Convierte tu móvil en un verdadero “walkie-talkie” global

The voices of amateurs resonate around the world, ready for you to join a QSO without setting up antennas or spending money on an expensive transceiver; all you need is a phone, a good connection, and the right app to connect with distant repeaters without stepping on frequencies reserved for emergency services.

Install one of the three apps below, check your callsign in minutes, and configure band filters to block any prohibited ranges. You'll enjoy crystal-clear audio in analog or digital modes, propagation alerts, and access to repeater catalogs, all legally and in compliance with regulations.

Comparison of amateur radio applications (without access to police frequencies)

App	Platforms	Price	Supported modes and networks	Callsign verification	Band Filter / Security
EchoLink	Android / iOS / Windows / macOS	Free	Analog FM via repeaters, VoIP-RF interconnection	Requires validated license (copy of certificate)	Central server blocks government ranks; only connects to amateur nodes
Droid-Star	Android	Open source / Optional donation	D-Star, DMR, C4FM, NXDN, P25, M17 (digital voice)	Entering a callsign in configuration; validation by a reflector server	Server list leaked; critical ranges excluded from the dial
RepeaterBook	Android / iOS	Free	FM and digital repeater database	Does not transmit; free use for consultation	Geofilter prevents displaying repeaters of non-amateur services

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1. EchoLink – Global Bridge between RF and VoIP

Description
EchoLink connects your smartphone to more than 6,000 registered repeaters and simplex nodes around the world. Once your callsign is validated, you can talk through remote stations or in conference mode with dozens of operators.

Pros

• Free, one-time registration with strict licensing controls.
• Clear audio (GSM-6 .10 codec) and low latency even with 4G.
• Desktop version to integrate microphone and external speakers.

Cons

• Only supports analog voice; no support for DMR or D-Star.
• It depends on the stability of central servers; if they go down, the service is interrupted.
• Requires a specific port open on the router if you are using corporate Wi-Fi.

2. Droid-Star – Digital demodulation in the palm of your hand

Description
Open-source app that connects to spotlights and hotspot networks for almost all current digital modes. Simply enter your callsign and activate the desired network (e.g., BrandMeister DMR or XLX D-Star) to participate in themed rooms.

Pros

• Wide compatibility: up to the new M17 protocol.
• Local recording of QSOs to review audio and improve dictation.
• Allows personal DMR key and configures dynamic TG on the fly.

Cons

• Technical interface; steep learning curve.
• Not available on iOS (due to Apple restrictions on external codecs).
• Some networks require access keys that you must request in advance.

3. RepeaterBook – Always up-to-date repeater atlas

Description
It doesn't transmit or receive audio: its function is to locate FM, D-Star, C4FM, or DMR repeaters by filtering by band, CTCSS tone, and distance. Ideal for planning routes, excursions, or programming a handheld.

Pros

• Community base with over 35,000 repeaters; daily updates.
• Offline mode: Download regions and view them offline.
• Critical services filter: only shows amateur repeaters.

Cons

• It doesn't offer audio, so you need another app (EchoLink, Droid-Star, or physical radio) to stream.
• Coverage in rural areas may depend on volunteers to keep up.
• No callsign validation: Information is open, but not interactive.

You can download the apps from their stores

Choose and combine applications according to your objective

1. QSO worldwide analog voice → EchoLink is sufficient.
2. Explore advanced digital modes → Add Droid-Star.
3. Planning trips with a radio in hand → Consult RepeaterBook to program frequencies before you leave.

Secure Initial Setup (3 Common Steps)

1. Validate your license
   Upload a scan or photo of your certificate to EchoLink. In Droid-Star, enter your callsign and, if you use DMR, the digital key assigned by BrandMeister.
2. Activate band filters
   In your preferences, uncheck any range outside of 144–148 MHz, 430–450 MHz, or the amateur radio HF segments. This way, you avoid, by design, frequencies used by police or aviation.
3. Audio test
   Enter a test reflector or talk to your own Parrot node; adjust the microphone level to avoid over-modulation and check latency.

Good practices for operating without violating regulations

• Identify yourself with your callsign in the first 10 seconds and at the end of each QSO.
• Keep conversation topics within amateur ethics; no business, politics, or encrypted communications.
• Monitor your server log: If your session shows connection attempts to prohibited ranges, check your filters immediately.
• Use headphones in public places to avoid exposing QSOs to third parties.
• Close the app or switch to “listen” mode at large gatherings where your voice might mix with ambient noise.

In the Part 3 You'll follow a seven-day plan: callsign verification, initial test links, creation of a simple Wi-Fi hotspot node, participation in emergency networks, and tips for conserving battery life while listening to night patrols. By the end of the week, you'll have mastered your amateur radio app without the risk of interfering with police frequencies or other critical services.