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-====== Neighbourhood Emergency Communications ======
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-Hi, I’m Patrick, a local amateur radio operator in Roberts Creek (near Sharkey's).  I would like to introduce our neighbourhood to two modes of communications that do **not** require an amateur radio certificate, and which could be very helpful in case of emergency.
-===== FRS =====
-The Family Radio Service (FRS) is a walkie-talkie radio system offering 22 channels.  In the ideal scenario (from mountain top to mountain top with a clear line of sight), the range could be as much as 60 km.  But in a real scenario, it will be more around 1 km.  Do not believe manufacturer claims regarding improved range.  All FRS radios are legally limited to a maximum of 2 W or 0.5 W of power depending on the channel used.  What you pay for is built quality and battery capacity, not extra range.  The area in blue is the coverage I get from our inside our house.
-I will be taking checking on Ch. 3 (no tone) every Thursday between 7:00 pm and 7:30 pm.  I will then relay these checkins to our [[/nets/home |Ham Radio Net]].  All are welcome!
-See here for more details: https://scarcs.ca/ecomm/non-ham
-===== MeshCore =====
-I've been experimenting with twoI’ve been experimenting with MeshCore to see how well it works in our community and to introduce my neighbours to this new way of staying connected.
-===== What is MeshCore? =====
-MeshCore is free messaging software that runs on small, low-power radio devices. It lets you send text messages and share your location without relying on cell towers, Wi-Fi, or the internet.
-You pair a small device, called a Companion, with your cellphone via Bluetooth. You can then send and receive messages with other MeshCore users.
-Messages can travel directly between nearby devices or pass through strategically placed repeaters to reach people farther away.
-No amateur radio licence or monthly subscription is required.
-MeshCore is growing in Roberts Creek
-There are currently four MeshCore repeaters in the Roberts Creek area, including mine, with additional repeaters ordered for the area.
-These repeaters are part of a growing, community-supported network across the Sunshine Coast.
-I’ve been testing my own repeater to find out where it can provide a connection. The coverage information below shows the results of those tests. Actual connections will depend on terrain, device placement, antenna configuration, and other conditions.
-Even if you’re outside the coverage area of my repeater, you may be able to connect through another repeater in the local network.
-How can you get involved?
-You don’t need to be a radio operator or have technical experience to use MeshCore.
-A good first step is to get a Companion device, connect it to your phone, and see who you can reach.
-I’m starting by talking with my immediate neighbours because I already have a relationship with them. My hope is that people will do the same with their neighbours, gradually building connections across the community.
-You can:
-  * Get a Companion device and start messaging.
-  * Talk with your neighbours about getting connected.
-  * Help identify suitable locations for additional repeaters.
-  * Join local MeshCore activities and practise communicating with others.
-Our local amateur radio club, SCARCS, is helping people get started, organize group purchases, and develop the repeater network.
-The more neighbours who participate, the more useful our local network becomes.
-===== Get started ====
-To learn more about MeshCore, equipment, and getting connected, visit the SCARCS MeshCore page:
-https://scarcs.ca/meshcore
-You can also contact SCARCS for information about local group purchases, setup assistance, and opportunities to get involved.
-Start with your neighbours. Help build the network together.
-[https://ridgeline.ve7kod.ca/map?lat=49.43532&lon=-123.64114&z=10.22&base=muted&roles=Repeater |other repeaters]] : https://scarcs.ca/meshcore/home
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-{{:meshcore:va7fi-2.svg}}\\ https://scarcs.ca/meshcore/va7fi-2
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