The WALLINGFORD REPEATER ASSOCIATION
	147.360/ 147.960 Mhz	WALLINGFORD, CONNECTICUT

Repeater Terminology

autopatch — a device that interfaces a repeater to the telephone system to permit repeater users to make telephone calls. Often just called a “patch.”

break — the word used to interrupt a conversation on a repeater only to indicate that there is an emergency.

carrier-operated relay (COR) — a device that causes the repeater to transmit in response to a received signal.

channel — the pair of frequencies (input and output) used by a repeater.

closed repeater — a repeater whose access is limited to a select group (see open repeater).

control operator — the Amateur Radio operator who is designated to “control” the operation of the repeater, as required by FCC regulations.

courtesy beep — an audible indication that a repeater user may go ahead and transmit.

coverage — the geographic area within which the repeater provides communications.

CTCSS — abbreviation for continuous tone-controlled squelch system, a series of subaudible tones that some repeaters use to restrict access. (see closed repeater)

digipeater — a packet radio (digital) repeater.

DTMF — abbreviation for dual-tone multifrequency, the series of tones generated from a keypad on a ham radio transceiver (or a regular telephone).

duplex or full duplex — a mode of communication in which a user transmits on one frequency and receives on another frequency simultaneously (see half duplex).

duplexer — a device that allows the repeater transmitter and receiver to use the same antenna simultaneously.

frequency coordinator — an individual or group responsible for assigning frequencies to new repeaters without causing interference to existing repeaters.

full quieting — a received signal that contains no noise.

half duplex — a mode of communication in which a user transmits at one time and receives at another time.

hand-held — a small, lightweight portable transceiver small enough to be carried easily; also called HT (for Handie-Talkie, a Motorola trademark).

hang time — the short period following a transmission that allows others who want to access the repeater a chance to do so; a courtesy beep sounds when the repeater is ready to accept another transmission.

input frequency — the frequency of the repeater’s receiver (and your transceiver’s transmitter).

intermodulation distortion (IMD)— the unwanted mixing of two strong RF signals that causes a signal to be transmitted on an unintended frequency.

key up — to turn on a repeater by transmitting on its input frequency.

machine — a repeater system.

magnetic mount or mag-mount — an antenna with a magnetic base that permits quick installation and removal from a motor vehicle or other metal surface.

NiCd — a nickel-cadmium battery that may be recharged many times; often used to power portable transceivers. Pronounced “NYE-cad.”

open repeater — a repeater whose access is not limited.

output frequency — the frequency of the repeater’s transmitter (and your transceiver’s receiver).

over — a word used to indicate the end of a voice transmission.

Repeater Directory — an annual ARRL publication that lists repeaters in the US, Canada and other areas.