As you know we talk a lot about Asterisk on the RF Nets. We really want to encourage the use of Asterisk for the many advantages that it presents.
Asterisk started out as a Internet PBX software package with work being done with Asterisk PBX that allowed it to be used as a repeater controller and linking system by RF Gateways. As time went along new expanding ideas came about that continued to show Asterisk’s flexibility.
Today Asterisk PBX and RF Gateway enabled systems allow for connectivity between private and public networks. During the RF Nets you will hear us mention the PSTN number that allows a person to dial a telephone number to participate in the Net. If a person has a Asterisk PBX or other SIP IP Phone Service they can dial into the conference from their Internet Phone Service (or PBX)
What happens when the Internet is down? In the event that the Internet is down there are ways that Asterisk can continue to operate. Some methods for continued operations include:
- RF Gateways
- HF Remote Base Station
- VHF / UHF Cross Band Links
- HSMM Links
- PSTN / PBX / RF Gateways
- Establish Phone Connectivity from the Nearest Operational Point
- Satellite Internet Access
- Even when working with basic SIP Connection it can provide local access with extension as needed. (Local SIP / RF Gateway with satellite used to relay to outside resources)
Asterisk PBX and RF Gateways can be configured in such a way that commercial RF Links (Part 90) can reside on its own side of the system while Amateur Radio (Part 97) also operates on its own separate side of the system. But in the event of an emergency all resources can come together as one. Asterisk has no inherit restrictions as to what function it can operate in. With EchoLink and IRLP there are restrictions that prevent them from being used in other applications. EchoLink is restricted to licensed Amateur Radio Operator use only and IRLP requires licensing fees for Commercial applications.
Asterisk is open source software for both PBX and RF Gateway applications, this allows you to develop additional applications that fit your specific needs. As advancements in digital communications continue to expand Asterisk can be used as a RF Gateway and Bridge that allows for connectivity between the many diverse systems and networks that are present.
Yes, Asterisk can be interfaced with DSTAR as well as the commercial systems (such as NXDN, MOTOTRBO, P25, et al).
Asterisk is indeed a Communications Tool Chest with many capabilities that’s good for Nebraska. For more information about Asterisk RF Gateways in Nebraska contact Doug – KC0EQA or ALERTradio ERC via InfoQuest
ARN * Asterisk Radio Networks * AARN
Asterisk/app_rpt
AllStar Link Network
Digital Amateur Radio Project Association