procedures is recognized. Circuit operators will report the backlog or potential for backlogs (logged-out equipment, poor reception) to the supervisor, who will in turn pass the information up the chain of command to the CWO and will also log the information into the master station log (MSL). When  relieved,  the  circuit  operator  will  pass  on information pertaining to the circuit(s), when it is not covered  in  the  circuit  status  standard  operating procedures. A  broadcast  form  provides  for  the  number  of messages  received, the classification of the message, and also provides a record of destruction for classified message  traffic.  A  check-off  sheet  (stock  number  0196- LF-301-2350) is available through the supply system for keeping a record of broadcast numbers received and transmitted. COMMAND  GUARD LISTS Each command is responsible for maintaining an accurate list of all AIGS, CADS, general messages, and task  organization  assignments  required  to  fulfill  its mission, and to supply this guard list to a serving communications center. The command guard list must be verified with the communication plan to ensure that it is accurate and any discrepancies are corrected prior to updating. This is normally  done  when  a  change  in  tasking,  operating area, or mission occurs. DAILY  CALL  SIGNS FLTCINC  communications  operating  plan  will prescribe the specific form of call sign to be employed based on the network used and operating conditions. Call signs are to be used when first establishing a net, when reporting into a previously established net, and in the transmission and address components when a message is required to be relayed to a station that is on a different  net. Daily call signs, by their very name, direct you to change  the  call  signs  daily,  using  various  issued publications.  Refer  to  local  operating  instructions  for instructions on how to verify the type of daily call signs you are using for specific situations. MASTER STATION LOG (MSL) The MSL is the official narrative record maintained to  record  significant  events  (e.g.,  power  failures, complete system outages, major equipment outages or impairments such as HAZCON’S and any other event that   may   have   an   impact   on   operations,   time verification, shift or watch changes, special tests, etc.). Every communication space must maintain a Master Station  Log. Entries must be made in chronological order. The shift or watch supervisor is required to sign the log when logging “on” and “off” duty and at the end of the RADAY. If the MSL is an automated log, it shall be designed so that it does not allow alternations. For manual logs, a hard copy of the MSL must be filed at the end of each RADAY. MSLs must be retained for a minimum of 12 months. THE COMMUNICATIONS PLAN The   communications   plan   satisfies   the communications  requirements  of  an  operation.  It specifies circuits, channels, and facilities to be used and stipulates   the   policies   and   procedures   that   are applicable. The plan is, in effect, an assignment of communications tasks to be performed by subordinate commanders or by supporting commands. The  planner  first  establishes  requirements  for communications and then determines the best means for satisfying them. This process may reveal shortages or inadequacies in what is available. If inadequacies  are identified, it may become necessary to share circuits or facilities,  as  well  as  to  merge  or  consolidate requirements. All possibilities should be considered to support valid operational requirements. In planning communications, the planner must evaluate such factors as the performance, capabilities, and capacities of systems and facilities, as well as the personnel.    These  factors  are  merely  guides  and averages. They represent the sum result of experience in previous similar situations, and are considered only after any local factors are determined. These factors change from time to time and must all be available for final  determination  of  communications  requirements. QUALITY CONTROL The AN/SSQ-88/A/B system was designed to provide  a  means  of  monitoring  and  evaluating performance of any communications system used by forces afloat. You will utilize this system with RCS interface as well as various other types of monitoring systems; for example, oscilloscopes, meggers, and visual, just to name a few. 1-21