Harnessing the power of the Internet via Echolink

As well as operating a full HF station I also operate a system called Echolink on VHF.

Echolink allows Radio Hams to connect VHF and UHF radio stations all over the world via the Internet. Why would you want to do that? Well using a VHF or UHF radio might typically provide coverage of some 25 or 30 miles depending on the terrain. Radio Hams have historically installed networks of repeaters to extend the range of their transmissions, particularly when they are operating from their cars or out walking with a handheld radio. With the advent of Echolink multiple radio stations and repeaters can be linked via the Internet providing even greater coverage.

A typical screenshot from Echolink.

Echolink is controlled via the keypad on the front of your handheld radio or from the keypad on your microphone. By transmitting DTMF tones you can send instructions to the Echolink gateway or repeater station. For instance pressing the * key forces the Echolink station to transmit its identification which lets you know that it is on the air and available. Transmitting 01 will connect you to a random station somewhere in the world or if you want to be more specific you can key in the unique identifying number of the radio station or repeater that you want to connect to. It’s that simple.

Echolink can also be downloaded to a desktop or laptop and operate directly from the software with the operator using a headset or microphone just as you would on Skype. This means that if you don't have a radio with you then you can still access Amateur Radio worldwide.

The PC which sits under the bench in my
Radio Shack and runs Echolink. Beside it you
see one of the handheld radios that you can
use to operate on Echolink.

My own Echolink station provides a really good example of the advantages of this system. I stay in a small seaside town which is surrounded by hills. With so many hills any Radio Ham who is operating on VHF or UHF from the town is really going to struggle to get a signal out. I am lucky enough to stay on top of one of the hills and I have a special licence from the Government to provide an Echolink gateway. This means that someone can stand by the beach with a low power handheld radio and communicate with someone on the other side of the world using my radio as a gateway. My unique node number is 293938 and the gateway callsign is MB7INA. Why not give me a call? It’s an amazing experience and this is a classic example of how Amateur Radio links with another technology to improve the hobby. More information can be found at the Echolink Website.