We went live with Echolink on the 2-Meter repeater tonight about 10:00 PM. We are still working on some settings and audio levels, but at this point it is up and usable.

UPDATE! 01/05/2015 - Echolink setup has proven to be problematic, and have for the time being, been shut down. I'll keep y'all posted as we progress.

The new repeater is working fantastically. We are getting lots of compliments and kudos. We are just very excited to see the usage is increasing. 

We are still planning on getting the antenna replaced, and re-aligned to adjust or coverage in the Inglis-Yankeetown area. We do not yet have a scheduled date, but the antenna has been ordered, and the Levy County Emergency Management is working to co-ordinate the tower work to be in conjunction with some other tower work that needs to be done as well, for the Levy County Fire / EMS service.

I am also working to get this machine up and running on EchoLink. 

73
Aaron (KM4ECS)

We will need some range testers with mobile 2-Meter capability when we are ready to install the new antenna. While the crew is on the tower, they are going to replace the antenna, but are also going to adjust its orientation on the tower so we can best cover Levy County. We will need several volunteers to be staged at the far reaches of the county that we can signal check with during the alignment, so we can hopefully get the best service from this new antenna. Please let me know if you would like to participate, and we will try to work out the schedule. I am not sure of when this will take place. Waiting on an answer from the Levy EOC.

OK, WOO HOO! The new 2 Meter Repeater has been installed! It is working beautifully. We have a brand new Icom Commercial Repeater, it has a 100% Duty Cycle 50 Watt PA, and is currently setup with a 3 Minute Time Out. Squelch Tail is about 2 Seconds. We may tweak on that some later. Next is the replacement antenna, and re-alignment to better cover the SW Quadrant of Levy County! I'll keep you posted. We have a "Rag Chew" net that is up on Thursdays @ 7PM, Ya'll come join us.