Speak Out: Repeater Features?
A contributor writes, "I'm setting up a new repeater with a state-of-the art controller that has way more functions than we'll ever use. I'd be interested in people's ideas on how to do different things or have different features on a repeater. We already have a weather station, but that's it. And phone patch just isn't worth it anymore. Please help me out."
12 opinions on this subject.
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N3OX on 2008-07-20
"forget the cw id, not everyone knows it."
But, it's legally sufficient and less in the way than a voice ID if the repeater mixes in the ID with the audio.
I like the identification that starts in voice and continues if the repeater stays idle but cuts and does CW instead when someone starts talking again.
I think it's good to do both CW and voice ID.
KG4ZVA on 2008-07-20
forget the cw id, not everyone knows it.
echolink or something would be good on maybe a certain day of the week but maybe not all the time as it might congest the repeater.
club announcements are nice. its nice to hear a voice.
but if you just want the basics, i would say a good clear voice ID and location would be nice. most repeaters i can hear but have no idea where they are as i am traveling.
W5KGT on 2008-07-19
Repeater controllers and there use can be one of the most highly technical aspects of Ham Radio. There are many things that can be done with controllers. If you can dream it up, It can be done by a controller of some sort. I have controllers doing all kinds of stuff. The non-tech guys like a simple controller. Which have there place. That's why there are so many different kinds out there. Have fun,
www.w5kgt.com
KC7FKW on 2008-07-18
Plan on how to conserve your finances to build a repeater with maximum reliability. Keep the frills to a minimum. Most regions of this country are well served by NWS beacons, so why dupe their info? Less money blown on 'toys', the more for better antennas, coax, connectors, [in that order] on down the line. Set aside money for proper test equipment. You will need it for troubleshooting when things degrade. Have you addressed what you'll need to combat illegal ops; such as kerchunkers, bogus ops, or just finding the legal op whose HAM equipment isn't functioning right, but is unaware of the problem. You should test each Repeater supporters' transceivers [say quarterly, or when dues are paid].
Re the use of the A/P: you need to 'get the word out' as to what your requirements/limitations/guidelines are, as to usage. These can go beyond just the FCC's. One particular thing to remember, is that A/Ps were to be primarily for Ops not in reasonable proximity to a LandLine. [and NOT to be used to avoid the telco tariffs] If Ops fail to abide by the Trustees' and all other pertinent rules, then ban them/limit their access to the Repeater. See if your Controller has the capability to block selected calls from being made. Place A/P offenders on the 'Blocked Users' list. No one has a RIGHT to use your Repeater, its' usually privately owned, therefore the PRIVILEGE OF USE can be recinded. Challenge Ops who improperly ID by speaking to rapidily, or not speaking CLEARLY & DISTINCTLY. Deal with violations on a timely basis. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING. Practice RDFing so your skills can be brought to bear rapidly. Don't forget, the Trustee and Control Ops are responsible for the station.
AD7DB on 2008-07-18
Skip the autopatch, too many cheapskates will use it and constantly tie it up. And won't help pay for it. Cellphones are everywhere these days.
Remote base, or remote links to other repeaters or crossband can be fun and useful at times. Reserve those perks for people who help financially support the machine.
Few people realize how much it costs to keep a repeater up. Site rental, insurance, electric bill, routine (and non-routine) maintenance and repair.
KB9SDS on 2008-07-17
IRLP always tickled my fancy. It will open up the world to your repeater.
KC9GPJ on 2008-07-16
I have no experience with repeaters. If I were you I would save the money and buy a cheaper controller with no thriils. Just TOT, ID and a courtesy tonne. You could use the extra money to add to performance( antenna,hardline, amp).
Just my thoughts. Although the weather stuff sounds pretty cool.
KM4VR on 2008-07-15
How about a 20 wpm CW ID. That would be neat.
W5GNB on 2008-07-15
In my opinion, the repeater should be JUST a repeater. No recording or autopatch capabilities and no Bings, Bongs, Whistles, or other Cutie items; those things are very anoying after the very first time you have heard them.
Weather channel audio data is probably OK if you are into that but if you tune to any broadcast station, you will hear the very same thing. What is the point??
Just my opinion...
73's
Gary - W5GNB
KI4ENS on 2008-07-15
If you are in an area where severe weather is common, configure it to give the warnings from NOAA weather radio. Just the warnings for county or area.
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