Gateway on for VK3RMM D-STAR repeaters

The D-STAR repeaters on Mt Macedon north-west of Melbourne, Australia are now connected to the D-STAR internet gateway enabling it to be linked to many other similar repeaters. Amateur Radio Victoria switched on the gateway on Tuesday 18 August for the 2m and 70cm repeaters using 3G wireless broadband after ADSL and other wireless options were found not to be possible at the site.

After a very substantial expenditure for a new antenna, its installation, cable runs and a new filter, the VK3RMM D-STAR repeaters first went on air in June for initial testing, essential to ensure compatibility with other radio services at the site. After a number of false starts due to broadband services providers not living up to their advertised claims, the wireless modem was installed by Ross Pittard VK3CE and Barry Robinson VK3PV. Many D-STAR users became aware that the gateway had opened on VK3RMM including a couple of hams from the United States who were among the first to use it. The final part of the project will be installation of the 23cm D-STAR digital voice repeater that requires antenna rigging.

Amateur Radio Victoria again acknowledges the generous donation of the D-STAR repeater modules by ICOM (Australia) and the technical support of the National D-STAR Instructor/Administrator Richard Hoskin VK3JFK.

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