REPEATER UPGRADE AND STATUS

-- Jan. 30, 2010 --

On Friday, January 22nd an upgrade of SARC's 2 m repeater was completed, courtesy of Steve Coleman VE7MAN and Dave Cameron VE7LTD. An imbedded IRLP node was installed, providing a number of new features including IRLP and Echolink capability, voice messaging, signal checks and control features activated remotely by DTMF tones. In addition, a new Astron power supply was donated by Dave to replace the ancient unit which had some reliability concerns.

Subsequently, Steve provided IRLP and Echolink users' instructions, which can be found elsewhere on this website, and offered tutorial advice to new users on the Tuesday night nets. The ability to access reflector sites is another attractive feature. This is a great new addition to the Surrey repeater system which, among other things, will allow members to check in to club nets and keep in touch more effectively when away from home. Many thanks to Steve and Dave for their big contribution to SARC and also to Surrey Fire Services who arranged for installation of the Internet connection to the repeater site and made it available to the Club.

What's next for SARC's repeaters? The Executive is working towards getting the 2 m repeater raised another 30 ft. on the tower to increase coverage throughout the Lower Mainland. If this can be achieved, the plan is to move the 70 cm repeater from South Surrey to the Newton location, and utilize the advantages of this site. 220 MHz is still off on the horizon for the time being.