What is meant by "check" in a radiogram header?

In the context of a radiogram header, "check" refers to the number of words or word equivalents in the text portion of the message. This is an important element because it allows the receiving station to verify that the complete message was received correctly. When the sending station includes the check in the header, it provides a quick means of confirming that the count of words matches what was sent. If there is a discrepancy in the expected number of words upon receipt, the receiving station may suspect that part of the message is missing or that there was an error in transmission.

This concept is crucial in maintaining the accuracy and reliability of communication in amateur radio, where messages can be relayed through multiple stations and any number of factors can affect transmission quality. Understanding the check helps operators ensure that the message integrity is maintained throughout its journey from sender to recipient.