Review: RepeaterPhone for iOS
Recently, I've been searching for an iOS application that can help me connect to the Allstar node. I've been using the Echolink app for a while, but it's starting to feel outdated, even though it allows me to connect via my iPhone. Let's save those comments for later before anyone criticizes it for not being "real radio" and RF infractions.
Before I discuss the app and its features, let me give you some context. My father lives about three hours away from me and has a small radio station. He can connect to many local repeaters and uses Echolink to try to join the club nets in my area. He was successful for some time with an Echolink node connected to the club's repeater. However, for reasons I won't go into, that "lifeline" was taken down, and his communication with the club was cut off.
Although we're still working on a solution, I wanted to find a way to connect him back to the club. That's where my Allstar node comes in. We have a club repeater with a digital connection, but the feedback from members is that analog users hear "digital static" when the machine is in "digital" mode. Balancing between modes can be difficult.
That's where AllStar comes in. For those unfamiliar with this mode, it's an analog IRLP solution that provides a "digital bridge" to other nodes/repeaters worldwide. Like most digital modes, it uses nodes for rooms or reflectors, but there's a huge advantage. You don't need a digital radio.
Now that the nodes are running, I started looking for an "all-star specific" app. That's when I found RepeaterPhone. This app is available on iOS, well-designed, and easy to use. However, the price is a bit steep, considering the features it offers. But I'm not complaining since most apps with a good development team behind them should cost something. In the ham community, we tend to look for the cheapest solution, but sometimes, quality comes at a price.
App Features/Setup
It's pretty simple. First, navigate the settings app and adjust the menu options before creating a new account. One of the best features is the QRZ lookup, which quickly identifies callsigns and nodes. Once that's done, create a new account and enter your Allstar credentials, which are used to log in to the portal and access the node directory. If everything was entered correctly, your Allstar account should be active.
Now, head to the directory tab at the bottom of the page and search for the node you want to connect to. The app is designed with an intuitive layout, similar to the Echolink app, making it easy and enjoyable.
In summary
This application is an excellent complement to your collection of iOS apps for Ham enthusiasts. Its reliable functionality allows you to stay in touch with others. My dad is a frequent app user and has found it a convenient way to connect with Echolink and Allstar and make contacts directly from his mobile device.
You can learn more about the app by heading over to