[ETS/PARC List] Proper Repeater Operation

[lengriff at optimum.net]

The function of a ' REPEATER ' has not changed even though we now have
capabilities of linking many together.

 

    A repeater has the capability of connecting VHF/UHF stations over a long
distance. Since there are MANY stations that use a repeater, it is

IMPROPER to ' Rag Chew ' for long periods on a repeater system. This
practice ' CLOGS ' the repeater and prevents it's PRIMARY use: to

alllow distant stations to contact each other on VHF/UHF. After making
contact, stations should switch to a SIMPLEX frequency to continue a lengthy
Rag Chew.

 

    IF a conversation IS in progress on a repeater system,  it is IMPORTANT
to leave 1-2 seconds between transmissions to allow a break-in.

 

It is unfortunate that the ' Courtesy Beep ' on the repeater is now
pointless. It used to signify that the ' Talk Timer ' on the repeater had
reset, and it was clear to again transmit.

The beep was always delayed, to force users to wait. I will try to suggest
that AllStar modify the software to allow a variable delay for the courtesy
beep.

 

I was always taught, and the ARRL confirms:

 

 

ON THE REPEATER





Repeaters serve in the first place to extend the operating range of portable
and mobile stations on VHF/UHF.

Use simplex wherever possible. Using repeaters to make contacts between two
fixed stations should be an exception.

If you want to talk via the repeater while it is already in use, wait for a
pause between transmissions to announce your call.

Only use the term ‘break’ or even better ‘break break break’ in an emergency
or life-threatening situation. Better is to say ‘break break break with
emergency traffic’.

Stations using the repeater should pause until its carrier drops out or a
beep appears, to avoid inadvertent doubling (simultaneous transmission) and
to allow time for new stations to identify. 

Pausing usually also allows the timer to reset, avoiding a time-out.

Do not monopolize the repeater. Repeaters are there not only for you and
your friends. Be conscious that others may want to use the repeater as well;
be obliging.Keep your contacts through a repeater short and to the point.

Repeaters should not serve to inform the XYL that you are on your way home
and that lunch can be served... Contacts through amateur radio concern
primarily the technique of radio communications.

Don’t break into a contact unless you have something significant to add.
Interrupting is no more polite on the air than it is in person.

Interrupting a conversation without identification is not correct and in
principle it constitutes illegal interference.

If you frequently use a particular repeater consider supporting those that
keep that repeater on the air.

 

LEN

WB2HKK