[Repeater-Builder] RE: MotoTRBO Digital Repeater
Hello Eric, The N6DVA group at [1]http://www.hamradio-dv.org has had one up for 2 years now (actually running as a mixed mode system). I'm the nut who built it, along with RF remote power control, RF remote channel steering, telemetry, logging, GPS mapping, and remote dispatch log ins. The control ops of each IP Site Connected repeater will be given rights to log into the Master Server located at my house and; 1. View prior radio traffic (date and time stamped). 2. Be able to playback prior radio traffic. 3. Be able to view whose radio is turned on and within range of the repeater (if enabled within the subscriber unit). 4. Be able to use two different mapping interfaces to view the location of subscriber units (you can generate your own maps, or use google earth which zooms in on the particular unit of interest). 5. Be able to RX and TX into the system using the speaker and mic ports on their computers. 6. Texting via their computer, daily pre-set text bulletins to be sent out to the subscriber units. 7. Use an intercom feature between remote dispatchers currently logged into the server. 8. There's geo-fencing, changing of icons, adding users photos, vehicles license, individual radio information, radio aliasing, and more. It's quite cool stuff. I've been thinking about posting a small video on the N6DVA website with respect to remote dispatcher / admin software I am currently using, and in what capacity it is being used on the N6DVA system. I've just gotta find the time : ) By years end, the N6DVA Mototrbo repeater should be linked up with two more digital mototrbo repeaters. We right now deciding whether to make it a digital only linked system, or linking the Analog side as well between all three repeaters. If it wasn't for the playground of Amateur Radio to play in, I don't know where I'd be. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Happy Trails ! Paul Metzger K6EH _ _ __11. MOTOTRBO XPR8300 RepeaterPosted by: Eric Lemmon wb6...@verizonwb6...@verizon.net wb6flyDate: Tue Jul 14, 2009 10:06 pm ((PDT))I have created a MOTOTRBO folder in the Files section of this group, andhave already added some useful documents. There are catalog sheets for XPRrepeaters, mobiles, and portable radios, as well as listings of servicemanuals and accessories. One of the surprising facts that I found whileperusing the manuals is that all of the XPR radios connect directly to a USBport for programming- no RIB or RIBless cable is needed. I am on theverge of experimenting with a MOTOTRBO repeater system, and I would beinterested in hearing from those who have already deployed an XPR8300repeater.73, Eric Lemmon WB6FLYMessages in this topic (1)__ _ _12. References 1. http://www.hamradio-dv.org/
[Repeater-Builder] Ex Motorola Employees : Antenna Company
Does anyone know what the name of the Antenna Company is, who was composed of Ex-Motorola employees? Also, if their still in business? Paul Metzger
[Repeater-Builder] Ex Motorola Employees : Antenna Company
Looks like I found it. They are the Antenna Factory. Paul Metzger
[Repeater-Builder] Re: Noise on UHF - (Mototrbo)
Just an FYI Users of the N6DVA mixed mode Digital Mototrbo / Analog repeater have experienced something neat early on. When they're using the Analog side of the repeater and their audio is being torn up by radar, then switch over to the TRBO digital side, their audio is clear as can be. It was funny listening at how shocked they were when they shared this information with me. Both, the Analog and TRBO digital repeaters are at the same site, in the same cabinet, utilizing the same antenna, RX window filter, splitter, etc. The same with the TX side, they both are sharing the same antenna, duplexer, band pass cavity. It's a nice test bed for comparisons. Just my 2 cents. As a side note; There are two more Amateur TRBO repeaters currently being configured for IP Site Connect here in Southern California. I was also informed yesterday, yet another one is in the works for a high level Mt. top site which sounds like it will cover Los Angeles / Riverside. Another buddy of mine gave me a heads up that a club he is affiliated with is interested in acquiring a TRBO repeater as well. It would be nice if just one time slot on each of these repeater were connected via IP Site Connect, and the roaming feature enabled in the portables / mobiles so you'd never have to change channels (to the nearest linked repeater) while driving. The radio would do it automatically for you. Well Have Fun ! Paul Metzger hamradio-dv.org K6EH
[Repeater-Builder] IP Site Connect Linking of Motorolas Mototrbo Digital Repeaters
Hello all, FYI, the N6DVA Mototrbo UHF repeater located within the Hollywood Hills of southern California will be ready for IP linking come New Years day. If you know of anyone or any group that is currently operating a Motorola Mototrbo repeater (either UHF or VHF in digital mode, and soon to be 800-900MHz) within the Amateur Radio spectrum, and might be interested in linking their repeater with the Hollywood Hills N6DVA repeater (which covers the Los Angeles area). Please reply to; paulmetz...@fastmail.net If their repeater partially overlaps the same coverage area, we can link the repeaters and configure the Mototrbo mobiles / portables for roaming (allowing our radios to automatically switch channels to the nearest / loudest repeater in the network). Keep in mind, text messaging (msg inbox, sent folder, free form messages or canned messages), telemetry, radio checks, call alert and GPS operation is supported between linked repeaters (although in the Amateur Radio world, the Mototrbo GPS feature is kinda useless to us, unless we are sitting at a computer, attached to a radio, and running the appropriate expensive proprietary software). Also, since the Mototrbo Digital repeaters have two time slots (effectively carrying two voice channel simultaneously) within 12.5KHz of bandwidth, the repeaters may be configured so that one of the two time slots is dedicated for single site communications, and the second time slot for wide area (linked repeaters). Or both, one time slot linked to one wide area network, and the second time slot to a second wide area network. Again, if you might know anybody interested in Linking Mototrbo repeaters, please e-mail me. Thanks for the bandwidth on this reflector! Paul Metzger A Member of the Following Amateur Radio Clubs / Organizations. N6DVA, BARC, WR6AQR, WA6LA, W6TOI, W6ZE, K6AA, WA6IRC ,220SMA, SCRRBA, ARES LAX, ARRL, The Deutscher Amateur Radio Club, FISTS http://www.hamradio-dv.org
[Repeater-Builder] UHF TX Combiner RX Multi-Coupler Wanted
Hello all, I'm in need of a transmit combiner and receive mutli-coupler for the UHF Ham Bands. I'm located within the Los Angeles area and am not interested in buying new (you know us hams). I would like it to be a real factory built unit (not pieced together). Please e-mail me direct at [EMAIL PROTECTED] Thanks ! Paul Metzger
[Repeater-Builder] Hustler G6 440mhz
FYI, A buddy installed a G6 on his repeater here locally atop a 5,000 ft + Mountain. They went back up about 30 days later and could not believe what condition it was in. I kept hearing stories over the radio about how it looked like it had been up there years. When they took it down, and brought it to one of our club meets, the radials were either broken off or bent, and the antenna did over-all look a but rough for wear. This was after having been subjected to heavy now and ice build up on Mt Wilson. The repeater owner swore by those antennas until he witnessed what effect the snow and ice had on it. My 2 Cents . . . . Paul Metzger
[Repeater-Builder] Mototrbo Simplex Operation Answered
Yes, the Motorbo radios can operate simplex on both Analog Digital. Text messaging, non-intrusive radio checks, call logs, call alerts etc . . all work simplex as well. Just remember, the repeater handles the two time slots (two virtual voice channels at the same time), when the repeater goes down and your forced to run simplex, and you choose to run digital voice and or text messaging, you now can only run a single QSO on that frequency. Your two time slots (virtual channels) go away. Paul Metzger K6EH Awaiting the gates to open here at the Dayton Hamvention. --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, wd8chl [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Mike Mullarkey wrote: Wd8chl wrote: I don't think there is a direct radio-to-radio mode in Mototrbo...I could be wrong tho...
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: Toko Filters For Sale
I'll take two. Paul Metzger K6EH --- On Dec 20, 2007, at 09:13, jeffk wrote: I have four sets left. Any takers before they go up for auction? 'JK jeffk wrote: I have a supply of the TOKO 6DFB-915E-10 filters for MaxTrac 902 MHz conversions. I'm offering them to members of the Group for $20 per pair. Price includes shipping. I accept PayPal, USPS money orders, and personal checks. Email me to make payment arrangements. [EMAIL PROTECTED] 73, Jeff W6JK Yahoo! Groups Links
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Repacking an antenna into a commercial radome
Response; I'm currently using a Diamond antenna up at my repeater site which I had packed into a commercial radome. I did have to narrow (grind away) the hub of the diamond antenna where the ground radials had previously mounted to. It is a must that you rebuild the ground radials on the outside aluminum sleeve of the radome. I initially tried without the ground radials, the match looked great, but the performance definitely. I shoved the entire Diamond antenna into the radome, so now the antenna effectively has two radomes. Now there's no dinky obvious wet noodle amateur radio antennas up at the commercial site, the antenna blends right in. You gotta love it. Paul Metzger K6EH Yup, I've packed a Diamond antenna On Oct 7, 2007, at 18:07, georgiaskywarn wrote: Has anyone ever done this? Unfortunately the radome I was playing with this weekend had no room to push the bottom of the Diamond x3200 past the sleeve at the bottom. This is a Andrews 900mhz antenna (or the radome of). SWR was pretty high within the new radome. Put it back in the old one...swr was ok...but not great. Compromise antenna anyway ;-) Curious if anyone has ran into this and what you did for the coupling sleeve...or if it was just the radome itself. I have an older type of Stationmaster I could use...but man is it long compared to the x3200. Thought about using the Canusa (http://www.repeater-builder.com/ tech-info/canusa.html) that Kevin spoke of before like a big condom on the thing. Anyone tried that with success?
[Repeater-Builder] Digital Voice Recordings
Hello all, I have added more digital voice vs FM and SSB sound bites to the N6DVA web site (decoded and un-decoded). http://www.hamradio-dv.org ALINCO AOR D-Star Motorola P25 Motorola Mototrbo Have Fun ! Paul Metzger K6EH Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association N6DVA
[Repeater-Builder] In Need Of A Quantar Wild Card
Hello all, Might any of you be willing to part with a Quantar wireline board? I am in need of one for a ham project. Paul Metzger K6EH Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association http://www.hamradio-dv.org N6DVA
[Repeater-Builder] In Need Of A Quantar Wild Card Board
Hello all, Might any of you be willing to part with a Quantar *WILDCARD* board? I am in need of one for a ham project. Paul Metzger K6EH Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association http://www.hamradio-dv.org N6DVA
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Fw: KDK UHF 7033 - (Optoisolator)
I had to do the same thing with my Mototrbo Repeater. I needed a PTT sense line from it, and since Motorola does not have the repeaters rear accessory connector pin for PTT enabled yet, I too had to use an optoisolator in parallel with one of it's front panel LED's. I have two repeaters on the same frequency pair and within the same cabinet (one Analog, and one Mototrbo). When the Mototrbo repeater keys up, it disables the Analog repeater, so on my system, Digital has priority (if you have capture of the Mototrbo receiver that is). The optoisolator worked like a charm. Have Fun ! Paul Metzger K6EH The Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association Hollywood Hills 445.660- 156.7 http://www.hamradio-dv.org - On Sep 6, 2007, at 08:41, Henry Wingate wrote: Perhaps an optoisolator in series with the LED. Ray Rosler wrote: - Original Message - From: Ray Rosler To: Repeater-Builder Moderator Sent: Wednesday, September 05, 2007 7:20 AM Subject: KDK UHF 7033 Good morning. I am going to try and make this unit into a link radio and I am in need to know just where to pick off the COS signal. The controller being used will be a cat-400. I have found that the receive led goes high when squelch is opened, but the level is to low to be of any use. any suggestions... RayVE5RAE Yahoo! Groups Links
[Repeater-Builder] Hollywood Hills W7RF Repeater Information
Hello all, My name is Paul Metzger [K6EH], trustee of the W7RF 445.660- Hollywood Hills Open Repeater. FYI, the PL for the W7RF repeater has changed from 146.2 to 156.7 . This change was necessary due to a rogue mobile running a PL of 146.2 on the W7RF repeater input frequency. It seems as though the gentleman was unaware of this taking place (and still is). So there you go, the new information for the Analog side of the W7RF repeater is 445.660- PL156.7 Besides the Analog side of the repeater, the repeater may be used by AOR Digital voice users, and Motorola Mototrbo digital voice users as well. I would like to see this repeater utilized by any ham who has an interest in digital voice, and even those who are writting and experimenting with their own open source digital voice protocols (as long as the control ops are given to capability to decode the radio traffic). The W7RF repeater has the potential of becoming a Digital Voice playground / test bed. Amateur radio operators within the Los Angeles San Fernando Counties shouldn't have much of an issue accessing the repeater. Again, this is an open repeater. For information on the repeater, or digital voice, please visit the N6DVA web site at http://www.hamradio-dv.org Have Fun ! Paul Metzger K6EH The Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association http://www.hamradio-dv.org
Re: [Repeater-Builder] An interesting observation.....
I went up to a radio site Sunday, and found the AC Voltage Averaging in the 90's, peaking as high as 103, and dipping down as low as 83 volts. My customers equipment was going into convulsion. By the way, it was only about 100 degrees outside. I thought it strange when I walked into the next room, and heard the frequency at which the cooling fans spin stepping up and down. Paul Metzger K6EH On Sep 4, 2007, at 20:00, Mike Morris wrote: From an email I received Yup, 105.4 F heat and line voltage of 104.1 VAC. And, on the next day, they made an 'adjustment' in the power and I had 102.3 VAC with my outdoor temp of 104.3. It is not good when your thermometer reads more than the AC voltmeter.
[Repeater-Builder] Zetron ZR340 Controller Manual Needed
Might anyone have a configuration manual for the ZR340? I had one, but can't seem to find it at this time. It's only a few pages. Maybe scanning and e-mailing it to me. If so, many thanks ! Paul Metzger K6EH [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[Repeater-Builder] Wanted : M2 440-70-5W Antenna
Hello all, I know this is a bit of an odd to ask here. Might any of you know where I can get an M2 model 440-70-5W (5 element yagi)? I phoned Texas Towers, HRO, AES, and all of them are out of stock. I also phoned M2 the manufacturer, not only are they out of stock, but they also changed the design as well. They added one more director and now rivet the elements to the boom instead of welding them. I need a 440-70-5W before this weekend. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks Paul Metzger K6EH
[Repeater-Builder] Best batteries for repeater sites
I too found the optima yellow tops a bit too weak for a deep cycle use as well (and a hard lesson learned after purchasing 4 of those expensive buggers). I now use 6V Powersonic AGM 210AH 6Volt batteries. I'm much happier with them. I'm sure there are better out there. Good luck in your quest. Paul Metzger K6EH -- On Jun 6, 2007, at 08:04, Kerincom wrote: Hi guys .Can anyone suggest the best type of batteries for repeater sites .It seems our ordinary lead acid batteries are surviving better than optima yellow tops over 2-3 days of rainy weather.would anyone have any other sugestions Thank You, Ian Wells, Kerinvale Comaudio, www.kerinvalecomaudio.com.au
[Repeater-Builder] D-Star WWW Links / Info Needed
Hello all, I am in the middle of building a long needed 'D-Star Link' page to the http://www.hamradio-dv.org web site. If any of you believe you might have some good links, web pages dedicated to the cause, or even insider info, I'd love to review it for posting. I look forward to the flood of emails. Please email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Thanks! Paul Metzger K6EH
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: D-Star demo
Ron, When you wrote I am interested in the parameters of the D-Star vs analog test. Weak Signal D-STAR versus FM.mp3' file located within the 'D-STAR Digital Audio' directory of the Illinoisdigitalham yahoo group? If so, please forward a copy of your findings to me as well. The only reason that I have not yet posted that recording to the http://www.hamradio-dv.org web site is for that very reason, I am unable to validate it's parameters. Like I had stated earlier in a previous e-mail, I was in contact with KC5ZRQ via E-mail until I had answered his question as to which recording I was referring to. After that I never received a reply again, and my following e-mails had never bounced. Paul Metzger K6EH
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: D-Star demo / P25-ALNICO-AOR-MOTOTRBO-ICOM Digital Voice
I too have tried to find out what equipment was used during the Weak signal D-STAR versus FM.mp3 demo which is posted under the Files sections of the Illinoisdigitalham yahoo group. I too first inquired to Mark (WB9QZB), he had then asked me to contact John (KC5ZRQ) directly. I received the following reply from John, and when I answered his question as to which recording I was referring to, I never received an answer or another reply. Coy, if you happen to receive a reply, can you please forward me a copy? I just recorded a Mototrbo weak signal audio comparison last night and plan to post it to the hamradio-dv.org web site. But when I do, I would also like to post a weak signal D-Star audio comparison with it, and up to this point, I cannot use KC5ZRQ's since I do not know the facts behind it. For that reason, a friend of mine is thinking of working with me possibly today to record our own D-Star weak signal comparison. Coy, please keep me posted as to your findings, or I'll let you know when our audio clip is up on the hamradio-dv.org website. Also, if anyone is interested, there are sample recordings of ALINCO, AOR, ICOM, and MOTOTRBO (AOR is the only weak signal at this time) on the home page of http://www.hamradio-dv.org . I am interested in adding a list of '''Amateur Radio''' digital voice related links (Alinco, AOR, ICOM, MOTOTRBO, P25, and any other open source / published digital voice protocols). I would appreciate any links that you believe would fill the above requirements. Be it a personal, club, or corporate web site, just as long as it has pertinent information on Amateur Radio Digital Voice protocols and or systems, I welcome them. I do somewhat frown on Digital Voice protocols which require a personal computer, juggling sound card connections, using two sound cards, or wrestling all the interconnecting cables on ones desk. I look forward to checking out your web sites and or links. Please send them directly to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Have Fun Thanks ! Paul Metzger K6EH - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject:Re: Super! Finally A D-Star Recording! Date: March 2, 2007 13:58:18 PST To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] I have several recordings. Please specify the filename. John, KC5ZRQ - Original Message - From: Paul Metzger [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, March 02, 2007 3:51 PM Subject: Super! Finally A D-Star Recording! Could you please inform me of all aspects of the the newly uploaded audio file to Yahoo? Range, Power, Antennas, Radios, Narrow//Wide Band, etc etc etc. If going through different repeaters, please list every item of hardware that makes up the repeaters, antenna patterns, losses, including the effective receive sensitivity of each systems receiver. I might want to add this to the N6DVA Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association Web Site at http://www.hamradio-dv.org Would you mind if I did such a thing? I've been waiting for some to conduct this very same experiment and record it just as you have. I already have an Analog/Audio comparison of the AOR units, I sure would like to have one of the D-Star line as well. Thank you for your time and consideration. Paul Metzger K6EH The Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association http://www.hamradio-dv.org N6DVA --- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject:Re: Super! Finally A D-Star Recording vs Analog FM! Date: March 3, 2007 08:27:40 PST To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] The file is; Weak Signal D-STAR versus FM.mp3 Comparison of a Weak D-STAR Signal versus a Weak FM Signal Paul Metzger K6EH Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association http://www.hamradio-dv.org N6DVA --- --THE END --- On May 28, 2007, at 06:55, Coy Hilton wrote: This brings some questions to mind. none of the D-STAR repeaters that I know of (ICOM) have the ability to do FM repeat, If the repeaters, antennas and the rest of the equipment weren't the same or nearly the same and coo-located how can the test be fair? Also the D-Star is narrow band with respect to the standard Fm repeater. With digital either it's there or it's not. Granted digital is a good way to go but it is way too pricy right now for me to think of purchasing I'll stick with my FM machines for now. AC0Y --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, Ron Wright, Skywarn Coodinator [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: hi all, In the FILES section of this board is a Weak Sig D-Star demon by WB9WZB. Most impressive test. Can anyone give
Re: [Repeater-Builder] D-Star demo
Sorry Coy, I referred to you several times within the context of my last e-mail to the group. It should have been Ron Wright (N9EER). On May 27, 2007, at 07:47, Ron Wright, Skywarn Coodinator wrote: hi all, In the FILES section of this board is a Weak Sig D-Star demon by WB9WZB. Most impressive test. Can anyone give details of the test...was same rig with power levels and antennas used in the test??? 73, ron, n9ee/r Yahoo! Groups Links
[Repeater-Builder] Need a D-Star picture/.jpg file
Hell all, I have a bit of an odd request. Does anyone have a high quality .jpg file of a D-Star system which I might fit within the D-STAR banner on the home page of the http://www.hamradio-dv.org web site? I could shrink it to fit if necessary. I just can't seem to find a decent picture on the ICOM website of one of their systems. Paul Metzger K6EH
[Repeater-Builder] VHF Digital MSF5000 For Sell
Hello all, I have a complete VHF Digital (programmable) MSF5000 repeater for sell (minus duplexer and antenna). I will not ship the item, local pick up only (late evenings and weekends only). The unit also has the battery backup option (minus the external cabling). If interested, e- mail me directly. I'm asking $1,200.00 Paul Metzger K6EH
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Basic Stamp Controler
I built my controller from a Parallax BS2P/40. Works Great. I an additional receiver, and DTMF decoder which I use to control the Stamp remotely. I even have a voice board, which will play pre recorded audio messages (power supply failure, High SWR, AC power out, behave msgs). I got a little carried away. It was fun to build a controller to ones individual needs. Well gotta go, didn't even have time to write this. Email me if you would like pics of it. I'm going to start building another one here shortly. Bye For Now Paul Metzger K6EH Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association N6DVA - On May 9, 2007, at 11:08, Ted W. Horn wrote: Is anyone using any of the basic stamp boards as a controler? I am working on building a portable repeater/remote base and have a BS2 and was wondering how to connect up the stamp with the rest of the circuits. I have a SSI202P dtmf decoder chip, but can not find any wiring instructions. Ted Horn KA3CEU [EMAIL PROTECTED] Yahoo! Groups Links
[Repeater-Builder] Stationmaster Disassembly / Re-Assembly
Hello Jim, Actually, I took my first super station master apart just last week or so. I removed guts of the antenna, and replaced them with a 70CM Diamond F718A vertical (11.5db). The entire Diamond antenna slid right up into the shell of the super station master with room to spare (about 3 feet shy of the tip). This will allow me to utilize the Diamond F718 antenna at a mountain top repeater site without having to worry about it's wet noodle characteristics in the wind. Also, this will will allow the antenna to blend in at a commercial hill top site. So, in answer to your question below Jim, I have no answer, since in my case I am not re-using the original guts. Paul Metzger K6EH -- On Apr 28, 2007, at 20:48, Jim Cicirello wrote: Hi Paul, I have been following this post as I have a stationmaster to disassemble. Did you take a large torch to the top metal point while the guts were pulled away from the tip? When you go to reassemble, is there anything that needs to be heated again on the top? Thanks Jim From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Repeater- [EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Paul Metzger Sent: Friday, April 27, 2007 9:59 PM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] Stationmaster Disassembly I had to take a large propane torch to the the of mine just last week in order to get it apart. Paul Metzger K6EH --- On Apr 27, 2007, at 12:54, Steve Hutzley wrote: Folks, We took down the 220 MHz Phelps Dodge Model 200 Stationmaster off our tower to see if it can be rescued. There is no gel-coat left on it at all. I got the three screws around the perimiter of the mounting tube (aluminum) out, I found a stainless set screw in the copper tip. I also found three 7/16 hex head bolts around the perimiter of the RF connector. It appears that there is some sort of rubber bladder inside the mounting tube as well. Any clues, tips, ideas or suggestions so we can see what the internals look like before we go to the trouble of re-gelling it? Thanks Steve Ahhh...imagining that irresistible new car smell? Check out new cars at Yahoo! Autos.
Re: [Repeater-Builder] GE MVS VHF Repeater?
In cases where I utilize two mobiles as a repeater, I filter them up the ying ying. 1. Duplexer BP/BR with at least 90db of isolation 2. Two additional BP cavities on the RX + Angle Linear Pre-Amp to help compensate 3. One additional BP cavity on the TX 4. Isolator + LP filter I believe in keeping it clean. I try my best not to give Hams a bad reputation. I know of a few sites which no longer allow Amateur Radio Repeaters, this due past ham occupants and their poor McGuyvering skills / technics. Just my two bits. Paul Metzger K6EH - On Apr 27, 2007, at 07:00, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: At 4/26/2007 16:24, you wrote: Mobiles converted to repeater (duplex) operation are explicitly banned in many commercial site leases, due to lack of shielding and other problems. Be forewarned, if you're planning on building something for a modern commercial 2-way site. Around here, many commercial 2-way repeaters were converted mobiles. Bob NO6B Yahoo! Groups Links
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Stationmaster Disassembly
I had to take a large propane torch to the the of mine just last week in order to get it apart. Paul Metzger K6EH --- On Apr 27, 2007, at 12:54, Steve Hutzley wrote: Folks, We took down the 220 MHz Phelps Dodge Model 200 Stationmaster off our tower to see if it can be rescued. There is no gel-coat left on it at all. I got the three screws around the perimiter of the mounting tube (aluminum) out, I found a stainless set screw in the copper tip. I also found three 7/16 hex head bolts around the perimiter of the RF connector. It appears that there is some sort of rubber bladder inside the mounting tube as well. Any clues, tips, ideas or suggestions so we can see what the internals look like before we go to the trouble of re-gelling it? Thanks Steve Ahhh...imagining that irresistible new car smell? Check out new cars at Yahoo! Autos.
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: Digital repeater allocations, was Service Monitors with D-Star
On Apr 23, 2007, at 21:24, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: At 4/23/2007 18:40, you wrote: Re: Service Monitors with D-Star Posted by: Nate Duehr [EMAIL PROTECTED] wy0x Date: Mon Apr 23, 2007 1:24 pm ((PDT)) On 4/23/07, Shanon Herron [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: There are several Death Star repeaters popping up in Michigan. The P25 repeaters have been around much longer, one in Detroit for over 2 years. Problem is, the Michigan Repeater Council, MARC, will not recognize P25 but does Death Star. The P25 owner is trying to get a pair but they refuse to even put him on the waiting or pending list. That's utterly retarded. What possible technical reason do they have for that!? Aren't the FCC emission type designators identical, with the only difference being the vocoder? Perhaps that could be the leverage he could use to hit them upside the head with the cluestick/cluebat. (e.g. Give them a clue.) Nate WY0X The Illinois Repeater Association last week implemented a plan to allocate repeater channels for the digital modes based on bandwidth, regardless of the mode involved, be it P25, D-Star, Mototrbo, or whatever. Details will be up at www.ilra.net soon. Sounds like the wise way to go. W.r.t. MARC, if it doesn't wish to recognize P25 then it has left the door open for another coordination entity to coordinate that mode in that region. I don't have any digital VHF/UHF equipment, but from everything I've heard read I'm inclined to favor P25 over DStar. The recent discussions regarding servicing are particularly revealing. At least with P25 you can put the equipment in analog mode (assuming you have no digital service monitor - a safe assumption for most of us) for troubleshooting servicing, then go back to digital once all the RF issues have been tracked down in analog mode. Mototrbo also allows one to configure the repeater to be either analog, or digital. But once configured for one (analog or digital), programming will be required to switch it. I have overcome this by placing two repeaters within the same cabinet. One conventional, and Mototrbo, both on the same frequency pair. Therefor, it will remain an open system for all to utilize and experiment. At his point, I'm just waiting for the Mototrbo repeater to arrive. With DStar there is no such option; you have to plug it in just accept whatever performance level you get. If something starts blocking the input you have no idea what it is. Bob NO6B Paul Metzger K6EH
[Repeater-Builder] Looking for a 440 UHF Commercial Antenna
Hello All, I am looking to acquire a Commercially made vertical which was designed for use within the 440-447 range. In the neighborhood of 6-15 feet long. If any of you have one and would like to sell it, please reply. Thanks ! Paul Metzger K6EH
[Repeater-Builder] Watch your use of the English Language here
Begin forwarded message: From: Gary [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: March 24, 2007 08:42:39 PDT To: Paul Metzger [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: Power-Pole connectors NOT for power Paul, please get out of the habit of saying or writing I myself as it is redundant and an improper use of our language. To simply write I have found... or I have utilized... accomplishes the same thing but does not make you look uneducated. This message has been sent direct, off of the reflector. Gary Paul Metzger wrote: I second that. I myself have found these little power pole connectors (which are recommended by emergency groups) to be a bit too delicate for me. And if improperly built, will have little or almost no contact tension at all. Honestly I was a little shocked when I started seeing these little buggers marketed for emergency amateur radio purposes. The bright side I see in that is everyone can connect with minimal fuss. But if the connectors were improperly built, I wouldn't be surprised to see a few of these tapped up during a real disaster in order to keep them from falling out of their other mating half. For years, I myself have utilized the larger SB 50A Anderson connectors on my primary Amateur Radio (TS-450 / IC-910) and Solar system at my home QTH. Now try and pull those babies apart. Talk about contact tension. You can't accidently tug on you power harness and pull these apart. One more thing, my jaw dropped when I had built my K2-100W. It uses a chassis mount variant of the tiny power pole connectors out from the rear of the unit. Well, just my two cents. Paul Metzger K6EH --- On Mar 24, 2007, at 06:42, Tedd Doda wrote: On Fri, 23 Mar 2007 23:01:17 -, skipp025 wrote: I try not to use the small powerpoles any more.. the smaller made power-poles don't have adequate contact tension/pressure and have been real trouble makers for me. *Smaller* being what Skipp? I've had excellent results using the 30 amp contacts on equipment that pushes the current rating of these to the limit (and then some). Tedd Doda, VE3TJD Lazer Audio and Electronics Baden, Ontario, Canada www.ve3tjd.com (personal) www.eraradio.ca (Linked repeater system) Yahoo! Groups Links Yahoo! Groups Links
[Repeater-Builder] Watch your use of the English Language here
Begin forwarded message: From: Gary [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: March 24, 2007 10:42:26 PDT To: Paul Metzger [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: Power-Pole connectors NOT for power You know, it's not only a pitty but also ironic that you don't value our language more especially since you are involved with radio communications for crying out loud. Apparently you didn't listen to your elementary school teacher very well otherwise you may now realize how rediculously stupid you seem by attempting to simply dismiss your misuse of the language as being less important then (whatever you call) fun. I'm done and you've been enlighted. Goodbye. Paul Metzger wrote: Thank you for your concerns. But quite honestly, I feel as if I had just been scorned by an elementary school teacher. I guess my last e- mail might have offended you in some way. I apologize if I had. Now that that's out of the way . . . Have Fun ! Paul Metzger K6EH
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Motorola MOTOTRBO
Any results yet Glenn? Paul Metzger K6EH On Mar 2, 2007, at 07:41, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Not sure about using it on the ham bands but we did just receive our demo. I have it all programmed and will be installing the repeater later today. Anxious to see how it plays. I try to post some results. Glenn W8AK
[Repeater-Builder] Amateur Radio Grade Equipment
I myself have pretty much given up on Amateur Grade Equipment all together. It doesn't matter who makes it, they all have relaxed their standards. It all started when I purchased a Yaesu VX-7R. After taking it home, I looked at it on an IFR-1200 service monitor (which I've never done to an Amateur Radio). I viewed the TX swing 1.6kHz off frequency. I returned to HRO with my service monitor in hand to find out just what was going on. Well the gentleman behind the counter kept handing me different portables (as he was a tech himself). He viewed me testing them one by one, and tried to look the other way in embarrassment (he tried to take away the attention of other hams in the store at that time so they wouldn't see my findings). After showing him just how far out of specs his portables were (frequency stability and deviation). I asked him the question, How is this so? He clearly stated, It's Amateur Radio equipment while giving me a look like what was I too expect from Amateur Radio equipment. I have an older model Yaesu FT-50R and stuck it on the IFR. It was great! Frequency and deviation were beautiful. It appeared as though through testing of later and later model portables, the later model it was, the worse my findings became. I refuse to purchase another Amateur Radio Portable again. I only buy commercial portables now. Another thing, all this wide band RX is for the birds. If I'm in a heavily RF congested area, the receivers blast open with trash, also deafening the receiver to the point the radio is useless. I was tired of not being able to use my ham equipment at hill top sites while mobile. I have replaced it all with commercial gear and now I can hear again. I'm certain that most of you already knew this. But for those of you who didn't. It's just something to think about. Oh, and one last comment, most every Amateur Radio potable is unable to do split Tone PL's. One Tone PL for TX and another Tone PL for RX. I don't know why that is so. It would just take a little extra code writing, but what do we expect, It's Amateur Radio Grade Equipment. Paul Metzger K6EH -- On Mar 14, 2007, at 19:23, Eric Lemmon wrote: Nate, Several years ago, I chastised ARRL Labs for failing to report the basic 2-way radio performance parameters of 12dB SINAD sensitivity, voice deviation limit, CTCSS deviation limit, and center frequency accuracy. I did not get a satisfactory answer, but I suspect that there is a reluctance to disparage the performance of name-brand Ham radios. Nearly every Amateur 2m radio I have tested has CTCSS deviation far in excess of the EIA/TIA recommended level of 750 Hz, and that level is not adjustable in most radios. Alinco radios are the worst in this regard, because the radios are made with fixed resistors that set the CTCSS deviation level, which usually is two to three times the proper level. An Alinco tech stated that the exact level wasn't important, only that it was high enough! I own several Alinco radios that were delivered with CTCSS deviation above 1500 Hz, and I modified them to bring their emissions within industry standards. Such blatant disregard for industry-recommended deviation levels is certainly not limited to any one manufacturer! My ICOM IC-207H mobile radio needed adjustment to bring the center frequency and deviation within ICOM specs, but the model received rave reviews from users who didn't realize how imprecisely the radios were tuned at the factory. I realize that not every Ham has the test equipment to verify on-spec performance of a new radio, but I would like to see much greater care taken in fixing the critical performance parameters, before the radio goes out the door. Moreover, I would like Amateur-Grade to mean simply that the radio will operate on Amateur bands, not that it has been dumbed-down to eliminate important performance adjustments in the name of reduced selling price! 73, Eric Lemmon WB6FLY -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Nate Duehr Sent: Wednesday, March 14, 2007 5:27 PM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: fixed-audio? On 3/14/07, nj902 [EMAIL PROTECTED] mailto:wb0emu%40arrl.net wrote: Another post suggested checking the frequency response of your repeater. Definitely - do that. Try it a various deviations. You may be surprised at how ugly it gets. Sure would be nice to see ARRL labs do a shootout of repeater controllers with tests like this one... they spend days and days (and page after page) testing out $10,000 HF rigs... You'd think they could put some hard numbers behind the performance of the various repeater controllers out there every couple of years from the lab as a small article in the VHF/UHF month/edition. What kinds
Re: [Repeater-Builder] RF Sampler
I picked up a new Bird Sampling slug for $25.00 from a CB shop that didn't know what it was. I just got lucky. Paul Metzger K6EH
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Motorola MOTOTRBO
I had almost purchased a MOTOTRBO repeater for the N6DVA Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association (to be used here within the greater Los Angeles area). But due to it utilizing a TDMA protocol, I felt it might not be a legal protocol to use for Amateur Radio purposes. Paul Metzger K6EH Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association http://www.hamradio-dv.org N6DVA - On Mar 1, 2007, at 17:08, James wrote: Has anyone had time to try out the new MOTOTRBO digital stuff?? It seems to be far less expensive than P25, and you can have a 2:1 ratio (2 voice conversations on one RF channel simultaneously ). Also, since it is a TDMA format, would that be legal to play with on the amateur bands (sorry for the legality question!) James WJ1D Yahoo! Groups Links
[Repeater-Builder] Am I being Censored ?
When I send e-mails to the group, it takes hours for my posting to actually post to the group? Paul Metzger K6EH
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Motorola MOTOTRBO
I'll be anxiously awaiting your findings Glenn. I know Motorola is selling and shipping Test Kits to dealers at this time. I also learned that orders are being placed for the units, but it is more a waiting line at this point in time. I was led to believe that only the Test Kits are being shipped. Paul K6EH -- On Mar 2, 2007, at 07:41, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Not sure about using it on the ham bands but we did just receive our demo. I have it all programmed and will be installing the repeater later today. Anxious to see how it plays. I try to post some results. Glenn W8AK
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Motorola MOTOTRBO
Thanks for the info James! I'm also serious about pursuing one of these systems as well. I wonder if we can get a discount going here for multiple units. I'm anxiously awaiting Glens (W8AK) hands on findings. Paul K6EH - On Mar 2, 2007, at 12:08, James Delancy wrote: Ok guys ... here is what I found. It is not Motorola proprietary format, but rather it is ETSI (European Technical Standards Institute) (standard number ETSI TS102 361-1). It is a DQPSK scheme. This is a published standard, and I just might start pursuing its use rather than D-star at this point. James WJ1D On 3/2/07, Jim B. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: James wrote: Ok, one more thought here. Does anyone know if MOTOTRBO uses the IS-54/IS-136 standard for TDMA? If so, I have found publicly available information on this standard which means that it could be put to use in the amateur bands. James As far as I can tell, it's a proprietary Motorola format designed for business and industrial use. It should be legal on the ham bands, as long as it's not encrypted, so anyone should be able to buy a radio off the shelf, program it, and talk. I don't know if there is any prohibition on the emission class, probably not. It should fall under an FSK format. -- Jim Barbour WD8CHL Yahoo! Groups Links
Re: [Repeater-Builder] WTB - VHF Repeater Duplexer
Shucks, I have a couple of them here. But being in Los Angeles makes them useless to you (transport). Paul Metzger K6EH On Feb 25, 2007, at 19:25, Tony L. wrote: Wanted: VHF repeater capable of operation near 146 MHz. Duplexer needed also, but willing to purchase from alternate source. Prefer MSF5000 or other non-crystal repeater. Must be set for plug play, including power supply cabinet. Send full details, photos, and asking price. Located near NYC. Can pick up anywhere from D.C. to Maine. Yahoo! Groups Links
[Repeater-Builder] Tait 800 Slimline 20kHz Mod ?
Hello all, Has anyone here, or does anyone here know of anyone who has successfully modified a Tait 800 Slimline to work on 20kHz steps? I have two of them and would like to use them on the 440 Amateur UHF band. Any help would be greatly appreciated ! Paul Metzger K6EH
Re: [Repeater-Builder] WTB 2 meter repeater amp
I have a stack of commercial VHF Micor PA's. But shipping would be a killer. Paul Metzger K6EH On Feb 18, 2007, at 05:22, Tom wrote: Email me if anyone has one 73s NB2A Yahoo! Groups Links
Re: [Repeater-Builder] mobile repeater setup
If your going to use two mobiles as a repeater (such as the GM300 series, or any other mid powered mobile radios) you must consider these radios are not meant for heavy / continuous duty use. If you are going to have moderate traffic, 20W is fine (with a fan). If your going to have heavy traffic, I'd turn the power down to no more than 12 watts and add a nice heavy muffin fan. I work as a two way radio technician and have seen my share of toasted Mobile PA's. Paul Metzger KQ6EH --- On Feb 4, 2007, at 15:16, texasexpediter wrote: I drive a truck OTR and at times work with FEMA. Would it be possible to put together a mobile repeater system that could be used in areas without power? I have a generator system in my truck so I have 110 power available. My interest would be in something semi permanently installed without need for putting antennas up or down. I realize it would have a rather limited reach but would theoretically allow an ht user 5 miles east of the truck to talk to an ht user 5 miles west of the truck when they wouldn't be able to talk simplex. With mobiles the effective radius presumably would be greater as well. My questions are is this feasible and reasonable? What would be the least expensive system I could put together to do this job? Thanks in advance for all suggestions. 73 Leo K5LDB
[Repeater-Builder] Need Tait800 UHF Slimline Documentation Programming
Anyone able to help me with manuals for a Tait800 Slimline UHF (T855-20 and T856-20). I also need to find out how to program it and what is required to do so. I appreciate any help, Thanks ! Paul MEtzger KQ6EH
[Repeater-Builder] Need Tait800 UHF Slimline Documentation Programming
It is a T800 Series 1 Slimline which requires the PROMs to be programmed. I need documentation, software, and to find out what hardware (exact models) I will need to acquire in order to program the proms, including cables. All it has is a single rack panel with a T855-20 Receiver, T856-20 Exciter/Amplifier and a terminal strip attached. It has a date on it of October 1996. I need documentation in order to find out how to interface it to a homebrew controller, which will then tie into an AOR Digital Voice modem. I hope to make it into a repeater for the Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association. Any help will be much appreciated ! Thanks ! Paul Metzger KQ6EH -- Paul, There are two versions of the Tait T800s. Series I and Series II. Series I use PROMs for channel information and Series II use EEPROMs. The older version needs a PROM programmer and the newer version just needs the correct software and a serial interface cable. The newer version's documentation is available in PDF form, but AFAIK, the older is only available in printed form. Ed Yoho WA6RQD
[Repeater-Builder] Anyone have a UHF Circulator/Isolator for Sale?
I'm looking for a UHF circulator/isolator for 440-450. Please e-mail me at [EMAIL PROTECTED] Thanks ! Paul Metzger KQ6EH
Re: [Repeater-Builder] IOTA Power Supplies
I don't know about IOTA switching supplies, but my Newmar PM-12-70 switching supply causes birdies all through my HF gear here at home. I also used a bank of five brand new 12V batteries tied to a Vector VEC1093A battery charger instead of the Newmar, and that charger as well is a switcher that also caused birdies all through my HF gear. I should have kept my old 70 Ampere non switching supply. Oh well, a lesson learned. Paul Metzger KQ6EH
[Repeater-Builder] Win A New ARD9800 Digital Fast Radio Modem !
You now have just a few days left to prepare yourself for the ARRL HELLO Special Event this Dec 29th and 30th. This is your chance to win a new AOR ARD9800 Digital Fast Radio Modem which retails for $549.95 at HRO. Visit http://www.hamradio-dv.org for more details. Paul Metzger The Digital Voice Amateur Radio Association
