IRLP

Internet Radio Linking Project

Bundaberg Club builds IRLP Node

irlp

Node Number #6248
In September 2019 (58 years after the club formed) we went live with our IRLP node.

If you're unfamiliar with this technology we recommend this Wikipedia link which outlines how Amateur Radio Operators call into their local node and can connect to other nodes worldwide.

Each node has a unique 4 digit number, and there are over 1,500 nodes worldwide.

Why create IRLP?

Amateur Radio Operators created IRLP to be a reliable and inexpensive linking system using Voice-Over-IP (VoIP).

Coupled with the power of the Internet, IRLP now links our Bundaberg repeater site to the world, in a simple and cost effective way.

There is a worldwide group of 'Nodes" all linking together and you'll find the useful links in the bar above.
Information on the Bundaberg node and a 'Quick Guide' to using IRLP is outlined below. We trust you will enjoy this facet of the club's operations.

Node Details

Bundaberg IRLP Node information

The IRLP equipment is on Mt Watalgan (also called Double Sloping Hummock) at our repeater site VK4RBW

Frequency is: 439.7750MHz UHF

Node Number is: 6248

DTMF Tones for Nodes


These are the DTMF tones most commonly used byIRLP Nodes worldwide.

73 = Disconnect

*69 = Last Incoming outgoing call

101 = Time

102 = Date

These Clocks may assist you to make contacts at the right time


Quick Guide to using IRLP


  • Find the Node you want by checking the ACTIVE IRLP status page

  • Check if the repeater is in use

  • Identiify yourself and state your intention of connecting to an irlp node

  • Hold the Transmit button and enter the 4-digit DTMF tone of the node you wish to connect to

  • After a few seconds you will hear an announcement that your connection was successful

  • Put out a CQ call in the normal way - the longer the better so listeners can adjust to your voice and your Australian accent

  • You can enjoy conversations with hams all over the world

  • Use longer pauses between overs - allow time for data to be transferred via internet links

  • IMPORTANT! - when you're finished and have said goodbye to your contact.... USE DTMF TONE 73 to disconnect from their IRLP Node

  • You will hear an announcement from the other node, confirming that you have disconnected

  • It's all part of being a good international citizen when you use IRLP


Give it a go and good luck.

Google has links to IRLP "how-to" videos

This ham chats for a minute, and then does a step by step call from the USA to Australia. It is a good resource for beginners.

Note - he uses the DTMF Tone 73 before he begins, to disconnect the local repeater... a precaution in case someone before him hadn't disconnected correctly.

Check out Australian Craig VK3CRG when he was in San Francisco using the Oakland California WB6NDJ (IRLP Node 3115) to chat back to Australia using the Mount Martha Repeater in Melbourne.