Emergencies
Emergency calls and messages, including emergency autopatch or autodial traffic.
A QUICK REFERENCE FOR MEMBERS & VISITORS
Using Our Repeaters
This page summarizes procedures from the GMRA Operating and Bylaw Manual for members, visitors, and prospective members.
GMRA does not seek to impose a rigid set of operating rules beyond applicable FCC regulations. We ask all operators to use good judgment, respect other users, and maintain the high standards expected of amateur radio operators in the Washington, DC area.
WHEN THE REPEATER IS BUSY
Repeater Priorities
Public & Community Support
Communications supporting public service and community activities; these may accompany emergency traffic.
Routine Communications
Everyday calls, exchanges, and other routine repeater use.
GETTING STARTED
Basic Repeater Operation
Using a repeater for the first time can feel intimidating, particularly for newly licensed amateurs. Relax, listen to conversations for a while, and become familiar with the operating practices.
Three-minute transmission timer
The original procedures describe a timer that deactivates the repeater after three minutes of continuous input. Release your microphone, wait for the reset dual tone, and then continue transmitting. If the limit is exceeded, the repeater announces the timeout; a further announcement follows when the transmission ends.
Most operators keep transmissions shorter than the three-minute limit. For more detailed calling techniques, consult the GMRA Operating Manual.
ASSOCIATION GOVERNANCE
Board of Directors & Bylaws
The Board of Directors consists of the President, First Vice President, Second Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. It manages the Association in accordance with its bylaws and Maryland law.
The original procedures state that the Board normally meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 6:00 PM, except during the month of the annual meeting. Special meetings may be called as needed. Control operators are encouraged to attend; other members may request permission to attend by contacting the Board President.
KEEPING THE SYSTEM RUNNING
Trustees & Control Operators
Although GMRA owns, operates, and maintains its repeaters, each repeater has a designated licensee or trustee responsible for proper operation under FCC rules. The licensee or club call sign identifies the repeater.
Control operators assist by monitoring repeater use and advising users when operating practices or transmissions may violate applicable rules. Their purpose is to assist, not criticize or censor ordinary exchanges.
Meet GMRA officials and repeater trustees →
FCC RULES
Business Communications
The original GMRA procedures emphasize that amateur radio must not be used to facilitate business or commercial affairs, or to carry messages for hire or material compensation. Operators should consider whether a proposed transmission is appropriate for amateur radio.
For the governing requirements and exceptions, consult 47 CFR § 97.113 — Prohibited transmissions.
WORLDWIDE CONNECTIONS
EchoLink Operation
Both GMRA repeaters — K3GMR 146.610 MHz (Bladensburg) and W3GMR 146.880 MHz (Greenbelt) — have full-time EchoLink connections. EchoLink allows amateur radio operators to communicate with connected stations and repeaters around the world over the internet.
EchoLink operation is similar to ordinary repeater operation, but additional courtesy and connection procedures may apply. Learn more from the official EchoLink website.
EchoLink information and operating procedures →