Questions
Frequently asked questions
The things newcomers ask first about getting on the air in Austin. Verify any frequency against the current coordinated listings before you rely on it.
Which Austin repeaters should a new ham program first?
Start with the two long-running 2-meter machines: 146.940 (W5KA, the Austin Amateur Radio Club, offset −600 kHz, PL 107.2) and 147.360 (KE5RCS, offset +600 kHz, PL 103.5). Both are active, and linked systems reach across Central Texas. Confirm the current settings on RepeaterBook before you count on them.
How do I get a ham radio license in Austin?
Take the entry-level Technician exam at a volunteer examiner (VE) session. The Austin Amateur Radio Club and Williamson County ARC run sessions around the metro, and the fee is about $15. Most people pass after one or two weeks with the free question pool at HamStudy.org.
What radio should I buy first?
A basic dual-band handheld — a Baofeng UV-5R (about $30) or a Yaesu FT-65R (about $80) — covers the Austin 2m and 70cm repeaters. For digital voice (D-STAR, DMR or System Fusion), expect $150–500 for a capable radio.
What about digital modes in Austin?
D-STAR, DMR and System Fusion are all growing in Austin, with multiple digital repeaters active. APRS is active locally for position and messaging; the Kenwood TM-D710GA and TH-D75A are popular choices.
Do I need a license just to listen?
No. Anyone may listen. You only need an FCC license to transmit. Program 146.940, tune in a net, and listen for a while before you ever key up — it's the best way to learn the rhythm.
What is a net, and how do I check in?
A net is a scheduled on-air meeting run by a net control station. Listen first; when net control calls for check-ins, key up, give your call sign with the phonetic alphabet (“Kilo Five Alpha Bravo Charlie”), and wait to be acknowledged. Short, clear, one station at a time — that's the whole etiquette.
Who runs this site?
austinrepeater.com is published by the WholeTech Network, an independent Austin publisher building websites since 1996. It's an enthusiast's guide, not a coordinated frequency list — for live data we defer to RepeaterBook and the Texas VHF-FM Society.
Is the site free?
Yes — everything here is free and open. No paywalls, no mandatory signups, no pop-ups.
Have a question not covered here? Ask us.