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-sited
transmitter-receiver combination, which operates on a different
pair of channels. This link radio carries messages to the next site
in the chain. The next site is operationally similar. If commanded
to do so, the link signal is re-transmitted 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. All members donate
their time in construction and maintenance of the
System.
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.
We have published the results of some research in national
scientific media. While conducting ongoing research, we train
amateurs in more advanced communications theory and operations.
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 also teach classes to fledgling radio operators, serve on
regional and national committees dealing with radio frequency
matters 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.