What
is EchoLink? EchoLink is windows-based software
which allows Amateur Radio stations to communicate with one another over the
Internet using a simple radio or PC, using Voice-over-IP (VoIP) technology. What
is EchoLink? EchoLink is windows-based software
which allows Amateur Radio stations to communicate with one another over the
Internet using a simple radio or PC, using Voice-over-IP (VoIP) technology.
The program allows worldwide connections to be made between stations, from computer to radio, from computer to computer or even radio to radio via respective computers. Using no more than a simple handheld, you can talk to people the world over - amazing!
I know it's not true radio, but it's a way to attract at least some of the people the hobby has lost to the Internet & mobile phones and allow newcomers to taste the delight of working DX using inexpensive equipment without upsetting the neighbours with a big antenna. After all, amateur radio is all about experimenting and some recent disasters have benefited from the use of Internet linking - for example the Shuttle Disaster where the various search parties collecting wreckage were linked back to the main control centre by amateurs using VoIP as local police authority communications proved to be inadequate and lacking coverage.
Also, individuals who cannot have a radio installation through local planning restrictions or even medical reasons can still hold conversations with fellow amateurs using a PC and a modem thereby opening the hobby to almost anyone holding a licence. In case you were wondering, systems are in place to ensure only licensed amateurs can use EchoLink.
There are more than 87,000 registered users in 134 countries worldwide. The software is freeware running on Microsoft™ Windows® and is offered for download from here.
| 08 July 2003 - I've just heard of a forthcoming new interface from G4CDY & WB2REM using USB instead of a soundcard - will hopefully have the link running soon after it's release onto the market. I also hope to be on Broadband very soon. |
| 24 July 2003 - The USB version won't be available for some time so have ordered the ULI from WB2REM today. Also signed up with NTL today for Broadband. Should be installed on the morning of 6 August... |
| 27 July 2003 - Have requested a second frequency allocation on 70cms, due to local interference issues. |
| 28 July 2003 - The interface arrived this morning! It's a ULI from WB2REM and G4CDY at www.ilinkboards.com. Just need to get hold of the necessary cables and let the RA know I'm about to start test transmissions. I've sent them an email but no reply as yet. |
| 31 July 2003 - RA have replied so it's all go! Some test transmissions today. I've still got a couple of issues with interference but hope to overcome one with the installation of broadband and the other will be resolved with the use of an ex-PMR set I've got lined up. |
| 04 August 2003 - Second/alternative frequency issue not going to plan due congestion of users on the gateway frequencies, many of which appear to never be used. Still having a few problems with the interface which I hope to resolve - looking for someone who can program a Motorola GM1200 for me... hint hint! |
| 07 August 2003 - Despite a major foul-up on .ntl's part, 600k broadband was finally installed late on Wednesday afternoon. So after very much appreciated assistance from fellow link sysop Ron, G4SNT, I am pleased to announce that the link is now operational and available for use!... Enjoy!!! |
| 29 August 2003 - The link is currently offline due to PC problems - I'm currently rebuilding the system and the gateway should be available sometime this coming weekend. Sorry for any inconvenience caused... |
| 31 August 2003 - Gateway available once again. Once again apologies for this. |
|
18 November 2004 - The more observant amongst you will have noticed that the link has been off-air for some time - since late last year to be precise. This is as a direct result of moving home. Although I've transferred the NoV to the new address, I've yet to erect the necessary antenna to allow for the link to operate. I hope to get this up and running in the next few weeks but don't hold your breath! Will keep you posted. |
This is a
close-up of the
ULI as used on my link. The speaker is an personal addition and provided courtesy
of an old Nokia car kit.
Current UK rules insist on attended operation so as a result the link will obviously not be available 24hrs a day. But needless to say I will have the link running as often as I can and as I work shifts this will be just as likely during the day weekdays as much as evenings/weekends!!
There is a very good document about Amateur VoIP systems including EchoLink on the ARRL website - see the document here. Bear in mind it is written with an American slant including details of the applicable rules over the pond. Don't confuse these rules with those of the UK!
There is a new Yahoo™ group for UK users of EchoLink and
other amateur VoIP software. Why not join in?
