IDEA: Randy's idea is to use a 4300 as
a control radio to link into the his repeater. He envisions using
TS2 which is not IPSC on his repeater although for the sake of discussion
here, I'll assume that he might consider TS2 on IPSC or ultimately, TS1
for the benefit of the wider network. (NOTE:
As of 2-26, VHB/R is IPSC enabled on TS1&2)
BENEFITS: The immediate benefits no
matter TS or IPSC is a 2-way half-duplex voice connection into the TRBO
system which approaches the audio quality of an all digital system.
Better yet, it enables another portal into the TRBO system which allows
the use of computers, iPhones (new app available) and even other analog
systems that have EchoLink access (if desired). This would expand
the repeater (or network) coverage essentially, to the entire planet.
We have that already in IPSC but it requires 8300's and client radios to
be as ubiquitous as computers and iPhones, and that just ain't the same..
EQUIPMENT: So the plan would require
dedicating a client radio (4300 as the lowest tier radio), and an
EchoLink station (PC or laptop). A V3TO interface box would be
excellent for the interface and expansion allowing for touch tone control
over some aspects of the local station or repeater pssibly.
ACCESS: Access to the "TRBO-Link" would
be enabled or restricted by a whitelist. Typically it may enable
only EchoLink users (no -L's or -R's) and then possibly only TRBO-6 members who are
Echo-Link users. If repeaters or links, (even if sponsored by TRBO-6
members) were allowed access, it could inject normal analog system noise
and that might be objectionable. To compensate for this additional
noise or traffic, we could put the TRBO-Link on it's own TS2 Talkgroup,
IPSC enabled or not to limit bothersome noise on the TRBO side.
TRBO-6 Member access to TRBO-Link the other way could also be controlled.
MAXIMUM IMPLEMENTATION: At the other
end of the scale, TRBO-Link could sit full time on Comm 1 and be used just
as if another radio on the TRBO6 network. EchoLink users would able to use the TRBO-6 Intercom for the widest
exposure. The controls for implementing this interface are good and
allow us to maintain a balance of security / talkgroup activity vs that
of the excellent potential for EchoLink to provide for more enhanced coverage areas when unable to
use TRBO client radios (out of range of the local repeater or it's
network). This would also reduce the need or desire to implement
streaming audio onto the Internet. A measured approach, initially
restrictive, relaxing over time as we determine how best to fold this
portal onto
a repeater or the TRBO-6 network.
TALKGROUP: That's the idea in a
nutshell. I've set aside a talkgroup for this project; "EchoLink"
is ID: 03005465. 5465 was chosen as it spells "link" on a TT pad.
This is published now so folks can put it into their radios in due course.
If TRBO-Link never blossoms, then there is another User's TG similar to
Roundtable, already in some radios for optional or expansion use.
The current Codeplug already has the
EchoLink Talkgroup.
SUGGESTIONS: If anyone wishes to weigh
in on the idea, always, I welcome the input.
Email us.
This page will likely be updated after additional
input, thought or project movement, so check back from time to time.
-- Mike, WB6WUI, north central Washington state.
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