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Repeaters

Repeaters

Repeaters are one of the most important tools in amateur radio, extending the range of radio communication by retransmitting signals.

Positioned at high locations, such as mountaintops or tall buildings, repeaters receive signals on one frequency and transmit them on another, providing reliable communication across wide areas.

Repeaters are widely used for emergency communication, community events, and day-to-day contacts.

Working on repeaters is a side-hobby that helps teach radio fundamentals and propogation.

General Ham Resources

Repeater Activities:

  1. VHF/UHF Repeaters: VHF and UHF repeaters are the most common type used by amateur radio operators. They extend the coverage of handheld and mobile radios, making it possible to communicate over longer distances. Learn more about VHF/UHF Repeaters.

  2. Linked Repeaters: Some repeaters are linked together via the internet or radio links, allowing communication across a wider area or even internationally. Linked repeaters are useful for connecting distant regions and facilitating emergency coordination. Find details on Linked Repeaters.

  3. Emergency Communication: Repeaters play a vital role in emergency communication by providing reliable and extended coverage. They are often part of emergency preparedness plans to facilitate communication during natural disasters or public service events. Learn more about Repeaters for Emergency Communication.

  4. Digital Repeaters: Digital repeaters, such as those used with D-STAR, Fusion, or DMR, offer clear audio and additional features like data transmission and GPS tracking. These repeaters are increasingly popular as digital modes become more widespread. Read more about Digital Repeaters.

More Resources:

Repeaterbook Repeater Directory

Repeater Operating Guide

How to Build a Repeater 

 

Local Club Activities

RARS has several repeasters:

W4DW 146.64 MHz -0.6 MHz, No CTCSS Tone

Known as the “6-4” repeater, this is our “flagship” machine, located near the State Fairgrounds in west Raleigh. Typical 50-watt mobile coverage is 30 to 45 miles, except to the northwest, where there is a deep shadow caused by the tower and antenna orientation.

We hold the RARS 2-Meter Net on this machine at 8:00 pm every evening except Saturday. The Tech and Trader's Net is at 8:00 pm on Saturday, instead. The RARS Amateur Radio News Hour follows the 2-Meter Net on Sundays. On the last Wednesday of every month, we hold the RARS Public Service Net at 7:30 pm. The Apex Emergency Response Communications Net is at 9:00 pm on Sundays. This repeater is also the home of the Sixty-Four on Six-Four operating award.

W4RNC 145.13 MHz -0.6 MHz, CTCSS 82.5 Hz

This is our “western” repeater. Located near in Research Triangle Park (RTP) near the RDU airport, this repeater covers the western end of Wake County and into Durham County. Coverage is a little less than 6-4, but it does well around town and the suburbs. If 6-4 is busy, take your conversation to 1-3!

W4RNC 444.525 MHz + 5.0 MHz, CTCSS 82.5 Hz

This is the Bayleaf repeater. It sits at the northern-most point of I-540. This repeater is accessible in southern Granville County and east out to Wake Forest and Knightdale.

More details:
RARS repeaters
Repeater Nets