Communication Methods for Licensed Radio AmateursLicensed radio amateurs employ various communication methods to connect with one another.
Local CommunicationsFor local communications, line-of-sight (LoS) techniques are commonly used. These include Simplex or Duplex frequency pairs, such as VHF (144–146 MHz) or UHF (430–440 MHz) bands, often facilitated through repeater systems.
HF for Local CoverageHigh-frequency (HF) bands can also support local communications within Seychelles. This can be achieved through LoS or by utilizing NVIS (Near Vertical Incidence Skywave) propagation. NVIS allows radio signals to overcome obstacles like mountains by reflecting off the ionospheric layer at a steep angle near Zenith.
Regulatory GuidelinesIn Seychelles, frequency usage is aligned with RSGB (Radio Society of Great Britain) guidelines and IARU Region 1 standards. All practices are subject to approval by SCRA, the local regulatory authority.
Posted by S79KW on 2nd April 2021
Launching and Testing the UHF Repeater Network on Mahé Island, SeychellesWe are thrilled to announce the successful launch and testing of a new UHF repeater network on Mahé Island, Seychelles. This ambitious project interconnects three strategically located stations, including a gateway to the Echolink Network, bringing enhanced communication capabilities to the region.
A Collaborative EffortThe Echolink gateway, operating under the callsign
S78SARA, is hosted with the kind support of
Core Technologies, a local business committed to advancing technological development in Seychelles. The repeaters in this network are assigned the following callsigns:
- S78SARA Repeater Tx:430.8250 Rx: 438.4250 ; CTCSS: 67 Hz, TOT: 2 minutes MAX per one continuous transmission
- S78SARB Repeater Tx:430.8500 Rx: 438.4500 ; CTCSS: 67 Hz, TOT: 2 minutes MAX per one continuous transmission
- S78SARC Repeater Tx:430.8750 Rx: 438.4750 ; CTCSS: 67 Hz, TOT: 2 minutes MAX per one continuous transmission
- S78SARD Repeater Tx:430.9000 Rx: 438.5000 ; CTCSS: 67 Hz, TOT: 2 minutes MAX per one continuous transmission
These stations are programmed in accordance with the
RSGB’s UK Repeater Frequency List and have been officially approved by the local regulatory body, the
Seychelles Communications Regulatory Authority (SCRA).Technical DetailsThe UHF repeater network operates exclusively on the 70cm band and features the following configuration:
- Repeater Opening Tone: 67 Hz
- Repeater Frequencies: RU66, RU68, RU70, RU72
- Interconnectivity: Enhanced coverage is achieved through RoIP (Radio over IP) technology using the AllStar Network. This setup ensures seamless retransmission across the entire network.
The AllStar server supporting this network is remotely hosted by
Glenn VK4PK in Australia. Despite the geographical distance, a reliable public fiber optic connection ensures smooth operations from Australia to Mahé Island, Seychelles.
The addition of an Echolink gateway provides a crucial bridge to the global amateur radio community, enabling operators worldwide to connect with users on the Mahé Island network. The Echolink gateway operates under the callsign S78SARA and extends the reach of local amateur radio enthusiasts to a global audience.
Open for DevelopmentThis UHF repeater network marks a significant milestone in amateur radio operations in Seychelles, and it is just the beginning. The network is open to further ideas and developments, aiming to enhance connectivity and encourage innovation within the amateur radio community.
We invite all amateur radio operators and enthusiasts to explore and utilize this new network. Whether you're connecting locally or globally via Echolink, this platform offers exciting opportunities for collaboration and communication.
AcknowledgmentsSpecial thanks to
Core Technologies for hosting the Echolink gateway, to
Glenn VK4PK for remotely hosting the AllStar server, to
the club Chairman Mr Richard Perks for introducing and managing the AllStar repeaters project, to local club members for working together and to the
SCRA for their regulatory support in making this project a reality. We also extend our gratitude to everyone involved in the planning, deployment, and testing phases of this network.
Let’s make the most of this state-of-the-art repeater network and continue to strengthen the bonds within the global amateur radio community!
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Updated and Posted by S79KW on 9th January 2025