Echolink Georgia Conference

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FAQ

Answers to questions on Simplex Links

Q: What kind of radio to PC interface do I need?
A: Any standard sound card interface used to send and recieve digital modes like PSK and wired for the radio you are using will work

Q: I want to register my call for a Simplex link. Should I submit for a -L or a -R suffix?
A: Request your call sign with a -L (for Link) suffix

Q: How many users can connect directly to my link?
A: No limit if they are using RF, but Echolink users are limited by the bandwidth of your internet connection. The maximum is set in your software, but the average is 6-10.

Q: The software says I need to Forward Ports in my router. How do I do that?
A: Information on Forwarding Ports can be found on www.echolink.org and www.portforwarding.com

Information on Simplex Links

Set-up and configuration of an Echolink Simplex node

A Simplex Link (Figure 2) is an analog VHF or UHF transceiver (HT, mobile, or base) configured to provides the Sysop and local users full RF access to the Echolink network when no repeater is available. The basic configuration consists of a radio;

  • Configured in simplex mode (no +/- shift on transmit)
  • Tuned to a simplex frequency (i.e. 146.500 MHz)
  • Connected via a compatible radio-to-PC interface (same as used for transmitting digital modes) to an Internet connected computer (desktop, laptop, RaspberryPi, tablet, etc.) running Echolink (or compatible variant) software in Sysop mode
  • Both Tone Squelch Encode and Decode are enabled (prevents non-RF signals from inadvertantly keying radio)

Often, older used mobile or inexpensive handheld units are employed, but there are new rigs available with Echolink capability built in. Simplex links are also a great way for a user who may not be within HT range of a local repeater, to stay connected in and around their property. A number of users have deployed one radio as the link, and a dual VHF/UHF cross-band capable radio to act as the link between their HT and the Simplex Node.

PROS: Very simple to implement, minimal equipment investment, portable, call sign ID announcements only broadcast locally. Simplex Links can quickly become Remote Repeater Links by simply reconfiguring the radio to access a local non-Echolink enabled repeater and a making a few minor changes to the settings in the software

CONS: Tends to be short range and requires higher power output, 100% duty mode requires additional cooling for transceivers, antenna height is critical, primarily operated in VOX - "Voice Operated Xmitter" (transmitter) - mode (COR - "Carrier Operated Relay" - mode keying is preferred, but more complicated).

Simplex Link