Introduction

FM Repeaters - An Introduction

Acknowledgements

Big thank you to Joe and Julie from School Amateur Radio Club Network.

Julie VK3FOWL
Joe VK3YSP
School Amateur Radio Club Network® VK3SRC
Web: www.sarcnet.org
Email: info@sarcnet.org

Repeater Book App

Local Repeaters

Repeater Book - Specific station

ICOM ID-52D Add Repeater - Instructions

ICOM ID-52D Add Repeater
Get into VFO Mode
Use the top knob to change the freqency.
To alternate between higher and lower frequencies click the VFO button
Click on the Menu button
Select Set using the middle button
Select DUO/TONE
Select Repeater Tone
Use knob to change tone (e.g. 91.5)
Then select TSQL Freq
Click on VFO button to escape from Menu

Click on QUICK button
Select DUP - Duplex
Select DUP-
Select TONE

Add to Memory

Hold down MR key
Select WRITE To NEW CH new channel
Find blank channel
Push middle button
Click YES to write to new channel.

Edit name of Memory Channel

Change to Channel mode (Memory Mode) by clicking on MR button
Find Memory
Hold down MR to Edit
Select Edit with the middle button
Click QUICK button
Select NAME
Enter characters for name
Press QUICK to exit
Select <<Write>> to save changes.

Set Squelsh

Push down SQL button.
Adjust using Top knob

Escape from Menu

Press VFO button.

Power setting

Click on LO button (right indicator button)
Adjust power level from Low to High.

Formatting MicroSD card

Click on MENU.
Select SET > SD Card > Format
Format OK YES.
Formatting will take 10 seconds.

Recording Voice

Click on MENU
Select Voice > Record
PTT - Push to Talk will start voice recording.

Recording a Conversation - QSO

Click on MENU
Select RECORD > QSO Recorder > <<REC Start>>
This will record a session whenever PTT is pressed or a transmission is received on the radio.
Stop recording with Menu > QSO Recorder > <<REC Stop>>

Recording QSO Audio

Recording a QSO audio on an Icom ID-52 refers to the capability of the Icom ID-52 handheld transceiver to record the audio of a QSO (conversation) that takes place during amateur radio communication. The ID-52 is equipped with a voice recording feature that allows you to capture and save the audio of your conversations with other amateur radio operators. This feature can be useful for various purposes, including:

Logging and Documentation: Recording QSO audio enables you to log and document your communications. You can review the recordings later for reference, to confirm details of the contact, or for keeping a record of your amateur radio activities.
Verification: In some cases, recording QSOs can serve as a means to verify or confirm contacts, especially for contests, awards, or verifying rare stations. You can provide evidence of your QSOs if needed.
Training and Learning: Amateur radio operators, especially those in training or learning about the hobby, can benefit from recording their QSOs. They can review their conversations to improve operating skills, learn about propagation, and practice contesting or DXing.
Enjoyment: Some operators simply enjoy capturing their QSOs as a hobby and for personal enjoyment. It allows them to relive interesting or memorable conversations.

The Icom ID-52 typically offers a recording function that allows you to start and stop recording during a QSO, and the recorded audio is saved on the device for later playback. You may need an external memory card to store the recorded audio, depending on the device's memory capacity.

Please note that when recording QSOs, it's essential to respect privacy and legal regulations regarding audio recording in your region. Always obtain consent from other parties involved in the QSO before recording.

Repeaters around Melbourne

Best Repeaters for Tech School

RHF - Melbourne East, Olinda
RSE - Melbourne East, Glen Waverley
RMS - Sassafras, Olinda
RMN - Kinglake Central, Kinglake

VK3RHF - Melbourne North West, Mt Macedon

Receive frequency 438.875 MHz
Transmit frequency 431.875 MHz
70cm
FM
Offset frequency -7.0 MHz
Repeater tone 88.5 Hz
53.3 km North West
First contact 19 Oct 2023
Tested - OK

VK3 RSE - Melbourne East, Glen Waverley

Receive frequency 439.9000 MHz
Offset frequency -5.0 MHz
FM Carrier
26.1 South east
Tested - OK

VK3 RCC - Melbourne, CBD East

Receive frequency 438.025 MHz
Offset frequency -5.0 MHz
Repeater tone FM 91.5 Hz
16.7 km South West

VK3 RAJ - Ferntree Gully, Upwey

439.7500 MHz
-5 MHz
FM 91.5 Hz
34.5 km South East

VK3 RML - Ferntree Gully, Ferny Creek

146.7000 MHz
-0.6 MHz
FM 91.5 Hz
33.7 km South East

VK3 RMS - Sassafras, Olinda

438.2250 MHz
-5.0 MHz
FM 91.5 Hz
34.1 km South East

VK3 RMC - Dandenong Sth, Narre Warren

439.875 MHz
-5.0 MHz
FM 91.5 Hz
43.8 km South East

VK3 REC - Sassafras, Olinda

147.1750 MHz
+0.6 MHz
FM 91.5 Hz
34.2 km South East

VK3 RHF - Melbourne East, Olinda

438.750 MHz
-5.0 MHz
FM 88.5 Hz
34.2 km South East

VK3 RSP - Rosebud, Arthur's Seat

146.675 MHz
-0.6 MHz
FM 88.5 Hz
75.7 km South

VK3 RSU - Melbourne, Police Academy Site

438.100 MHZ
-7.0 MHz
FM 91.5 Hz
26.2 km South East

VK3 RMN - Kinglake Central, Kinglake

146.850 MHz
-0.6 MHz
FM 91.5 Hz
29.7 km North East

VK3 RPU - Rosebud, Arthur's Seat

439.850 MHz
-5.0 MHz
FM 91.5 Hz
75.9 km South

VK3 RMU - Healsville, Mt St Leonard

147.375 MHz
+0.6 MHz
FM 91.5 Hz
43.8 km East

VK3 RSB - Healsville, Mt St Leonard Tower

439.550 MHz
-5.0 MHz
FM 91.5 Hz
43.8 km East

VK3 RGL - Geelong North, Mt Anakie

147.000 MHz
-0.6 MHz
FM 91.5 Hz
72.3 km West

VK3 RMM - Mount Macedon, Mt Macedon

147.250 MHz
+0.6 MHz
FM 91.5 Hz
52.9 km North West

VK3 RBO - Bendigo, White Hills

438.025 MHz
-5.0 Hz
FM Carrier
124 km North West

Eltham, Kangaroo Ground

VK3RMH
70cm
438.32500 Rx
433.32500 Tx
-5.0 MHz
FM
91.5 Hz

Melbourne, CBD East

VK3RCC
438.02500
-5.0 MHz
FM
91.5 Hz

Q-Codes

QSO - A conversation. I had a great QSO
QSY - Change frequency. QSY to 146.425 (2m FM Simplex)
QRZ - Who is calling? This is VK3 ZUW

2 Metre Band - Simplex Mode

146.50 - National Voice Calling Frequency
146.425 - 146.600 - FM Simplex (25 kHz channels)
146.55 - one example of an FM Simplex frequency

International Phonetic Alphabet

A - Alpha
B - Bravo
C - Charlie
D - Delta
E - Echo
F - Foxtrot
G - Golf
H - Hotel
I - India
J - Juilet
K - Kilo
L - Lima
M - Mike
N - November
O - Oscar
P - Papa
Q - Quebec
R - Romeo
S - Sierra
T - Tango
U - Uniform
V - Victor
W - Whisky
X - X-ray
Y - Yankee
Z - Zulu

Terminology

Half-Duplex

The term "half-duplex" refers to a communication mode or method in which data transmission can occur in both directions but not simultaneously. In a half-duplex communication system, devices or parties can transmit data, but only one at a time. While one device is transmitting, the other device(s) must listen and wait for their turn to send data. This is in contrast to full-duplex communication, where data can be transmitted simultaneously in both directions.

A common example of a half-duplex communication system is a walkie-talkie or a two-way radio. When one person is talking into the walkie-talkie, the other person must wait until the first person finishes speaking before responding. They cannot talk at the same time because the communication is half-duplex.

Half-duplex communication has its advantages in situations where only one device can transmit at a time, reducing the chances of data collisions and simplifying communication protocols. However, it can also result in increased latency and reduced overall data transfer rates compared to full-duplex communication, where devices can transmit and receive data simultaneously.

Co-linear

The term "co-linear" refers to objects or elements that are arranged in a straight line. In the context of antennas, "co-linear" typically refers to multiple radiating elements or conductors aligned in a straight line, usually along a common axis. These elements are designed to work together to achieve a specific antenna configuration or radiation pattern.

Co-linear antennas are popular in applications where multiple radiating elements are used in parallel to enhance performance, gain, or radiation characteristics. For example, in a co-linear dual-band antenna, two radiating elements are aligned in a straight line to support two different frequency bands, effectively extending the antenna's capabilities.

The "co-" prefix in "co-linear" signifies the idea of "together" or "in conjunction," indicating that the elements are aligned and work in harmony to achieve a common purpose. This term is widely used in the field of antenna design and telecommunications to describe antennas with multiple elements aligned along a common axis.

Co-Linear Dual Band Antenna

A co-linear dual-band antenna is a type of antenna designed to operate on two different frequency bands simultaneously. It is particularly common in applications like amateur radio, two-way radios, and wireless communication systems where the ability to transmit and receive signals on multiple frequency bands is essential. This type of antenna has multiple radiating elements, typically two, aligned in a straight line. Here are some key characteristics and features of a co-linear dual-band antenna:

Dual-Band Operation: Co-linear dual-band antennas are specifically designed for dual-band radios, which commonly operate in the VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) bands. These antennas can transmit and receive signals on both bands.

Radiating Elements: They consist of two vertical radiating elements that are typically arranged in a collinear configuration. These elements are usually half-wavelength dipoles for each frequency band.

Phasing Section: Between the two radiating elements, there is a phasing section that ensures that the signals are properly in phase for optimal radiation patterns and gain. This section may include phase lines or stubs.

Connector: Co-linear dual-band antennas are equipped with a connector that allows them to be easily connected to a radio or transceiver.

Gain and Performance: These antennas are designed to provide gain in both frequency bands, improving signal strength and coverage compared to a simple monopole antenna. The phasing section and collinear configuration contribute to their performance.

Compact Design: Despite their dual-band capability, co-linear dual-band antennas are often relatively compact and suitable for portable and mobile applications.

Mounting: They can be mounted on various structures, such as vehicles, towers, or masts, depending on the specific application.

Omnidirectional: Co-linear dual-band antennas are typically omnidirectional, which means they radiate and receive signals equally in all directions, making them suitable for applications where the source of signals may be in different locations.

These antennas are versatile and widely used in scenarios where both VHF and UHF bands are essential for communication, such as public safety, emergency services, amateur radio, and dual-band transceivers for ham radio operators. Their dual-band capability and omnidirectional nature make them valuable for reliable communication in various situations.

Icom ID-52 Repeater Experiments