We have had some issues with both of our D-STAR Digital Repeaters in Delaware County recently that I just wanted to update everyone on.
REMOVED FROM SERVICE: N3AEC - DELSTAR East Digital Repeater System
I think we have all been aware of the hospital closures in Delaware County recently, which included the Delaware County Memorial Hospital in Drexel Hill. Recently we got to the point where the unoccupied space was going to have utilities turned off and remaining inventory removed for liquidation.
I am extremely grateful for the help of several members of DES Special Operations, coordinated by Special Ops Chief Danielle Koerner, to be able to secure and remove all of the N3AEC equipment. This includes the antennas outside and the system rack which is quite large. The repeaters and cavities are now being stored in the ARES mobile communication trailer, and the rack and antenna is at the Emergency Services Training Center temporarily until a new suitable home is determined.
OUT OF SERVICE: W3AEC - DELSTAR West Digital Repeater System
The W3AEC repeater system had an issue with the ICOM ID-RP4000V (70cm/440 Voice) unit, recently not powering up at all. The power supply was replaced and the unit powers up now, but the system is still not working properly. At this point either a more extensive repair is needed, or a new unit acquired. The latest 3rd generation version of the repeaters will work well with the existing system and doesn't require the separate controller unit anymore, which is another plus.