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What is all this 3G, 4G, 5G stuff ?
1G – Stands for 1st Generation. This was the first wireless network standard that portable/mobile phones used for RF communication.
1G was introduced in the 1980s and operated using analogue signals.
2G – 2nd Generation. This wireless network standard was introduced in 1990-91. This was the first system to offer data services, SMS text messaging and digital encryption for voice streaming on portable/mobile telephone communications devices.
2.5G – This was an enhanced 2G network communications standard allowing faster data streaming speeds, commonly known as GPRS.
2.75G – Also referred to as EDGE is another improvement on the 2.5G standard.
3G – The 3rd Generation standard provided further stability and speed improvements for voice, data and video streaming services.
4G – 4th Generation network communications standard again increased mobile data speeds and bandwidth capabilities. Improved data transfer rates make 4G networks suitable for use in USB wireless modems and 4G routers for laptops and home broadband internet access.
5G – The new 5th Generation radio communications networking system is still being developed with 5G equipment testing ongoing at several locations across the UK. The new 5G system is IP based, designed to optimise network capacity, throughput, efficiency and flexibility. 5G will operate using currently available and new infrastructure across diverse radio communications systems, existing backbone services and cloud based networking systems. The system promises to reduce network latency issues and massively increase data streaming speeds to support ultra-broadband internet access for mobile devices.
: 5G system access is currently being rolled out across the UK and many other countries around the Globe. It is already in use in some areas.
1G was introduced in the 1980s and operated using analogue signals.
2G – 2nd Generation. This wireless network standard was introduced in 1990-91. This was the first system to offer data services, SMS text messaging and digital encryption for voice streaming on portable/mobile telephone communications devices.
2.5G – This was an enhanced 2G network communications standard allowing faster data streaming speeds, commonly known as GPRS.
2.75G – Also referred to as EDGE is another improvement on the 2.5G standard.
3G – The 3rd Generation standard provided further stability and speed improvements for voice, data and video streaming services.
4G – 4th Generation network communications standard again increased mobile data speeds and bandwidth capabilities. Improved data transfer rates make 4G networks suitable for use in USB wireless modems and 4G routers for laptops and home broadband internet access.
5G – The new 5th Generation radio communications networking system is still being developed with 5G equipment testing ongoing at several locations across the UK. The new 5G system is IP based, designed to optimise network capacity, throughput, efficiency and flexibility. 5G will operate using currently available and new infrastructure across diverse radio communications systems, existing backbone services and cloud based networking systems. The system promises to reduce network latency issues and massively increase data streaming speeds to support ultra-broadband internet access for mobile devices.
: 5G system access is currently being rolled out across the UK and many other countries around the Globe. It is already in use in some areas.
Beware of misinformation about 5G
As with most new advances in technology there are always a small number of people who spread misinformation and scare stories about technologies they do not understand or do not bother to properly research. There are many myths and wildly incorrect misinformation being circulated about 5G network communications technology. Anyone who takes the time to properly research the new 5G (Fifth generation) system for mobile communications equipment will see that the 5G system is actually safer and uses radio frequency electromagnetic energy more efficiently than existing systems. The main benefits for 5G users are improved data communications bandwidth (faster broadband internet access) and lower latency (less delay on connections) when compared to older less efficient systems currently in use. To make use of the new 5G networks You need to have a device that is capable of connecting to the 5G system with a 5G compatible SIM card in the device.
Mobile phone/data communications bands
In the U.K. Mobile voice, video and data communications for mobile telephones, network radios, mobile routers/hotspots & other mobile networking devices operate on a range of bands/frequency allocations including:-
700MHz, 800MHz, 900MHz, 1.5GHz, 1.8GHz, 1.9GHz, 2.1GHz, 2.3GHz, 2.6GHz, 3.5Ghz, 3.7GHz
Many mobile short range communications devices also use WiFi & Bluetooth networking standards on the 2.4GHz ISM band and 5GHz Band A
The specific bands and modes used for mobile device communications vary in each country around the World.
It is worth checking the specific band allocations used by network data providers in Your area and other locations You require network communications coverage before deciding on which specific devices, network providers, sim deals etc are best suited to Your requirements.
700MHz, 800MHz, 900MHz, 1.5GHz, 1.8GHz, 1.9GHz, 2.1GHz, 2.3GHz, 2.6GHz, 3.5Ghz, 3.7GHz
Many mobile short range communications devices also use WiFi & Bluetooth networking standards on the 2.4GHz ISM band and 5GHz Band A
The specific bands and modes used for mobile device communications vary in each country around the World.
It is worth checking the specific band allocations used by network data providers in Your area and other locations You require network communications coverage before deciding on which specific devices, network providers, sim deals etc are best suited to Your requirements.
choosing a SIM card / mobile data provider
One of the most common questions from new network radio device owners is What is the best SIM to use in my device?. There is no simple answer to this as it very much depends on where You are located and what cellular network providers are available in the areas You wish to use the device.
You can search online to find out what cell data providers have network coverage in Your area, or You can 'survey' the mobile data network bands to find out what bands and available and what providers are workable in the places You wish to use the device. This sounds complicated but it is actually quite easy with the help of a few free apps from the Play Store. I personally use an APP called Network Cell Info Lite. This provides information on the cell towers it can hear and what cellular network bands Your device is able to connect to. This is often more accurate than looking at published coverage maps from network service providers as it shows You exactly what Your device can actually hear live at Your specific location. This often differs quite drastically from the published coverage maps found online.
There are several free APPs that will plot cell tower coverage and signal strength information on a map on Your devide to show You exactly what service level is available as You move around. You may find that in some areas there are multiple providers available and in others one providers coverage will drop off and another will take over. This is where devices that can use more than on SIM are very usefull. Using the Network Cell Info Lite and other network cell mapping APPs You can get a better idea of which providers/SIMs will give You the best network coverage in different areas as You travel around.
There are also many Network Radio device users who travel a lot that use two SIMs from different providers in their network radio device to maximise connectivity when travelling and use existing WiFi data connections when at home or at work to reduce the amount of mobile network data they use each month.
Of course, if You only wish to use Your network radio device at home and You already have a WiFi network connected to the internet You can simply connect the network radio to the WiFi network and You do not need to have a SIM in the network radio at all.
You can search online to find out what cell data providers have network coverage in Your area, or You can 'survey' the mobile data network bands to find out what bands and available and what providers are workable in the places You wish to use the device. This sounds complicated but it is actually quite easy with the help of a few free apps from the Play Store. I personally use an APP called Network Cell Info Lite. This provides information on the cell towers it can hear and what cellular network bands Your device is able to connect to. This is often more accurate than looking at published coverage maps from network service providers as it shows You exactly what Your device can actually hear live at Your specific location. This often differs quite drastically from the published coverage maps found online.
There are several free APPs that will plot cell tower coverage and signal strength information on a map on Your devide to show You exactly what service level is available as You move around. You may find that in some areas there are multiple providers available and in others one providers coverage will drop off and another will take over. This is where devices that can use more than on SIM are very usefull. Using the Network Cell Info Lite and other network cell mapping APPs You can get a better idea of which providers/SIMs will give You the best network coverage in different areas as You travel around.
There are also many Network Radio device users who travel a lot that use two SIMs from different providers in their network radio device to maximise connectivity when travelling and use existing WiFi data connections when at home or at work to reduce the amount of mobile network data they use each month.
Of course, if You only wish to use Your network radio device at home and You already have a WiFi network connected to the internet You can simply connect the network radio to the WiFi network and You do not need to have a SIM in the network radio at all.
Using multiple devices with one SIM
If You use more than one mobile device You may not need to have a SIM in every device.
You can have one device with a SIM providing the mobile data network connection and 'tether' the other devices to it using WiFi to share the connection between all the devices. I personally operate multiple devices using this method with an Inrico T320 network radio with SIM card in it providing the network connection and sharing this connection with multiple devices via the built in WiFi hotspot.
You can have one device with a SIM providing the mobile data network connection and 'tether' the other devices to it using WiFi to share the connection between all the devices. I personally operate multiple devices using this method with an Inrico T320 network radio with SIM card in it providing the network connection and sharing this connection with multiple devices via the built in WiFi hotspot.
Extending mobile network coverage range
I often go out and about on a mountain bike in the hills of Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway in S.W.Scotland where network coverage is poor and most of my friends mobile phones lose their network connection as the internal antennas on their phones cannot reach the cell towers.
I use an Inrico T320 Network Radio that has both an internal LTE antenna and an external antenna that work together to maximise range.
When my friends phones fail to reach the cell towers and lose their data connection I turn on the WiFi Hotspot in the T320 so my friends devices can reach the internet through the T320 data connection. This does add a few milliseconds of latency on the data connection to/from their devices but most applications that use data streaming services still operate happily using the hotspot on the T320. I have compared the T320 hotspot with other stand alone mobile hotspot devices and have had the same or better bandwidth and stability on the T320 with multiple devices using the connection at the same time.
Within a few miles of most cell towers the standard T320 external antenna is all that is needed to maintain a good connection long after most phones have lost service completely. As we get farther away from the cell towers and the connection starts to slow down or get a bit flakey I simply remove the external T320 antenna and attach an external LTE antenna with a bit more gain to improve the working range.
The specific antenna I use depends on where we are going. I use simple 'rubber duck' type omnidirectional LTE antennas with 2 or 3 dB more gain than the standard antenna to extend range by a couple of miles. In other areas I use flat panel LTE antennas with more gain and in some remote areas the only way to get a stable connection is to plug in a directional antenna array with much higher gain.
When using flat panel or directional arrays You will need to point the antenna in the direction of the cell tower. You will soon learn where the cell towers are located and discover which direction You need to point the antenna for maximum bandwidth and connection stability. Using the Network Cell Info Lite app and other cell network mapping applications comes in very handy for this until You get to know where the towers are.
Experimenting with high gain antenna arrays on the T320 network radio devices I have managed to maintain a good data connection over a distance of 12 miles from a single cell tower on LTE band 20 (800-900MHz)
Performing multiple speed tests and trying various applications during several visits to the same location in different weather/propagation conditions the data connection was stable and provided a link speed of over 20 MBPS in both directions with minimal latency during poor weather conditions and peaked over 30 MBPS when conditions were more favourable.
NOTE:
When using external flat panel or antenna arrays for LTE mobile data links using the shortest possible antenna feeder with good quality low loss coaxial cable is essential. There are many very cheap LTE antennas available online (under £10) All of the cheap offerings we have tried had coaxial feeder cables with very high signal loss, some even had more loss than the gain of the antenna so they performed far worse than the standard antenna! The LTE flat panel antennas I use were quite cheap (£15 to £20) and were provided with very poor feeder cables. I removed the lossy feeders and replaced them with decent quality feeder cable. I purchased a 3m length of microwave communications grade coaxial feeder cable from a reputable supplier that specialised in microwave and mobile data communications equipment and components for about £25 and used it to make two 1.5m lengths for two different antennas. Both antennas have now been in use for over four years and are still working very well. : As with most things available online these days, Beware the super-cheap stuff, it may look like a bargain but is most often a false economy. It is always better to seek good quality instead of lowest price.
I use an Inrico T320 Network Radio that has both an internal LTE antenna and an external antenna that work together to maximise range.
When my friends phones fail to reach the cell towers and lose their data connection I turn on the WiFi Hotspot in the T320 so my friends devices can reach the internet through the T320 data connection. This does add a few milliseconds of latency on the data connection to/from their devices but most applications that use data streaming services still operate happily using the hotspot on the T320. I have compared the T320 hotspot with other stand alone mobile hotspot devices and have had the same or better bandwidth and stability on the T320 with multiple devices using the connection at the same time.
Within a few miles of most cell towers the standard T320 external antenna is all that is needed to maintain a good connection long after most phones have lost service completely. As we get farther away from the cell towers and the connection starts to slow down or get a bit flakey I simply remove the external T320 antenna and attach an external LTE antenna with a bit more gain to improve the working range.
The specific antenna I use depends on where we are going. I use simple 'rubber duck' type omnidirectional LTE antennas with 2 or 3 dB more gain than the standard antenna to extend range by a couple of miles. In other areas I use flat panel LTE antennas with more gain and in some remote areas the only way to get a stable connection is to plug in a directional antenna array with much higher gain.
When using flat panel or directional arrays You will need to point the antenna in the direction of the cell tower. You will soon learn where the cell towers are located and discover which direction You need to point the antenna for maximum bandwidth and connection stability. Using the Network Cell Info Lite app and other cell network mapping applications comes in very handy for this until You get to know where the towers are.
Experimenting with high gain antenna arrays on the T320 network radio devices I have managed to maintain a good data connection over a distance of 12 miles from a single cell tower on LTE band 20 (800-900MHz)
Performing multiple speed tests and trying various applications during several visits to the same location in different weather/propagation conditions the data connection was stable and provided a link speed of over 20 MBPS in both directions with minimal latency during poor weather conditions and peaked over 30 MBPS when conditions were more favourable.
NOTE:
When using external flat panel or antenna arrays for LTE mobile data links using the shortest possible antenna feeder with good quality low loss coaxial cable is essential. There are many very cheap LTE antennas available online (under £10) All of the cheap offerings we have tried had coaxial feeder cables with very high signal loss, some even had more loss than the gain of the antenna so they performed far worse than the standard antenna! The LTE flat panel antennas I use were quite cheap (£15 to £20) and were provided with very poor feeder cables. I removed the lossy feeders and replaced them with decent quality feeder cable. I purchased a 3m length of microwave communications grade coaxial feeder cable from a reputable supplier that specialised in microwave and mobile data communications equipment and components for about £25 and used it to make two 1.5m lengths for two different antennas. Both antennas have now been in use for over four years and are still working very well. : As with most things available online these days, Beware the super-cheap stuff, it may look like a bargain but is most often a false economy. It is always better to seek good quality instead of lowest price.
Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR)
All forms of radio communications require a good signal to noise ratio in order for effective communication to take place.
The difference between the level of the useful Signal and the level of unwanted Noise is critical.
Everything from large broadcast radio stations radiating several thousand Watts of RF energy received by listeners on radio receivers over a wide area, to a mobile telephone or network radio device transmitting a few femtowatts of RF Energy to connect to a cellular phone network tower is reliant on a good Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR).
When noise levels rise and signal levels drop broadcast listeners get poor reception and RF cellular network devices suffer from 'broken up' communications and packet loss on data connections.
In simple terms the more unwanted noise there is the harder it becomes to 'pick out' the useful signal.
There are a many methods of effectively reducing the received unwanted noise level and improving the level of the wanted signal.
* Using an antenna tuned for the correct frequency in use (Resonant Antenna)
* Using an antenna that operates over the correct band width, preferably 'centered' at the frequency in use.
* Using filters to limit the level of unwanted noise received.
* Using multiple stages of filtering and 'low noise' amplification to maximise the wanted usable signal and minimise unwanted signals.
Modern communications equipment uses all of the above methods (and many more) to maximise the SNR (Signal to Noise Ratio)
On modern mobile devices like Network Radios and Mobile Telephones the end user is completely unaware of the many adjustments being made by the radio frequency circuits inside their device and the continuous calculations being performed by the software controlling the RF module to keep their connection to the network working properly as signal reception and propagation conditions change.
Most mobile devices give the end user an indication of the current signal level in the form of a graphic display consisting of a few 'bars' where the more bars that are 'lit up' the better the signal strength is. This only gives a rough idea of the actual signal strength.
There are many applications available that provide the end user with more accurate information on the received signal strength and transmitted power levels.
Signal strength is normally represented in -dBm format.
This is the power ratio in decibels (dB) of the measured power referenced to one milliwatt (mW)
When dealing with negative values the closer the value is to 0, the better the signal. EG; -30dBm is stronger than -40dBm
The difference between the level of the useful Signal and the level of unwanted Noise is critical.
Everything from large broadcast radio stations radiating several thousand Watts of RF energy received by listeners on radio receivers over a wide area, to a mobile telephone or network radio device transmitting a few femtowatts of RF Energy to connect to a cellular phone network tower is reliant on a good Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR).
When noise levels rise and signal levels drop broadcast listeners get poor reception and RF cellular network devices suffer from 'broken up' communications and packet loss on data connections.
In simple terms the more unwanted noise there is the harder it becomes to 'pick out' the useful signal.
There are a many methods of effectively reducing the received unwanted noise level and improving the level of the wanted signal.
* Using an antenna tuned for the correct frequency in use (Resonant Antenna)
* Using an antenna that operates over the correct band width, preferably 'centered' at the frequency in use.
* Using filters to limit the level of unwanted noise received.
* Using multiple stages of filtering and 'low noise' amplification to maximise the wanted usable signal and minimise unwanted signals.
Modern communications equipment uses all of the above methods (and many more) to maximise the SNR (Signal to Noise Ratio)
On modern mobile devices like Network Radios and Mobile Telephones the end user is completely unaware of the many adjustments being made by the radio frequency circuits inside their device and the continuous calculations being performed by the software controlling the RF module to keep their connection to the network working properly as signal reception and propagation conditions change.
Most mobile devices give the end user an indication of the current signal level in the form of a graphic display consisting of a few 'bars' where the more bars that are 'lit up' the better the signal strength is. This only gives a rough idea of the actual signal strength.
There are many applications available that provide the end user with more accurate information on the received signal strength and transmitted power levels.
Signal strength is normally represented in -dBm format.
This is the power ratio in decibels (dB) of the measured power referenced to one milliwatt (mW)
When dealing with negative values the closer the value is to 0, the better the signal. EG; -30dBm is stronger than -40dBm
Decibel-milliwatts (dBm) to milliwatts (mW)
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Power (dBm)
-40 dBm -30 dBm -20 dBm -10 dBm 0 dBm 1 dBm 2 dBm 3 dBm 4 dBm 5 dBm 6 dBm 7 dBm |
Power (mW)
0.0001 mW 0.001 mW 0.01 mW 0.1 mW 1 mW 1.258 mW 1.584 mW 1.993 mW 2.511 mW 3.162 mW 3.981 mW 5.011 mW |
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Android settings on Network Radios
The following is just a short list of a few basic settings I use on my own Inrico T320 Network Radios to reduce power use.
I will not explain all Android OS settings here as there are already plenty of support groups and websites that explain Android settings in depth for each Android OS version. (The Inrico T320 uses Android 7 OS)
Android Settings/ Display/
Brightness Level :
Reducing the brightness level of the screen display will reduce power use and extend battery time.
The screen back light is one of the biggest power drains on Android devices. As a rule of thumb, the larger the screen the greater the power drain.
This is one of the reasons that Network Radios with small screens have longer on-air operating times, smaller screen = less power drain.
Sleep :
This controls the time (in minutes) that the screen will stay on after the last user input before it goes to sleep (turns screen off to save power) I personally prefer to have the sleep timer set to 10 minutes.
Android Settings/ APPs/
Most applications used on Android devices do not actually shut down when the user exits or closes the app.
They hang around 'in the background' and continue to take up space in the device memory. Many apps will also use available network connections, nibbling away at Your data and using up battery power.
You can go into the Android Settings/ APPs/ menu and select each application You are not using, use the FORCE STOP feature.
This will stop the app from running in the background, freeing up memory and ensuring it is not sneakily using Your data connection in the background.
Forcing unused apps to stop also helps to reduce power drain and improve battery life.
I will not explain all Android OS settings here as there are already plenty of support groups and websites that explain Android settings in depth for each Android OS version. (The Inrico T320 uses Android 7 OS)
Android Settings/ Display/
Brightness Level :
Reducing the brightness level of the screen display will reduce power use and extend battery time.
The screen back light is one of the biggest power drains on Android devices. As a rule of thumb, the larger the screen the greater the power drain.
This is one of the reasons that Network Radios with small screens have longer on-air operating times, smaller screen = less power drain.
Sleep :
This controls the time (in minutes) that the screen will stay on after the last user input before it goes to sleep (turns screen off to save power) I personally prefer to have the sleep timer set to 10 minutes.
Android Settings/ APPs/
Most applications used on Android devices do not actually shut down when the user exits or closes the app.
They hang around 'in the background' and continue to take up space in the device memory. Many apps will also use available network connections, nibbling away at Your data and using up battery power.
You can go into the Android Settings/ APPs/ menu and select each application You are not using, use the FORCE STOP feature.
This will stop the app from running in the background, freeing up memory and ensuring it is not sneakily using Your data connection in the background.
Forcing unused apps to stop also helps to reduce power drain and improve battery life.
Zello 'Alerts'
NOTE: The function to use Custom alert tones was removed from some versions of the Zello Android app. On some versions You will be stuck with the standard Zello 'beep' tones. This is one of many reasons I personally prefer to use Zello v4.20 as custom tones are one of the features I use on all my Network Radio devices.
The default settings on the Zello PTT app can become annoying with various tones, beeps and vibration 'buzzy noises' going off all the time.
Audio alerts and the vibrate 'buzz' alerts can all be turned on/off in the Alerts menu in Zello Options.
Alert tones can often be heard when stations are transmitting, these alerts are usually very loud 'on air' and are best turned off. If Your device is constantly making annoying noises You may find many people will turn You down or mute Your station at the receiving end so they do not have to listen to the 'interference' greatly reducing the number of people that will return to Your calls.
Note: the alerts I have set to Custom below are using custom alert tones instead of the default Zello tones,
Custom tones are available to download farther down this page if You wish to use them.
If You do not want to use Custom tones simply set the Alerts shown below as Custom to Default and it will use the standard Zello tones.
Zello 'three dots menu' / Options / Alerts
Ready to send: Custom
Talk button up : Custom
Delivery Delayed : Default
Incoming message : None
End of incoming message : Custom
Missed message : None
Call Alert : None
Channel Alert : None
Image: None
Location: None
Text message: None
Channel text message: None
Default contact selected: None
New conversation: None
Connection lost: Custom
Connection restored: Custom
Error: Default
VIBRATE
Ready to send: OFF
Incoming message: OFF
Missed message: OFF
VISUAL ALERTS (When in the background)
Incoming voice message: OFF
Incoming image: OFF
Incoming call alert: OFF
Incoming channel alert: OFF
Incoming location: OFF
conversation: OFF
Incoming text message: OFF
Incoming channel text message: OFF
Audio alerts and the vibrate 'buzz' alerts can all be turned on/off in the Alerts menu in Zello Options.
Alert tones can often be heard when stations are transmitting, these alerts are usually very loud 'on air' and are best turned off. If Your device is constantly making annoying noises You may find many people will turn You down or mute Your station at the receiving end so they do not have to listen to the 'interference' greatly reducing the number of people that will return to Your calls.
Note: the alerts I have set to Custom below are using custom alert tones instead of the default Zello tones,
Custom tones are available to download farther down this page if You wish to use them.
If You do not want to use Custom tones simply set the Alerts shown below as Custom to Default and it will use the standard Zello tones.
Zello 'three dots menu' / Options / Alerts
Ready to send: Custom
Talk button up : Custom
Delivery Delayed : Default
Incoming message : None
End of incoming message : Custom
Missed message : None
Call Alert : None
Channel Alert : None
Image: None
Location: None
Text message: None
Channel text message: None
Default contact selected: None
New conversation: None
Connection lost: Custom
Connection restored: Custom
Error: Default
VIBRATE
Ready to send: OFF
Incoming message: OFF
Missed message: OFF
VISUAL ALERTS (When in the background)
Incoming voice message: OFF
Incoming image: OFF
Incoming call alert: OFF
Incoming channel alert: OFF
Incoming location: OFF
conversation: OFF
Incoming text message: OFF
Incoming channel text message: OFF
Custom Alert tones for Zello.
Note: Using custom tones is a feature that is Not available on some newer versions of the Zello Android app.
I personally use Zello V4.20 on all my Android devices as it allows custom alert tones, has lower latency and less 'drop outs' than some newer versions.
Direct comparison tests using two identical T320 radios using identical network connections with only difference being software version in each radio (tested on 3G, 4G, 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi access points, hotspots and mesh networks)
I personally use Zello V4.20 on all my Android devices as it allows custom alert tones, has lower latency and less 'drop outs' than some newer versions.
Direct comparison tests using two identical T320 radios using identical network connections with only difference being software version in each radio (tested on 3G, 4G, 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi access points, hotspots and mesh networks)
Options > Alerts >
Select Custom for each Alert you want to use a Tone Sample on and follow the prompts.
Alert Tones Files: The following files are .wav format audio samples that can be downloaded on Your Network Radio, Android / iOS mobile device or Windows PC and used as Custom alert tones for Zello.
The first 'set' are the Alerts I use on the Inrico TM-7, T320, T199, T620, Senhaix N60 and Windows PC versions of Zello.
Note: I have also used these files on several Linux systems running the Windows PC version of Zello with 'WINE'.
I use 'On-Air' TX mode (ready to send) , RX mode (talk button up) and End of RX (end of incoming message) notification sounds.
I also use the following alerts: 'Delivery Delayed', 'Connection Lost', 'Connection Restored' and 'Error'. All other alerts are set to 'None'.
The first 'set' are the Alerts I use on the Inrico TM-7, T320, T199, T620, Senhaix N60 and Windows PC versions of Zello.
Note: I have also used these files on several Linux systems running the Windows PC version of Zello with 'WINE'.
I use 'On-Air' TX mode (ready to send) , RX mode (talk button up) and End of RX (end of incoming message) notification sounds.
I also use the following alerts: 'Delivery Delayed', 'Connection Lost', 'Connection Restored' and 'Error'. All other alerts are set to 'None'.
set #01
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set #02
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set #03
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set #04 - Supra style Alert tones.
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set #05 - Custom tones by Jim VO1RV
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These sounds were created at the Roots Cellar studio in St. John's, Newfoundland by Jim, VO1RV.
Any feedback warmly welcome: jim@vo1rv.com
Any feedback warmly welcome: jim@vo1rv.com
Programming Hardware Buttons to Zello Channels
This handy tip was discovered by Filip NR001
NOTE: This works with the Paid version of Button Mapper only,
The Free version of Button Mapper does not allow the 'broadcast intent' feature.
On the TM-7(plus) and TM-8 you can map the P1/2/3/4 buttons to go to a channel in Zello (and possibly also contacts).
-Rename the channels you want to add to 01, 02 and so on to 08
-Add the buttons in Button Mapper and for every button add a "broadcast intent" to single tap (for CH 5 to 8 use long press)
-In the field "action" add " com.dfl.knob " without the brackets
-in the field "key:value" add " frequencyNum:XX " where XX is the number of the channel (01, 02...)
-save and try :-)
NOTE: This works with the Paid version of Button Mapper only,
The Free version of Button Mapper does not allow the 'broadcast intent' feature.
On the TM-7(plus) and TM-8 you can map the P1/2/3/4 buttons to go to a channel in Zello (and possibly also contacts).
-Rename the channels you want to add to 01, 02 and so on to 08
-Add the buttons in Button Mapper and for every button add a "broadcast intent" to single tap (for CH 5 to 8 use long press)
-In the field "action" add " com.dfl.knob " without the brackets
-in the field "key:value" add " frequencyNum:XX " where XX is the number of the channel (01, 02...)
-save and try :-)
The above procedure can be used on many Android devices.
I use it on Inrico T320 and TM7 Network Radio devices to make the rotary control knobs select Zello channels.
I use it on Inrico T320 and TM7 Network Radio devices to make the rotary control knobs select Zello channels.
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Same rig, Different names.
There are growing numbers of Network Radios available that are effectively the same radio marketed under different brand names.
The Inrico TM7 and TM8 network radios (shown below) are manufactured by Inrico but are also sold to other equipment suppliers and distributors around the World. These are 'badged up' by Inrico for suppliers & distributors that order large numbers of units.
If You contact the manufacturer directly they can place Your required brand badge on the units at the factory for You.
This means You will find the same device with various different 'brand badges' on the unit available from different suppliers.
If You contact the manufacturer directly they can place Your required brand badge on the units at the factory for You.
This means You will find the same device with various different 'brand badges' on the unit available from different suppliers.
Inrico TM-7 = Anysecu 3G-W7
NOTE: The TM-7 and 3G-W7 can be used as a 2.4GHz WiFi HotSpot by selecting HotSpot in the Android settings.
These network radios also support 2.4GHz WiFi Mesh Networking applications.
These network radios also support 2.4GHz WiFi Mesh Networking applications.
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There are various versions of the TM-7:
The original V1 has two antenna sockets factory fitted. External GPS antenna connector and GSM/GPRS/3G connector.
The internal antenna is connected at the factory as standard.To use external antennas the user can simply unplug the internal antenna and plug in the external antenna pigtail provided inside the radio. (as shown on the Inrico TM-7 page)
The V2 only has One antenna connector factory fitted (for external GPS antenna)
To use an external GSM/GPRS/3G antenna on a V2 radio You will have to purchase and fit a new 'pigtail' cable.
The TM7 (original MK1) provides exceptionally good audio frequency response and superior quality over many newer (and much more expensive) devices.
Make sure You confirm spcifications and If possible test the specific device to confirm You are happy with it before purchase.
The original V1 has two antenna sockets factory fitted. External GPS antenna connector and GSM/GPRS/3G connector.
The internal antenna is connected at the factory as standard.To use external antennas the user can simply unplug the internal antenna and plug in the external antenna pigtail provided inside the radio. (as shown on the Inrico TM-7 page)
The V2 only has One antenna connector factory fitted (for external GPS antenna)
To use an external GSM/GPRS/3G antenna on a V2 radio You will have to purchase and fit a new 'pigtail' cable.
The TM7 (original MK1) provides exceptionally good audio frequency response and superior quality over many newer (and much more expensive) devices.
Make sure You confirm spcifications and If possible test the specific device to confirm You are happy with it before purchase.
Inrico TM-8 = Radiotone RT5
NOTE: The standard TM-8 and RT5 do not provide internal 2.4GHz WiFi HotSpot or WiFi Mesh Networking features.
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There are various versions of the TM8:
The original V1 suffered from poor audio due to a microphone signal level mismatch. (Hardware mod to improve audio level farther down this page)
The V2 is normally supplied with a microphone that provides a properly matched audio level to the radio and operates correctly.
The TM8 V2 audio is a vast improvement over the TM8 V1
In my own personal opinion after testing three versions (TM8 V1 , V2 and RT5) with lab test gear, signal generators and spectrum anlysers I would class them as acceptable but the audio quality and frequency response is noticeably poorer 'to the ear' and visibly poorer under test than the original TM7 and many other network radios.
Make sure You confirm specifications and correct operation before purchasing, if possible test it, listen to the radio working and decide if You are happy with the limited audio performance before parting with Your pennies.
The original V1 suffered from poor audio due to a microphone signal level mismatch. (Hardware mod to improve audio level farther down this page)
The V2 is normally supplied with a microphone that provides a properly matched audio level to the radio and operates correctly.
The TM8 V2 audio is a vast improvement over the TM8 V1
In my own personal opinion after testing three versions (TM8 V1 , V2 and RT5) with lab test gear, signal generators and spectrum anlysers I would class them as acceptable but the audio quality and frequency response is noticeably poorer 'to the ear' and visibly poorer under test than the original TM7 and many other network radios.
Make sure You confirm specifications and correct operation before purchasing, if possible test it, listen to the radio working and decide if You are happy with the limited audio performance before parting with Your pennies.
Inrico TM-8 (and radiotone RT5) Microphone modification.
Hardware modification to fix the TM8 / Radiotone RT5 microphone 'low audio level' fault that causes very poor quality audio on early models
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For users who have an Inrico TM8 (also sold as Radiotone RT5) suffering from low/bad audio.
This simple hardware modification in the microphone will increase the output level of the mic to correctly match the input level of the radio massively improving the audio quality. Solder a single wire linking from 47uF capacitor pad to Q2 transistor pad on the microphone PCB as shown in the photo. |
For those who are not happy to do the hardware modification to Your mic there is a software adjustment that will improve the mic audio gain.
This is not as good as the hardware fix but will help increase Your audio level, improving the clarity of Your modulation to a readable level.
This is not as good as the hardware fix but will help increase Your audio level, improving the clarity of Your modulation to a readable level.
Go to the "Phone"App and enter the following: *#*#3646633#*#*
This will put Your radio into the 'Engineers Menu'.
Slide the top bar to 'Hardware Testing',
Go to 'Audio', 'Normal' mode and change 'Type' to MIC
Select Level 4 and adjust Value to 255 then tap 'SET'
This will put Your radio into the 'Engineers Menu'.
Slide the top bar to 'Hardware Testing',
Go to 'Audio', 'Normal' mode and change 'Type' to MIC
Select Level 4 and adjust Value to 255 then tap 'SET'
To enable installing APPs from the playstore on SenhaiX N60 network radios:
Enter the following code in the telephone dialer app: *#*#9981#*#*
You will see a small 'pop up' notification appears on screen confirming that installing is allowed.
You can now download and install the apps You wish to use from the Play Store.
Note: This code will TOGGLE installing. If You enter the code a second time installing APPs will be turned OFF again.
Enter the following code in the telephone dialer app: *#*#9981#*#*
You will see a small 'pop up' notification appears on screen confirming that installing is allowed.
You can now download and install the apps You wish to use from the Play Store.
Note: This code will TOGGLE installing. If You enter the code a second time installing APPs will be turned OFF again.
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- How to find the right Network Radio for Your needs -
Do plenty of research,
Check service providers in Your intended areas of use making sure they operate services on bands supported by the device,
Read reviews, Speak to other users, Ask Questions, do more research, Then decide.
Do plenty of research,
Check service providers in Your intended areas of use making sure they operate services on bands supported by the device,
Read reviews, Speak to other users, Ask Questions, do more research, Then decide.
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Inrico B01 Bluetooth speaker-micSpecifications:
Model: B01 Bluetooth Version: V4.2 (BDR/EDR mode) Frequencies: 2402 - 2480 MHz RF output: 1mW Max : (measured output 0.97mW) Channels: 79 Channel Separation: 1MHz Modulation: GFSK, Pi/4 QDPSK, 8DPSK Data Rate: 1Mbps, 2Mbps, 3Mbps Antenna: Internal PCB Antenna Gain: 0.5 dBi Battery: HJ-0501000ES : Li-Ion 3.7V Charging: +5V DC (micro USB port) Buttons: PTT, 4 function buttons + power On/Off button. AF output socket: Mono audio output jack for earpiece. |
Beware of fakes! There are a number of lookalike mics with a variety of name badges sold as 'B01' bluetooth speake mic or fist mic that do not properly support BDR/BLE modes. If You have a fake You will find they will keep dropping the connection and may stop working after a few days/weeks of use and will have to be set up repeatedy to make them work again. Always confirm the device is fully Bluetooth 4.2 compatible before purchase. The real Inrico B01 mics have good quality audio and are very reliable, I know many people that have been using them for years with no problems.
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Wavlink AC600 outdoor WiFi DeviceHigh Power Dual Band 2.4GHz + 5GHz outdoor WiFi
range extender / repeater / access point. |
The Wavlink AC600 is a high power WiFi device with multiple modes of operation capable of up to 600Mbps data throughput.
This unit can be used as a dedicated Access Point to provide WiFi access to Your existing wired network.
It can be used as a Repeater to extend the coverage area of Your existing WiFi network.
The AC600 also has a 'WISP mode' that can be used to connect to a Wireless Internet Service Provider.
This device is fully waterproof and is designed specifically for Outdoor Operation with 15 KV ESD and 4 KV lightning protection.
It has three user selectable power levels providing control over the coverage area.
The 600mW high power setting is used to provide long range WiFi connectivity for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz devices.
The built in server provides a simple but powerful user interface to quickly and easily set up the device to suit Your specific requirements.
The AC600 is supplied with two vertical antennas specifically designed to match the unit. One for 2.4GHz and one for 5GHz bands.
It also comes with a mains power supply unit and a POE (Power Over Ethernet) box.
The POE box must be located indoors. It has a power input socket and two Ethernet ports.
One port, Marked POE, is used to connect the AC600 using a standard CAT5 or CAT6 'straight through' Ethernet cable, this provides the wired data connection and power to the AC600 unit mounted outdoors. I use a 10m long CAT6 STP (Shielded Twisted Pairs) cable but longer cables may be used if required.
The second Ethernet port provides easy connection to Your existing router, network hub or Ethernet switch using a standard 'straight through' CAT5 or CAT6 Ethernet cable.
I have performed some testing with the AC600 device mounted at different exterior locations on the house.
The building has an external insulation layer with galvanized steel mesh (grounded) over it with outer weatherproofing layer of cement/aggregate covered with small stones. The cement/aggregate layers will attenuate (absorb) some frequencies of RF energy and the galvanized metal layer will acts as a reflector to RF energy at various frequencies. The exact amount of attenuation and reflection of RF energy at 2.4GHz and 5GHz will depend on the specific materials, construction of the building and proximity to other structures. The distance the AC600 WiFi transceiver unit is mounted away from the building will have an effect of the shape and range of the coverage area.
AC600 mounted on alloy tube bracket 8 inches (20cm) from external wall on building:
The building structure attenuates (absorbs) some RF energy and also reflects some RF energy (specific attenuation and reflection levels dependent on building construction materials) which makes the coverage area of the WiFi access point directional,
5GHz line-of-sight range 1/4 mile, 2.4GHz line-of-sight range 3/4 mile. (greatest range at 90deg from the wall)
AC600 mounted on steel mast 12ft above building:
Being located above the building 'in the clear' makes the WiFi access point coverage area Omni-Directional (in all directions)
5GHz line-of-sight over 3/4 mile. 2.4GHz line-of-sight tested to 2.5 miles with strong, stable data connection.
: UPDATE April 2022 : The AC600 above the house has been in constant use for almost 4 years now. It was taken down, checked over, cleaned, tested and put back up the pole with new CAT6 STP cable 2 years ago after my original CAT6 cable was damaged. The AC600 has worked reliably through severe storms that destroyed other antennas and equipment during the last two winters.
This unit can be used as a dedicated Access Point to provide WiFi access to Your existing wired network.
It can be used as a Repeater to extend the coverage area of Your existing WiFi network.
The AC600 also has a 'WISP mode' that can be used to connect to a Wireless Internet Service Provider.
This device is fully waterproof and is designed specifically for Outdoor Operation with 15 KV ESD and 4 KV lightning protection.
It has three user selectable power levels providing control over the coverage area.
The 600mW high power setting is used to provide long range WiFi connectivity for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz devices.
The built in server provides a simple but powerful user interface to quickly and easily set up the device to suit Your specific requirements.
The AC600 is supplied with two vertical antennas specifically designed to match the unit. One for 2.4GHz and one for 5GHz bands.
It also comes with a mains power supply unit and a POE (Power Over Ethernet) box.
The POE box must be located indoors. It has a power input socket and two Ethernet ports.
One port, Marked POE, is used to connect the AC600 using a standard CAT5 or CAT6 'straight through' Ethernet cable, this provides the wired data connection and power to the AC600 unit mounted outdoors. I use a 10m long CAT6 STP (Shielded Twisted Pairs) cable but longer cables may be used if required.
The second Ethernet port provides easy connection to Your existing router, network hub or Ethernet switch using a standard 'straight through' CAT5 or CAT6 Ethernet cable.
I have performed some testing with the AC600 device mounted at different exterior locations on the house.
The building has an external insulation layer with galvanized steel mesh (grounded) over it with outer weatherproofing layer of cement/aggregate covered with small stones. The cement/aggregate layers will attenuate (absorb) some frequencies of RF energy and the galvanized metal layer will acts as a reflector to RF energy at various frequencies. The exact amount of attenuation and reflection of RF energy at 2.4GHz and 5GHz will depend on the specific materials, construction of the building and proximity to other structures. The distance the AC600 WiFi transceiver unit is mounted away from the building will have an effect of the shape and range of the coverage area.
AC600 mounted on alloy tube bracket 8 inches (20cm) from external wall on building:
The building structure attenuates (absorbs) some RF energy and also reflects some RF energy (specific attenuation and reflection levels dependent on building construction materials) which makes the coverage area of the WiFi access point directional,
5GHz line-of-sight range 1/4 mile, 2.4GHz line-of-sight range 3/4 mile. (greatest range at 90deg from the wall)
AC600 mounted on steel mast 12ft above building:
Being located above the building 'in the clear' makes the WiFi access point coverage area Omni-Directional (in all directions)
5GHz line-of-sight over 3/4 mile. 2.4GHz line-of-sight tested to 2.5 miles with strong, stable data connection.
: UPDATE April 2022 : The AC600 above the house has been in constant use for almost 4 years now. It was taken down, checked over, cleaned, tested and put back up the pole with new CAT6 STP cable 2 years ago after my original CAT6 cable was damaged. The AC600 has worked reliably through severe storms that destroyed other antennas and equipment during the last two winters.
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Another 'flavour' of Network Radio technology.
ICOM IP501H LTE/PoC Radio/Handset
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IP501H LTE/PoC Radio/Handset Specification
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Icom IP501H LTE/POC Communication Radio/Handset
The Icom IP501H is similar to normal Network Radio devices in that it transmits and receives RF energy on the mobile radio telephone bands to provide a data link to/from the existing cellular network system using LTE/4G and 3G standard data communications protocols but is Not compatible with existing Network Radio equipment from other manufacturers.
NOTE: this device Will NOT communicate with existing Network Radio devices as it uses its own proprietary operating system and data communication standards that are not compatible with existing systems, it provides a Closed System / Private Network for business users.
Full-Duplex Communication
The IP501H enables use of full-duplex communication which provides smooth telephone style conversations. The IP501H users can talk and receive at the same time.
Multiple User Communication
Multiple users in the system can initiate calls respectively. There are no requirements to check or wait for channel availability.
Priority Interrupt Calling
The IP501H supports group calls with three or more people. In case of an emergency, you can break into an on-going call to transmit an important message.
IP67 Dust-Tight and Waterproof
The IP501H has reputable waterproof performance to endure 1 m depth water for 30 minutes. It can be used for outdoor work or places prone to get wet.
Optional Charger Cradle With Bluetooth® Function
When the optional BC-218, charger cradle and HM-215, speaker-microphone is used, calls can be made with the microphone, while charging the IP501H. Even when the IP501H is not dropped into the BC-218, the Bluetooth® function enables you to wirelessly use the speaker-microphone.
*Service availability depends on the country. Network coverage provided by custom ICOM SIM card.
*May not be available in some countries. Please confirm the regulations in your country before you use.
Other Features:
• High quality, clear audio using G.726 Vocoder
• Individual, Group, Talkgroup, Multiplex Talkgroup and All calls
• Emergency button, Lone Worker and Man Down functions
• Vibration alert function notifies of incoming call
• Text message reception and preprogrammed message transmission
• Up to 500 memory address book (including Group, Individual, Talkgroup and Telephone lists)
• Voice message recording
• Built-in Bluetooth® and GPS (Gateway device required for GPS data (future))
Standard Accessories Include:
• BC202IP2 with power supply.
• BP-272 Li-ion battery pack.
• MB-135 belt clip.
• Hand Strap.
• Antenna
Icom LTE/PoC Radio System.
Using a 4G / LTE network, the Icom PoC (Push-to-Talk Over Cellular) radio system provides licence free nationwide communication and instantaneous high-quality full duplex operation. The PoC system uses the mobile phone network thus reducing the cost of building and maintaining a wide area radio network.
NOTE: This device Will NOT operate with 'normal' mobile data SIM cards.
The IP501H requires a custom SIM card that is only available from Icom.
Nationwide Coverage Over 4G/LTE Closed Private Network
Icom’s PoC radio system allows you to communicate with your two-way radio system over a 4G / LTE closed private network. Now you can benefit from nationwide coverage for your business without the use of repeaters thus reducing the cost of building and maintaining a wide area radio network. The closed system will operate from a private LTE mobile data network providing an extra level of security.
:: This device will not communicate with existing Network Radio equipment from other manufacturers but may be a solution for some business users ::
The Icom IP501H is similar to normal Network Radio devices in that it transmits and receives RF energy on the mobile radio telephone bands to provide a data link to/from the existing cellular network system using LTE/4G and 3G standard data communications protocols but is Not compatible with existing Network Radio equipment from other manufacturers.
NOTE: this device Will NOT communicate with existing Network Radio devices as it uses its own proprietary operating system and data communication standards that are not compatible with existing systems, it provides a Closed System / Private Network for business users.
Full-Duplex Communication
The IP501H enables use of full-duplex communication which provides smooth telephone style conversations. The IP501H users can talk and receive at the same time.
Multiple User Communication
Multiple users in the system can initiate calls respectively. There are no requirements to check or wait for channel availability.
Priority Interrupt Calling
The IP501H supports group calls with three or more people. In case of an emergency, you can break into an on-going call to transmit an important message.
IP67 Dust-Tight and Waterproof
The IP501H has reputable waterproof performance to endure 1 m depth water for 30 minutes. It can be used for outdoor work or places prone to get wet.
Optional Charger Cradle With Bluetooth® Function
When the optional BC-218, charger cradle and HM-215, speaker-microphone is used, calls can be made with the microphone, while charging the IP501H. Even when the IP501H is not dropped into the BC-218, the Bluetooth® function enables you to wirelessly use the speaker-microphone.
*Service availability depends on the country. Network coverage provided by custom ICOM SIM card.
*May not be available in some countries. Please confirm the regulations in your country before you use.
Other Features:
• High quality, clear audio using G.726 Vocoder
• Individual, Group, Talkgroup, Multiplex Talkgroup and All calls
• Emergency button, Lone Worker and Man Down functions
• Vibration alert function notifies of incoming call
• Text message reception and preprogrammed message transmission
• Up to 500 memory address book (including Group, Individual, Talkgroup and Telephone lists)
• Voice message recording
• Built-in Bluetooth® and GPS (Gateway device required for GPS data (future))
Standard Accessories Include:
• BC202IP2 with power supply.
• BP-272 Li-ion battery pack.
• MB-135 belt clip.
• Hand Strap.
• Antenna
Icom LTE/PoC Radio System.
Using a 4G / LTE network, the Icom PoC (Push-to-Talk Over Cellular) radio system provides licence free nationwide communication and instantaneous high-quality full duplex operation. The PoC system uses the mobile phone network thus reducing the cost of building and maintaining a wide area radio network.
NOTE: This device Will NOT operate with 'normal' mobile data SIM cards.
The IP501H requires a custom SIM card that is only available from Icom.
Nationwide Coverage Over 4G/LTE Closed Private Network
Icom’s PoC radio system allows you to communicate with your two-way radio system over a 4G / LTE closed private network. Now you can benefit from nationwide coverage for your business without the use of repeaters thus reducing the cost of building and maintaining a wide area radio network. The closed system will operate from a private LTE mobile data network providing an extra level of security.
:: This device will not communicate with existing Network Radio equipment from other manufacturers but may be a solution for some business users ::
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Standard Amateur Radio 'Q' Code List
Code : Question : Answer or Statement
QLE : What is your expected signal? : The expected signal is low...
QNI : May I join the net? : You may check in...
QRA : What is the name (or call sign) of your station? : The name (or call sign) of my station is ...
QRG : Will you tell me my exact frequency (or that of ...)? : Your exact frequency (or that of ... ) is ... kHz (or MHz).
QRH : Does my frequency vary? : Your frequency varies.
QRI : How is the tone of my transmission? : The tone of your transmission is (1. Good; 2. Variable; 3. Bad)
QRJ : How many voice contacts do you want to make? : I want to make ... voice contacts.
QRK : What is the readability of my signals (or those of ...)? : The readability of your signals (or those of ...) is ... (1 to 5).
QRL : Are you busy?I am busy. (or I am busy with ... ) : Please do not interfere.
QRM : Do you have interference? [from other stations) : I have interference. ( Man made interference/noise )
QRN : Are you troubled by static? : I am troubled by static. ( Natural interference / noise )
QRO : Shall I increase power? : Increase power.
QRP : Shall I decrease power? : Decrease power.
QRQ : Shall I send faster? : Send faster (... wpm)
QRS : Shall I send more slowly? :Send more slowly (... wpm)
QRT : Shall I cease or suspend operation?/ shutoff the radio : I am suspending operation. /shutting off the radio
QRU : Have you anything for me? : I have nothing for you.
QRV : Are you ready? : I am ready.
QRW : Shall I inform ... that you are calling him on ... kHz (or MHz)?Please inform ... that I am calling him on ... kHz (or MHz).
QRX : Shall I standby / When will you call me again?Please standby / I will call you again at ... (hours) on ... kHz (or MHz)
QRZ : Who is calling me? : You are being called by ... on ... kHz (or MHz)
QSA : What is the strength of my signals (or those of ... )? : The strength of your signals (or those of ...) is ... (1 to 5).
QSB : Are my signals fading? : Your signals are fading.
QSD : Is my keying defective? : Your keying is defective.
QSG : Shall I send ... telegrams (messages) at a time? : Send ... telegrams (messages) at a time.
QSK : Can you hear me between your signals? :I can hear you between my signals.
QSL : Can you acknowledge receipt? : I am acknowledging receipt.
QSM : Shall I repeat the last telegram (message) which I sent you, or some previous telegram (message)? : Repeat the last telegram (message) which you sent me (or telegram(s) (message(s)) numbers(s) ...).
QSN : Did you hear me (or ... (call sign)) on .. kHz (or MHz)? : I did hear you (or ... (call sign)) on ... kHz (or MHz).
QSO : Can you communicate with ... direct or by relay? : I can communicate with ... direct (or by relay through ...).
QSP : Will you relay a message to ...? : I will relay a message to ... .
QSR : Do you want me to repeat my call? : Please repeat your call; I did not hear you.
QSS : What working frequency will you use? : I will use the working frequency ... kHz (or MHz).
QST : Here is a broadcast message to all amateurs.
QSU : Shall I send or reply on this frequency (or on ... kHz (or MHz))? : Send or reply on this frequency (or on ... kHz (or MHz)).
QSW : Will you send on this frequency (or on ... kHz (or MHz))? : I am going to send on this frequency (or on ... kHz (or MHz)).
QSX : Will you listen to ... (call sign(s) on ... kHz (or MHz))? : I am listening to ... (call sign(s) on ... kHz (or MHz))
QSY : Shall I change to transmission on another frequency? : Change to transmission on another frequency (or on ... kHz (or MHz)).
QSZ : Shall I send each word or group more than once? : Send each word or group twice (or ... times).
QTA : Shall I cancel telegram (message) No. ... as if it had not been sent? : Cancel telegram (message) No. ... as if it had not been sent.
QTC : How many telegrams (messages) have you to send? : I have ... telegrams (messages) for you (or for ...).
QTH : What is your position in latitude and longitude (or according to any other indication)? : My position is ... latitude...longitude
QTR : What is the correct time? : The correct time is ... hours
QTU : At what times are you operating? : I am operating from ... to ... hours.
QTX : Will you keep your station open for further communication with me until further notice (or until ... hours)? : I will keep my station open for further communication with you until further notice (or until ... hours).
QUA : Have you news of ... (call sign)? : Here is news of ... (call sign).
QUC : What is the number (or other indication) of the last message you received from me (or from ... (call sign))? : The number (or other indication) of the last message I received from you (or from ... (call sign)) is ...
QUD : Have you received the urgency signal sent by ... (call sign of mobile station)? : I have received the urgency signal sent by ... (call sign of mobile station) at ... hours.
QUE : Can you speak in ... (language), – with interpreter if necessary; if so, on what frequencies? : I can speak in ... (language) on ... kHz (or MHz).
QUF : Have you received the distress signal sent by ... (call sign of mobile station)? : I have received the distress signal sent by ... (call sign of mobile station) at ... hours.
QLE : What is your expected signal? : The expected signal is low...
QNI : May I join the net? : You may check in...
QRA : What is the name (or call sign) of your station? : The name (or call sign) of my station is ...
QRG : Will you tell me my exact frequency (or that of ...)? : Your exact frequency (or that of ... ) is ... kHz (or MHz).
QRH : Does my frequency vary? : Your frequency varies.
QRI : How is the tone of my transmission? : The tone of your transmission is (1. Good; 2. Variable; 3. Bad)
QRJ : How many voice contacts do you want to make? : I want to make ... voice contacts.
QRK : What is the readability of my signals (or those of ...)? : The readability of your signals (or those of ...) is ... (1 to 5).
QRL : Are you busy?I am busy. (or I am busy with ... ) : Please do not interfere.
QRM : Do you have interference? [from other stations) : I have interference. ( Man made interference/noise )
QRN : Are you troubled by static? : I am troubled by static. ( Natural interference / noise )
QRO : Shall I increase power? : Increase power.
QRP : Shall I decrease power? : Decrease power.
QRQ : Shall I send faster? : Send faster (... wpm)
QRS : Shall I send more slowly? :Send more slowly (... wpm)
QRT : Shall I cease or suspend operation?/ shutoff the radio : I am suspending operation. /shutting off the radio
QRU : Have you anything for me? : I have nothing for you.
QRV : Are you ready? : I am ready.
QRW : Shall I inform ... that you are calling him on ... kHz (or MHz)?Please inform ... that I am calling him on ... kHz (or MHz).
QRX : Shall I standby / When will you call me again?Please standby / I will call you again at ... (hours) on ... kHz (or MHz)
QRZ : Who is calling me? : You are being called by ... on ... kHz (or MHz)
QSA : What is the strength of my signals (or those of ... )? : The strength of your signals (or those of ...) is ... (1 to 5).
QSB : Are my signals fading? : Your signals are fading.
QSD : Is my keying defective? : Your keying is defective.
QSG : Shall I send ... telegrams (messages) at a time? : Send ... telegrams (messages) at a time.
QSK : Can you hear me between your signals? :I can hear you between my signals.
QSL : Can you acknowledge receipt? : I am acknowledging receipt.
QSM : Shall I repeat the last telegram (message) which I sent you, or some previous telegram (message)? : Repeat the last telegram (message) which you sent me (or telegram(s) (message(s)) numbers(s) ...).
QSN : Did you hear me (or ... (call sign)) on .. kHz (or MHz)? : I did hear you (or ... (call sign)) on ... kHz (or MHz).
QSO : Can you communicate with ... direct or by relay? : I can communicate with ... direct (or by relay through ...).
QSP : Will you relay a message to ...? : I will relay a message to ... .
QSR : Do you want me to repeat my call? : Please repeat your call; I did not hear you.
QSS : What working frequency will you use? : I will use the working frequency ... kHz (or MHz).
QST : Here is a broadcast message to all amateurs.
QSU : Shall I send or reply on this frequency (or on ... kHz (or MHz))? : Send or reply on this frequency (or on ... kHz (or MHz)).
QSW : Will you send on this frequency (or on ... kHz (or MHz))? : I am going to send on this frequency (or on ... kHz (or MHz)).
QSX : Will you listen to ... (call sign(s) on ... kHz (or MHz))? : I am listening to ... (call sign(s) on ... kHz (or MHz))
QSY : Shall I change to transmission on another frequency? : Change to transmission on another frequency (or on ... kHz (or MHz)).
QSZ : Shall I send each word or group more than once? : Send each word or group twice (or ... times).
QTA : Shall I cancel telegram (message) No. ... as if it had not been sent? : Cancel telegram (message) No. ... as if it had not been sent.
QTC : How many telegrams (messages) have you to send? : I have ... telegrams (messages) for you (or for ...).
QTH : What is your position in latitude and longitude (or according to any other indication)? : My position is ... latitude...longitude
QTR : What is the correct time? : The correct time is ... hours
QTU : At what times are you operating? : I am operating from ... to ... hours.
QTX : Will you keep your station open for further communication with me until further notice (or until ... hours)? : I will keep my station open for further communication with you until further notice (or until ... hours).
QUA : Have you news of ... (call sign)? : Here is news of ... (call sign).
QUC : What is the number (or other indication) of the last message you received from me (or from ... (call sign))? : The number (or other indication) of the last message I received from you (or from ... (call sign)) is ...
QUD : Have you received the urgency signal sent by ... (call sign of mobile station)? : I have received the urgency signal sent by ... (call sign of mobile station) at ... hours.
QUE : Can you speak in ... (language), – with interpreter if necessary; if so, on what frequencies? : I can speak in ... (language) on ... kHz (or MHz).
QUF : Have you received the distress signal sent by ... (call sign of mobile station)? : I have received the distress signal sent by ... (call sign of mobile station) at ... hours.
How to give a Proper signal report. (on amateur radio bands)
Signal reports are normally reported as using R S T This refers to ‘R’eadabilty ‘S’trength and ‘T’one When operating in Phone Mode (Voice) it is normal practice to report only the Readability and signal Strength. 'T'one is only reported when operating in CW mode.
When operating Phone Mode (Voice) Readability is reported using the following ‘scale’
1 = Unreadable
2 = Barely readable, occasional words distinguishable.
3 = Readable with considerable difficulty.
4 = Readable with practically no difficulty.
5 = Perfectly readable.
So a perfectly readable voice reception would be reported as a ’5′. If the received voice is not perfect, possibly rather quiet or has a little noise along with it but is still readable and all words are still understandable you may give a reading of ’4′.
When you are having trouble making out what the transmitting station is saying but still hearing enough to just make out what they are saying with a fair bit of difficulty you would report a ’3′ etc..
Signal strength is read from the S-Meter (signal meter) display on the radio.
Looking at the LEFT S-Meter shown below: You are receiving a station and you can make out all that they are saying but the audio is not ‘Perfectly readable’ due to the audio being quiet or having some noise along with it you could report that their signal was '4 2'
or '4 3' if the needle on the S-meter moved up to the ’3′ as they were speaking.
Looking at the RIGHT S-Meter shown below: You are receiving a station ‘Perfectly’ with good clear clear audio you could report that their signal was a '5 5' or ‘five and five’ – If you are receiving them as ‘perfect’ audio and the S-Meter needle is past the 9, for example at the +20 mark, you would read the S-meter as '5 9 plus 20 dB'. Of course if the audio was ‘Perfectly’ good and clear and the S-Meter needle was at the mark between the +20 and +40 you would report the signal strength as '5 9 plus 30dB'.
When operating Phone Mode (Voice) Readability is reported using the following ‘scale’
1 = Unreadable
2 = Barely readable, occasional words distinguishable.
3 = Readable with considerable difficulty.
4 = Readable with practically no difficulty.
5 = Perfectly readable.
So a perfectly readable voice reception would be reported as a ’5′. If the received voice is not perfect, possibly rather quiet or has a little noise along with it but is still readable and all words are still understandable you may give a reading of ’4′.
When you are having trouble making out what the transmitting station is saying but still hearing enough to just make out what they are saying with a fair bit of difficulty you would report a ’3′ etc..
Signal strength is read from the S-Meter (signal meter) display on the radio.
Looking at the LEFT S-Meter shown below: You are receiving a station and you can make out all that they are saying but the audio is not ‘Perfectly readable’ due to the audio being quiet or having some noise along with it you could report that their signal was '4 2'
or '4 3' if the needle on the S-meter moved up to the ’3′ as they were speaking.
Looking at the RIGHT S-Meter shown below: You are receiving a station ‘Perfectly’ with good clear clear audio you could report that their signal was a '5 5' or ‘five and five’ – If you are receiving them as ‘perfect’ audio and the S-Meter needle is past the 9, for example at the +20 mark, you would read the S-meter as '5 9 plus 20 dB'. Of course if the audio was ‘Perfectly’ good and clear and the S-Meter needle was at the mark between the +20 and +40 you would report the signal strength as '5 9 plus 30dB'.
Image: Plug-In Signal Meters used on one of my virtual HF transceivers on the Hamsphere 4 global HF communications simulation system. I used this image here as it is easier to see then my attempt at photographing meters on my HF radio equipment.
The ‘T’ of ‘RST’ is for reporting the received signal Tone and is only used when reporting CW (Morse) signal reception.
This is done according to the following scale with a range from 1 to 9 something like this:
1 = Fifty cycle/Sixty cycle a.c (or less), very rough and broad.
2 = Very rough a.c. very harsh and broad.
3 = Rough a.c. tone, rectified but not filtered.
4 = Rough note, some trace of filtering.
5 = Filtered rectified a.c. but strongly ripple-modulated.
6 = Filtered tone, definite trace of ripple modulation.
7 = Near pure tone, trace of ripple modulation.
8 = Near perfect tone, slight trace of modulation.
9 = Perfect tone, no trace of ripple or modulation of any kind.
So when using Phone mode (voice) for direct contact you only report the R and S as described above and you do not use the ‘T’one part of the report…
When using 'network assisted communications modes' DMR,D-STAR,YSF,Echolink,Peanut for HAMs,DroidSTAR,DudeSTAR,FreeSTAR,DVswitch,IRN,IRLP,ZELLO, etc.. or when working through a repeater (internet linked or not) You would report ONLY the readability and should not give any signal strength report. You are not receiving the signal directly from the other station so can not report that stations signal strength. Also if the equipment or device You are using does not have a signal strength meter (mostly hand-held equipment) You should not 'guess' and give a false Signal report.
Accurate signal reporting is an important part of radio communications procedure and It is very easy when you get used to it. I hope this helps operators to give correct signal reports..
Proper Audio Reporting on Network Radios.
As Network Radios deal with RF signal level adjustments automatically and they do not have a signal meter display attempting to give a 'S'ignal report is totally meaningless.
The 'R'eadability of the received audio can be reported properly using the following ‘scale’
1 = Unreadable. Not able to make out any speech due to no audio, extremely low audio input, extreme high level distortion or 'drop outs'
2 = Barely readable, occasional words distinguishable. (usually due to background noise or excessively high or low audio input causing distortion)
3 = Readable with considerable difficulty. (usually due to background noise or excessively high or very low audio input causing distortion)
4 = Readable with practically no difficulty. (maybe a bit of background noise but operators voice still relatively clear above the noise level)
5 = Perfectly readable.
EG; Perfectly clean audio received at a good level with no background noise would be reported as 'Q5' or 'Readability 5'.
When using Zello PTT on Network Radios You should always use the Echo test service in Your Contacts list to check Your audio and make any adjustments required to get Your audio to a 'Q5' - Clean, clear speech at a sensible level, before transmitting on the channels.
The 'R'eadability of the received audio can be reported properly using the following ‘scale’
1 = Unreadable. Not able to make out any speech due to no audio, extremely low audio input, extreme high level distortion or 'drop outs'
2 = Barely readable, occasional words distinguishable. (usually due to background noise or excessively high or low audio input causing distortion)
3 = Readable with considerable difficulty. (usually due to background noise or excessively high or very low audio input causing distortion)
4 = Readable with practically no difficulty. (maybe a bit of background noise but operators voice still relatively clear above the noise level)
5 = Perfectly readable.
EG; Perfectly clean audio received at a good level with no background noise would be reported as 'Q5' or 'Readability 5'.
When using Zello PTT on Network Radios You should always use the Echo test service in Your Contacts list to check Your audio and make any adjustments required to get Your audio to a 'Q5' - Clean, clear speech at a sensible level, before transmitting on the channels.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
All Zello users MUST adhere to the published Zello Terms Of Service. https://zello.com/terms/
and Zello Community Guidelines https://zello.com/zello-community-guidelines.htm
Users who violate the Zello Terms Of Service will be blocked from the channels.
Users who ignore the Zello Community Guidelines will be dealt with accordingly.
and Zello Community Guidelines https://zello.com/zello-community-guidelines.htm
Users who violate the Zello Terms Of Service will be blocked from the channels.
Users who ignore the Zello Community Guidelines will be dealt with accordingly.
. . . . . o O o . . . . .
