TDUKNET Repeater Group (TDUKRP) — Technical Overview
1. Network Overview
Gateway System:
TDUKRP uses Zello as its primary gateway link, compatible across Windows, iOS, and Android.
For detailed information, visit the Gateways & Repeater Links page.
Remote Connectivity:
Repeaters and online gateways provide network access both locally and remotely, enabling authorized connectivity worldwide via the internet.
2. System Investment and Reliability
Significant investments have been made to ensure continuity of critical communications.
- Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)
- Battery-backed solutions at hosting facilities
These enhancements maintain reliable operation and support emergency communications during power interruptions.
3. Gateway Infrastructure
- Hourly Station ID: Performed on the primary VHF repeater
- Internet Gateway: Facilitates online connectivity
- Hardware: Repurposed legacy systems including a Dell Latitude 2120 notebook paired with a Baofeng UV-5R radio
4. Repeater Interconnection
- Technology: Raspberry Pi 3 B+ devices linked via AllStar Link
- Status: Currently in testing; not yet operational
- Future: Once the UHF repeater is relocated, native transmission and reception across both repeaters will be possible
5. UHF Repeater System
5.1 License & Coverage
- Authorized Area: 30 km radius around Norsworthy Bridge Car Park, Burrator Reservoir, Plymouth, PL20 6PG
- Operation Modes: Duplex (repeater) or simplex (point-to-point)
- Current Coverage: 2–8 miles; several blackspots exist except from elevated locations in Plymouth and Saltash
- Future Plans: Relocation to improve coverage
5.2 Repeater Details
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Make | Yaesu |
| Model | VXR-5000 |
| Output Power | 20 Watts ERP |
| Gateway / Internet VoIP | None currently |
| Antenna | Diamond X300, ~5 m above ground (temporary) |
| Additional Info | Both repeaters share the same antenna using a Comet CF-416 combiner duplexer (on loan) |
5.3 Frequency Allocation
Operates 15 MHz above the top of the amateur 70 cm band
6. VHF Repeater System
6.1 License & Operation
- Authorized Area: 30 km radius around TDUKRP HQ
- Operation Modes: Duplex (repeater) or simplex (point-to-point)
6.2 Frequency Allocation
- Positioned close to the amateur 2-meter band
- Approximately 1 MHz below the top of the 2-meter band
- Compliance: Measures are in place to prevent noise or interference with adjacent amateur frequencies
Transmissions on this network may be recorded for training, safety, system misuse prevention, and licensing compliance. Recordings may be used in internal or external investigations as required by law.