He also reminds everyone that the 147.075 has an autopatch to allow hams to make phone calls via the repeater. Here are his instructions for using the autopatch:
- Key your mic and identify yourself, with your intentions to use the autopatch... Such as: "This is WX4ABC accessing the Autopatch..."
- With the mic still keyed, and using your DTMF buttons... enter the (*) key.. followed by the 7-digit phone number. (No Long Distance numbers will be accepted)
- Release the mic key... and listen. If the autopatch is accessed correctly, it will repeat back to you "Accessing Autopatch..." (followed by the number you just dialed)
- You will then hear a series of beeps... while the machine dials your number. In a few moments, you will hear the phone ringing... then your party will answer.
- Note: Be sure to tell them they are on an autopatch, so they will know the conversation is being transmitted!
- Carry on your conversation as normal - releasing your mic to hear the other party's responses.
- (Note: There is a 4-minute limit to each autopatch session!)
- To hang up... simply key your mic, and press the (#) key -then release.
- The Autopatch will hang up the phone, then ID itself... give the time... then ask you to "Please Identify..."
- Give your callsign to let everyone know that you have finished using the autopatch, and have returned the repeater to normal use.
