- Category: Tower Talk
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đť Introducing RepeaterBook Plus!
RepeaterBook Plus is a premium web subscription service designed for users who want the best RepeaterBook.com experienceâcompletely ad-free, faster, and packed with exclusive features. Subscribers gain early access to new tools, premium-only functionalities, and a smoother, distraction-free browsing experience. With features like My Favorite Repeaters, users can curate, manage, and export their own personalized repeater lists. Additionally, Route Searching with Google Maps is now available, allowing users to find repeaters along their travel routes, and Subscription Updates ensure users are notified when repeaters are updated. Upcoming enhancements include custom CSV exports and saved searches for even greater customization. RepeaterBook Plus isn't just about removing ads; it's about supporting the platform, ensuring its continued growth, and unlocking the most powerful tools for repeater enthusiasts. Upgrade today and enjoy the best RepeaterBook.com has to offer!
đ˛ Introducing RepeaterBook Connect - Instantly Program Your Radio
Say goodbye to the hassle of manually setting frequencies, offsets, and CTCSS tones. With RepeaterBook Connect, you can instantly configure your radio straight from the RepeaterBook app using your existing USB cable, built-in Bluetooth, or a Bluetooth interface. No extra hardware is needed! This powerful feature ensures you have the most up-to-date repeater information, making mobile and on-the-go operation easier and safer. Whether you're traveling or just exploring new repeaters, RepeaterBook Connect simplifies the process so you can focus on making contacts instead of programming your radio.
Now Available for Just $15.49/ÂŁ12 Annually
RepeaterBook Connect currently supports a variety of Icom, Kenwood, and Yaesu radios, with more models planned in future updates. Simply select your radio and connection method in the app to start using this game-changing feature. As an in-app subscription, RepeaterBook Connect is an affordable way to enhance your amateur radio experience while supporting the continued development of RepeaterBook. Join today and help shape the future of repeater connectivityâbecause programming your radio should be as easy as tapping a button! Subscriptions directly support the continued development of the app.
Available for Android
RepeaterBook Connect is currently available for Android users, with an iOS version coming soon! Take advantage of our free trial subscription and explore its features risk-free. Stay tuned for the Apple release!
Supported Radiosâď¸đ´RepeaterBook Attends HamCation 2025
Exciting news from HamCation 2025! RepeaterBookâs Garrett Dow (KD6KPC) and Nicolas Pike (M1HOG) traveled to Orlando to connect with the ham radio community, showcase the latest RepeaterBook features, and announce a major developmentâthe next ARRL Repeater Directory will be powered by RepeaterBook! This partnership brings real-time, crowd-sourced repeater data to one of amateur radioâs most trusted resources.
đŚWin a Free Radio Anytone 878 Handheld Radio!
RepeaterBook has teamed up with BridgeCom Systems to give you a chance to win an Anytone 878âone of the most popular DMR radios on the market! Entering is easy, and one lucky winner will take home this powerful dual-band radio packed with features. Donât miss your chance to upgrade your shack for freeâEnter today!
đĄAmateur Radio News Around the World
Spain's First Amateur Radio Satellite (HADES-R) is Active: Launched in January, HADES-R is now operational and designated Spain-OSCAR 124 (SO-124). It carries an FM repeater and is accessible to amateurs worldwide. This is a significant milestone for Spain's amateur radio community. (Source: AMSAT)
Lawmakers Reconsider Measure to Protect Antennas in HOAs:
- The Problem: Many homeowners' associations (HOAs) have restrictions that make it difficult or impossible for amateur radio operators to install antennas. This limits the ability of hams to participate in the hobby and provide emergency communication services.
- Legislative Action: Several states have introduced legislation to protect the rights of homeowners to install reasonable antennas for amateur radio and other wireless communication purposes. These bills aim to prevent HOAs from imposing unreasonable restrictions that hinder amateur radio operations.
- Recent Developments: Some of these bills have faced setbacks or delays, but efforts to protect antenna rights are ongoing. The ARRL and other amateur radio groups are actively lobbying for these measures and encouraging hams to contact their lawmakers to express their support.
Rapid Deployment Amateur Radio (RaDAR):
- The Concept: RaDAR is an initiative focused on developing and deploying rapidly deployable amateur radio communication systems for emergency and disaster relief situations. These systems can be quickly set up in areas where traditional communication infrastructure is damaged or unavailable.
- Key Technologies: RaDAR utilizes a variety of technologies, including portable repeaters, digital modes, and satellite communication, to provide reliable communication in challenging environments.
- Recent Progress: There has been growing interest and development in RaDAR systems, with amateur radio operators and organizations experimenting with new techniques and equipment. This includes the use of drones and other innovative approaches to deploy repeaters and antennas quickly and efficiently.
- Why it Matters for Repeater Users: RaDAR highlights the importance of repeaters in emergency communication. By supporting and participating in RaDAR initiatives, repeater operators can contribute to disaster preparedness and response efforts.
- Source: Get Ready for Rapid Deployment Amateur Radio - Amateur Radio Newsline
đ¤Featured Amateur Repeaters
South Coast Reflector
The South Coast Reflector (SCR) is an interconnected system of repeaters and AllStar nodes, primarily built and maintained by WA5AIR with the support of other dedicated hams and donors. It operates as part of the Texas Link System, connecting repeaters via both internet and RF links to create a broad and reliable communication network. Unlike many linked systems, SCR has no membership requirements, making it accessible to all amateur radio operators. The system welcomes additional AllStar nodes and repeaters, fostering a collaborative space for enhanced connectivity. Whether you're a local operator or connecting remotely, SCR provides a seamless way to link multiple amateur radio repeaters and simplex nodes using Voice-Over-IP technology. To learn more, visit TexasLinkSystem.com.
đ° GMRS News
1. Baofeng Tech Releases Big Updates for their GMRS Repeater:
- The Repeater: Baofeng Tech's GMRS-RPT50 is a 50-watt GMRS repeater that has gained popularity for its ease of use and affordability.
- The Updates: The latest firmware update brings significant improvements, including:
- Functional microphone: The repeater's microphone can now be used for voice operation, not just menu navigation.
- Simpler menu system: Makes it easier to program and configure the repeater.
- Adjustable squelch: Allows users to filter out weak signals and noise.
- No-tone option: Enables the repeater to be activated by any transmission on the correct channel, regardless of CTCSS/DCS tones.
- CWID flexibility: Provides options for transmitting the CW ID with or without tones, or disabling it entirely.
- Why it Matters: These updates enhance the functionality and user-friendliness of the GMRS-RPT50, making it an even more attractive option for GMRS repeater users.
- Source: Baofeng Tech Releases Big Updates For Their GMRS Repeater - YouTube
- https://baofengtech.com/product/gmrs-rpt50/?gad_source=1&gcl...
2. GMRS Live Shutting Down:
- The Service: GMRS Live was a popular network that allowed GMRS users to connect their radios to the internet, enabling wider communication range and features like room monitoring.
- The Shutdown: GMRS Live announced it would halt all GMRS activity due to concerns about FCC regulations regarding the linking of GMRS repeaters over the internet. While the legality of linking GMRS repeaters via the internet has been debated, GMRS Live decided to cease operations to avoid potential fines and legal challenges.
- Source: GMRSLive SHUTTING DOWN??? - YouTube
- The Issue: The FCC has clarified its stance on linking GMRS repeaters, stating that it is against the rules. This has caused confusion and concern among GMRS repeater owners who were operating under the assumption that linking was permitted.
- The Rules: The FCC's Part 95 rules, which govern GMRS, have been unclear on the matter of repeater linking. However, a recent clarification from the FCC indicates that they consider linking to be prohibited.
- The Impact: This clarification has led to the shutdown of several GMRS repeater networks, including GMRS Live and myGMRS Network.
- What's Next: It remains to be seen whether the FCC will formally update the Part 95 rules to explicitly prohibit linking. In the meantime, GMRS repeater owners are advised to operate under the assumption that linking is not allowed.
- Source: FCC
4. FCC Shuts Down GMRS Repeater Network:
- The Incident: A GMRS repeater network in New York was reportedly shut down by the FCC for violating rules regarding interconnection with the telephone network.
- The Details: The FCC allegedly issued a verbal warning to the repeater owners, stating that their use of a voting comparator and simulcast controller was considered a violation of the rules.
- The Implications: This incident highlights the importance of understanding and complying with FCC regulations for GMRS repeater operation.
- Source: FCC Shuts Down GMRS Repeater Network - Did The FCC Violate The 4th Amendment Of The Constitution? - YouTube
đ§HAM Admins Needed
We need help in the following areas:
- Hawaii
Contact us to learn more.
đEvent Calendar
Here is a calendar of upcoming amateur radio conventions happening from now until the end of December 2024:
March 2025
Midwinter Madness Hamvention
Date: March 22, 2025
Location: Buffalo, MN
This event features a large swap meet with vendors selling new and used amateur radio gear, exciting door prizes, and ARRL-sanctioned license exams for those looking to upgrade or obtain their amateur radio license. With a venue thatâs typically an ice skating rink, attendees are encouraged to dress warmly. Talk-in is available on the K0LTC Repeater (147.000 +600, CTCSS 114.8). Whether you're a seasoned operator or just getting started in amateur radio, Midwinter Madness is a must-attend event for radio enthusiasts in the Midwest!
April 2025
Southeastern VHF Conference
Dates: April 4-5, 2025
Location: Clarksville, TN
Focused on VHF enthusiasts, this conference includes technical presentations and networking opportunities.â
May 2025
Dayton Hamvention
Dates: May 16-18, 2025
Location: Xenia, OH
The world's largest amateur radio gathering, offering forums, exhibits, and a massive flea market.
SEA-PAC
Dates: May 30 - June 1, 2025
Location: Seaside, OR
ARRL Northwestern Division Convention, Seaside, Oregon
June 2025
HAM RADIO Friedrichshafen
Dates: June 27-29, 2025
Location: Friedrichshafen, Germany
An international exhibition attracting amateur radio enthusiasts from around the globe.â For further details, check out ARRL's Hamfest and Convention Calendarâ(ARRL).
- Category: Tower Talk
- Hits: 1179
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- Category: Tower Talk
- Hits: 464
How to Build an Amateur Radio Go-Box: A Portable Solution for Field and Emergency Communications
An amateur radio go-box is a compact, portable setup designed for quick deployment of essential radio equipment in the field. Typically, a go-box contains radios, antennas, power sources, and necessary accessories, all housed in a single, easy-to-carry case. Whether you're testing repeaters, providing communication during emergencies, or setting up at public service events, a go-box is the solution when traditional infrastructure is unavailable or compromised. Here's how we built ours to test repeaters away from the home shack.
Why Build a Go-Box?
At home in Oregon, I can access around 80% of the repeaters along the I-5 corridor from Longview, Washington to Eugene, Oregon, thanks to my base station antennas. This covers nearly 70% of the state's repeaters. However, for field operationsâespecially testing repeaters away from my homeâI needed a portable setup that could offer similar capabilities to my home station.
Having a go-box also makes field operations easier, allowing me to quickly deploy, set up in a park, or even transport my radio gear between vehicles. Since I lease my truck and want to avoid drilling holes, a go-box provides a lease-friendly solution, eliminating messy cable setups and allowing easy switching between vehicles.
Building the Go-Box
The Radios
Our setup includes multiple VHF/UHF radios to cover various bands and digital modes:
- Yaesu FTM-300D: FM and C4FM on 2m/70cm
- Connect Systems CS800D: FM and DMR on 2m/70cm
- TYT TH-9000D: FM on 1.25m
- Motorola 4580: FM and DMR on 33cm
- Uniden Bearcat BCD536HP: A scanner capable of monitoring all VHF/UHF channels, including DMR, NXDN, and P-25.
This variety ensures we're equipped for different communication scenarios. While there isnât much P-25 or NXDN activity in my area, I have several handheld radios, like the Kenwood TH-D74A and Icom ID-52A, to cover additional modes such as FM and D-Star.
Choosing the Box
After researching different setups, I decided to separate the communications and power components into two boxes. This keeps the weight manageable and allows flexibility in power sourcing. I used a Gator Cases 4U Rack Case with a shallow 13-inch depth to house the radios. This size was perfect for mounting four VHF/UHF radios and allowed easy access to all ports and connections.
Mounting the Radios
- Yaesu FTM-300D: Mounted on the lower left, leaving space for easy access to the SD card slot and mic port.
- TYT 9000D: Installed using the included mobile bracket.
- Icom IC-5100A: As a remote-mount radio, this posed some challenges. The control head and transceiver body needed separate mounting. I fabricated a custom solution using corner braces and magnets to easily attach and detach the control head.
- Motorola 4580: Purchased used on eBay, this radio also came with a mounting bracket that fit perfectly.
Antenna Switching
Using a tri-band mobile antenna, I installed an Alpha-Delta Delta-4B coaxial switch to allow three of the four radios to share the same antenna. This switch was mounted for easy access, enabling quick switching between radios while seated at the operating position.
Power Setup
The power system includes a PowerWerx 30-amp power supply and a 10 Ah Bio Enno battery, providing flexibility to run the box on AC power, vehicle power, or solar. All connections use Anderson Power Poles, ensuring quick and easy hook-ups. The power box is separate, making the entire setup lighter and more portable.
Field Testing
The true test of the go-box came during a trip from Portland, Oregon, to eastern Idaho. Along the way, I tested repeaters from rest stops and eateries, with pre-configured memories for quick access. The box performed flawlessly, and the lightweight design made it easy to transport from the truck to the tailgate for field operations.
Using a tri-band mag-mount antenna, I was able to easily switch between radios and test their performance on various repeaters, some as far as 60 miles away. The built-in speakers on each radio were more than sufficient, and I didnât need to add external speakers, keeping the setup compact and efficient.
Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts
Overall, the go-box build was a huge success. Itâs portable, quick to deploy, and versatile. I can easily switch power sources, making it ideal for road trips, field day events, or emergency operations. The Anderson Power Pole system makes it easy to power the box from any 12-volt source, whether it's a vehicle, battery, or generator.
As I continue to use the go-box, I plan to add an antenna with its own ground plane for deployments away from the truck. The current setup is an excellent balance of portability, capability, and ease of use.
Stay tuned for future updates and a full report on repeater coverage along Interstate 84 from Portland to Idaho!
Complete Parts List:
| Part | Source | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Gator 4U Rack Case | Amazon | $189.99 |
| Icom IC-5100A | HRO | $429.95 |
| Yaesu FT-300 | HRO | $459.95 |
| Anytone AT-D578UVIII-Plus | HRO | $459.95 |
| Motorola 4580 | eBay | $250 |
| Alpha-Delta Delta-4B coaxial switch | HRO | $109.95 |
| ABR antenna leads (3) | HRO | $22.95 each |
| PowerWerx PanelPole1 | HRO | $19.95 |
| PowerWerx 4-Connection Power Distribution Block (2) | HRO | $27.95 each |
- Category: Tower Talk
- Hits: 462
September at RepeaterBook: A Month of Big Changes and Exciting Updates!
As summer faded into fall, things heated up behind the scenes at RepeaterBook. With more time available, we dived into some serious site enhancements. And guess what? Weâve got some major improvements to share!
RT Systems to the Rescue â No More Google Ads!
If youâve visited RepeaterBook recently, youâve probably noticed something â those annoying Google ads have disappeared! Pop-ups, pop-overs, and cluttered pages had turned the site into an ad maze, nearly impossible to navigate. But weâve never charged for site access or data, so ads were a necessary evil. Lately, though, Google Ads has been squeezing us harder, showing more ads while paying less.
Thatâs where our amazing sponsor, RT Systems, stepped in! A long-time partner, RT Systems made the magic happen by removing the ads entirely. Itâs a welcomed change, and we canât thank them enough. Thank you, RT Systems!
Better Propagation Reports: Keeping It Legal
Propagation reports are key for understanding how well repeaters perform and their coverage areas. We collect these for both amateur radio and GMRS repeaters, but weâve noticed something concerning: some amateur repeaters have been receiving reports from users with GMRS call signs.
Friendly reminder: If youâre a GMRS user, your license doesnât allow you to transmit outside GMRS frequencies (which are between 462 and 467 MHz). To make sure everything runs smoothly, RepeaterBook now checks the call sign of logged-in users and only permits propagation reporting in the amateur radio section for licensed amateur operators. Letâs keep everything legit and in order!
Language Support â A Global Welcome!
Weâre excited to announce that RepeaterBook is going global! While the RepeaterBook app has supported multiple languages for a while, the website is catching up! Weâre rolling out translations in Catalan, Austrian, Dutch, French, Spanish, and German, with Portuguese, Swiss, and Turkish coming soon. We hope this helps our non-English-speaking friends feel more at home, encourages participation, and leads to more contributions from around the world.
Want to be part of the translation team? Weâd love to have your help! Reach out to the admin and join the effort!
Stay Updated with the Change Log!
Ever wonder whatâs new on the site? Now, you can easily find out! The RepeaterBook Change Log is linked right in the Main Menu on the Home page. Keep an eye on it to stay updated on all the latest features, fixes, and enhancements.
With all these exciting developments, RepeaterBook is growing and improving, thanks to you and our incredible community. Stay tuned â thereâs even more to come!
- Category: Tower Talk
- Hits: 477
How to Update the RepeaterBook App on Google Play and Apple App Store: Keep Your Repeater Data Ready for Emergencies
In todayâs fast-paced world, ensuring that you have the latest information and tools at your fingertips is crucial. The RepeaterBook app is no different. Whether you're an amateur radio enthusiast or simply rely on repeaters during emergencies, keeping the app updated is essential to accessing the most accurate repeater data. Fortunately, updating RepeaterBook on your device is quick and simple! Plus, did you know that the app's repeater database is stored locally, ensuring you have access to vital information even during network outages? Let's walk through the process of keeping your app up-to-date and why it's an indispensable tool, especially during emergencies. Even the location searching is offline.
How to Update RepeaterBook on Google Play (Android Devices)
- Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
- Tap on your profile icon in the top right corner.
- Select "Manage apps & device" from the menu.
- Under the "Updates available" section, find RepeaterBook in the list.
- Tap "Update" next to RepeaterBook.
If RepeaterBook isnât listed under "Updates available," it means you're already using the latest version. However, you can always check for updates manually by searching for "RepeaterBook" in the Play Store and tapping "Update" if available.
How to Update RepeaterBook on the Apple App Store (iOS Devices)
- Open the App Store on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap your profile icon in the top right corner of the screen.
- Scroll down to view the list of apps with pending updates.
- Locate RepeaterBook and tap "Update" next to it.
Similar to Android, if RepeaterBook doesnât appear under pending updates, you're using the most up-to-date version. You can also check manually by searching for "RepeaterBook" in the App Store and hitting "Update" if an update is available.
Why Keeping the App Updated Is Essential
Regular updates to RepeaterBook improve performance, fix bugs, and introduce new features, keeping your experience smooth and reliable. Plus, updates ensure youâre accessing the most current repeater data and benefiting from improvements to the appâs functionality.
Offline Capabilities: Stay Prepared, Even During Emergencies
One of the key features that sets RepeaterBook apart from other repeater directories is its offline functionality. The entire repeater database is stored locally within the app on your device. This means that once youâve downloaded the app and its data, you donât need an internet connection to access vital repeater information.
Why is this important?
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Emergencies and Natural Disasters: During hurricanes, wildfires, or other disasters, cell towers can be damaged, and internet services can go down. In such scenarios, when communication is critical, RepeaterBookâs offline database ensures you still have access to repeater data, making it easier to stay in touch, coordinate rescue efforts, or relay important information.
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No Dependence on the Cloud: Unlike some apps that rely on pulling data from the cloud, RepeaterBook ensures you always have up-to-date repeater information ready at your fingertips, even when the web is out of reach.
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Performance: The local storage of data means no lag time, and you can pull up repeater listings instantly, without waiting for a network request to be fulfilled.
Be Prepared, Stay Updated, and Rely on RepeaterBook
Keeping your RepeaterBook app updated through the Google Play Store or Apple App Store is a quick and easy task that ensures you have the latest repeater data and app improvements. But what really sets RepeaterBook apart is its offline functionalityâcrucial during emergencies and natural disasters when internet access might be limited or unavailable.
Whether you're an amateur radio operator, GMRS enthusiast, or someone who just values reliable communication during tough times, RepeaterBook ensures you always have repeater data at your fingertips. Make sure to keep your app updated, and stay prepared with the power of offline repeater data!
For more information or troubleshooting, visit RepeaterBookâs help section or contact support. Keep the airwaves openâupdate your RepeaterBook app today!
"When all else fails!"