Repeaters are one way ham radio operators use to communicate over long distances. If you do not input the frequencies correctly, however, the repeater will not work. There are many resources on the Web to find repeater frequencies, and they include everything you need in order to get on the air and start talking.

Finding Frequencies

Use online sources such as the Repeater Book (link in Resources) to find repeaters close by. These sources include the necessary information required to input the repeater information into your ham radio transceiver. Write down both the frequency and the PL tone, as both are required to activate the repeater, or what ham radio operators call "keying up." If you do not use the PL tone, the repeater will not rebroadcast your signal, and will instead discard it as interference.

PL Tones

Many repeaters on the air use the same frequency within close range of each other, so repeater owners use what is called a PL tone to prevent unintentional interference. The PL tone is a sub-audible tone that is sent along with the transmission. When the repeater receives your transmission along with the tone, it rebroadcasts your signal. Most repeater associations -- the people who control what frequencies are used -- require repeater owners to use PL tones.

Storing the Frequency

The steps to store the repeater data in your radio will vary depending on the type and manufacturer of your transceiver. Most radios allow you to store the frequency along with a descriptive name. Repeaters have different transmitting and receiving frequencies, called an "offset" -- typically your radio automatically figures out the transmitting frequency for you once you enter the receiving frequency, which is the frequency given by the repeater database.

Considerations

While repeaters allow you to talk over greater distances, you still need to get the signal to the repeater itself. This may require additional transmission power. Key up your transceiver and send a test transmission -- be sure to still use your call sign, though. It may be a good idea to test things out before trying to use the repeater for a full conversation. Ask for a signal report from anyone listening in. Many amateur radio operators will be happy to help.

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How to Input Repeater Frequencies in a Ham Radio

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