01/10/2026
I have unlinked the DMR Bridge with the system. It is able to be if the need would ever arise. DMR as you know sounds different just like any digital would. There isn't much that comes from it anyway, but in the attempt to clean up some things on the air, this is one of them.
The Pocono and Catawissa links through K4MTP are currently still linked, but there are always potential changes in the future and there are times when it is not linked which times of nets and newsline etc when it is not connected. There are several types of hams out there too and that can also determine linking, most do not tolerate bad hams.
This is not an all-inclusive list, but some things to keep in mind.
Standard Repeater Etiquette
Listen First: Always monitor the frequency for at least 30 seconds before transmitting to ensure you don't interrupt a conversation or a scheduled net.
Wait for the Courtesy Tone: Most repeaters emit a short "beep" (courtesy tone) after a station unkeys. Wait for this tone before responding to allow others a chance to break in for emergencies.
Avoid "Kerchunking": Keying your mic briefly without identifying yourself just to hear the repeater is illegal and annoying to other users. Instead, say "[Your Callsign] testing".
Monitoring vs. CQ: Do not call "CQ" on a repeater. Simply state your callsign followed by "monitoring" or "listening".
Yielding to Others: If you are having a long conversation ("ragchewing"), move to a simplex frequency if possible to free up the repeater for others.
Emergency Procedures
Breaking In: If you have an emergency, wait for a break and say "Emergency" or "Break Break" followed by your callsign.
Immediate Handover: If you hear someone declare an emergency, stop all casual conversation immediately and yield the frequency until they are finished.
Ownership and Control
Private Property: Even though they are "open," repeaters are private property. The repeater trustee or club has the legal right to set additional rules or ban specific users for non-compliance.
Control Operators: Licensed hams designated as "Control Operators" have the final say on the repeater's operation and may shut it down if rules are being violated.
https://www.arrl.org/files/file/Technology/tis/info/pdf/repeater1.pdf
