column of the Perforator Register.
Checking of Call Sign Tapes.
On receipt of all call-sign tapes from the keyboard perforator operator, the Checker will insert the tape in the machine and read the tape against the call-sign card. It will be the Checker's responsibility to see that the tape is correctly perforated with the call-sign for the day as shown on the card.
If the tape is incorrect, the Checker will hand the tape and call-sign card back to the keyboard perforator operator for re-perforating.
When the tape has been checked and found correct, the Checker will hand the call-sign card and tape to the Register Clerk.
TELEPRINTERS.
Operational messages will take precedence over all service messages on the teleprinters, other than those dealing with additional contacts or crack signals. Service messages dealing with additional contacts or crack signals, unless they are marked "Confirmatory" will be sent immediately after any operational message in the course of teleprinting has been completed.
Duplicate copies of all out messages and service messages will be placed in the Signalmaster's tray.
Operators will report immediately to the Signalmaster any failure of equipment and any damage of defect, however, slight.
The Teleprinter operator will be responsible for keeping her own registers up to date.
"OUT" messages received on the teleprinter will be handed direct to the Register Clerk immediately, the carbon copy being placed in the Signalmaster's tray.
All copies of ÏN" message will be pinned together after transmission on the teleprinter and placed in the Signalmaster's tray.
Messages by D.R.
All security messages arriving by D.R. will be checked and acknowledged by the Control Clerk.
The control clerk will pass the security messages to the Marker Channel Broadcast Coder Supervisor who will check them and place them in the Security Messages Plan Folder at the same time entering the numbers on the B/C 21 on the inside cover of the folder.
When security messages are needed the M/C B/C Codes Supervisor will select the messages required in the correct sequence from the Security Message Plan Folder of the correct plan at the same time entering in the B/C 21 the W/T number given and the date transmitted.
When each multiple of 8 has been reached the M/C B/C Codes Supervisor will inform the Duty Signalmaster who will send a service message to HQ Code Section giving them the number of security messages remaining in that particular plan. When only 8 messages remain in any particular folder the M/C B/C Codes Supervisor will inform the Codes Supervisor who in turn will notify the O.C. Station that the emergency line has been reached.
Messages by teleprinter.
Security messages received from HQ by teleprinter will be handed direct to the M/C B/C Codes Supervisor who will place them in the Individual Plan Security Folder and enter the HQ's Number on the BC/ 21.
Afterwards action will be taken as in para A. 2, 3 and 4 as necessary.
TRANSMISSION & RECEPTION OF MESSAGES FROM ONE STATION TO BE ENCODED OR DECODED AT ANOTHER STATION.
Stations 53 A and 53C only, are quoted in the following example which deals with JEDBURGH traffic received via an outstation.
These messages will not be identifiable as JEDBURGH messages at the time of receipt. They will be passed to Registration in the normal manner. Registration will give each message an "A" srl. number and pass it to CODES in the usual way.
Each JEDBURGH message for relay will contain routing instructions "en clair". These will consist of two letters repeated to make up a four letter group (e.g. GVGV) followed by the Pad number.
This will enable Codes to identify messages quickly and with certainty and either re-route, decode, or, if not in possession of the Pad, pass to the correct Station for decoding. Re-routing without decoding can only occur if multi-way Pads are used.
After CODES have decided that any particular message or messages are from a JEDBURGH party, they will prepare a SKELETON copy on a green form for onward transmission to HQ Signal Office.
For example "Passing a message from 53A to 53C.
A1234 (Being the "A" Srl. No. supplied by Registration) from JEDBURGH party via ACTOR.
"Message passed to 53C for decoding on set number … Pad/number/numbers … under local AC number …"
Codes will also insert in the Service Instruction of the original copy:
- Live message for decoding.
- Identity Group.
- Set number.
- Pad number/numbers.
Green Form will then be pinned to the original message and both copies sent to Registration.
Registration will:
Enter the appropriate particulars in the local AC (53A to 53C) Register.
Allocate to the ORIGINAL message a local AC number.
Enter the local AC number in the appropriate place on the SKELETON copy (Green Form).
Pass the Green Form to Teleprinters for onward transmission to HQ Signal Office.
Despatch the ORIGINAL message to Station 53C without delay.
Complete the appropriate columns in the main register.
Enter in remarks column of the main register, "Forwarded to Station 53C (See AC number …)".
Upon receipt Station 53C will:
Enter the time handed in to Station 53C in the T.H.I. space on the front of the message form. T.H.I. if passed by the Teleprinter, will be the time of "Release" if by DRLS the T.H.I. will be shown on the original copy.
Enter in the main IN Register showing "A" Serial No. in the extreme left hand column.
The Duty Signalmaster will personally:
Register the message.
Pass the message to O i/c Codes or in her absence Codes Duty Supervisor.
The O i/c Codes, or in her absence the Duty Supervisor, will encode the message personally and pass both the T/Poopy and encoded version back to the Signalmaster.
The Duty Signalmaster will file the T/P copy in the special confidential file maintained for QTP messages and will pass the encoded version to the Supervisor for clearance in the normal way.
The O.C. Station 53A and Chief Signalmaster Special Forces HQ will be responsible for ensuring that the clear version of the message is not handled by more than the necessary minimum of people.
CONFIDENTIAL MESSAGES.
Certain messages will be transmitted which are of the "Decipher yourself" variety.
Messages will be offered as QTP.
Personal codes will be held at Station 53A.
Upon receipt of a QTP message at Station 53A the Duty Signalmaster will be informed immediately.
The Duty Signalmaster Station 53A will inform the Duty Signalmaster at HQ Signal office that a QTP message has been received quoting serial number and both Signalmasters will record the conversation in the Signalmaster's diaries.
The message will be decoded at Station 53A by the Officier i/c Codes in person, or in her absence by the Codes Supervisor in person.
Upon receipt of the message at HQ Signal office the T/P operator will pass the message to the Duty Signalmaster.
The Duty Signalmaster will personally:
- Register the message.
- Produce the necessary number of "Ormig" copies.
- Place the message in envelope(s) addressed to the addressee(s) and sealed with a TOP SECRET label.
- Despatch the message.
- Record time of dispatch in the Signalmaster's diary.
The docket showing time of receipt of message wil be returned to the Signalmaster in person.
The T/P copies of the message will be filed in a special confidential file maintained by the Signalmaster.
The O/C Station 53A and Chief Signalmaster HQ Signal Office will take steps to ensure that the clear version of the message is NOT handed by more than the necessary minimum of people.
Method of handling OUTWARD QTP messages.
The messages should be handed in to the Signal Office Special Forces HQ enclosed in an envelope marked QTP, addressed to the Duty Signalmaster and sealed with a TOP SECRET label.
The Duty Signalmaster will personally:
- Register the message.
- Pass the message to the teleprinter operator for transmission to Station 53A.
- Inform the Duty Signalmaster of Station 53A by telephone.
Duty Signalmaster Special Forces HQ and Station 53A will record the conversation in the Signalmaster's diaries.
When the message has been cleared on the teleprinter, the T/P operator will pass the original and T/P copy to the Duty Signalmaster who will file both copies in the special confidential file maintained for QTP messages.
Upon receipt of the message of Station 53A the T/P operator will pass it to the Duty Signalmaster.
DISTRIBUTION OF MESSAGES.
PREFIXING MESSAGES THAT ARE INTENDED FOR LIMITED DISTRIBUTION.
The prefix FORRE on messages to and from S.P.U's and INSUL on messages to and from Special Forces units, indicates limited distribution, the distribution being indicated by the personal name of the officer or officers for whom the message is intended, being included in the text.
These prefixes will be inserted in the text of the message immediately before the originators number and will be immediately followed by the name of the officer or names of the officers to whom alone distribution is to be made.
When such a message is received as either an "IN" or an "OUT" message, a record of the originator's number and the address to and from will be kept by the Signal Office concerned. And the only other reference, unless the addressee himself specifically requests further distribution.
It will be the responsibility of the officer originating such a message to indicate to the Signal Office concerned where any officer to whom such a message is addressed is to be found. This will be done by inserting the Telegraphic Address of the unit in the normal "Address to" space on the message form.
If there is uncertainty as to an officer's location, the message may be addressed to several Telegraphic Addresses. It will then be the responsibility of the Signal office which finally clears the message to notify the originating Signal Office that the message, has, in fact, been cleared.
FORRE and INSUL messages any be originated only by Grade II Officers and above.
When a message using these prefixes is received at the base station the words FORRE or INSUL will be removed from the beginning of the text and will be typed or teleprinted above the text, immediately after the addressees "From" and "To"
e.e. FROM CHANTILLY
TO WATERMARK
FORRE
XYZ123 FOR SMITH ETC.
No other distribution prefixes will be used with FORRE and INSUL messages.
RESPONSIBILITIES.
Signalmaster.
He is responsible for:
Allocating of live messages to a particular broadcast and ensuring that the messages received in time on the Station are broadcast.
Checking indicator signals, W/T numbers and messages, allocated by the Marker Channel Code Supervisor.
Securing that in no department of the Signal office is there undue delay.
Teleprinter Operator.
Is responsible for entering each Marker Channel B/C message on the B/C, handling the top copy of it to the Regissrar, and placing the carbon copy in the Signalmaster's tray.
Registrar.
She will enter all particulars required neatly in her various registers at the appropriate times.
She will also be responsible for Taking B/C form to the Signalmaster for checking and to the Perforator room for perforating.
Storing completed tapes prior to broadcasts.
Preparing all logs and tapes 30 minutes before a broadcast is due.
Codes Supervisor.
This is the senior Codes N.C.O. on duty. She is responsible for keeping all details necessary for completing the Codes Register, but is not concerned except in an administrative manner with the detailed preparation of M/C B/C messages, which is the responsibility of the M/C B/C Codes Supervisor. She will also watch that messages are encoded, unless in exceptional cases, in O/N order.
M/C B/C Codes Supervisor.
She will be an N.C.O. detailed by the Codes Supervisor. She will be responsible for:
Allotting indicator signals and W/T numbers for individual broadcasts, which she will take from the Indicator Signal Figure Group book kept by her.
Keeping a stock of Security Traffic to be transmitted when there is insufficient live traffic and allotting this to broadcasts.
Perforator Operator and Checker.
She will be responsible for perforating the message in accordance with the laid down procedure, working from B/C 8.
She will mark in green ink the MAX spare parts before and after the Channel call-sign.
She will write in ink on the beginning of each broadcast traffic tape the plan name, the indicator signal, the W/t number and groups of each message and the Marker Channel call-sign perforated.
e.g. BERLIN. ZAQ 54 12/36 34/30 56/35 BCD
All checking must be done at a speed in which the checker knows she is competent.
Control Clerk.
Will show on the Ops. list:
At the head, all Marker Channel frequencies with their associated call-signs.
All B/C plan names and time with the Marker Channel frequencies employed.
As a separate list, the B/C plan names, times and Marker Channel call-signs employed.
She will be responsible for detaching from any new plans made active, the Traffic Indicator Code Figures and distributing to Signalmaster and Codes.
W/T Superintendent.
The Floor Superintendent will see that all operators are correctly feeding in their tapes, are checking their traffic on the air, and are switching the frequencies at the appropriate time.
The Briefing N.C.O.
The Briefing N.C.O. must ensure that an operator detailed for a B/C collects the log, tape and traffic in plenty of time and that the operator fully understands all the details concerning the B/C before it commences.
W/T Operator.
Is responsible for obtaining the B/C log together with traffic and tape at least 15 minutes before the B/C is due to commence.
Checking the Marker Channel call-sign on the traffic tape and the associated frequencies with the B/C plan and B/C 8.
Checking that the traffic is sent out correctly and on the correct frequencies.
CONTROL CLERK.
It is the duty of the Control Clerk to see that the Operations Board in the Signal office is kept up to date.
The Control Clerk will prepare, under instructions from the Chief Signalmaster, daily Operations List, showing all schedules for the following day. The Operational List will contain the time of all schedules, including QRX's and Crack Signals and the Home Station's frequencies and the angle of shoot for each schedule. (What are Crack Signals?)
The Control Clerk will be responsible for the safe custody and filing of all Signal Plans and will keep a Main List of all plans, showing whether active or non-active.
The Control Clerk will be responsible for the preparing of Plan Cards for all Signal Plans. Upon receipt of a notification from HQ Signal office that an Outstation has become active, will:
- place the appropriate Plan card in the Outstation's folder in the Signal Office.
- enter the Outstation's schedules upon the operations board in the Signal office.
- notify the Chief Signalmaster that the Outstation has become active.
- enter the relevant particulars in the current operational list.
- enter the relevant particulars of the Outstation concerned upon the Outstation's Record Board in the Control Room.
- transfer the Outstation concerned from non-active to active in the Main List.
Incidental alterations in the operational programme will be communicated to the Duty Signalmaster and to the Transmitter Room of the Station concerned in writing by the Control Clerk and a written acknowledgement of receipt will be obtained. This receipt will be acknowledged to the Chief Signalmaster, who will thus have a continuous record in writing of the change of communication.
The operational programme will be scrutinised daily by the Control Clerk in conjunction with the plans and with any operational or service messages which affect the arrangements. Telephonic alterations communicated by HQ Signal Office will be accepted, but, at the time of receipt of such telephonic instruction, a request will be made for their confirmation in writing within 36 hours of the recept of such instructions. Failure to receive such confirmation in writing will be reported in writing to the Chief Signalmaster and, if necessary, to the Station Commander.
The Control Clerk will be responsible for the destruction of expired operational lists from the transmitter station.
The Control Clerk will enter upon the plan card of each concerned Outstation, the remark in red capitals "SPECIAL PROCEDURE. SEE CALL SIGN CARD". A copy of the instructions as sent to each Outstation will be pinned by the Control Clerk to the Signal Plan concerned and the plan will be marked with the letters "SC" in prominent red capitals.
The Control Clerk will be responsible for the storage of all crystals not in use at the transmitter hut. A record of all crystals on charge to the station will be kept.
CIPHER SUPERVISOR.
The Cipher Supervisor is responsible to the Duty Signalmaster for the efficient running of the Cipher Department.
She will be responsible for seeing that messages are:
- correctly enciphered for despatch to an Outstation.
- correctly deciphered for despatch to HQ Signal office.
After the message has been enciphered it will be the responsibility of the Cipher Supervisor to see that it bears:
- the name of the Outstation.
- The serial number.
- The W/T number.
- The required degree of Priority (if any).
After the message has been deciphered, it will be the responsibility of the Cipher Supervisor to see that it bears the name of the Outstation, the serial and W/T numbers and any degree of Priority. In deciphering messages, letters will not be altered. Where a mutilation occurs, the message will be sent from the Cipher Department as received, any suggested interpretation being sent as a separate service message.
Cipher workings will be filed for reference if necessary.
HQ Signal Office will be informed should any message prove to be indecipherable and the Cipher Supervisor will be responsible for inserting in the log of the Outstation concerned a note asking the Outstation to check and repeat the message. This will be signed and timed by the Signalmaster.
The Cipher Supervisor on duty from 22:00 hours to 23:59 hours daily will see that the callsign and operational list to be teleprinted to HQ is submitted to the Duty Signalmaster by 23:59 hours.
REGISTER CLERKS.
The Register Clerks on duty will be responsible for maintaining the station register and Outstation folders.
They will further be responsible for:
- Allotting W/T numbers to outgoing messages.
- collecting messages from operators engaged in receiving traffic.
- write the "C" Serial number in front of the "A" serial number, e.g. C1674/A1234.
- pass to CODES for decoding in the normal manner.
- Issuing and recovering Outstation folders and all tapes for automatic working.
- Ensuring prompt circulation of incoming and outgoing messages.
- Issuing and maintaining supplies of stationery within the Signal Office.
- W/T numbers on messages will be selected at random.
- The Register Clerk will be responsible for passing out to the Perforating Supervisor all messages to be perforated and for
ensuring that they have been perforated and checked.
- The Register Clerk on duty during the day will be responsible, with the Signalmaster, for making out the Broadcast
Allocation form and will ensure that it is checked by the Duty Signalmaster well before broadcast time.
CODES will:
- Enter the double Serial number (as shown above) in the CODES IN Register.
- After decoding, write the decoded version on a green form in the normal manner and pass the messages back to
Registration, bearing the following particulars:
- Name of Code plan via name of W/T plan.
- In the Service Instruction "Received at Station 53A, decoded at Station 53C".
REGISTRATION will enter all relevant particulars in the appropriate columns of the main W/T IN register, file the original W/T copies in a special file marked "Jedburgh messages received via Station 53A" and pass the green form to Teleprinters.
TELEPRINTERS will:
- Teleprint the double serial number in the manner shown above.
- Ensure that the ROUTINE and SERVICE instructions are correctly teleprinted in HQ.
- HQ Signal Office will NOT clear the messages of these description until the decoded versions bearing the double serial
numbers (See para "CODES" above) have been received from 53C.
The detail of the above instruction refers to JEDBURGH messages received via agents but the method can be equally well applied to any message received at one Station for decoding at another, e.g.
- For BARDSEA traffic received over agents circuit, substitute BARDSEA for JEDBURGH and the appropriate stations for "A"
and "C", in above wording.
- For agents traffic received over JEDBURGH circuit, substitute OUTSTATION for JEDBURGH and JEDBURGH for OUTSTATION,
Station "A for Station C" and Station "C for Station A".
It is frequently necessary to transmit message from a Station that does not hold the necessary code. The message will, therefore, have to be encoded at a different Station.
The following example deals with a message for an agent sent over a Jedburgh link.
When a message is originated by a country section and passed by HQ Signal Office for an agent controlled by Station 53A to be broadcast by Station 53C:
HQ will register the message in the "C" and "A" registers and give ita 53C/53A double serial number.
The message will be sent in full to Station 53A and in Skeleton to Station 53C.
In the version sent to Station 53A the Service Instructions will include "To be encoded at 53A for x mission by broadcast/two wat sked from 53C" and will, therefore, take the following form, e.g.
"A1235/C6028. Priority "B" (if for broadcast) Section F.F. To SNORTER via WISECRACK. B/C number, prefix, date, Originators number. Service instruction: to be encoded at 53A for mission by broadcast from 53C" (text of message).
The Skeleton version sent to Station 53C will take the same form as the version to Station 53A except that it will not include the text, and service instructions will read "Message passed to 53A for encoding", e.g.
C6028/A1235 Priority B (if for broadcast) Section F.F. TO SNORTER via WISECRACK B/C number prefix date. originators number. Service instruction: "Message passed to 53A for encoding".
The message will then be dealt with a manner similar to the procedure set out for inward messages. (See Spec. Sig. Instruction No. 35) The encoded versions bearing the service Instruction (via Broadcast/Two way sked … Station 53C).
In the two hourly traffic report the encoding Station will advise HQ Signal Office, that a particular message has been forwarded to the transmitting Station, e.g. (a message encoded at 53A to be broadcast/two way sked from 53C).
"To 53C A1235 AC610"
HQ Signal Office will then be in a position to follow the flow of traffic and ensure that this particular message is passed to the OUTSTATION concerned and a final clearance can be expected from the transmitting Station (53C).
When no traffic is passed between stations, a "NIL" return will be shown in the appropriate columns, e.g.
"To 53C NIL NIL"
The above example deals with a case between Station 53A and 53C, but any message for encoding at one station and transmission from another can be handled in a similar manner.
SUPERINTENDENT.
The Duty Superintendent is responsible to the Signalmaster for the efficient working of each schedule. To that end he will, twenty minutes before each schedule, test or supervise the testing of the appropriate transmitter and remote control and satisfy himself that all the equipment is ready to operate the schedule.
He will keep a Superintendent Diary, in which he will enter all details of operations.
He will deputise for the Duty Signalmaster should the latter be called away from the office.
He will hand over to the relieving Superintendent the completed Superintendent's Diary up to the moment of handling over and he will enter in it the time of each handling over. He will acquaint the relieving Superintendent of all the details of schedules actually in progress at the time of taking over, and in particular, will point out to him any additional schedules which may have been arranged during his tour of duty.
Where two shifts overlap in time, the Sergeant in charge of the first relief on duty will be Duty Superintendent.
The incoming Superintendent will satisfy himself that all equipment for the operation of which he is responsible is in correct working order. He will enter the time of taking over in the Superintendent's Diary and at once acquaint himself with the state of operations.
The Duty Superintendent will indicate on the board provided for the purpose the names of the operators detailed to work the schedules. He will collect the Outstation's folder and any tapes for automatic transmission from the Registry and hand them in to the operator detailed for the schedule.
The Duty Superintendent will total at the bottom of each page of his diary the number of messages sent and received during his period of duty and will carry the totals to the top of the next page. The Superintendent on duty at the end of the day will rule off the page at 23:59 hours so that there ia a clear dividing line between the end of one day and the beginning of the next.
He will be responsible for entering the time and date of any QRX made with an Outstation on the QRX board and in the Signalmaster's QRX return.
He will be responsible for seeing that all personnel of his relief report for duty at the specified time.
He will submit to the Signalmaster every two hours a Traffic Return.
TECHNICAL MAINTENANCE OFFICER.
The Technical Maintenance Officer is responsible to the Station Commander for the maintenance of all Technical and Domestic equipment on the Station.
Signal Office.
Maintenance of all Receiving sets, Electrical Recording apparatus, Undulator and associated equipment, wide Band amplifiers, Keying and Switching systems, maintenance and adjustment of Creed High Speed Heads, Wheatstone Slip Checking apparatus and Electrical installation of the Signal Office Buildings.
He will see that all faults reported by the Duty Signalmasters and Post Office Equipment and major Typex faults have been reported to the proper authorities. He will be responsible for all Technical Records and their upkeep, for seeing that routine tests are carried out on Inter-station emergency cable systems and when faults occur, that they are reported to the Post Office Engineering Department without delay, stating type of fault from the initial tests carried out. He is responsible also for the maintenance of the receiving Rhombic Aerials and associated masts, stays and feeder cables.
Transmitter Station.
He is responsible for the discipline of all technical personnel, that an efficient relief service is maintained to cover the 24 hour working period at the Transmitter Station, for the maintenance of all Transmitters, Masts, Stays and Aerial systems, that all feeding routes are kept in good working order and that Routine Tests are carried out; also for the maintenance of emergency plants at both the Transmitter and Receiving sites.
Motor Transport Section.
He will see that all vehicles are in good running order, that minor faults are cleared on the Station and that major faults are dealt with as per STS Routine instructions. He will supervise all Transport Petrol Returns, STS Forms appertaining to the Station and ensure that these are sent in to HQ on the correct dates.
OPERATORS W/T.
The operator or operators detailed to work a schedule will work each schedule to the best of their ability and will strictly observe procedure as laid down in the Procedure Manual.
A schedule will normally be worked by the operator i/c schedule, but where two of more operators are detailed to listen on a schedule, the Superintendent may, at his discretion, detail one of the other operators to work the schedule.
Accurate logs will be kept of all schedules.
An operator will, on assuming possession of a log book, enter the date, time and his or her signature at the commencement of the schedule. At the conclusion of the schedule the operator will sign the log, giving the time at which the schedule concluded. The operator may give any useful comments regarding the working of the skeds. His frequencies and call-signs should also appear on his log.
The operator will be responsible for ensuring that messages sent blind are sent once only and that they are encoded on the front of the message form as having been sent blind.
The operator will draw the attention of the Superintendent to any irregularities during a schedule.
OPERATORS KEYBOARD.
Preparation of Broadcast Message Tapes.
The keyboard-perforator operator, upon receiving a message from the Register Clerk, will perforate the message in accordance with the Broadcast procedure and will mark the tape at its commencement with the word "START" followed by the Outstation's name and the serial number and W/T number of the message. She will then mark the enciphered message "Perforated by (signature, time and date) hand the tapes and the enciphered message to the Checker and will record in her register the time of delivery.
Preparation of Call-Sign tapes.
The keyboard perforator operator, on receiving an Outstation's call sign card from the Cipher Supervisor will prepare a tape bearing the Outstation's call-sign and will make the tape into a loop. The keyboard perforator operator will write on the call-sign tape in red ink the name of the Outstation, the call-sign and date and will hand the tape and call-sign card to the checker.
CHECKERS.
Checking of Message Tapes.
The checker, on receipt of a message from the keyboard perforator operator will insert the tapes into the checking machine and will read the tapes against the enciphered messages.
If the tapes are correct, the Checker will hand them, together with the enciphered message, to the Register Clerk.
If any of the tapes are incorrect, the Checker will hand the incorrect tapes or tape and the enciphered message back to the keyboard perforator operator for re-perforating. On receipt of the re-perforated message she will re-check the whole message.
When the message is checked and found correct, she will sign it on the back (Checked by… (signature, time and date).
The Checker will initial the B/C 4 form and enter the time of checking in the appropriate column of the Perforator Register.
Checking of Call Sign Tapes.
On receipt of all call-sign tapes from the keyboard perforator operator, the Checker will insert the tape in the machine and read the tape against the call-sign card. It will be the Checker's responsibility to see that the tape is correctly perforated with the call-sign for the day as shown on the card.
If the tape is incorrect, the Checker will hand the tape and call-sign card back to the keyboard perforator operator for re-perforating.
When the tape has been checked and found correct, the Checker will hand the call-sign card and tape to the Register Clerk.
TELEPRINTERS.
Operational messages will take precedence over all service messages on the teleprinters, other than those dealing with additional contacts or crack signals. Service messages dealing with additional contacts or crack signals, unless they are marked "Confirmatory" will be sent immediately after any operational message in the course of teleprinting has been completed.
Duplicate copies of all out messages and service messages will be placed in the Signalmaster's tray.
Operators will report immediately to the Signalmaster any failure of equipment and any damage of defect, however, slight.
The Teleprinter operator will be responsible for keeping her own registers up to date.
"OUT" messages received on the teleprinter will be handed direct to the Register Clerk immediately, the carbon copy being placed in the Signalmaster's tray.
All copies of ÏN" message will be pinned together after transmission on the teleprinter and placed in the Signalmaster's tray.
Source: Wikipedia.
PROCEDURES FOR USE IN COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN SOE/SO-HQ & SO & SF DETACHMENTS,
AFC 2136 will be used at SOE/ Signal Office HQ for originating all messages. A copy of this form is attached.
All messages teleprinted from MAIN WT STATIONS to HQ SIGNAL OFFICE must be in the same form as AFC 2136 except that the date time of the origin will be at the end of the text.
Where a message ais received from Signal Office Detachment, who will be using the US Army message forms, it will be the responsibility of the MAIN WT Station (STATION 53C) to change the form of the message before it is teleprinted to HQ Signal Office, to conform to Para above.
The MAIN WT STATION will also be responsible for changing and OUT message to Signal Office Detachments into the US Army form.
"All informed" procedure.
Where a message is addressed to two or more addressees, the originator may add at the end of the text the words "all informed" or in its abbreviated form "all infm".
When these words appear at the end of the text, Signals will be permitted to delete from a message going over any particular channel all those addressees who are NOT served by that channel, e.g.
A message is addressed from SOE/Signal office HQ to Special Forces 21 Army Group, SF-2 BRITISH ARMY, SF-1 CANADIAN ARMY, with "all informed" at the end of the text and handed in for transmission.
MAIN WT STATION, in preparing copy for SF-21 ARMY GROUP, will delete from that particular message the second and third addressees.
MAIN WT STATION, in preparing copy for SF-2 BRITISH ARMY, will delete the first and third addressees, etc.
Transmission of figures.
Figures which are spelt out in enciphering will be returned to figures in deciphering.
Lateral Communications.
Lateral communications between any two Outstations working on the same frequency will NOT be permitted.
Opening additional Channel.
If an Outstation wishes to open an additional channel in order to clear traffic, it will do so by asking Home Station by Service Message to open an indicated channel, giving plan name and frequency.
MAIN WT STATION may similarly ask any Outstation to open its second channel, but may NOT make such a request in respect of lt dets associated with Sections.
Priorities.
New priorities are being introduced by SOE/ Signal Office and will be taken into use as follows:
Q-Signal.
QSQ
New SOE/Signal Office Priority: Emergency Priority.
Old SOE/ Signal Office Priority: Most immediate.
Current US Army priority: Urgent.
Current British Priority: Emergency.
US & British Army prefix: O.
QSP
New SOE/Signal Office Priority: Priority.
Old SOE/ Signal Office Priority: Immediate.
Current US Army priority: Priority.
Current British Priority: Important.
US & British Army prefix: P.
QTC
New SOE/Signal Office Priority: Routine.
Old SOE/ Signal Office Priority: ---
Current US Army priority: Routine.
Current British Priority: ---
US & British Army prefix: R.
QDR
New SOE/Signal Office Priority: Deferred.
Old SOE/ Signal Office Priority: Deferred.
Current US Army priority: Deferred.
Current British Priority: Deferred.
US & British Army prefix: D.
When SOE/Signal office messages are passed to normal Army channels for transmission, the appropriate equivalent Army priority must be substituted for the SOE/SO priority.
When either EMERGENCY PRIORITY or PRIORITY "IN" messages are received at HQ Signal Office, the addressee will be notified immediately by telephone, or by advance copy which will be marked as such by rubber stamp.
All messages will be dealt with within their degree of priority according to the time handed in to Signals.
Time.
In order to conform to Army procedure:
Time signals from BBC Broadcast will be taken as official time.
Local times will be indicated by adding the following suffixes to time:
Greenwich Mean Time: Z.
British Summer Time: A.
Double British Summer Time: B.
Call Signs.
Owing to narrow separation between channels all initial transmissions will be prefaced by the call-sign of the station calling. This call-sign will be sent once only.
Q-Code Signs.
The following Q Code Signals may be used on SF and SO wireless channels:
QSR: Cease transmitting but listen out on the present frequency.
QMW: Close down and return to base.
QKO: Carry on with communication (i.e. cancel QSR).
QWM: I am forced to close down and return to base.
The provision of this Signal Instruction will be brought into use forthwith.
The Para's above will apply also to comns between SOE/SO HQ and JEDBURGH and BARDSEA parties.
w.mugge@home.nl
AFC 2136 will be used at SOE/ Signal Office HQ for originating all messages. A copy of this form is attached.
All messages teleprinted from MAIN WT STATIONS to HQ SIGNAL OFFICE must be in the same form as AFC 2136 except that the date time of the origin will be at the end of the text.
Where a message ais received from Signal Office Detachment, who will be using the US Army message forms, it will be the responsibility of the MAIN WT Station (STATION 53C) to change the form of the message before it is teleprinted to HQ Signal Office, to conform to Para above.
The MAIN WT STATION will also be responsible for changing and OUT message to Signal Office Detachments into the US Army form.
"All informed" procedure.
Where a message is addressed to two or more addressees, the originator may add at the end of the text the words "all informed" or in its abbreviated form "all infm".
When these words appear at the end of the text, Signals will be permitted to delete from a message going over any particular channel all those addressees who are NOT served by that channel, e.g.
A message is addressed from SOE/Signal office HQ to Special Forces 21 Army Group, SF-2 BRITISH ARMY, SF-1 CANADIAN ARMY, with "all informed" at the end of the text and handed in for transmission.
MAIN WT STATION, in preparing copy for SF-21 ARMY GROUP, will delete from that particular message the second and third addressees.
MAIN WT STATION, in preparing copy for SF-2 BRITISH ARMY, will delete the first and third addressees, etc.
Transmission of figures.
Figures which are spelt out in enciphering will be returned to figures in deciphering.
Lateral Communications.
Lateral communications between any two Outstations working on the same frequency will NOT be permitted.
Opening additional Channel.
If an Outstation wishes to open an additional channel in order to clear traffic, it will do so by asking Home Station by Service Message to open an indicated channel, giving plan name and frequency.
MAIN WT STATION may similarly ask any Outstation to open its second channel, but may NOT make such a request in respect of lt dets associated with Sections.
Priorities.
New priorities are being introduced by SOE/ Signal Office and will be taken into use as follows:
Q-Signal.
QSQ
New SOE/Signal Office Priority: Emergency Priority.
Old SOE/ Signal Office Priority: Most immediate.
Current US Army priority: Urgent.
Current British Priority: Emergency.
US & British Army prefix: O.
QSP
New SOE/Signal Office Priority: Priority.
Old SOE/ Signal Office Priority: Immediate.
Current US Army priority: Priority.
Current British Priority: Important.
US & British Army prefix: P.
QTC
New SOE/Signal Office Priority: Routine.
Old SOE/ Signal Office Priority: ---
Current US Army priority: Routine.
Current British Priority: ---
US & British Army prefix: R.
QDR
New SOE/Signal Office Priority: Deferred.
Old SOE/ Signal Office Priority: Deferred.
Current US Army priority: Deferred.
Current British Priority: Deferred.
US & British Army prefix: D.
When SOE/Signal office messages are passed to normal Army channels for transmission, the appropriate equivalent Army priority must be substituted for the SOE/SO priority.
When either EMERGENCY PRIORITY or PRIORITY "IN" messages are received at HQ Signal Office, the addressee will be notified immediately by telephone, or by advance copy which will be marked as such by rubber stamp.
All messages will be dealt with within their degree of priority according to the time handed in to Signals.
Time.
In order to conform to Army procedure:
Time signals from BBC Broadcast will be taken as official time.
Local times will be indicated by adding the following suffixes to time:
Greenwich Mean Time: Z.
British Summer Time: A.
Double British Summer Time: B.
Call Signs.
Owing to narrow separation between channels all initial transmissions will be prefaced by the call-sign of the station calling. This call-sign will be sent once only.
Q-Code Signs.
The following Q Code Signals may be used on SF and SO wireless channels:
QSR: Cease transmitting but listen out on the present frequency.
QMW: Close down and return to base.
QKO: Carry on with communication (i.e. cancel QSR).
QWM: I am forced to close down and return to base.
The provision of this Signal Instruction will be brought into use forthwith.
The Para's above will apply also to comns between SOE/SO HQ and JEDBURGH and BARDSEA parties.
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