It is official. The current VOIP / RF Radio link Networks in South Africa now has a global name called "The ZS-Link Network". It has become necessary to provide a name for the fast growing linked network in South Africa. We needed a universal name for the networks that connect to each other. This does not mean that the identity of the linked networks has changed. For example the GRHub Network, West Coast Link, ZS5PMB-R KZN Linked Repeaters, ZS0JPL-R PARC Repeater Network and the many others will keep their identity and will operate as before without any changes or control by The ZS-Link Network. It was decided to use a universal name for all the networks in South Africa. This name does not refer to a specific call sign prefix but is in line with other countries in the world that uses the main prefix to describe their amateur radio networks. It makes it easier and more functional when we talk about the network to use the global name of "The ZS-Link Network".
More information:
- Some might say that they were not given the opportunity to express their views in naming the network. As stated in the previous post the network has grown substantially in the last few months. It was becoming more and more awkward just to talk about a network. Furthermore if we had to consult with all the roll-players it would have taken a substantial amount of time to get feed back and to reach consensus on naming the network. We made it easy for all roll-players. The name will in anyway make no difference to the operating of the current networks that are linked to the network at certain times.
- The ZS-Link Network is not a club nor is it affiliated with any. It is a platform built, maintained and operated by clubs, individual operators, like yourself, who utilize available capabilities to enhance the effectiveness of today's amateur radio for the benefit and enjoyment of all radio amateurs and listeners.
- To maintain a large network system takes time and commitment. Please help support, assist and encourage each other. Also promote the individual networks that joins The ZS-Link Network. It is the individual networks that are the backbone of the current country wide network. It has been proven that all those networks that are linked together has created renewed activity and excitement amongst the new and older radio amateurs. We need to be active to keep Amateur Radio alive and in the foreground today.
- It was said many times before that the connected stations, links, repeaters, Echolink, AllStar, IRLP, Zello, RF Simplex Links form the backbone of the ZS-Link Network. Thanks must go to every single radio amateur and clubs who make their systems available on the network. It is this type of commitment and spirit that is beneficial to Amateur Radio.
- If you would like more information on anything related to the ZS-Link Network please feel free to send us an email by clicking HERE.
Finally: The linked network system is not a "one man show". It is the collaboration between many who establish, maintain and provide a service to Amateur Radio. Amateur Radio is the winner here.
We thank everyone that contributes to this Network!!
73
The ZS-Link Network Team
8 March 2022
