Amateur Radio Digital Platforms
Explore the principal technologies for voice, data, weak-signal, and space communication—from AllStarLink and EchoLink to DMR, D-STAR, FT8, APRS, Winlink, amateur satellites, and the ISS.
Platforms, networks, and modes are not the same.
Choose technology for your operating goal.
Filter by category. Open “Details” on any card for equipment, benefits, and important limitations.
Which technology is right for you?
Your final choice depends on local infrastructure, licence privileges, budget, and operating purpose.
| Platform | Primary use | Radio needed | Internet | Main band | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AllStarLink | Linked analog voice | Yes for RF | For node linking | VHF/UHF | Intermediate |
| EchoLink | App/RF linked voice | No for app-only | Yes | VHF/UHF gateway | Easy |
| DMR | Digital voice/talkgroups | DMR radio | Not for local simplex | VHF/UHF | Intermediate |
| D-STAR / Fusion | Digital voice/data | Compatible radio | For reflector/room | VHF/UHF | Intermediate |
| APRS | Position/message | Radio/TNC | RF-only possible | VHF/UHF | Intermediate |
| Winlink | Radio email/forms | Radio/interface | Not for RF path | HF/VHF/UHF | Intermediate–high |
| FT8/FT4 | Weak-signal QSO | SSB/data radio | Not for QSO | HF/VHF | Intermediate |
| Satellite/ISS | Orbital contact | VHF/UHF radio | Helpful for tracking | VHF/UHF | Intermediate–high |
Satellite QSO: follow a moving repeater.
Correct timing, direction, frequency, and disciplined short transmissions are essential.
- Select an active satellite using the AMSAT status page.
- Check the pass with Heavens-Above, Look4Sat, GPredict, or SatNOGS.
- First receive the downlink and observe Doppler movement.
- Verify the frequency plan, mode, and access tone.
- Use minimum power and a brief callsign/grid exchange on a licensed uplink.
Begin digital radio safely.
Check your licence
Understand your BTRC licence grade, permitted bands, power, and equipment conditions.
Choose one goal
Start with voice linking, weak-signal DX, emergency data, tracking, or satellites.
Check locally
Ask ARSB or local operators which repeaters, nodes, talkgroups, and gateways are available.
Receive first
Listen, decode with software, and learn correct operating etiquette before transmitting.
Transmit cleanly
Set audio, time synchronization, callsign, bandwidth, and minimum required power correctly.
Digital does not mean licence-free.
If you transmit on radio frequencies—even when the internet is involved—your BTRC licence and current regulations apply.
Do not transmit on RF without a valid call sign and compliance with your licence conditions.
Do not copy foreign APRS, repeater frequencies, or band plans for use in Bangladesh.
Do not use unauthorized encryption intended to conceal the meaning of messages.
Amateur radio must not provide business, security-company, or paid communication services.
Transmit your own call sign as required; never use another operator’s ID or call sign.
Keep the frequency clear for distress traffic and never spread unverified information.