About the KA8VDW North Central Ohio Information and Traffic Net

The KA8VDW North Central Ohio Information and Traffic Net is a vital communication network that serves amateur radio operators across North Central Ohio. This net operates on a linked repeater system providing essential traffic handling services, emergency communications support, and topics including:

  • Special Events
  • Exam Sessions
  • Contests
  • DXpeditions
  • Reminders
  • On the Air Live
  • Weather Reports

Net Details:

  • System Type: Linked Repeater Network
  • Mode: FM
  • Schedule: Wednesday at 10:15 AM EST
  • Net Control: KE8PX and other stations in North Central Ohio
  • Purpose: Information and traffic handling for North Central Ohio region
  • Coverage Area: North Central Ohio including Elyria, Republic, Berlin Heights, Polk, Mansfield, Sandusky, Russell, and Mayfield Heights

The net operates on a linked repeater system covering multiple strategic locations across North Central Ohio, ensuring comprehensive coverage for emergency communications and traffic handling.

Repeater Locations Reference:

Elyria: 41.3681°N, 82.1076°W
Republic: 41.1220°N, 83.1772°W
Berlin Heights: 41.3250°N, 82.2222°W
Polk: 40.9444°N, 82.8611°W
Mansfield: 40.7584°N, 82.5154°W
Sandusky: 41.4489°N, 82.7078°W
Russell: 41.4614°N, 81.4292°W
Mayfield Heights: 41.5200°N, 81.4578°W

Linked Repeater System

The KA8VDW North Central Ohio Information and Traffic Net operates on a linked repeater system. You can access the net from any of the following repeaters:

  • Elyria: 443.9875+ MHz PL 162.2
  • Republic: 444.4375+ MHz PL 107.2 / 147.2550+ MHz PL 107.2
  • Berlin Heights: 442.6750+ MHz PL 162.2 / 146.8050- MHz PL 110.9 / 053.2900- MHz PL 107.2
  • Polk: 443.6250+ MHz PL 162.2
  • Mansfield: 443.0750+ MHz PL 151.4
  • Sandusky: 146.6550- MHz PL 110.9
  • Russell: 444.3250+ MHz PL 131.8
  • Mayfield Heights: 051.6200- MHz PL 107.2

How to Participate

To participate in the KA8VDW North Central Ohio Information and Traffic Net:

  1. Choose the repeater closest to your location from the linked system
  2. Program your radio with the appropriate frequency and PL tone
  3. Listen for net control station announcements
  4. Check in when net control calls for check-ins
  5. Follow proper net procedures and protocols
  6. Be prepared to handle traffic if needed

Note: This net operates on VHF/UHF frequencies, so you'll need an amateur radio license and appropriate VHF/UHF equipment to participate. All repeaters in the system are linked, so you can access the net from any location.

Net Resources

Net Procedures

The KA8VDW North Central Ohio Information and Traffic Net follows standard amateur radio net procedures:

  • Listen for net control station (NCS) announcements
  • Check in when called or during general check-in periods
  • Use proper phonetics when identifying your station
  • Keep transmissions brief and to the point
  • Follow the "traffic first" principle when handling messages
  • Stand by for emergency traffic if announced
Emergency Procedures

In case of emergency communications:

  • Emergency traffic takes priority over all other communications
  • Use "BREAK BREAK" to interrupt normal net operations for emergency traffic
  • Follow ARES emergency communication protocols
  • Coordinate with local emergency management agencies when appropriate
  • Maintain detailed logs of all emergency communications
Technical Information

Technical details for the linked repeater system:

  • System Type: Linked repeater network
  • Bands: 6m, 2m, and 70cm
  • Mode: FM
  • PL Tones: Various (see repeater list above)
  • Power: Use appropriate power for your location and antenna system
  • Antenna: VHF/UHF antenna suitable for 6m, 2m, or 70cm bands
  • Propagation: Line of sight with excellent coverage across North Central Ohio
  • Coverage: North Central Ohio region with seamless handoff between linked repeaters
  • Linking: All repeaters are interconnected, allowing communication across the entire network