Hello everyone, I’ve received a few questions asking what the *146.88 repeater* is and why I’ve been asking members to use it. Since good questions deserve good answers (and bad rumors deserve none), here’s the scoop — plus the technical details so nobody has to guess or squint at a repeater directory. What is the 146.88 Repeater?
The *146.88 repeater* is a high-level, wide-area coverage repeater that reaches a large portion of the Houston–Galveston area. Because of its height and location, it performs exceptionally well during poor weather and other situations where lower-level or simplex communications may struggle. In plain language: *it hears really well, it talks really far, and it does not need to be yelled at.* Repeater Technical Details (a.k.a. “How to Make Your Radio Happy”) - *Receive (Downlink):* 146.880 MHz - *Transmit (Uplink):* 146.280 MHz - *Offset:* –0.600 MHz - *PL / CTCSS Tone:* 167.9 Hz (uplink and downlink) - *Power / Height:* 75 watts at ~1400 ft (If your radio still won’t key it up after this… we may need to talk. Kindly. 😄) Coverage Area This repeater provides *wide-area coverage*, including: - North to *Wallis* - South to *Dickinson* - West to *Sealy* - East to *Daisetta* In other words, if you’re in the Houston metro area and your antenna isn’t zip-tied to the fridge, there’s a good chance you can hit it. Why We Are Using 146.88 I use and recommend *146.88* because it allows members across a wide geographic area to *communicate clearly and reliably*. It’s well suited for general coordination, information sharing, and keeping everyone connected when conditions aren’t ideal. You may notice that we are *not* using *146.94*, and that is intentional. That repeater is actively used by other agencies and groups, and I prefer not to be *that guy* who accidentally interrupts someone else’s operations. Sharing spectrum politely is part of being good amateur radio operators — and good neighbors on the air. Important Notes (Read This Before Getting Any Big Ideas) - Members *may use the repeater normally* in accordance with amateur radio rules and good operating practices. Other agencies will be using this repeater and if an emergency net starts, please give them way. - Please *do not self-deploy* or take independent action unless specifically directed - This is about *communication and coordination*, not spontaneous hero missions As amateur radio operators, we all know the phrase: *when all else fails, radio works*. Choosing the right repeater just increases the odds that it works the *first* time — without drama. Thank you for the questions, the curiosity, and for keeping things professional (and occasionally entertaining) on the air. 73, Richard Bonica KG5YCU BVARC President
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