VIRTUALNET
STUDENT GUIDE
USER DOCUMENTATION
STUDENT GUIDE SUNRAY GUIDE

VirtualNet - Student User Guide

Welcome to VirtualNet! This guide will help you get up and running on your simulated radio net. VirtualNet lets you practice military voice procedure (VP) by sending and receiving messages to other students.

Quick Start Checklist

  1. Enter the 4-character Net Access PIN that your instructor (Sunray) has given you.
  2. Enter your Nickname and click CONNECT TO NET.
  3. Wait until Sunray assigns your Callsign.
  4. Once assigned, practice your voice procedure!

1. Joining a Radio Net

  • When you launch VirtualNet, you'll see the Join Radio Net screen.
  • Type in the Net Access PIN provided for your training exercise (for example: A3F9).
  • Enter your Nickname (e.g., SAM or JOHN).
  • Click CONNECT TO NET.

Note: Once connected, your screen will display AWAITING CALLSIGN ASSIGNMENT.... Don't worry—your radio controls will unlock automatically as soon as Sunray assigns your callsign!

2. How to Transmit (Push-to-Talk)

VirtualNet works like a real two-way radio: only one person can speak at a time.

To Speak:

  • Press and hold the SPACEBAR on your keyboard (or click and hold the red PTT button on screen).
  • Wait a second, then
  • Speak clearly into your microphone, remembering RSVP.
  • Release the key/button as soon as you finish your message.

Channel Discipline:

  • Listen before keying! If another station is transmitting, your display will show RECEIVING or CHANNEL BUSY.
  • If you try to press PTT while the channel is busy, you will hear a warning buzz and your transmission will be blocked. Wait until the station finishes before transmitting.

3. Reference Material

You are provided with several reference documents you can use during your VP exercise:
- BATCO sheet (with slider)
- BATCO sheet without slider
- VOCAB cards
- SLATE cards
- Reference cards for logging shortcuts

4. Radio Controls

  • VU Meter: Monitors your mic input level. Speak so the green segments light up cleanly without clipping red.

Summary Checklist for Good Net Operators

  • Always wait for the channel to be clear (IDLE).
  • Hold PTT, pause, then speak.
  • End transmissions with OVER or OUT.
  • Maintain physical paper logsheet entries accurately using the in-app LOGGING reference card.
  • Have fun!