1Identify every transmission
Give your callsign at the start of each contact and every 10 minutes during a long contact. Digital modes handle ID automatically when configured correctly — verify your radio is set to send ID.
Rules and information
The short version. Read it once before you key up; the reflector is shared by a lot of operators and a few simple rules keep it pleasant for everyone.
Operating guidelines
Most of these are FCC Part 97 common sense, but the cross-mode nature of the reflector means a few extra ones apply.
2Yield to existing conversations
If you can hear a conversation in progress, wait for a break before keying up. Cross-mode bridges mean a QSO can span six protocols — be patient, your turn will come.
3Use the appropriate module
If you only run DMR, land on module B. If you only run D-Star, land on module A. Use the cross-mode bridge only when you want to talk to other modes, not by default.
4No music, no broadcasting
Amateur radio is a two-way service. Music retransmission and one-way broadcasting are not permitted on XLX159. If you want to share audio, the contact still has to be a contact.
5Keep it brief and welcoming
The reflector is shared by hams at every skill level. Newcomers who ask simple questions get simple answers. Experienced hams who already know the answer can still benefit from being reminded of it.
6No commercial content, no politics
No business talk, no political advocacy. The reflector is for amateur radio, not for general chat. We have Discord for that.
Operator policies
The reflector is operator-run. These are the policies the operators enforce.
Disconnects
Persistent misuse will result in your callsign being blocked at the reflector level. This is rare; the operators prefer to work it out first.
Linked reflectors
Module A is bridged to DCS by default. Modules B, C, and F may be bridged to Brandmeister, FCS, and the M17 network respectively. Bridges can be disabled at the operator's discretion.
Hotspot operators
You are responsible for the traffic your hotspot generates. If you have an accidental PTT stuck or a misconfigured cross-TG, fix it on your end; the reflector will eventually block you otherwise.
Emergency traffic
Always has priority. If you have emergency traffic, key up and say so. The existing contact should yield immediately.
Get help
Stuck on a connection? Check the FAQ first. If the answer is not there, the operators hang out on the local repeater at the times listed on the Connection page.
If you have a serious complaint about another operator (deliberate jamming, harassment, illegal content), the contact form on the home page reaches the operator team directly. We will respond within 24 hours.