📡 Repeater Guide
A repeater is a special station that receives your signal and re-broadcasts it at much higher power from a tall tower or mountain top. This can extend your range from 2 miles to over 50 miles.
How It Works
- Input Frequency: The frequency you transmit on (e.g.,
442.500). - Offset: The difference between input and output (typically
+5.000or-5.000MHz for UHF). - Output Frequency: The frequency you listen on (e.g.,
447.500). - Tone (CTCSS): A sub-audible “key” required to “open” the repeater.
Finding Repeaters
Use RepeaterBook.com to find towers near you. Look for “70cm” or “UHF” repeaters, as those are compatible with your radio.
Programming in CHIRP
| Field | Example Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency | 447.500 (The Output/Listen frequency) |
| Duplex | - (Minus offset) |
| Offset | 5.000 |
| Tone Mode | Tone |
| Tone | 100.0 |
Repeater Etiquette
- Listen First: Ensure the repeater isn’t already in use.
- Identify: You must state your callsign at the beginning and end of your conversation.
- Be Brief: Repeaters often have “time-out” timers that will cut you off if you talk for more than 3 minutes.