It has come to the attention of the Tech Committee recently that we have a unique opportunity to replace and update the 625 machine. In the last several years Yaesu has been offering their “Fusion” repeaters at a fairly decent discount. Their play is to get Fusion digital repeaters out to as many clubs as possible in hopes that Fusion radio sales will follow, and it seems to be working..
We’re looking specifically at the DR-2X The benefits of this upgrade include:
- Modernize the repeater and increase stability, its last upgrade was 2004.
- Maintain Analog FM operation on 146.625
- Add the capability to pass C4FM Digital “Fusion” mode
- Add the capability to join Wires-X, via the HRI-200 linking with several other counties around us.
- Repeater will be frequency-agile and COULD be used on VHF or UHF if we ever desire to do so.
- Can be used with an external controller if we want to add bells and whistles.
Not all of the equipment will be replaced at this time. We’ll be using the existing:
- Duplexers
- Feedline
- Antenna
Resources to learn about the repeater, the Fusion system & Wires-X:
https://yaesudr2.blogspot.com/ – This website was most helpful
The existing KRP5000 repeater + CAT1000 controller was purchased in 2003. It has been a very solid machine and was recently re-aligned. The controller, while flexible, is also a bit dated.
Costs:
- DR-2X Repeater: $700
- HRI-200 Wires-X device: $125
- FVS-2 Voice Synthesizer: $35
- PC for Wires-X Linking: ??
- Shipping: ??
We expect all total to be under $1200 for this upgrade.
