Linked repeater systems offer a unique operating experience compared to stand-alone repeaters. RF links are a valuable resource because they have no dependence on the internet which may not be reliable in times of disaster when we need them most.
North Central Texas Connection
NCTC is a repeater system with linked radios that are spread across North Central Texas (and beyond). The UHF and VHF repeaters are mostly linked using RF link radios, but some internet links are sometimes connected via AllStar, DMR, Wires-X and EchoLink. The primary objective is to provide communications between the National Weather Service in Fort Worth and SKYWARN storm spotters during times of inclement weather.
See the
NCTC System Map for a map of repeater locations and other details.
Facebook groups:
NCTC Repeater Status and
NCTC Radio have further information related to the system.
Sometimes other linked repeater systems are added during severe weather, state emergency drills, training nets and special occasions. Other affiliated systems include:
FLG
ETECS
ERS
NESTxLINK
N5OAK
East Texas Emergency Communication Service
The
ETECS system has repeaters in Tyler, Red Springs, Rusk, Edom , Henderson , City of Hideaway , Gilmer , Athens , Wills Point , Palestine
W5EBQ Repeater System
The
W5EBQ Repeater System have wide-area coverage due to the height of the Dallas Green Building.
52.59, 146.7 and 441.925 FM repeaters are linked together.
N6LXX repeater system
N6LXX 53.13 and 443.7375 FM repeaters are located on a 1500 foot tower in Rosston, TX with wide-area coverage. When propagation opens up on 6 meters the system is able to link to repeaters located in TX, CA, NV, CO
W5DFW - Republic of Texas Repeater System
The W5DFW repeater on 29.66 FM is linked to several UHF remote base repeaters in the DFW area. See the
Internet Archive because the w5dfw.org server is misbehaving. I recommend scanning all listed frequencies for occasional DX and other fascinating traffic.