Amateur Radio

EchoLink and IRLP guide

How to use internet-linked repeaters. EchoLink and IRLP nodes explained for VHF/UHF operators.

EchoLink and IRLP guide

How to use internet-linked repeaters — EchoLink and IRLP explained.

What are internet-linked repeaters

EchoLink and IRLP are systems that connect amateur radio repeaters and stations via the internet. A local repeater linked to EchoLink or IRLP allows you to communicate with operators worldwide using only a VHF/UHF radio. No HF equipment needed.

EchoLink

How it works

EchoLink nodes connect repeaters and individual stations via Voice-over-IP. Each node has a number. You dial the node number using DTMF tones on your radio to connect. Once connected, audio passes between the two nodes in real time.

Using EchoLink from a radio

  1. Find a local EchoLink-connected repeater (echolink.org has a node directory)
  2. Identify on the repeater
  3. Enter the node number of the distant repeater or station using your radio's DTMF keypad
  4. Wait for the connect announcement
  5. Operate normally — your audio reaches the distant node and vice versa
  6. Disconnect by sending DTMF # or 73

Using EchoLink from a computer or phone

EchoLink software is available for Windows, iOS, and Android. With the app, you can connect to EchoLink nodes directly from your device without a radio. This requires license validation through EchoLink's registration system.

EchoLink conference servers

Conference servers allow multiple nodes to connect simultaneously, creating a virtual net. Popular conferences (TECHLINK, WIN-SYSTEM, etc.) have regular activity.

IRLP

How it works

IRLP (Internet Radio Linking Project) connects repeaters via the internet similarly to EchoLink, but only works radio-to-radio — there is no software client for computers or phones. IRLP node access is through DTMF codes on the linked repeater.

Using IRLP

  1. Find a local IRLP-connected repeater (status.irlp.net)
  2. Key the repeater and enter the 4-digit IRLP node number via DTMF
  3. Wait for the connect announcement
  4. Operate normally
  5. Disconnect by sending DTMF 73

IRLP Reflectors

IRLP reflectors are conference bridges that allow multiple nodes to connect simultaneously. Reflector 9100 (WIN System) is one of the most active.

EchoLink vs IRLP

Feature EchoLink IRLP
Computer/phone client Yes No (radio only)
Node access DTMF from radio or app DTMF from radio only
Node count ~350,000 registered ~3,000 nodes
Conference Conference servers Reflectors
Registration License verification Node sysop controlled

Why use internet linking

Internet-linked repeaters are useful when you want to communicate beyond your local repeater's range without HF equipment. A Technician licensee with an HT can talk to operators worldwide through EchoLink — no General license or HF transceiver required.