Ham Radio Repeaters: Offset, Tone and How to Use One

SL_thumbnail_image
VU3WMV · ham radio basics

ഹാൻഡ്ഹെൽഡ് റേഡിയോ കൊണ്ട് ദൂരെ എങ്ങനെ സംസാരിക്കാം? A repeater is a station, usually on a high site, that hears your signal and sends it out again. This is a quick guide to the settings you need.

Step by step

Using a repeater

  1. What it doesA repeater listens on one frequency and re-transmits on another, so your signal reaches farther.
  2. OffsetThe gap between the two frequencies is the offset. Your radio transmits on the repeater’s input and listens on its output.
  3. 2 metre offsetOn the 2 metre band the usual offset is 600 kHz. In India most repeaters use a minus offset, but some use plus, so check the listing.
  4. ToneMany repeaters open only when they hear a sub-audible tone (CTCSS) with your voice.
  5. Set up the radioStore the frequency, the offset and the tone together in a memory channel.
  6. CallListen first. Then say your call sign and call.
Settings

The three numbers to store

Setting What to enter
Frequency The repeater’s output frequency (what you listen to)
Offset Direction and size of the shift (+ or −, usually 600 kHz on 2 m)
Tone The CTCSS tone for that repeater, if it needs one

Lists can be out of date. Some repeaters in public lists are switched off or have changed. Confirm that a repeater is working, and that you hold a valid licence for the band, before you rely on it.

Made for the Captain.Ramkumar reel series. Offsets and tones differ between repeaters, so always check the listing or the club that runs it.