The Pub. 102 Code Group exam is based on the conventions stated in PUB. 102 International Code of Signals.
1. A signal made by flashing light is divided into the following parts:
(a) The call.—It consists of the general call or the identity signal of the station to be called. It is answered by the answering signal.
(b) The identity.—The transmitting station makes “DE” followed by its identity signal or name. This will be repeated back by the receiving station which then signals its own identity signal or name. This will also be repeated back by the transmitting station.
(c) The text.—This consists of plain language or Code groups. When Code groups are to be used they should be preceded by the signal “YU”. Words of plain language may also be in the text, when the signal includes names, places, etc. Receipt of each word or group is acknowledged by “T”.
(d) The ending.—It consists of the ending signal “AR” which is answered by “R”.
Based on the above rules the exam starts with the signal identity "DE' followed by a four letter identity signal or name followed by "YU", indicating a code group follows. All are sent once.
This is followed by five code groups, each transmitted twice. The ending signal "AR" indicates the end of the five code groups. In the example below the 5 code groups in red. You are graded only on the 5 code groups.
If at any time during the exam you loose your place, use the Stop button at the bottom of the screen. The Restart Exam button starts the exam from the beginning.
Use a piece of scrap paper to write down the letters as they are received. If needed copy dot and dash characters and decipher after transmission is complete, but before opening Pub. 102.
After transmission is completed, you must decipher the five code groups using Pub. 102, and transfer the code group meaning into your answer sheet.
Your answer sheet for the above example would look like this:
Enter decoded meaning of each code group. (Use Pub. 102)
Group 1. I wish to communicate with you.
Group 2. You should stop your vessel instantly.
Group 3. My vessel is stopped and making no way through the water.
Group 4. I am disabled; communicate with me.
Group 5. I require assistance.
Each correctly decoded group is worth 5 points for a possible total of 25 points. (5 groups x 5 = 25 points) You need a combined (Part I & Part II) score of 70 points to pass.