EchoLink
Echo Link is a computer-based Amateur Radio system distributed free of charge that allows ham radio operators to communicate with otherham radio operators using Voice over Internet (VoIP) technology.
Basically this gives a ham radio operator to worldwide communitcains from their computer or smart phone. All you need is a ham license, a computer, tablet or smart phone, internet access, and downloan the free software application.
The system allows reliable worldwide connections to be made between radio amateurs, greatly enhancing Amateur Radio’s communications capabilities. In essence it is the same as other VoIP applications such as Skype, but instead of going from computer to computer you will be connecting to amateur radio operators on their mobile and home stations. The VOIP is just the way to get into the system with equipment you own instead of purchasing a mobile or home radio. The stations you talk to coupd be world wide depending on the node you select.
Before using the system, it is necessary for a prospective user’s callsign to be validated as this system is only available to licensed amateur radio operators. The EchoLink system requires that each new user provide positive proof of license and identity before his or her callsign is added to the list of validated users. There is no cost for this service, and it ensures that this system is used only by licensed amateur radio operators.
The software is written to run on 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Microsoft Windows. Another edition of the software runs on Apple mobile devices (iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad), and is available from the Apple App Store. An Android version is available on Google Play and several other Android app repositories.
There are numberous youtube videos about Echolink More more information about learning how to use your computer, smartphone or tablet as a hom radio without diminishing any of its original functions check out the following video at this link: (Mike or Robert add a good link here.)
As always a local ham radio operator will be happy to assist you in getting this mode going. contact any ham listed on this website and they will be glad to point you in the right direction (which will likely be Robert Smith KJ5SO).