DTMF
commands allow stations to be searched or connected
by callsign, or the status of any station to be queried
and allow you to dial up a node number in any part of
the world and just listen in on a QSO. It is up to you
to announce your presence and join in.
EchoLink
is normally assigned a 6-digit node number. However,
there are also some 4-digit numbers and 5-digit numbers
that are currently unassigned.
Echolink
Repeater Operating Procedure
1. Where repeaters are linked, your transmissions will
be heard on the output of all the linked Repeaters,
Gateway Links and PC Users so the golden rule is to
listen listen listen.
2. Operation of a linked repeater is the same as a normal
repeater, except that the coverage is much greater.
3. Please remember that using the DTMF tones to move
your Link can be heard through the repeater and it can
be annoying to others so keep them to a minimum also
give your callsign and a brief explanation of what you
are doing.
4. If you do move the LINK with the DTMF tones and connect
to other Repeaters / Links don't forget to disconnect
the repeater using the # key.
5. There is about a 3 second delay when working through
the internet links so don't forget to leave a good gap
between overs to enable others to break in.
6. Use simplex wherever possible freeing the repeater
for necessary uses.
7. Monitor the repeater (listen) or determine if the
repeater is in use, and if there are any peculiarities
in its operation. After listening for a few seconds,
identify, un key and listen to see if it was quiet for
a reason, and to allow someone to let you know if there
is a reason not to continue (low audio, low signal strength,
etc). Then, if all OK, proceed.
8. Don’t break into a contact unless you have
something to add. Interrupting is no more polite on
the air than it is in person. Interruption without identification
constitutes malicious (and illegal) interference.
9. Use the minimum power to key up the LINK. To make
contact, simply indicate that you are on frequency.
For example "G1ABC monitoring". Do not kerchunk.
10. Remember amateur radio transmissions are being monitored
by many non-hams with scanners. Watch your language
and your manners. Please don't bring disrepute on the
Amateur Radio Service.
11. Links & Repeaters are intended to facilitate
mobile and portable operation. During rush hours, base
stations should relinquish the repeater to commuting
mobiles. Some repeater owners have strict rules requiring
this.
12. Keep transmissions short and thoughtful. Do not
monopolize the repeater. Pause between transmissions
to allow other amateurs to identify themselves if they
wish to use the repeater. Pausing also allows the timer
to reset, avoiding a "time-out"
13.
Identify legally. In the UK that means at the beginning
and end of a contact or every 15 minutes of operation.
14.
Repeaters are installed and maintained at considerable
expense. Regular users of a repeater should financially
support
repeater groups to keep the repeaters on air.
