How to Add a Repeater on the Ailunce HA1G

Introduction

Understanding the Difference Between GMRS Radios and Amateur Radios: This article focuses on GMRS radios and the steps involved in using them with repeaters, which are not applicable to amateur radios due to the differences in repeater programming between the two.
Basic Requirements for Using a Repeater: To use a repeater with a GMRS radio, you'll need a GMRS radio capable of repeater operation, the repeater’s frequency/channel information, the appropriate tone encoding (CTCSS/DCS), proximity to the repeater, and potentially the repeater owner’s permission.
Finding Repeater Frequencies: You can find repeater frequency and channel information through online platforms such as mygmrs.com, which provides data on repeater transmit frequencies and associated GMRS channels.
Understanding Tone Encoding: A repeater typically requires a "Transmit Tone" (such as a CTCSS or DCS tone) to be activated. This tone is sent by your radio, and ensuring that the correct tone is set is critical for communication.

Steps to Add a Repeater on the Ailunce HA1G Radio

1. Enter the VFO Mode

To program your HA1G radio, long press and hold the MENU key to enter VFO Mode.

2. What is VFO Mode?

VFO Mode (Variable Frequency Oscillator Mode) allows users to manually input frequencies and tune the radio to specific channels instead of relying on preset channels. This mode is essential for repeater programming, where specific frequencies need to be input.

3. Input the Repeater's Frequency

Once in VFO mode, you will need to input the repeater's frequency. You can find this information through sites like mygmrs.com, where the repeater's transmit frequency and corresponding GMRS channel will be listed.

For example, if the repeater's frequency is 462.625 MHz, you would input that as the receive frequency (RX).

HA1G Repeater Frequency Range: The HA1G supports GMRS repeater frequencies, typically ranging from 462.550 MHz to 462.725 MHz for receive and 467.550 MHz to 467.725 MHz for transmit.

4. Save the Channel

After inputting the repeater frequency in VFO mode, you will need to save it. To do so:

Go to MENU > Radio > 10. Save CH.

Note: The newly saved channel will be stored starting from Channel 51.

5. Set the Frequency Offset (TX Frequency)

Since you're programming for a repeater, you will also need to set the transmit (TX) frequency. The TX frequency is typically 5 MHz above the RX frequency.

For example:

If the RX frequency is 462.625 MHz, the TX frequency will be 467.625 MHz (462.625 MHz + 5 MHz).

To set this, follow these steps:

①Select the channel you just saved.

②Input the TX Frequency (the 5 MHz higher frequency).

6. Set the Tone Encoding

Repeater systems generally require a specific tone encoding for activation. The HA1G allows you to set CTCSS (Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System) or DCS (Digital-Coded Squelch) as the tone.

Note:

Ensure the correct Transmit Tone is entered for repeater access. If no Receive Tone is needed, make sure it is set to off to avoid issues.
The Receive Tone is optional; if not used, ensure that it is turned off on the HA1G to avoid any interference.

7. Channel Alias

You can assign a custom name to the repeater channel, such as “GMRS Repeater 1,” to easily identify it. To do this:

①Go to MENU > Channel Alias.

②Edit the channel name as desired.

8. Test the Repeater Connection

To test the repeater connection, you can perform a “kerchunk” test. Simply press the PTT (Push-To-Talk) button briefly to send a short transmission, then listen for the kerchunk (the brief transmission noise that the repeater sends back). If you hear it, you are successfully connected.

9. Repeater Coverage Range Limitations

The coverage area of a repeater is affected by terrain, buildings, and other obstacles. Relying on maps or theoretical estimates might not be accurate. The only reliable way to verify repeater access is through a real-world test.

10. Repeater Usage License

Most GMRS repeaters are privately owned. If a repeater is labeled as “open,” you typically do not need permission to use it. However, if the repeater requires permission, you will need to contact the owner or use an online platform to request access.