Table 3-3. Multichannel Planning Considerations
(2) Multichannel radio communication systems are generally LOS. The location of the unit
HQ must be established to permit the division signal battalion to easily support the air defense battalion.
Jump locations should be reported to the assistant division signal officer as soon as they are known to
ensure multichannel communications can be reestablished quickly should the battalion be required to
move.
(3) The specific locations of radio equipment, generators, and switchboards from the division
signal battalion to terminate the multichannel communications system at the air defense battalion TOC
location must be coordinated between the division signal battalion and the supported unit. This ensures
no conflicts occur between the supporting and supported units on the use of terrain at the TOC, and
minimizes the possibility of the multichannel radio equipment causing interference to the supporting
unit's own radio systems.
(4) To ensure adequate and continuous communications, the battalion signal officer must
know the date and time for systems to be operational, the terrain characteristics where operations will be
conducted, and the expected weather for the period of operation. The signal officer should also know
power requirements by location, operating frequency assignments, and probable trouble areas and
3.
Summary. In this lesson, you reviewed the purpose and format of the signal annex. You also
learned some key planning considerations for single-channel radio, wire, and multichannel
communications. You need to know these considerations to be a successful signal officer in an air
defense battalion.
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