What is EchoLink and How Does it Work

EchoLink is a software that allows amateur radio operators to connect with other operators around the world over the internet. It's essentially a digital bridge that lets you communicate with fellow hams who are thousands of miles away.

The software uses a network of servers to connect users, making it possible to communicate in real-time. This network is called the EchoLink network.

To use EchoLink, you'll need a computer, an internet connection, and a TNC (Terminal Node Controller) or a compatible digital mode interface.

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EchoLink offers a range of features and functionality that make it a valuable tool for Amateur Radio enthusiasts. You can access EchoLink with either a radio or a computer, giving you flexibility in how you use the service.

With EchoLink, you can connect your station or computer to other amateurs over the Internet, greatly enhancing the range and utility of mobile and portable VHF/UHF-FM stations. This allows you to carry on voice QSOs with other amateurs over long distances.

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EchoLink also provides a variety of resources and tools, including membership, nets, photos, and propagation information. This is a one-stop-shop for all your Amateur Radio needs, making it easy to stay connected and informed.

Here are some of the key features and functionality of EchoLink:

EchoLink offers a range of uses for amateur radio operators, making it a versatile tool for communication.

You can operate EchoLink in one of two modes: Single User Mode or Sysop Mode. Single User Mode allows you to connect to other EchoLink-enabled computers over the Internet using your computer's microphone and speakers.

In Sysop Mode, you can connect your VHF or UHF transceiver to your Internet-connected PC, enabling other radio amateurs within radio range to communicate with you or other EchoLink-equipped stations worldwide.

EchoLink allows licensed amateur radio stations to connect to each other over the Internet, enabling voice QSOs and greatly enhancing the range and utility of mobile and portable VHF/UHF-FM stations.

You can access EchoLink with a radio or a computer. If you're in range of an FM repeater or simplex station equipped with EchoLink, you can use DTMF commands from your radio to access the EchoLink network.

Some of the key features of EchoLink include:

You can also use EchoLink on your smartphone, with a free app available for iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android smartphones, and tablets.

Validating requires a valid amateur radio licence, which you can prove by scanning and uploading an image of the first page of your licence or faxing a copy to the number provided.

To get started, head to the Echolink site to learn more about the validation process.

You can register your callsign at www.echolink.org/ to begin the validation process.

Echolink provides a fax number for you to send a copy of your licence, making it easy to get validated.

Remember to keep your licence handy to make the validation process smooth and efficient.

In Essex, you can access two Echolink repeaters. One is MB7IDA, which operates on 145.3375MHz with a CTCSS tone of 110.9Hz.

The Echolink Node for MB7IDA is 265297. If you're planning to use this repeater, make sure to note down its Echolink Node number.

Another repeater available in Essex is MB7ICL-L. It operates on 145.2875MHz with a CTCSS tone of 110.9Hz.