What does a repeater do, and how do I use one properly?
A hand-held radio does not transmit very far. A repeater helps.
What a repeater is for
The main purpose of a Repeater is to extend the operating range of portable and mobile stations.
- It receives on one frequency and transmits on another. These are the repeater input and output frequencies.
- It is placed as high as possible because it works on VHF, which travels in a straight line (line of sight).
- The + or − split is 600 kHz between the receive and transmit frequencies.
Simplex
Simplex means transmitting and receiving directly between stations on the same frequency, without a repeater. (The definition is standard, not in the RSK text.)
Use simplex whenever the contact is possible without the repeater. That leaves the repeater free for those who need it.
The time-out timer
The repeater Time-out timer limits repeater transmission time to no more than 3 minutes.
If the repeater times out while you are talking, you transmitted for too long. Wait for it to reset before talking again.
When an emergency is announced
If an emergency is announced on your frequency, stand by (stop transmitting) unless help is requested.
You now know
- A repeater extends the range of portable and mobile stations, and sits high because VHF is line of sight.
- It receives on one frequency and transmits on another, with a 600 kHz split.
- Use simplex whenever you can reach the other station without the repeater.
- The time-out timer limits transmissions to 3 minutes; wait for a reset if you time out.
- In an emergency, stand by unless help is requested.