Do I need a licence to listen?
No. Anyone may listen to the WR4EC repeater on 146.850 MHz with a scanner or receiver. You need an FCC amateur radio licence to transmit.
How do I get licensed?
The entry-level Technician licence requires a 35-question multiple-choice exam. There is no Morse code requirement. Study material is available free from the ARRL, and we run classes and test sessions locally when there is enough interest. Contact us and we will point you at the next session.
What radio should I buy first?
Talk to us before you spend money. A basic dual-band handheld will get you onto the WR4EC repeater, but the antenna matters more than the radio. We would rather help you choose than watch you buy something that disappoints you.
How do I program my radio for the repeater?
Receive on 146.850 MHz, transmit on 146.250 MHz (a −600 kHz offset), with a 91.5 Hz CTCSS tone set for both transmit and receive. See the repeater page for the full details.
What is SCHEART?
The South Carolina Healthcare Emergency Amateur Radio Team links repeaters across the state so that hospitals and emergency managers have a communications path that does not depend on commercial infrastructure. WR4EC is a member repeater. Link with *38, unlink with 73, and check the link status first.
What is ARES?
The Amateur Radio Emergency Service is the ARRL’s volunteer emergency communications organisation. Club members support Edgefield County during severe weather and other incidents. See our ARES page.
How do I join the club?
Email WR4EC@yahoo.com or use the contact form. Licensed or not, you are welcome.