What Is EchoLink? (August 2003)

August 2003	What Is EchoLink? By Bob Myers, KG4ERU

The buzz word lately in amateur radio seems to be this thing called EchoLink. So, what is EchoLink? Well, since you're reading this on the computer, let's talk computer stuff to describe this new fangled ham thingy.

Instant Messenging Program Have you ever heard of something called AOL Instant Messenger? How about ICQ, Microsoft Messenger or Yahoo Messenger? These are programs that run on your computer and allow you to chat to other users.

Lots of high school pals use it. They can type messages back and forth with their friends. Each person has an identification number and a name they go by. When you get on the Internet and run the program, it sends out a notice that you are available for chat. Other people using the program can then see you're there and they can instantly type a message to you.

With these programs, you can keep a list of your friends. Then when they get on the Internet with their computer, you will know and you can type a message to them.

EchoLink is similar to Instant Messaging, with a few exceptions. Firstly, you must be a licensed amateur radio operator. Secondly, you can type, but you can also talk with others by voice. Just connect a microphone to your computer's sound card. Thirdly, you can interface your computer to a ham radio and others can actually use your radio via EchoLink to get on the air.

The thing nice about this community is everyone has a common interest. All EchoLink users are hams. Like being on the air, there is courtesy toward one another and interest in letting others join in the conversation. It is a safe environment just like amateur radio.

In order to use EchoLink, you need the program (which is free) and have access to the Internet. Before you can use it, you must send verification you are a licensed amateur radio operator. About 24 hours later, you're ready to go.

Screenshot of EchoLink

When EchoLink is started, a list of other stations and individuals is displayed. Information includes callsign, location and description. Sometimes frequency of transceiver and other information amy be included. You don't need to have your computer connected to your rig to use the program. You can talk to other hams directly over the Internet or you can call other hams using somebody else's rig.

As an example, here in Louisville, the 146.94 repeater is frequently on EchoLink. You can connect to it via your computer and call out on the repeater, just as if you used a radio to get on 2 meters. A step beyond that, you can use any frequency the control operator is licensed for, just like during Field Day or a QSO Party at the home of someone with a higher class license.

EchoLink uses a protocol called Voice-Over-IP, converting the voice from your computer to compressed data sent via the Internet and then uncompresses to be received by others. The compression provides excellent quality and almost no delay, even if a phone connection to the Internet is used.

RigBlaster connected to computer. To connect your rig for others on EchoLink to use your station, an interface like RigBlaster is required. This connects the transceiver to the computer and allows it to be controlled by the program and other users. Keep in mind, as the control operator of your station, you are responsible for its operation. It would not be recommended to leave it unattended, in case of improper use.

Another fun way to communicate with other hams is directly, from computer to computer. It works the same way, only you are not going over the air. You can even type to others while they are talking. Of course, if an on-air station joins in, you still need to ID. Funny thing is, even though people go peer-to-peer, they still want to use licensed protocol. That's okay too - nobody seems to object. Peer-to-Peer connections

At most times, there are about 400 repeaters, 400 users and around 100 conferences on EchoLink. Here in Louisville, K9SOA has been making the 146.70 BARS repeater available at times. You can also find links to the 146.940 repeater via N4PVB and the 443.975 repeaters via N4KWT. Since various use EchoLink at different times, you never know exactly who may be on.

Of course, EchoLink isn't limited to just the United States. It isn't unusual to see repeaters from England, Israel, Germany, France, Italy, Portugal, Argentina or Canada. A list of current users is available anytime on the EchoLink web site.

Some veteran operators may think this isn't really what amateur radio is all about. However, you need to look at the possibilities. For example, take the young adult who is interested in amateur radio and wants to get his or her license. However, this future ham may have restrictions in their area where putting up an antenna is not allowed. Or maybe they cannot afford to purchase a radio, but already have a computer. Maybe there is someone who receives interference in the area and cannot get on the air. EchoLink can overcome these problems and give those an opportunity to get on the air and join the community. It's simply a new way of communication by taking advantage of modern technology.

Remember, what we need to keep amateur radio alive are new things to excite newcomers. This is something that can be fun and exciting for computer enthusiasts, which could help to bring new interest to ham radio. If you love amateur radio and want to expand your horizons, EchoLink is worth a try. It's free and it's fun!

EchoLink is available for Microsoft Windows only. For more information, go to the EchoLink web site at www.echolink.org.