EchoLink:%20%20%20%20A%20new%20way%20to%20"Ham%20it%20up"

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EchoLink A new way to "Ham it up"

• Ken Adkisson
• WB4FAY

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What is EchoLink?

• Computer Software that lets you talk to other
  hams all over the world
• Uses existing computer hardware
• Only needs a microphone and speakers
• Runs on virtually any computer
• Only needs an internet connection

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Description

• EchoLink uses VoIP technology
• Talk in real time with other hams as clearly as
  if you were on the telephone
• Can be used on a dial-up, DSL or Cable Modem
  internet connection

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Technical Description

• Similar Computer programs
• IRLP (LINUX / UNIX based)
• Pal Talk
• eQSO
• iLink
• Security
• Callsigns verified prior to allowing contacts
• All users logged with their internet addresses

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Technical Description (Contd)

• Original i-Phone technology re-worked for ham
  radio usage
• Station list shows who is connected and type of
  station
• Can be used computer to computer, computer to
  radio, or radio to radio (through computers)

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Getting Started

• Download software
• http//www.synergenics.com/el/
• Install software
• Run software and enter user information
• Specify Single-User Mode
• Enter Callsign, Name, QTH, Email address
• Allow callsign to be verified (could take up to
  an hour or so during busy times)

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EchoLink Getting Started
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Using EchoLink

• When loaded the main program window will show all
  online stations
• List will show three types of stations
• -L or -R stations (top section of list) are
  stations that have either Repeaters or Link
  radios connected to them
• Normal callsign stations are stations using
  computer only (no radio interface)

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Establishing a connection
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iLINK Interfaces for radios

• Interface boards connect to your computer and
  radio
• The SYSOP mode of the software controls looks for
  the presence of the interface board
• The interface controls the radios PTT to
  transmit received internet audio over the air and
  has PTT timeout protection
• The radios receive audio is sent back over the
  internet creating a Gateway

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EchoLink over the air

• In Birmingham 147.280 ()
• Begin all commands with
• Start Random Links
• End user 0 0
• Link or Repeater 01
• Disconnect
• Request ID

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EchoLink Interface Boards

• WB2REM Interface Board

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iLINK Interface Boards (contd)

• VA3TO iLINK Interface Board

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Typical Interface Board Hook Up
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WB4FAY-L
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WB4FAY-L
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WB4FAY-L
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Additional Information

• www.wb4fay.com
• www.synergenics.com/el
• EchoLink group at yahoo.com