What is a radiogram, and what key fields does a formal radiogram contain?

• A. A radiogram is a weather bulletin; Key fields: Date, Forecast, Valid Time.
• B. A radiogram is a formal written message transmitted via radio; Key fields: Precedence, Handling, originator's station, check, date/time group, from, to, text, and signature.
• C. A radiogram is a voice recording; Fields: Speaker, Time.
• D. A radiogram is a log entry; Fields: Date, Time, Location.

Answer: (B)

A radiogram is a formal written message transmitted by radio, designed for reliable, auditable communications. The fields are there to ensure the message is routed correctly, handled with the appropriate urgency, and verifiable from source to destination. The key fields include:

• Precedence, which indicates the urgency or priority of the message.

• Handling, which provides any special routing or processing instructions.

• Originator's station, identifying where the message started.

• Check, a value used for error detection to verify the message was received intact.

• Date/time group, showing when the message was created or scheduled for delivery.

• From, specifying the sender or originator.

• To, specifying the intended recipient.

• Text, the actual content of the message.

• Signature, identifying who sent the message.

These elements together distinguish a radiogram from other communications like weather bulletins, voice recordings, or simple log entries, and ensure that formal radio traffic is clear, accountable, and retrievable.