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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

KF8ECP.site is a locally focused ham radio and GMRS resource for operators in the Greater Cincinnati and Tri-State area. This page answers common questions about finding repeaters near you, using interactive maps and tools, exporting data, participating in local nets, and ordering pre-configured hotspot equipment.

📍 Repeater Mapping & Location Tools

Does this site include repeater maps?

Yes. KF8ECP.site includes interactive maps for both ham radio and GMRS repeaters. These maps visualize repeater locations across the region and help operators quickly identify nearby infrastructure.

You can access the ham radio repeater map here and the GMRS repeater map here.

How are repeaters mapped?

Repeater locations are plotted using published coordinates combined with locally verified information. Mapping is intended to provide geographic context alongside the tabular repeater listings rather than replacing them.

Can I see repeaters near my current location?

Yes. If you allow location access, the site can calculate distances from your current position and automatically sort repeaters by proximity. You may also manually enter a location to explore repeaters near a specific city or area.

Why use a map instead of just a list?

📡 Finding Ham & GMRS Repeaters Near Me

How do I find ham radio repeaters near me?

Ham radio repeaters on KF8ECP.site are automatically sorted by distance from your location, making it easy to identify the closest and most practical options without scrolling through statewide or national lists.

See the full ham repeater directory here.

How do I find GMRS repeaters near me?

The GMRS section focuses on public and known-access GMRS repeaters in the Cincinnati Tri-State area, including frequency, tones, distance, and notes when available.

Visit the GMRS repeater directory for details.

What geographic area does this site cover?

Repeaters outside this area may appear if they are commonly reachable or relevant to local operators.

How is this different from RepeaterBook?

RepeaterBook is a large national database. KF8ECP.site is intentionally local-first, emphasizing distance-based sorting, regional mapping, local net schedules, and Cincinnati-area operating context.

🧰 Tools & Data Exports

What tools are available?

The Tools page includes utilities designed to simplify local operation, including distance calculations, location-based sorting, and mobile-friendly repeater views.

What formats are repeater exports available in?

Repeater export files are formatted for use with common radio programming software, including:

These exports are designed to reduce manual entry and speed up radio programming.

Is this site a replacement for logging software?

No. KF8ECP.site is a reference and coordination tool, not a logging application. It is designed to complement your radio, programming software, and preferred logging method.

📶 Hotspot SD Cards & Equipment

Do you offer hotspot SD cards or equipment?

Yes. KF8ECP.site offers pre-imaged and pre-configured hotspot SD cards and assembled hotspot hardware for operators who want a reliable, working setup without starting from scratch.

What hotspot options are available?

Are hotspot configurations automated?

No. Configurations are performed manually to ensure correctness and reliability. Each configured SD card is reviewed and prepared intentionally rather than mass-generated.

Do you provide support?

Basic setup support is included with configured SD cards. This covers initial access, verification, and getting on the air. Extended troubleshooting or advanced customization may be handled separately.

🗓 Nets & Community

What are nets, and why are they listed?

Nets are scheduled on-air meetings held on specific repeaters. KF8ECP.site provides local net schedules and calendars to help operators discover and participate in regional activity.

Community discussions and announcements are available on the Community page.

🤝 Contributing & Supporting the Site

How can I contribute information?

If you have updated repeater details, net schedules, or corrections, community contributions are welcome. Local input helps keep the information accurate and useful.

How can I support the site?

A donation link is available at the bottom of the About page. Contributions help offset hosting costs and support ongoing development and mapping tools.

What does support help pay for?

🧭 Who runs KF8ECP.site?

The site is maintained by Joe Vaughn, licensed amateur radio operator KF8ECP, based in the Greater Cincinnati area. The goal is to provide accurate, local, easy-to-use radio information that complements larger national databases rather than competing with them.