Recent posts
#1
The Prepper Channel / Radiogram and national traffic...
Last post by DU2XXR - Oct 24, 2024, 10:46 PMOne project I've been helping out on with my club DX1ARM is improving our traffic net capabilities. You may have noticed this with the revised workflow for checking in during the evening nets. Basically no-traffic checkins are immediately logged and cleared. Checkins with traffic are pulled out for their traffic.
The next phase of this is improving the way we process formal net traffic, particularly through radiogram. The idea is that traffic should be SPECIFIC, CONSISTENT, CONCISE, CLEAR, and ACCURATE. And that traffic nets should be able to route traffic from origin to destination. If the destination is not a ham, then it can be relayed through other means like email, sms, phone call, or even physical letter or personally. That is voluntary of course, and will be a service that will come from the amateur's own time and expense.
Net controllers have been using this form to log formal traffic. It basically adopts the radiogram format, but we can still tweak and fine tune as needed.
We are still figuring out how to route traffic to other areas when needed (there has been no use case yet).
dx1arm.net/radiogram
A log of traffic can also be found on the site.
(Note that the .net domain is an unofficial project site that I manage and is not the official club website)
I hope clubs will find such a system useful during times like these disasters. Our amatuer radio networks can be used to deliver and route welfare traffic for example. In areas with grid-down scenarios, our service can be used to deliver traffic from the community to their intended destination.
For instance traffic can be submitted to a local 2 meter net. And it can then be relayed to other regions using HF net. And then it can be delivered to its target local destination again via 2 meter net, or directly by a ham who is able to receive and log the traffic. Or vice versa.
Pwede rin tumalon sa ibang networks like civic or government channels. For instance some clubs like DX2AFP are interfacing with OCD and Kabalikat for emcomms support.
This might need coordinators per area who will be responsible for coordinating and routing traffic to their respective locales.
This can also be utilized for when communications support is needed in an incident command structure.
Of course there are challenges like data privacy. But when safety and lives takes precedence, we will need to work out some compromise.
Looking for your inputs on this. I know an ongoing disaster is the worst time to adopt something new, but this might be something we should consider as a community. If there is an existing structure for such a system, then I would be happy to learn about it.
The next phase of this is improving the way we process formal net traffic, particularly through radiogram. The idea is that traffic should be SPECIFIC, CONSISTENT, CONCISE, CLEAR, and ACCURATE. And that traffic nets should be able to route traffic from origin to destination. If the destination is not a ham, then it can be relayed through other means like email, sms, phone call, or even physical letter or personally. That is voluntary of course, and will be a service that will come from the amateur's own time and expense.
Net controllers have been using this form to log formal traffic. It basically adopts the radiogram format, but we can still tweak and fine tune as needed.
We are still figuring out how to route traffic to other areas when needed (there has been no use case yet).
dx1arm.net/radiogram
A log of traffic can also be found on the site.
(Note that the .net domain is an unofficial project site that I manage and is not the official club website)
I hope clubs will find such a system useful during times like these disasters. Our amatuer radio networks can be used to deliver and route welfare traffic for example. In areas with grid-down scenarios, our service can be used to deliver traffic from the community to their intended destination.
For instance traffic can be submitted to a local 2 meter net. And it can then be relayed to other regions using HF net. And then it can be delivered to its target local destination again via 2 meter net, or directly by a ham who is able to receive and log the traffic. Or vice versa.
Pwede rin tumalon sa ibang networks like civic or government channels. For instance some clubs like DX2AFP are interfacing with OCD and Kabalikat for emcomms support.
This might need coordinators per area who will be responsible for coordinating and routing traffic to their respective locales.
This can also be utilized for when communications support is needed in an incident command structure.
Of course there are challenges like data privacy. But when safety and lives takes precedence, we will need to work out some compromise.
Looking for your inputs on this. I know an ongoing disaster is the worst time to adopt something new, but this might be something we should consider as a community. If there is an existing structure for such a system, then I would be happy to learn about it.
#2
Digital Voice / Re: YSF hotspots/nodes/repeate...
Last post by DU2XXR - Oct 15, 2024, 02:24 PMQuoteQuoteHi. You can try editing the service to make it auto start upon boot up. might have to define that it should start up after MMDVMhost.
Or you can edit your crontab to make the service start or restart upon reboot.
I have edit crontab for daily task (pistar-daily.cron) and it has been good sofar. do you have the name and location of the crontab that execute every reboot?
You can utilize the @reboot syntax for executing a command or shell script at boot.
https://www.cyberciti.biz/faq/linux-execute-cron-job-after-system-reboot/
I would usually add a delay to make sure other services that are potentially dependencies. Maybe a restart is needed
Code Select
@reboot sleep 60 && sudo systemctl restart dgidgatewayYou might also want to look into whether dgidgateway is conflicting with ysfgateway. If that is the case, then dgidgateway may not be auto starting because ysfgateway is still running. You can perhaps disable ysfgateway service.
Code Select
sudo systemctl disable ysfgatewayAlso, make sure dgidgateway is enabled
Code Select
sudo systemctl enable dgidgatewaySorry, not exactly sure about the service names and capitalizations, as I am not currently actively using an MMDVM hotspot. But try tabbing to autocomplete the names, just to check if you're inputting them correctly on corn.
Another thing, you might want to check the status first and then check the logs to see whether the service is running and why dgidgateway is not automatically starting.
Code Select
sudo systemctl status dgidgateway(Depending on your distro, you might or might not have to include the .service filename extension with systemctl)
#3
Digital Voice / Re: YSF hotspots/nodes/repeate...
Last post by ka1cm - Oct 15, 2024, 04:24 AMQuoteHi. You can try editing the service to make it auto start upon boot up. might have to define that it should start up after MMDVMhost.
Or you can edit your crontab to make the service start or restart upon reboot.
I have edit crontab for daily task (pistar-daily.cron) and it has been good sofar. do you have the name and location of the crontab that execute every reboot?
#4
Digital Voice / Re: YSF hotspots/nodes/repeate...
Last post by DU2XXR - Oct 14, 2024, 10:50 AMHi. You can try editing the service to make it auto start upon boot up. might have to define that it should start up after MMDVMhost.
Or you can edit your crontab to make the service start or restart upon reboot.
Or you can edit your crontab to make the service start or restart upon reboot.
#5
Digital Voice / Re: YSF hotspots/nodes/repeate...
Last post by ka1cm - Oct 13, 2024, 05:30 AMHi DU2XXR,
I've successfully follow your tutorial and make it work. However, every time pi-star update or reboot or lost power, I have to SSH in and type up the systemctl enable / start and then reboot to make it work again. Is there a way to name dg-idgateway permanent?
P.S. Pi-Star:4.1.8 / Dashboard: 20240307
I've successfully follow your tutorial and make it work. However, every time pi-star update or reboot or lost power, I have to SSH in and type up the systemctl enable / start and then reboot to make it work again. Is there a way to name dg-idgateway permanent?
P.S. Pi-Star:4.1.8 / Dashboard: 20240307
#6
Public Announcements / How to Get an Amateur Radio Li...
Last post by DU2XXR - Oct 09, 2024, 12:20 PMHow to Get an Amateur Radio License in the Philippines
Amateur radio, also known as "ham radio," requires a license to operate legally in the Philippines. Below is a detailed step-by-step process for obtaining an amateur radio license. Refer to the NTC MC 03-08-2012 or Revised Amateur Radio Regulations and the NTC website for more information on rules and regulations pertaining to amateur radio.
1. Attend a Seminar Hosted by a Local Amateur Radio Club
A ham orientation seminar is required to enter the amateur radio exam. These seminars are conducted by clubs. You can get in touch with an amateur radio club or organization like DX1ARM to find out their schedule for seminars.
Some clubs also have webinars or virtual seminars.
You will need to get a certificate of attendance as part of the requirements for applying for an exam.
2. Submit Application for the Examination
Application forms for the exam must be submitted to the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) before the scheduled date. The exam fee is ₱50. Amateur radio exams are conducted regularly in NTC regional offices, with Metro Manila (NCR) hosting weekly exams. Check the NTC website for the schedules.
3. Take the Licensing Examination
To obtain a Class C (Technician) license in the Philippines, applicants must pass an exam that covers three elements:
- Element II: Rules and Regulations
This element tests the candidate's knowledge of the rules and regulations governing amateur radio in the Philippines. Topics include legal requirements, operational responsibilities, and the protocols to ensure compliance with national and international radio laws.
Note: Passing Element II is mandatory to qualify for any license class, including the entry-level Class D.
- Element III: Fundamentals of Electronics
Element III covers the technical aspects of amateur radio, including basic electronics, circuit theory, and the principles of radio communication. This element ensures that operators understand the inner workings of radio equipment and can troubleshoot basic technical problems.
- Element IV: Amateur Radio Practices
This section focuses on practical knowledge, including radio operation, transmission protocols, and best practices for communicating effectively using amateur radio frequencies. It also covers emergency communication and safe operating procedures.
If you pass all three elements, you will be awarded a Class C license, granting you operating privileges on VHF, UHF, and some HF bands. However, if you pass Element II but fail Element III and Element IV, you can still qualify for a Class D license, provided you achieve a minimum passing grade across the exam. This downgrade allows you to operate only on the VHF band, giving you limited but valuable experience as an amateur radio operator.
4. Retrieve Your Exam Results
After passing the exam, you'll need to collect your certified results from the NTC office. You can also opt to have the results mailed, but this may take time.
5. Apply for a Radio Operator's Certificate (ROC)
With the certified exam results, you can now apply for an ROC. This costs around ₱65 per year (with a maximum of three years) plus processing fees. The ROC allows you to operate existing amateur radio stations but does not permit you to operate your own equipment yet.
6. Obtain Your ROC and Callsign
Upon receiving your ROC, you will also be assigned a unique callsign, which identifies you on the air as a licensed amateur radio operator. Callsigns may have different prefixes based on the license class:
- Class A: DU, 4F, or 4E
- Class B: DV, 4I
- Class C: DW, 4G
- Class D: DY, 4H
7. Convert Your ROC to a Radio Station License (RSL)
To legally operate your own radio station, you need to convert your ROC into a Radio Station License (RSL). This requires registering at least one piece of equipment with the NTC. The RSL costs around ₱165 per year for a maximum of three years.
You will need to apply for a permit to purchase a radio from a registered dealer or licensed amateur (if you are acquiring pre-owned gear). This can be done at the same time as applying for your RSL.
After registering the equipment, you will receive the modified RSL, which gives you the privilege to operate your radio station under your own callsign.
8. Power Limits and Frequency Bands
The NTC allocates specific frequency bands and limits the power output based on license classes:
- Class A (Extra Class):
HF: Up to 1 kW for CW and 2 kW PEP for SSB.
VHF/UHF: State-of-the-art mobile or portable operations are permitted, with no specific power limits mentioned beyond safety and efficiency standards.
- Class B (General Class):
HF: Up to 500W for CW and 1 kW PEP for SSB.
VHF/UHF: Operators can use mobile or portable stations with state-of-the-art equipment, similar to Class A, but with reduced power privileges.
- Class C (Technician Class):
HF: Up to 100W for CW and 200W PEP for SSB.
VHF: Up to 100W for both mobile and portable VHF stations.
- Class D (Foundation Class):
VHF: Up to 50W fixed station, 10W mobile/portable.
License Eligibility, Validity, and Lifetime License
To apply for an amateur radio license in the Philippines, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be Filipino citizens or foreign nationals from countries that extend reciprocal privileges to Filipino operators.
- Age:
- For Class D, the applicant must be at least 9 years old.
- For Class C, B, and A, the minimum age is 12 years old.
- Language Proficiency: Applicants should be able to transmit and receive messages in Filipino, English, or any Filipino language/dialect.
Licenses are valid for up to three years. After 15 years of holding a Class A license, an operator aged 60 or older can apply for a Lifetime License.
Certain professionals in the Philippines may be exempt from taking the amateur radio licensing exam if they possess relevant qualifications, including ECE and radiotelephone operator licenses. Check with NTC to confirm.
Temporary Permit for Foreign Amateurs
Foreign operators can obtain a temporary permit to operate, which can be renewed every year. Fees vary depending on the license class, with additional charges for permits and membership.
---
This article was summarized from "How to get an amateur radio license in the Philippines" by J. Angelo Racoma DU2XXR / N2RAC, a DX1ARM member.
Amateur radio, also known as "ham radio," requires a license to operate legally in the Philippines. Below is a detailed step-by-step process for obtaining an amateur radio license. Refer to the NTC MC 03-08-2012 or Revised Amateur Radio Regulations and the NTC website for more information on rules and regulations pertaining to amateur radio.
1. Attend a Seminar Hosted by a Local Amateur Radio Club
A ham orientation seminar is required to enter the amateur radio exam. These seminars are conducted by clubs. You can get in touch with an amateur radio club or organization like DX1ARM to find out their schedule for seminars.
Some clubs also have webinars or virtual seminars.
You will need to get a certificate of attendance as part of the requirements for applying for an exam.
2. Submit Application for the Examination
Application forms for the exam must be submitted to the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) before the scheduled date. The exam fee is ₱50. Amateur radio exams are conducted regularly in NTC regional offices, with Metro Manila (NCR) hosting weekly exams. Check the NTC website for the schedules.
3. Take the Licensing Examination
To obtain a Class C (Technician) license in the Philippines, applicants must pass an exam that covers three elements:
- Element II: Rules and Regulations
This element tests the candidate's knowledge of the rules and regulations governing amateur radio in the Philippines. Topics include legal requirements, operational responsibilities, and the protocols to ensure compliance with national and international radio laws.
Note: Passing Element II is mandatory to qualify for any license class, including the entry-level Class D.
- Element III: Fundamentals of Electronics
Element III covers the technical aspects of amateur radio, including basic electronics, circuit theory, and the principles of radio communication. This element ensures that operators understand the inner workings of radio equipment and can troubleshoot basic technical problems.
- Element IV: Amateur Radio Practices
This section focuses on practical knowledge, including radio operation, transmission protocols, and best practices for communicating effectively using amateur radio frequencies. It also covers emergency communication and safe operating procedures.
If you pass all three elements, you will be awarded a Class C license, granting you operating privileges on VHF, UHF, and some HF bands. However, if you pass Element II but fail Element III and Element IV, you can still qualify for a Class D license, provided you achieve a minimum passing grade across the exam. This downgrade allows you to operate only on the VHF band, giving you limited but valuable experience as an amateur radio operator.
4. Retrieve Your Exam Results
After passing the exam, you'll need to collect your certified results from the NTC office. You can also opt to have the results mailed, but this may take time.
5. Apply for a Radio Operator's Certificate (ROC)
With the certified exam results, you can now apply for an ROC. This costs around ₱65 per year (with a maximum of three years) plus processing fees. The ROC allows you to operate existing amateur radio stations but does not permit you to operate your own equipment yet.
6. Obtain Your ROC and Callsign
Upon receiving your ROC, you will also be assigned a unique callsign, which identifies you on the air as a licensed amateur radio operator. Callsigns may have different prefixes based on the license class:
- Class A: DU, 4F, or 4E
- Class B: DV, 4I
- Class C: DW, 4G
- Class D: DY, 4H
7. Convert Your ROC to a Radio Station License (RSL)
To legally operate your own radio station, you need to convert your ROC into a Radio Station License (RSL). This requires registering at least one piece of equipment with the NTC. The RSL costs around ₱165 per year for a maximum of three years.
You will need to apply for a permit to purchase a radio from a registered dealer or licensed amateur (if you are acquiring pre-owned gear). This can be done at the same time as applying for your RSL.
After registering the equipment, you will receive the modified RSL, which gives you the privilege to operate your radio station under your own callsign.
8. Power Limits and Frequency Bands
The NTC allocates specific frequency bands and limits the power output based on license classes:
- Class A (Extra Class):
HF: Up to 1 kW for CW and 2 kW PEP for SSB.
VHF/UHF: State-of-the-art mobile or portable operations are permitted, with no specific power limits mentioned beyond safety and efficiency standards.
- Class B (General Class):
HF: Up to 500W for CW and 1 kW PEP for SSB.
VHF/UHF: Operators can use mobile or portable stations with state-of-the-art equipment, similar to Class A, but with reduced power privileges.
- Class C (Technician Class):
HF: Up to 100W for CW and 200W PEP for SSB.
VHF: Up to 100W for both mobile and portable VHF stations.
- Class D (Foundation Class):
VHF: Up to 50W fixed station, 10W mobile/portable.
License Eligibility, Validity, and Lifetime License
To apply for an amateur radio license in the Philippines, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be Filipino citizens or foreign nationals from countries that extend reciprocal privileges to Filipino operators.
- Age:
- For Class D, the applicant must be at least 9 years old.
- For Class C, B, and A, the minimum age is 12 years old.
- Language Proficiency: Applicants should be able to transmit and receive messages in Filipino, English, or any Filipino language/dialect.
Licenses are valid for up to three years. After 15 years of holding a Class A license, an operator aged 60 or older can apply for a Lifetime License.
Certain professionals in the Philippines may be exempt from taking the amateur radio licensing exam if they possess relevant qualifications, including ECE and radiotelephone operator licenses. Check with NTC to confirm.
Temporary Permit for Foreign Amateurs
Foreign operators can obtain a temporary permit to operate, which can be renewed every year. Fees vary depending on the license class, with additional charges for permits and membership.
---
This article was summarized from "How to get an amateur radio license in the Philippines" by J. Angelo Racoma DU2XXR / N2RAC, a DX1ARM member.
#7
General Radio Discussions / Re: Moving to Phillippines
Last post by DU2XXR - Aug 04, 2024, 01:01 PMSome districts accept club endorsement in lieu of the umbrella organization's endorsement.
#8
General Radio Discussions / Re: Moving to Phillippines
Last post by KD9TTB - Aug 04, 2024, 03:42 AMI thought I'd post a little update on getting a Philippine reciprocal license.
I finally have it but it did take a bit of work. PARA was of limited help as they aren't very good at replying to emails in a timely fashion. I ended up filling out all the forms (available from the NTC website) and sending them to my niece in San Fernando. There is a nearby NTC office and she was able to apply there in person for me. I also had to write a letter telling the NTC that she was applying on my behalf. Also, I did need an endorsement from PARA which I was finally able to get after a few reminder emails. I also joined PARA for good measure. Not sure if that helped but it certainly didn't break the bank. I'm headed there next week and will hopefully be able to activate some parks.
I finally have it but it did take a bit of work. PARA was of limited help as they aren't very good at replying to emails in a timely fashion. I ended up filling out all the forms (available from the NTC website) and sending them to my niece in San Fernando. There is a nearby NTC office and she was able to apply there in person for me. I also had to write a letter telling the NTC that she was applying on my behalf. Also, I did need an endorsement from PARA which I was finally able to get after a few reminder emails. I also joined PARA for good measure. Not sure if that helped but it certainly didn't break the bank. I'm headed there next week and will hopefully be able to activate some parks.
#9
General Radio Discussions / ARRL security breach
Last post by DU2XXR - May 21, 2024, 12:34 PM #10
General Radio Discussions / Re: How to deal with gatekeepi...
Last post by KD9TTB - Apr 19, 2024, 10:38 PMI have encountered a few (but not many) in ham radio who were less than inviting. I recall one guy who, unsolicited as I was trying to make a contact with someone in Germany tell me to give up because I didn't have an amplifier. I have just learned to ignore those folks. It really goes against the everything the hobby has ever stood for. The Elmers are supposed to help the rest of us.