hepkema Wrote:
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> Does "toning up" the dispatcher do anything on his
> (or her, just to be completely P.C.) end other
> than light up a node on the screen? I once heard
> the BN Boyer West Dispatcher (Spokane,
> WA-Sandpoint, ID) ream somebody out for "toning
> up". That territory is fairly short, as Dispatcher
> territories go--about 80 miles). He told the guy
> "I am able to monitor everything and get tired of
> tearing my headphones off when that tone comes
> in".

Can't speak for BNSF, but UP dispatchers have the ability to monitor the radio. Doing so depends on their work load, specific situation, etc. I generally try verbally calling him/or first (in case he/she is listening, so the tone won't go off in his/her ear), then use the toner if there's no answer.