Transcript Slide 1

Presented by STEPHEN HOCH
WU3I
Echolink Node Number: 28742
Introducing EchoLink
EchoLink is software
which allows Amateur
Radio stations to
communicate with one
another over the Internet,
using voice-over-IP
(VoIP) technology. The
program allows worldwide
connections to be made
between stations, from
computer to station, or
from computer to
computer.
The program runs on Microsoft™ Windows®
95 or above. It is offered as freeware and may
be downloaded.
EchoLink is a full-featured software package
with many important and useful features.
The Modes of Amateur Radio
 CW – Morse Code
AM – Amplitude Modulation
FM – Frequency Modulation
SSB – Single Side Band
Digital – Packet, Pactor, Amtor, RTTY, PSK31, …
VoIP – Voice over IP
Alternatives to Echolink
VoIP System
IP Based Software
EchoLink
Windows Based
IRLP
Linux / UNIX Based
EQSO
Windows Based
Computer Interface
Radio Interface
Computer Interface
ONLY!!
Computer Interface
Radio Interface
Sound Card
Parrallel Port
Mic Input
Speaker Output
Sound Card
COM Port
Mic Input
Speaker Output
Sound Card
Microphone
Speakers
Sound Card
COM Port
Mic Input
Speaker Output
EchoLink
Friendly Windows GUI
Usable from Computer OR Radio
Easy configuration for RF Link or Computer user
No Special hardware required
VOX PTT
No AGC
Not able to Connect and Disconnect to and from
Multiple stations ( RF Configuration )
A Tour of EchoLink For licensed hams, EchoLink opens up new possibilities for
communicating around the world with other amateurs. Your PC links you or your local
repeater to any of thousands of other stations over the Internet.
The station-list screen keeps running tabs on who's currently on the system. Stations
which have recently come on or off are noted separately. Sort the list any way you
like. You can set up any number of "alarms" which will ring when your favorite stations
come online.
In Sysop mode, EchoLink connects to a
conventional FM transceiver using either the
custom-designed iLINK interface boards from
WB2REM and VA3TO, or general-purpose digitalmode interfaces such as the RIGblaster from West
Mountain Radio. The board connects to your
computer's sound card and serial port.
Virtually any type of Internet connection may be used with
EchoLink, from dial-up to DS3. Custom settings allow you
to tailor EchoLink to compensate for older computers or
slower Internet connections
The program includes a number of important new
security features, such as the ability to restrict
access by country, to help comply with your
nation's third-party traffic or reciprocal operating
rules.
If the bandwidth of your Internet
connection permits it, EchoLink allows
up to 10 different stations to be
connected at once. This is especially
useful in Sysop mode for running a
roundtable on your local repeater, or
allowing "listening" stations to be
connected without blocking out others.
Extended DTMF commands allow stations
to be searched or connected by callsign, or
the status of any station to be queried. The
program also includes a built-in Web server
for remote control of EchoLink from any
Web browser on the Internet.
Floating" pop-up windows keep track
of how many stations are on the
system, along with detailed status
about the current connection.
Interfaces: If you are expecting to set up EchoLink in "sysop" mode, you will need a
special interface device which connects your radio equipment to your
computer. This device allows the computer to control the PTT function of your
transceiver, and (optionally) to accept and process DTMF commands from the
receiver. For maximum flexibility, EchoLink is designed to work with several different
types of interfaces. Below is a partial list of high-quality interfaces which are
specifically recommended for use with EchoLink.
WB2REM & G4CDY'S iLINK Board
This interface is available fully-assembled, or in kit form. The circuit was described
in QST for March, 2002. VA3TO Enhanced iLINK Controller
This interface is also available fully-assembled, or in kit form, and can be used with
other digital-mode software such as PSK31. RIGblaster from West Mountain Radio
Several models of these general-purpose digital-mode interfaces are available, all
of which are compatible with EchoLink. Use EchoLink's internal DTMF decoder
when using a RIGblaster. G3VFP iLINK / EchoLink Interface Controller
Fully assembled and enclosed, fully isolated interface designed expressly for
iLINK/EchoLink. Can be used with other digital-mode software such as PSK31.
Other Interfaces
Here are some other interface options for EchoLink.
PY2JF Interface (from Brazil)
The four system
setup screens
are easily
configured.
Most everything
is Automatically
filled in except
your personal
information.
The Preferences
settings allow how the
listings are displayed,
the connections that
are allowed and your
personal info file, the
security settings as to
the connections
allowed the call signs
locked out or the
country prefixes
accepted or denied and
the signals menu
designates the sound
played when activity is
detected
The Sysop Settings allow many controls:
The receive audio is able to be controlled in
many ways the easiest is the default VOX.
The transmit control on the standard
interfaces is via the serial connection.
The DTMF commands allow a number of
different operations. These are listed on the
Echolink Control Sheet.
The Identification allows the default
computer voice or a .wav file for your
Connection Identification.
The options settings are for voice
announcements of connecting stations or
conferences and the time out settings.
The Web tab allows for remote control via
the internet.
Echolink Interfaces
oUses Standard 1/8” Mono
Connectors
oEasily Re-Programmable
PIC Chip for Updates
oNothing too Complex
oNothing Hidden!
oStandard 8 Pin
Microphone connectors
oRJ-45 Modular Connector
oSwitches on front panel
for ON/OFF
oNice installation
presentation
Uses Standard Connectors for Interfacing
Small breadboard area for redesigning
Uses readily available components
Indicator Lights for Status of Operation
Hookup is very easily done with Shielded wires and mini phone plugs on the
interface side and the proper connecter for your Microphone Jack and external
speaker. There is even an option for a control receiver to control the system
remotely.
There is even a COS mod for the purists that have to have it.
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EchoLink Control Sheet
Direct Connect by Node Number. A + node number
Connect to random node on internet: 00
Connect to random link on internet: 01
Connect to random conference on internet: 02
Query node by node number: 06 + node number
Reconnect to LAST node: 09
System information: *
Turn system on: CONTROL OPS ONLY
Turn system off: CONTROL OPS ONLY
Disconnect: # (make sure you hit pound after finished using the link every
time!)
Hints & Tips:
Leave a pause between transmissions, don't jump the key. When working
with several linked repeaters, it takes a couple seconds for them to drop.
Wait until the machine says "Connected." until you start calling CQ. If it
just says "connecting to xx...", do not talk yet, wait for it to connect fully.
It will say "Connected" when it's connected.
If you hear "Disconnected" right after you connect, this means the remote
station has a firewall or internet problem. Just try another station at this
point.
When you are finished, wait until the station drops, and press # ONE time
only. Pressing #### multiple times will not drop the link, and only causes
a problem.
THANKS FOR YOUR TIME AND INTEREST
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT
WWW.ECHOLINK.ORG