repeater_output_as_simplex_frequency

Repeater Output As Simplex Frequency

A while ago we had discussed using our repeater's output frequency (147.220 MHz) as a simplex frequency in case of emergency. Here are the advantages of using one of the standard simplex frequencies VS using our repeater's output frequency:

Standard Simplex Frequencies

Are easier to setup in the radio's VFO since there's no default offset.
Don't potentially interfere with regular repeater operations.

Our Repeater's Output Frequency in Simplex

There's only one frequency for everyone to monitor (regardless of whether our repeater is operational or not).
There's no danger of the frequency being in use by another club since it's already coordinated to us.

Examples

Here are a few examples of when this could be useful.

If our club repeater stops working, the “meeting place” is still the same: 147.220 MHz. Those who know the repeater if offline can transmit in simplex and let others know to do the same. Late comers will still here everyone and get the information. If QSY to a different simplex frequency, late comers might show up on the repeater and not know where everyone is.
If someone comes on the repeater and you can hear them better on the input, it's really quick to switch to simplex on the same frequency without having to find a free frequency. Longer QSO should QSY to a different frequency, however, because this will unnecessarily tie up the repeater.

List and CHIRP File

I've updated the frequency list and CHIRP files to add 147.220 MHz, T100 Hz (no offset and no tone squelch). The reason I setup a tone of 100 Hz (but no tone squelch) is so that while in simplex:

you'll be able to get through to others who have their tone squelch set,
but you'll also be able to hear others who don't have a tone at all.