Research Local Repeaters
1 hourCollect output/input frequencies, tones, and coverage notes for your area.
Field context
This workflow is part of 4 niche fields
Complete guide for repeater operation — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
Collect output/input frequencies, tones, and coverage notes for your area.
Model path to repeater site including antenna height and terrain.
Include coax and duplexer losses when comparing handheld vs mobile access.
Check into weekly net and verify simplex fallback if repeater fails.
Estimate whether your station can reliably access the repeater.
Include feedline loss when comparing antenna setups.
Convert dB loss to power fraction for link planning.
Baseline path loss to repeater site before terrain factors.
Confirm offset direction matches band plan.
Common input/output spacing by band.
| Band | Offset | Tone |
|---|---|---|
| 2 m | ±600 kHz | Often 100.0–114.8 Hz |
| 70 cm | ±5 MHz | Check local band plan |
| 1.25 m | −1.6 MHz | Less common |
Monitor 30 seconds before transmitting — avoids doubling and colliding with nets.
A ¼-wave on the roof beats any rubber duck inside the car.
Some repeaters route to wide-area nets — know when your signal goes beyond local coverage.