Quick update on the repeater network status:
Wilderness Ridge
- VHF coverage is impaired – DR-1X in high RF environment issue, to be resolved in the spring during Motorola upgrade.
- UHF coverage is impaired – DR-1X transmit range does not match receiver range, to be resolve in the spring during Motorola upgrade.
- Antenna still at temporary location on building, impairing coverage. To be resolved during spring work moving back up on to the telephone pole.
- Repeater controller issues traced down to issues with firmware, unable to do further programming until firmware is upgraded locally in the spring. Functional for basic voice use at this time.
- Looking at options for possible GMRS or LMR repeater at this site in the spring.
Crescent Rim
- Antenna and feedline replaced, handheld coverage improved.
- Pending Motorola upgrade project.
- Now has S1 coverage in to Middleton, S5+ to Highway 16
Middleton
- Temporarily will be turned up for Middleton Parade at K6LOR QTH
- May deploy permanent repeater at this location for future events
- Shares frequency pair with Crescent Rim/different PL tone
- Already have low power Motorola hardware for this location
- Will need new repeater controller
Motorola Upgrade Project
- Standardizing on the modern Motorola MTR2000 100 watt commercial repeater platform
- Working with a vendor in Iowa for a quantity discount on all production repeaters plus spares
- High performance preselector and interfacing for repeater controllers
- Fully PC programmable and supported by local Motorola dealership, extensive repair part availability
- Allows for a migration roadmap to MMVDM with the Kansas DMR Group plug in board for P25/YSF/DSTAR/DMR digital access; initially will be analog only
Portable Repeaters
- Current available portable repeaters:
- LMR 151/158 MHz suitcase repeater (K6LOR)
- 146.780- PL88.5 solar repeater (needs new duplexer/retuned)
- Future Repeaters
- 3x DR-1X dual band portable repeaters for in band/cross band use
LMR Repeaters
- Aligned GE/Harris Mastr III NB 151/158 MHz repeater ready for deployment
- 2nd GE/Harris Mastr III spares with P25 gear for interfacing
- Interest in a GMRS repeater in the Boise front area