EchoLink – Another Mode of Communication For Amateurs

By Michael Fitzsimmons

Amateur radio operators have been enjoying two-way communications (QSOs) via ionospheric propagation for many decades. This mode of operation has had an enjoyable side to it, in that individuals from five miles to five thousand miles away have been able to share a common interest, the art of communicating, resulting in friendships made without ever meeting the other person. On a more serious side, communication with state and local officials has provided a strong community service during severe weather or natural disaster events across the country. Without diminishing the importance of radio communication, another mode of communication has accelerated through the amateur radio community with the advanced technology of high-speed Internet connections.

EchoLink, developed in early 2002, is a Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIp) that accesses high-speed connections for worldwide communication by amateurs through the use of a computer. The appeal of this form of communication is enjoyed by anyone that wants to do short or long distance DXing and holds a valid amateur radio license, whether novice, general or extra. Unlike restrictions of band use by different class licenses, anyone having a valid amateur radio license can use EchoLink.

The EchoLink software for windows operating systems is free and can be accessed through the www.echolink.org URL. Upon initializing the EchoLink software your computer will connect to an EchoLink server. In order to download the EchoLink software, your amateur radio call sign must be verified through the FCC database. Once verification has been accepted, the program will download. The EchoLink server compiles and updates the list of everyone that has accessed the system so that you can randomly choose a given location around the world to communicate with at any given moment. It’s as easy as sitting in front of a computer and talking into a microphone headset. The EchoLink software also provides multiple links or conferencing where amateurs can communicate with several other amateurs at once. If connecting a radio to your computer, EchoLink can be accessed through an RF link. This would require a special interface.

Undoubtedly, this unique mode of communication for amateurs provides the same level of enthusiasm as making their first long distance communication through use of ionospheric propagation. Additional specific detailed information regarding the EchoLink software package can be found in the February 2003 issue of QST magazine.