Overview
(or
what we do, how and why)
This is a system
composed of chained radio links. Radio repeaters, (Remote
Base), receive inputs from users, usually operating mobile.
When the repeater picks up a properly encoded radio signal,
it turns on its associated transmitter and repeats what it
hears on a nearby frequency. A controller supervises this
activity. Each Intertie, Incorporated member is a trained
control operator, and is thus privileged to control all 23
Remote Base locations in the system. The controller
hardware and software is programmed to accept a large array
of operational and configuration commands. Some of these
allow the repeater to be connected ("interfaced") to a
co-located transmitter/receiver combination, which operates
on a different channel pair. This radio linking
configuration transmits messages to the next site in the
chain. The next site is operationally similar. If commanded
to do so, the link signal is retransmitted by the distant
repeater transmitter. An operator at the distant site can
pick up his talkie, send the necessary interface command(s)
and visit the other repeater via the link. The Intertie
system can do this through 23 different locations across
south and west Texas. Controlled access allows interface
with the Armadillo Intertie, serving north, east and west
Texas, as well as the Cactus Intertie System even further
west.
Boy,
that's a big operation - Who pays for
it?
In
a word, we pay our own way. As a (501)(c)(3) “not for
profit” educational, scientific charitable organization, we
are exempt from federal and state taxes. We do accept
donations of radio transmitting and receiving equipment or
cash. But we operate on a relatively meager budget
supported by member dues and pledges. We build a majority
of our operating equipment through members who donate their
time for construction and System
maintenance.
What
do you give back to the community?
We
stand ready to provide emergency communications wherever
needed within our operating area (which is pretty huge). We
are regular participants in local and regional disaster
planning, drills and operations. Most of our sites have
backup emergency power to facilitate communications on
demand regardless of outside support.
We have published the results of our research in national
scientific media. While conducting ongoing research we also
train amateurs in more advanced communications theory and
operation. This has proved to be quite entertaining (visits
to some awesome scenery on private and public real estate),
as well as a learning experience for all, gray hairs
included. Members include fledgling radio operators in our
ongoing research and development effort by teaching more
basic classes.
Members also serve on regional and national committees
dealing with radio frequency matters, hold offices in
various emergency organizations such as ARES and RACES and
serve as officers in the Texas VHF FM Society,
(http://www.txvhffm.org).
No
use of these symbols or phrases is allowed without the
express written permission of Intertie, Inc.