RST
|
|
The RST code is used by Radio Amateurs, Short Wave Listeners, and others to exchange radio signal reports.
The "R" stands for "Readability" and is measured on a scale of 1, (barely readable) to 5 (perfectly readable).
The "S" stands for "Strength" and is measured on a scale of 1, (very weak signal) to 9 (very strong signal).
The "T" stands for "Tone" and is measured on a scale of 1, (very poor tone) to 9 (perfect tone). Tone is used only used in morse code and digital transmissions and is therefore omitted during voice operations.
An example RST report for a voice contact would be "59", usually pronounced "five and nine," and symbolises a perfectly readable and very strong signal. Exceptionally strong signals are designated by the quantitative number of decibels, in excess of "S9", displayed on the receiver's "S meter". Example: "Your signal is 30db over S9."
Suffixes were historically added to indicate other signal properties: X, stable frequency (crystal control); C, "chirp" (frequency shift when keying); or K, key clicks. E.g., RST 599X.
RST is the IATA Airport Code for Rochester International Airport in Rochester, Minnesota.
RsT is also the name of a compiled hex used on Funcards to allow theft of cable television. RsT was specifically designed for the main UK cable networks; NTL, Ex-Cw and TW. The hex is probebly the most commonly used amongst enthusiast's and also cable-traders. One downside to this hex is that it does not AU (AutoRoll) on key change's.