Showing posts with label GRHub Blog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label GRHub Blog. Show all posts

Sunday, February 16, 2025

100 000 Milestone reached in respect of the ZS Link Network Blog

Image:  Google  (Click on image for larger view)

It gives me great pleasure to announce that the ZS Link Network Blog has reached an all time viewers total (hits) of 100 278 this according to Google.  Is this of any significance?  Well if you like to brag or boast about  the Blog then many will say that this total is of no significance.  Others might be of the opinion that a 100 278 hits can easily be achieved.  Well if the Blog was about South African Politics, Socialites or posting controversial and  inflammatory content then sure you will reach a 100 278 hits in a day or two.  However this blog is about  Amateur Radio/Ham Radio/ Space/Science/Technology/DIY Projects/Homebrew/Nets/AREDN and too many other topics to mention here.  Now why mention this "achievement" here.

It is quite simple.  This Blog is not about the author.  It is about those radio amateurs who contributed direct or indirectly to many posts on this Blog.  You the contributes get all the recognition for keeping this Blog alive and interesting.  Something must be done correctly to reach the 100 000 hits milestone.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank every single radio amateur that contributed to the success of this Blog.  But not only the contributors, also all our readers or visitors from all over the world.  Hopefully in visiting the Blog many of our viewers have find something interesting to read and to view on the Blog.  I could have just kept quiet and say nothing about this milestone but that would be in direct conflict with the amateur radio code, very selfish and ungrateful.

Once again thank you to everyone that contributed to the ZS Link Network Blog in any way.  Lets continue and keep this Blog interesting and relevent.  As of this morning at 09h00 the 100 278 figure has increased to 101 418.

73

Johan ZS1I

Mossel Bay

South Africa

Images:  (Click on images for larger view.)






Tuesday, December 10, 2024

It is nearly Holiday Season and what will be happening in the Southern Cape during this period?


(Image: Aasvoelkop Repeater, Albertinia)

It is nearly Holiday Season and the town of Mossel Bay has literally become a small "city" over the past few days.  Traffic jams are a daily occurrence as construction workers are working on several main roads in and around the town.  Be as it may the main influx of holiday makers are expected after the schools and factories closes.  Will amateur radio also close down for the holiday season?  NO amateur radio will not be closing down in the Southern Cape.  As with other past seasons this is the time of year when people enjoy their holiday period but also the time of year when tragedy occurs.  On the brink of the season we already had one drowning, one large fire and a smaller fire, many road accidents in town and a large water outage.  The weather normally also has a say but thankfully so far there were no weather related incidents.  With the big influx of holiday makers soon to be experienced it is necessary to have all amateur radio communication systems up and running should the need arise for emergency communications.  On the other hand the Southern Cape Repeater- and VOIP Network is available for use by visiting or passing radio amateurs.  Visitors are most welcome to use the extensive network.  The Southern Cape Repeaters- and VOIP Network Group is proud to provide fellow radio amateurs with the following information in order to ensure a smooth operational experience.

  • Flow Chart of the Southern Cape Repeaters- and VOIP Networks

This flow chart display the repeaters, simplex links, DMR bridge, Echolink and AllStar information that is needed to use the network effectively.

  • ZS-Link News Bulletins, Nets, Link Connections etc.

Here you will be able to find information on  ZS-Link Breaking News Bulletins, Nets, Live Link Connections etc.  to other parts of South Africa and also globally. The times and days are available when certain automated activities will take place.  Please ensure to keep those times in mind as the network system will overrun any conversation taking place on repeaters and VOIP networks when auto broadcasts start.

  • Welcome letter from the ZS-Link Network Team and a few general tips for trouble free use of the Southern Cape Repeaters and VOIP Networks.

We would like to welcome visiting radio amateurs to the Southern Cape and this letter is one of the ways to do it.  However we would rather welcome radio amateurs on the Southern Cape Repeaters or VOIP Networks.  We extend an invitation to ALL (visiting or non visiting) radio amateurs to use the ZS-Link Network and thank you in advance for utilizing the ZS-Link Network!

Flow Chart of the Southern Cape Repeaters- and VOIP Networks


 (Click on image for larger view.)

ZS-Link News Bulletins, Nets, Link Connections etc.



Last Updated:  8 December 2024 09h15 

As the title of this page show you will be able to find information on  ZS-Link Breaking News Bulletins, Nets, Live Link Connections etc. on this page.

As administrator of the ZS-Link Network I strive to link to active links where interesting and educational content are discussed.  If you know of links that I can add to the favorite.ini tab, please provide me with the necessary information.

Sunday -  Local Content:

1.  Starting time 04h05 SAST - East Coast Reflector (Trivia Net): Transmission:  04h00 - 07h50 49355 Allstar Node and ZS1I-L Echolink nodes will be connected to the largest radio and VOIP network in the USA. Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR. 

2.  Starting time 07h50 SAST -   SARL on the Air Bulletins:  Transmissions: Sunday at 08:15 (Afrikaans) and 08:30 (English) SAST  on repeaters around South Africa.  ZS1I Allstar and Echolink nodes will be connected to the ZS- Link Network via Echolink. Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

3. Starting time 8h45 SAST  -  Pretoria Amateur Radio Club Bulletin:   Sunday at 08:45 SAST on repeaters around South Africa. ZS1I Allstar and Echolink nodes will be connected to the Pretoria Repeater ZS0JPL-R via Echolink. Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

4. Starting 10h00 SAST -  Amateur Radio Today: Program about Amateur Radio and technology hosted by Hans van de Groenendaal, ZS6AKV. Transmission on Sundays at 10:00 SAST (08:00 UTC) ZS1I Allstar and Echolink nodes will be connected to the Pretoria Repeater  ZS0JPL-R via Echolink.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

5. Starting 15h00 SAST - Currently no Bo Karoo Bulletin till the new year! But until then you can listen to the the Wireless Institute Of Australia Weekly News Broadcast.  Come an listen to the news broadcast every Sunday at 15h00 SAST on the ZS-Link HUB Network (ZS1I-R Echolink).  The purpose of "WIANews" is to rapidly provide news of interest to active amateurs residing in Australia and the Globe.  Starting 15h00 SAST  -  Bo Karoo Amateur Radio Club Bulletin: Transmission: Sundays at 3pm (15:00) SAST by Thys ZS1TBP via Echolink, AllStar and DMR.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

6.  Starting time 16h30 SAST - Sonsak Span Net: Daily at 16h30 SAST including Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

Monday - Local Content:

1.  Starting time 04h05 SAST - East Coast Reflector : Transmission:  04h05 - 05h50 49355 Allstar Node, ZS1I-R Echolink and DMR TG65511 will be connected to the largest radio and VOIP network in the USA.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

2.  Starting time 06h00 - 06h30 SAST - Dagbreek Span Morning Net: Daily at 06h00 SAST except on Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

3.  Starting time 06h30 - 07h50 SAST - Ontbytsake Span Net:  Daily at 06h30 SAST except on Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

4.  Starting time 08h00 SAST  -  Pretoria ("Legends") Morning Net:  Transmission: Daily at 08:00 - 09:00 except on Sunday on the Pretoria repeater South Africa. ZS1I Allstar, DMR and Echolink nodes will be connected to the Pretoria Repeater ZS0JPL-R via EcholinkRadio Amateurs can connect via ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

5.  Starting time 16h30 SAST - Sonsak Span Net: Daily at 16h30 SAST including Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

Tuesday - Local Content:

1. Starting time 04h05 SAST - East Coast Reflector : Transmission:  04h05 - 05h50 49355 Allstar Node, ZS1I-R Echolink and DMR TG65511 will be connected to the largest radio and VOIP network in the USA. Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

2.  Starting time 06h00 SAST - Dagbreek Span Morning Net: Daily at 06h00 SAST except on Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

3.  Starting time 06h30 - 07h50 SAST - Ontbytsake Span Net:  Daily at 06h30 SAST except on Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

4.  Starting time 08h00 SAST  -  Pretoria ("Legends") Morning Net:  Transmission: Daily at 08:00 - 09:00 except on Sunday on the Pretoria repeater South Africa. ZS1I Allstar, DMR and Echolink nodes will be connected to the Pretoria Repeater ZS0JPL-R via Echolink .  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR. 

5.  Starting time 16h30 SAST - Sonsak Span Net: Daily at 16h30 SAST including Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

6.  NEW!! Starting time 19h30 SAST -   S.A. DMR Net:  This net takes place every Tuesday evening on TG655 and start at 19h30 SAST.  You can connect to the net using 49355 ZS Link Allstar Node, ZS1I-R Echolink, DMR TG655, SVXLink Reflector or any analog repeater / link in the Southern Cape area which is connected to the ZS Link Hub Network.  Connectivity to other talk groups, reflectors, links and repeaters is also offered and repeater custodians are welcome to connect via the ZS Link Hub Network to join the DMR Net.  Yes, we provide several bridges between Analog and Digital Voice Radio.  Never miss the SA DMR Weekly Net!

Wednesday - Local Content:

1.  Starting time 04h05 SAST - East Coast Reflector : Transmission:  04h05 - 05h50 49355 Allstar Node, ZS1I-R Echolink and DMR TG65511 will be connected to the largest radio and VOIP network in the USA.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

2.  Starting time 06h00 SAST - Dagbreek Span Morning Net: Daily at 06h00 SAST except on Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR. 

3.  Starting time 06h30 - 07h50 SAST - Ontbytsake Span Net:  Daily at 06h30 SAST except on Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

4.  Starting time 08h00 SAST  -  Pretoria ("Legends") Morning Net:  Transmission: Daily at 08:00 - 09:00 except on Sunday on the Pretoria repeater South Africa. ZS1I Allstar, DMR and Echolink nodes will be connected to the Pretoria Repeater ZS0JPL-R via Echolink .  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR. 

5.  Starting time 16h30 SAST - Sonsak Span Net: Daily at 16h30 SAST including Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

6.   ARRL Bulletin Broadcast:  19h30 SASTARRL Audio News:  ARRL Audio News is a summary of the week’s top news stories in the world of Amateur Radio, along with interviews and other features. Enjoy ARRL Audio News anywhere: on your smart phone or tablet, your local repeater, or stream it on the go!  (NOTE:  There will be no bulletin broadcast on USA public holidays) Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR . 

Thursday  - Local Content:

1.  Starting time 04h05 SAST - East Coast Reflector: Transmission:  04h05 - 05h50 49355 Allstar Node,  ZS1I-R Echolink and DMR TG65511 will be connected to the largest radio and VOIP network in the USA.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR. 

2.  Starting time 06h00 SAST - Dagbreek Span Morning Net: Daily at 06h00 SAST except on Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

3.  Starting time 06h30 - 07h50 SAST - Ontbytsake Span Net:  Daily at 06h30 SAST except on Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

4.  Starting time 08h00 SAST  -  Pretoria ("Legends") Morning Net:  Transmission: Daily at 08:00 - 09:00 except on Sunday on the Pretoria repeater South Africa. ZS1I Allstar, DMR and Echolink nodes will be connected to the Pretoria Repeater ZS0JPL-R via Echolink .  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

5.  Starting time 16h30 SAST - Sonsak Span Net: Daily at 16h30 SAST including Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.  

Friday  - Local Content:

1.  Starting time 04h05 SAST - East Coast Reflector : Transmission  04h05 - 05h50 49355 Allstar Node,  ZS1I-R Echolink and DMR TG65511 will be connected to the largest radio and VOIP network in the USA. Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.  

2.  Starting time 06h00 SAST - Dagbreek Span Morning Net: Daily at 06h00 SAST except on Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

3.  Starting time 06h30 - 07h50 SAST - Ontbytsake Span Net:  Daily at 06h30 SAST except on Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

4.  Starting time 08h00 SAST  -  Pretoria ("Legends") Morning Net:  Transmission: Daily at 08:00 - 09:00 except on Sunday on the Pretoria repeater South Africa. ZS1I Allstar, DMR and Echolink nodes will be connected to the Pretoria Repeater ZS0JPL-R via Echolink .  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

5.  Starting time 16h30 SAST - Sonsak Span Net: Daily at 16h30 SAST including Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

6.  Starting time 19h30 SAST - Amateur Radio Newsline Broadcast:  19h30 SAST -  Amateur Radio Audio News - AR Audio News is a summary of the week’s top news stories in the world of Amateur Radio, along with interviews and other features. Enjoy AR Audio News anywhere: on your smart phone or tablet, your local repeater, or stream it on the go! Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR. .

Saturday - Local Content:

1.  Starting time 04h05 SAST - East Coast Reflector: Transmission:  04h05 - 05h50 49355 Allstar Node,  ZS1I-R Echolink and DMR TG65511 will be connected to the largest radio and VOIP network in the USA.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

2.  Starting time 08h00 SAST  -  Pretoria ("Legends") Morning Net:  Transmission: Daily at 08:00 - 09:00 except on Sunday on the Pretoria repeater South Africa. ZS1I Allstar, DMR and Echolink nodes will be connected to the Pretoria Repeater ZS0JPL-R via Echolink .  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1I-R Echolink,  49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR.

3.  Starting time 09h05 SAST - ZLHUB DRGNZ Hub Network, New Zealand:  Transmission: 09h05 - 11h00 49355 AllStar Node and ZS1I-R Echolink nodes will be connected to the New Zealand Hub Network.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR. 

4. Starting time 09h05 SAST - VK6RX AllStar Hub Network, Australia:  Transmission: 09h05 - 11h00 49355 AllStar Node,  ZS1I-R Echolink and DMR TG65511 will be connected to the Australia Hub Network.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR. 

7.  Starting time 16h30 SAST - Sonsak Span Net: Daily at 16h30 SAST including Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater.  Radio Amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR. 

 

Monday to Saturday -  World Wide Content:

Important Note:  The ZS Hub Network will be linked to any of the networks/links underneath at different times of the day, depending on activity.   Advice:  Please listen/monitor the ZS Hub Network before calling/transmitting on the Network.

1. W5MGM Addison, TX USA AllStar HUB:  Transmissions in several time-slots. ZS1I Allstar and Echolink nodes will be connected to this Hub.

2. WA3DSP Philadelphia USA AllStar HUB:  Transmissions in several time-slots. ZS1I Allstar and Echolink nodes will be connected to this Hub. 

3.  K6JSI WIN System HUB L.A and East Coast IRLP - AllStar  Reflector :  Transmissions in several time-slots. ZS1I Allstar and Echolink nodes will be connected to one of the Hubs until 21h00 depending on local activity.

4. UK Hub Net: M0HOY-L Echolink or AllStar: HUBNet has rapidly become the largest multimode AllStar communications platform based in the UK. Transmissions in several time-slots. ZS1I Allstar and Echolink nodes will be connected to this Hub. 

5.  VK6RX  Allstar Hub (Western Australia):  Transmissions in several time-slots. ZS1I Allstar and Echolink nodes will be connected to this Hub. 

6.  ZLHUB DRGNZ HUB Network New Zealand:  Transmissions in several time-slots. ZS1I Allstar and Echolink nodes will be connected to this Hub. 

7.  WH6AV Hawaii Mainland Overseas Asterisk Network: This site is about WH6AV and associated AllStar nodes.   This Bridge runs on the lastest HAMVOIP Distribution of AllStar Link. Transmissions in several timeslots. ZS1I Allstar and Echolink nodes will be connected to this Bridge.  

8. ARRL On The Air Podcast:  The On the Air podcast is a monthly companion to On the Air magazine, ARRL’s magazine for beginner-to-intermediate ham radio operators.

_______________________________________________________________

Other Content:

From time to time live audio from space missions, ISS space walks, ARISS etc. will be streamed on the Network.  In some cases there will be announcements made before the time.  However it all depends on the time and the weather.  Moral of the story is to to monitor the ZS-Link Network permanently.

Please note that this schedule can change at any time without prior notice.

 


Welcome letter from the ZS-Link Network Team and a few general tips for trouble free use of the Southern Cape Repeaters and VOIP Networks.

The ZS-Link Network

(Afrikaanse weergawe beskikbaar verder onderaan)

Greetings

Thanks you for using The ZS-Link Network!!

Whether you stumbled on it by accident or you purposefully chose
to connect – we’re glad you did, and we welcome you to The ZSLink
Network community.

The ZS-Link Network is a linked/bridged network of repeaters, links,
nodes, and technologies that provides amateur radio operators a
convergence of platforms where users of various systems such as
Allstar, IRLP, Echolink, DMR, SVXLink Reflectors, RF Simplex Links
and Repeaters can seamlessly communicate across the country and
around the world.

The ZS-Link Network is not a club nor is it affiliated with any. It is a
platform built, maintained, and operated by 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.

Although we are The ZS-Link Network in name, at any one time
there may be several of connected nodes, repeaters and users from
across the country and around the world. As with any large
community, The ZS-Link Network includes people of all skill levels,
backgrounds, interests, and experience.

Whether you got your license two days ago or 50 years ago, it
doesn’t matter – you’re welcome on the Network. A requirement,
however, is that everyone be respectful of each other and follow
standard amateur radio best-practices.

Also, here are a few general tips for trouble-free use of the Network:

1. Pause 3 seconds after keying-up to talk to allow your signal
to propagate through the network; there are many linked repeaters
and nodes.
2. Pause 8 seconds between transmissions to allow other
stations to break in or other users to disconnect.
3. Set your radio, node, or repeater transmitter Time Out Timer
(TOT) to 5 minutes or less
. Continuous transmission for more
than 5 minutes will cause the system to time-out and may impact
other users and connected systems. In some instances it might be
necessary for repeaters and links administrators to set the TOT to
10 minutes to relay bulletins and news. However we leave the TOT
setting to the administrators to decide on the length of the TOT for
their systems.
4. Please note that we do not allow any courtesy tones on the
repeaters or networks as any type of audible tone causes repeaters
to Ping-Pong which renders the system unusable.
5. Enjoy the use of the Network and make many contacts; however,
please be respectful of others who may want to use the system;
keep your QSOs to a “reasonable” amount of time (25 min)
to allow others to use it as well.
6. Keep your call book particulars on the SARL + QRZ page
up-to-date
with current contact information (i.e., email, contact
information). There may be times when the Network Control
Operators will need to get in touch with you, and SARL Call Book or
QRZ.com is the contact source that we refer to.

We encourage you to visit the following website at
https://grhubnetwork.blogspot.com/ for more
detailed information on the various connection modes, technical
information, as well as many amateur radio projects and breaking
amateur radio news.

To maintain a large system like The ZS-Link Network takes time and
commitment. Please help support and encourage each other. Also
promote the Network system in any way you can. We need to be
active to keep Amateur Radio alive and in the foreground.

Again, thanks for using The ZS-Link Network. We hope to hear you
again soon on the Network!

Enjoy and use the Network!!

-73-

The ZS-Link Network Team
Email: sawois05@gmail.com


Die ZS-Link Netwerk

Gegroet

Dankie dat u die ZS-Link Netwerk gebruik!!

Afgesien of u terloops of doelgerig besluit het om te konnekteer,
ons is bly dat u dit gedoen het en ons verwelkom u met ope arms
tot die ZS-Link Netwerk gemeenskap.

Die ZS-Link Netwerk is ‘n geskakelde brug netwerk van herhalers,
skakels, nodes en tegnologie wat amateur radio operateurs
voorsien van ‘n verskeidenheid van platvorms waar gebruikers van
‘n verskeidenheid van sisteme en applikasies soos AllStar, IRLP,
Echolink, Zello, DMR, RF Simplex skakels en herhalers ongestoord
kan kommunikeer oor groot dele van die land en selfs die wereld.

Die ZS-Link Netwerk is nie ‘n klub of klub geaffilieerd nie. Dit is ‘n
platvorm gebou, instand gehou en bedryf deur individuele
operateurs soos jouself, wat beskikbare bronne aanwend om
amateur radio te benut/bevorder tot voordeel en genot van all radio
amateurs en luisteraars.

Alhoewel ons die naam ZS-Link Netwerk daar gestel het, is daar op
‘n gegewe tyd verskeie nodes, herhalers en gebruikers oor dele van
die land en reg oor die wereld aan mekaar verbind. Soos in enige
groot gemeenskap sluit die ZS-Link Netwerk persone in met
verskeie vaardigheids vlakke, agtergronde, belangstellings en
ondervinding.

Al het u u amateur radio lisensie twee dae of 50 jaar gelede bekom,
dit maak nie saak nie - enige radio amateur is welkom om die
netwerk te gebruik. Die belangrikse vereiste is dat ons mekaar sal
respekteer en die normale standaard amateur radio prosedures sal
volg.

Hier volg ‘n paar algemene wenke vir die gebruik van die Netwerk:

1. Wag asseblief 3 sekondes nadat u u mikrofoon geaktiveer
het
om jou sein die geleentheid te bied om deur die stelsel te
beweeg. Onthou daar is verskeie gekoppelde herhalers en koppel
netwerke verbind aan die ZS-Link Netwerk.
2. Wag asseblief 8 sekondes tussen gesprekke om ander
stasies die geleentheid te bied om in te skakel of te diskonnekteer.
3. Stel asseblief jou radio, node, of herhaler se tydskakelaar
(“Time-Out-Timer”) tot 5 minute of minder.
Deurlopende
transmissie vir langer as 5 minute sal aanleiding gee dat die
netwerk uitskakel (“Time-Out”) en mag ‘n invloed he op ander
gebruikers en gekoppelde sisteme. In sommige gevalle mag dit
moontlik wees dat herhalers en skakel administrateurs die
tydskakelaars verleng na 10 minute om byvoorbeeld bulletins en
nuus uitsendings te herlei. Die verstelling word oorgelaat aan die
administrateurs om self te besluit oor die lengte van die
tydskakelaars vir hul onderskeie sisteme.
4. Let asseblief daarop dat geen vorm van beleefdheids tone
toegelaat word
op die herhalers of netwerke nie aangesien die
tone die Ping-Pong effek op die herhalers veroorsaak. Dit maak
die gebruik van die herhalers en netwerke onmoontlik.
5. Geniet die gebruik van die netwerk en maak baie kontakte,
maar wees asseblief bedagsaam teenoor ander wat dalk die
netwerk wil gebruik. Hou asseblief u kontakte binne redelike
tydsverloop (25 Minute)
ten einde ander ook die geleentheid te
bied om kontakte te maak.
6. Hou asseblief u persoonlike besondehede op datum in die
SARL Roepsien Boek en die QRZ.com web-tuiste met die nuutste
kontak besonderhede (bv. Epos adres, kontak inligting ens.) Daar
mag tye wees dat die Netwerk Beheer Operateurs met u in kontak
wil tree en die SARL Roepsien Boek en QRZ.com is die kontak bron
wat ons raadpleeg.

Ons moedig u aan om die volgende webtuiste te besoek vir meer
inligting rondom die verskeie verbindings, tegniese inligting, selfbou
projekte en die nuutste en varste amateur radio nuus. Besoek
gerus https://grhubnetwork.blogspot.com/
Om so ‘n groot netwerk soos die ZS-Link Netwerk in stand te hou
verg tyd en passie. Ondersteun en bemoedig asb diegene en
mekaar wat betrokke is by die netwerk. Adverteer asb ook die
netwerk op enige wyse moontlik. Ons is dit verskuldig aan mekaar
om Amateur Radio lewendig en op die voorgrond te hou.

Weereens baie dankie dat u die ZS-Link Netwerk gebruik. Daar
word vertrou dat ons u gereeld op die ZS-Link Netwerk gaan hoor.

Geniet en gebruik asseblief die ZS-Link Netwerk!!

73


Die ZS-Link Netwerk Span
Email: sawois05@gmail.com


 

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Changing the name of the GRHub Network and the GRHub Blogspot Website

Change is not always a good thing. It may force us out of tired habits and impose better ones upon us, but it can also be stressful, costly and even destructive. What's important about change is how we anticipate it and react to it.

Change allows you to explore new things and learn from different experiences.

Please get to the point!  What will change and why is it necessary to change the name of the GRHub Network?

This is easy to answer.  

The GRHub Network (VOIP / RF Radio Link Network) was established on the 21 July 2021 in the Garden Route area.  Thereafter followed the GRHub Blogspot (Website) on the 1 August 2021 and finally the ZS Link Network (VOIP / RF Radio link Network in South Africa) on the 1 March 2022 .

It has become necessary to change the name of the GRHub Network and the name of the GRHub Blog Website firstly due to the rapid expansion of the linked networks in the Southern Cape Area and in South Africa and secondly it was the opinion of many that the name GRHub only enlist those living in the Garden Route Area while this is no more the situation.

We needed to change the following:

  •     GRHub VOIP / RF Radio link Network in the Southern Cape to ZS Hub Network in the    Southern Cape.
  •     GRHub Blog Website (World Wide) to the ZS Link Network Blog (World Wide). 
  •     ZS Link Network VOIP / RF Radio link Network in South Africa  (No name change)

A WhatsApp poll unanimously showed that participating radio amateurs were in favor of the name changes listed beneath as from the 1 July 2024:

  •     The GRHub Network will now be known as the ZS Hub Network. 
  •     The GRHub Blog will now be known as the ZS Link Network Blog (Website).
  •     As already mentioned there will be no name change for the ZS Link Network.

I never thought that the humble GRHUB Network would grow to what is today. I would once again like to invite clubs and radio amateurs to use and keep on using the ZS-LINK and GRHub Network if they so wish. The network is not a private, club only or special allocated network.  It is open for general use by any radio amateur.  Transmit, experiment, test etc. - let radio amateurs know you are active and on the network.  Start or join a QSO and make new friends.

Thanks and Appreciation:

Thank you to those who support and use the Network regularly.  Your support and comments are highly appreciated.

The network is alive and well thanks to radio amateurs who use the network and keep on adding nodes to the existing network. There are many other roll players that ensure that the network is operational and being extended to other areas of the country and even overseas.

I would like to thank all those radio amateurs that keep the network maintained and running even during load shedding periods.  Your unselfish participation in maintaining nodes, repeaters, links etc. is highly appreciated.  Remember you do it for Amateur Radio, the best hobby in the world!!

"The more we feel concern for others and seek their well-being, the more friends we will have and the more welcome we will feel." - Dalai Lama.
 

Notifications: ZS-Hub Network Outages


 

This posting serves to inform users of the ZS-Hub Network when there is a system outage caused by the following:

Internet- , Echolink- , System Hardware- , Repeater- , Maintenance- ,Equipment Failure- , Severe Weather / Disaster- , Power- , Test / Experimental - and General (Long period) Outages.

From the above it is quite clear that outages happen from time to time.  By visiting this page you will know when an outage occurred and also the reason for the outage.

 

Audio Clip:

Network Outages

 

Thursday, May 2, 2024

Jong Radio Amateur van Bloemfontein ontvang toekennings tydens die afgelope SARL Nasionale Konvensie - Young Radio Amateur of Bloemfontein receive awards at the recent SARL National Convention


(Note: This posting can be translated by using the Translate Function Button on this Blog)

In Desember 2023 is die volgende berig gepubliseer wat betrekking het op Rulhof van der Merwe ZS4RM: 

Bloemfonteinse jong aktiewe radio amateur skud die Rosestad behoorlik wakker! 

Lees gerus die bostaande artikel.

Die Suid Afrikaanse Radio Liga (SARL) Nasionale Konvensie  het op Saterdag 20 April 2024 te Garden Court Nelson Mandela Boulevard Hotel, Kaapstad plaasgevind.  Nou wie en wat is die Suid Afrikaanse Radio Liga? 

Die South African Radio Liga (SARL), voorheen bekend as die South African Radio Relay Liga (SARRL), is 'n nie-winsgewende organisasie wat die belange van amateur radio-entoesiaste in Suid-Afrika verteenwoordig. Die SARL verteenwoordig sy lede en alle gelisensieerde amateur radio operateurs in Suid-Afrika en is die nasionale verteenwoordiger van amateur radio wat by tye skakel met die Suid-Afrikaanse Regering.

Dit sluit die bevordering van deregulering en vereenvoudiging van die amateur radio diens, en uitbreiding van die aantal amateurradio operateurs in Suider-Afrika in. Die SARL propageer en bevorder die rol van amateur radio in die samelewing, en bevorder die gebruik van amateur radio in skole as 'n toegangspunt tot die velde van wetenskap en tegnologie. Die SARL is die nasionale lid vereniging wat Suid-Afrika in die Internasionale Amateur Radio-Unie verteenwoordig en is 'n wereld lid van die IARU-Streek 1. 

Die doel van die SARL is om alle aktiwiteite wat verband hou met amateur radio, draadlose kommunikasie, rekenaar wetenskap en radio wetenskap in die algemeen aan te moedig, te ontwikkel en te bevorder. Die rol van die SARL is om amateur radio frekwensie toekennings te beskerm, om internasionale welwillendheid en begrip te bevorder. Die SARL bevorder ook erkenning vir amateur radio in alle sfere van die samelewing in Suid-Afrika.

Tydens die afgelope Suid Afrikaanse Radio Liga (SARL) Nasionale Konvensie wat plaasgevind het op Saterdag 20 April 2024 te Garden Court Nelson Mandela Boulevard Hotel in Kaapstad is Rulhof van der Merwe ZS4RM (15) van Bloemfontein met die onderstaande toekennings vereer.

 Foto hierbo:  Rulhof ZS4RM en sy Vader


1.  Die AKYAB Trofee -  Vir die verwerwing van die hoogste telling tydens die 2023 HF-foon kompetisie, in sy eerste jaar van gelisensieerde aktiwiteite.  Meer inligting oor die toekenning is HIER beskikbaar.


2.  Die SARL Jeug Trofee - Vir die jong SARL radio amateur lid, 25 jaar of jonger wat die hoogste totale telling in die drie 2023 SARL HF kompetisies behaal het.  Meer inligting oor die toekenning is HIER beskikbaar.


3. Die SARL Amateur Radio Jeug  Uitnemendheids Toekenning - Vir jou entoesiasme oor die amateur radio stokperdjie en die projekte waarmee jy besig is.  Meer inligting oor die toekenning is HIER beskikbaar.

Baie geluk aan Rulhof ZS1RM met die besonderse prestasie!  Wat die prestasie so besonders maak is die feit dat 'n jong radio amateur nog nie vantevore met soveel nasionale toekennings gelyktydig vereer is nie.

Fotos van die toekennings dinee in Kaapstad  (Klik op fotos om te vergroot)





Videos:





Wat is amateur radio en will jy graag meer weet?

Amateur radio is 'n goeie manier om oor kommunikasie tegnologie te leer en vriende oor die hele wĂȘreld te maak. Om betrokke te raak by hierdie fasinerende stokperdjie is baie maklik en kos nie n arm en 'n been nie.  Jy besluit self hoeveel jy wil spandeer aan die stokperdjie.

Radio amateurs of "Ham's" gebruik twee rigting radio kommunikasie om kontak te maak met ander radio amateurs regoor die wĂȘreld. Hulle kan selfs satelliete gebruik en by geleentheid met ruimtevaarders praat. Radio amateurs kan dit van die huis af doen of terwyl jy mobiel in motors, bote of te voet is.

Radio amateurs het 'n volle reeks of kommunikasie modusse tot hul beskikking. Dit sluit gewone stem, morsekode, talle digitale rekenaar modusse en selfs grafiese modusse soos televisie in. As 'n gelisensieerde amateur radio operateur sal jy kan deelneem aan eksperimente deur al hierdie modusse te gebruik.

Amateur radio kan deur jonk en oud, manlik en vroulik geniet word, selfs die ergste gestremdes kan vriende regoor die wĂȘreld maak vanuit hul eie huis. Hierdie stokperdjie ken geen grense nie.

Hoe word ek 'n radio amateur?

Omdat radio amateurs toegelaat word om 'n wye reeks frekwensies en tipes uitsending te gebruik, moet hulle gekwalifiseerde operateurs wees. In Suid-Afrika, soos die meeste lande regoor die wĂȘreld, word amateur radio deur die Staats Departement van Kommunikasie gereguleer. LisensiĂ«ring word deur die Onafhanklike Kommunikasie-owerheid van Suid-Afrika (ICASA) hanteer.

Suid-Afrikaanse regulasies vereis dat jy 'n kort eksamen moet skryf, wat opgestel is om jou begrip van die basiese beginsels van radio en die regulasies wat amateur radio operateurs beheer, te toets.

Hierdie eksamen is eenvoudig genoeg om te slaag deur enige iemand met hoërskool opleiding en 'n belangstelling in die stokperdjie.

Klik HIER om meer uit te vind oor die eksamen of kontak you naaste amateur radio club in jou area vir meer besonderhede.

Ons sien uit om jou in amateur radio te verwelkom!

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

New RF Repeaters, AllStar Hub and Link Networks connected to the GRHub Network, Mossel Bay

Photo:  Wikus ZS1WLM, Saldanha, West Coast

It is with great appreciation that I can announce that the following RF Repeaters, AllStar Hub and Simplex Link Networks has now been added to the GRHub Network in Mossel Bay.  This also means that these stations are from time to time linked to the ZS-Link Network throughout South Africa.

Here is a list of stations and the areas in which they are available:

West Coast, Western Cape South Africa

599680  ZS1WLM AllStar Hub, Saldanha

609690  ZS1WLM-L AllStar Link 145.550 Mhz, Saldanha

The above stations cover a large area along the West Coast of South Africa and the system is maintained by Wikus ZS1WLM.  

George, Western Cape South Africa

743564  ZS1COR-R Echolink, George

600741  ZS1ERZ-L  AllStar Link 145.525 Mhz, George

The above stations cover a large area along the Garden Route of South Africa and the system is maintained by Corne ZS1COR

Kimberley, Northern Cape South Africa

130990  ZS3AG-R Echolink, Kimberley

855907  ZS3JDL-R Echolink, Kimberley

The above stations cover a large area in the Kimberley area of South Africa and the systems are maintained by Andre ZS3AG and Johnny ZS3JDL.

Bloemfontein, Free State South Africa

160807  ZS4RM-L  Echolink 145.500 Mhz, Bloemfontein

The above station cover a large area in the Bloemfontein area of  South Africa and the system is being maintained by Rulhof ZS4RM

Still Bay, Western Cape South Africa

172769  ZS1DRP-L Echolink linked to the 145.625 Mhz Repeater in Still Bay

The above station cover a large area in the Still Bay area of South Africa and the system is being maintained by Dolf ZS1DRP-L

Albertinia, Western Cape South Africa

123760  ZS1SB-L  Echolink linked to the Aasvoelkop Repeater  145.750 Mhx 88.5 hz, Albertinia

The above station cover a large area in the Southern Cape and Garden Route area of South Africa and the systems are being maintained by Johann ZS1AAC and Henry ZS1SB.

George, Western Cape South Africa

60077 ZS1HEB AllStar Node, George (Node currently not linked to a radio but available via the Internet at times.)

The above station is available via the Internet and the system is being maintained by Eben ZS1HEB

I will be posting images and videos of all the RF Repeaters, Links, Hubs etc in a future posting. 

Finally:  I would once again like to invite clubs and radio amateurs to use and keep on using the ZS-LINK and GRHub Network if they so wish. The network is not a private, club only or special allocated network.  It is open for general use by any radio amateur.  Transmit, experiment, test etc. - let radio amateurs know you are active and on the network.  Start or join a QSO and make new friends.
Thank you to those who support, use and maintain the Networks on a regular basis.  

Highly appreciated!!

Saturday, December 16, 2023

The verdict is out regarding the Diamond X50 UHF/VHF Antenna!


Now what does the title of this topic relate to?   A few weeks ago I noticed that one of my Diamond X50 UHF/VHF Antennas was completely "deaf".  I could not receive the 145.750 Mhz Aasvoelkop Repeater which is situated just outside of Albertinia a distance of about 35 km from my QTH.  In the past I could hear this repeater clearly with this specific X50 antenna, but with some rain on the signal.   The other Diamond X50 is connected to the GRHub Network link radio and performs as it should.  This antenna is 12 meters up in the air while the "deaf" antenna is two meters above my roof making the total height of this antenna above ground, 6 meters. The GRHub X50 was apart from the factory sealing also coated with  Tectyl Glashelder Klar a transparent rust preventive clear spray. (Been successfully using this for years to seal and coat my antennas against natures elements) The "deaf" antenna was not and was installed  with no protection at all.  The day before I decided to take the "deaf" antenna down I did a quick test.  You guessed correctly, no RX from the 145.750 Mhz repeater at all.  A further puzzling factor was that the SWR reading was 1.2:1 but would drop to 1:1 .  Power output was in spec with the radio's RF power output.  Mind boggling?  This antenna was now really "deaf" and needs to be looked at.

Once the antenna was on the ground I was quite surprised to see that natures elements at the sea was really minimal despite the fact that the antenna was up in the air for 2 years 3 months.  Hereunder a few images of the antenna before refurbishing:  (Click on images for larger view.)


 









I opened the antenna to see if the high voltage capacitor was not fried.  The capacitor was fine and there were no dry joints.  No corrosion or any signs of dampness/water penetration could be seen or found.  The inside of the antenna was in great shape.  What I did find was the the Allen Key Grub Screw was loose and did not make contact with the antenna connector.  I fitted all the insides and tighten the grub screw firmly.  I installed all the necessary parts and affix the antenna to my portable mast.  Here under a few images of the antenna under testing: (Click on images for larger view.)




Testing with the above equipment is not ideal but that is all I have.  The tests reveal that the antenna is now working as it should.  I could trigger and receive the 145.750 Mhz repeater with the antenna just above the Parrot cages, which was far lower than before.  The Diamond X50 Antenna was no longer "deaf".

The images underneath reflect the antenna after refurbishing:  (Click on images for larger view.)














The Verdict:

I could not find anything wrong with the antenna nor the coaxial cable.  The only issue that I found was that the Grub Screw that keeps the antenna connector affixed to the 3 x  radial connector was loose and therefor their was no continuity between the radiating element and the "ground plane" connector of the antenna.  Windy conditions would either result in a good or bad contact which might not have been the case when I used the deaf antenna. Whether the loose grub screw  resulted in the deafness of the antenna is the only conclusion that I could come to.   RF is a wonderful and mysterious element that could result in many good or bad issues.

A bit of sound advice that might be of assistance to other Diamond users:

  • When you assemble the antenna ensure that all bolts, nuts and grub screws are tighten properly. Never assume like I did that the grub screw was tighten at the manufacturing plant.
  • I would suggest you use additional sealant to protect the antenna from natures elements.
  •  Never use a sealant or grease that contain other metal elements like copper slip crease etc.  Metal elements like copper, aluminum, stainless steal inter act with each other and hasten metal erosion and fatigue.
  • Use a bit of marine grease on all bolts and nuts that screws into parts.  Not on outer parts as the Tectyl will not adhere to the items. This will prevent nuts and bolts getting stuck due to corrosion.
  • I suggest that you service (refurbish) this and other antennas at least once every two years
  • Seal the PL259 that screws into the antenna with self amalgamating tape.
  • Ensure that you have the correct type of Diamond Antenna for the area you live in.  If you live in the "Cape of Storms" area I would not recommend large "oversized" antennas as the wind will definitely rearrange the antenna for you, resulting in damage. loss etc.

Finally: 

One is never to old to learn about antennas.  Many of us can oversee a small aspect that will result in the antenna not working as it should.  Be very precise and meticulous when mounting and installing antennas and you will have many years of pleasure from your antennas.  Remember maintenance is very important.  Nothing last and works forever but you will extend the life of an antenna by thoroughly maintaining it.  Enjoy!!


New ZS6CM0 70cm AllStarLink Repeater - Alberton

(Click on images for larger view.) Curtis ZS6CMO recently completed his 70cm AllStarLink Repeater.  In the video the repeater was connected ...