Note: Detailed instructions and additional information can be found at the official AllStarLink documentation site.

In this post, I’ll walk you through my process of setting up AllStarLink on Debian 12, creating a private node, integrating DVSwitch, and establishing a bridge to my YSF Reflector. This setup allows seamless communication between my AllStarLink nodes and YSF-compatible devices, like my Yaesu FTM-200.

Step 1: Initial Server Setup on Debian 12

1. Update Debian Packages: Start by ensuring that your system is up-to-date.

QRZ vs. Club Log for Logging Contacts

Both QRZ and Club Log are popular platforms for logging amateur radio contacts, but they offer different features, subscription models, and upload/download capabilities. Here’s a detailed comparison of the two.

QRZ.com

I personally use QRZ to log my QSOs. Besides QRZ, I also upload my QSOs to the SOTA (Summits on the Air) Database when activating summits.

Subscription Model

QRZ operates on a tiered subscription system:

Exploring HamsoverIP: My Experience So Far

Recently, I joined HamsoverIP, a VoIP service for ham radio operators, alongside my existing setup with Hamshack Hotline. The onboarding process with HamsoverIP was quite similar, but it does offer a few advantages that stand out.

For one, you don’t need to provide a MAC address to register a device, which streamlines the process. Another major benefit is that you’re allowed to use up to 10 devices, whether it’s a traditional VoIP phone or a softphone installed on your computer, tablet, or smartphone. Personally, I’ve been using Ext2 on the phone, and it integrates perfectly into my VoIP setup. This flexibility makes it easy to stay connected, no matter where you are or what device you’re using.

Getting a Philippine Amateur Radio Call Sign: My Journey

If you’re interested in becoming an amateur radio operator in the Philippines, you’re probably wondering what the steps and requirements are to obtain a call sign. As someone planning to visit the Philippines again soon, I want to share the process of getting an Amateur Radio Station License (ARSL) or a Radio Amateur Operator Certificate (RAOC) from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), the agency responsible for regulating radio communications in the country.

VoIP on AREDN: Exploring Cisco IP Phones for Mesh Networks

As I continue experimenting with AREDN (Amateur Radio Emergency Data Network), I’ve been diving into VoIP (Voice over IP) communications using Cisco IP phones. While AREDN is known for supporting data, file sharing, and chat, integrating VoIP offers a whole new level of practical, real-time communication across a mesh network.

After ordering some Cisco SPA525G2 phones, I’ve successfully set them up to communicate directly over my AREDN nodes using direct IP dialing, and the experience has been incredible!