07 echolink, What is echolink – Kenwood TM-D710GE User Manual
Page 53
07 EchoLink
49
What is EchoLink?
EchoLink is a system that links amateur radio stations together using the Internet and allows amateur radio operators to
enjoy speech communication with other operators via this worldwide network.
Mobile User
Mobile User
Link Station
(Simplex)
Repeater Station
(Semi-Duplex)
PC User
Portable
User
Portable
User
Portable
User
Internet
EchoLink Server
Fig. 7-1 EchoLink System Architecture
There are many access points for EchoLink (called EchoLink nodes), such as repeater stations and link stations that
connect to the Internet.
Using DTMF codes transmitted from a transceiver to access a nearby EchoLink node, it is possible to communicate
with amateur radio stations located at many places in the world. Also, by using the EchoLink software without using any
transceiver at all, you can have QSOs directly from a personal computer. This is a major feature of EchoLink.
In order to operate an EchoLink node (link station or repeater station) or to make QSOs directly from a personal
computer, register at the official EchoLink site and then download the software. You must have a valid callsign to be able
to complete the registration process. Refer to the EchoLink site for details on how to validate your callsign. After being
validated, you can connect to the EchoLink system by using the downloaded software. Furthermore, like the Mobile
User and the Portable User shown in Fig. 7‑1 EchoLink System Architecture, software and validation is not necessary
when you access EchoLink nodes from amateur radio equipment.
The EchoLink system is offered free of charge to the amateur radio community, and is supported by a network of
volunteers.
For operation details and information about EchoLink nodes, visit the official EchoLink site at
http://echolink.org./
In addition, there is much information on the Internet pertaining to EchoLink besides the official site where you can find
useful operating tips.