HAM Radio 3.2/Ham Radio Version 3.2 (Chestnut CD-ROMs)(1993).ISO/packet/pktinfo/beginner.004

Text File | 1990-11-06 | 2KB | 38 lines

In our last bulletin we talked about the correct use of the SP command.
Today, let's look at SB and ST.

SB means (S)end (B)ulletin.  This is the form used when you want it
to be read by everyone.  Bulletins are usually sent to an @ DESTINATION.
If you just send it as SB ALL it will just sit on the BBS for local
users to read.  Send it as SB ALL @ DESTINATION and it'll be forwarded.
These are examples of two @ DESTINATIONS:
SB ALL @ FLA covers BBS's over the entire state.
SB ALL @ ALLUS blankets the nation.
There are many other @ DESTINATIONS, including local and regional ones,
but you get the idea.
Sometimes it helps to use a special address to alert users who might be
interested in a specific subject, so they'll read your bulletin.
SB REBBS @ FLA and SB CAP @ ALLUS are examples.

NOTE!  A common error is when users address a bulletin as SP instead
of SB.  This makes it a PRIVATE message and no one, except BBS sysops,
will be able to read it!  Make this mistake, and you'll wonder why you
never get any replies!  Also, don't address ANY message as just
S (SOMETHING).  Many BBS's automatically append a P to an S-only message
making it SP.  If you intended to send out a bulletin, you've had it!
Always start your messages with SP, SB or ST.

ST means (S)end (T)raffic.  This is used only for formally formatted NTS
messages with a routine number, day/time, group count, etc.  To aid in
routing always put the town, state and phone number in the subject
line.  Formal traffic messages may be sent @ the destination BBS, if
you know it.  If not, use NTSxx where xx is the 2 letter state
abbreviation.  Example:
ST NTSOH
(SUBJ.): Columbus OH 555-1111
Remember, never use ST for anything but a formally formatted NTS message.

Next time we'll look at the only way to actually talk to a real, live
sysop!  Questions or comments on this series are welcome.
73...Bill, KB4VOL @ KB4VOL