SunflowerNet.us explained #hamradio #Skywarn

 From another list, came this item:

Sunflower requires the use of hotspots

Happily, this statement is incorrect because SunflowerNet neither requires nor prohibits hotspot or any other method of connection.

Repeaters are encouraged to connect to SunflowerNet on any of the modes available.  Those modes are Allstar 28848, Echolink KC5FM-R 906281, Hamshack Hotline 94032, DMR TGIF 31207, P25 31207, DSTAR XLXOKL C, Yaesu Fusion 31207, M17-SUN module A.

Clearly, some of those modes, ex. M17, are not available on a large number of repeaters.  Because of grant funding available and the low cost of equipment, that should quickly become a problem with a fix.

Echolink is one mode that one can use on Windows, Linux, Android, and IOS. Register your callsign and connect to the node listed above.  Both the software and your registration is free of charge.

Allstar users look for RepeaterPhone, for "When you are out of range of the repeater. While it is not free, users also get Echolink in addition to Allstar.  Registration is free.

Hamshack Hotline offers the best audio of the mix.  It's not free, however.  You will need a device.  Registration is free.  When you get the device and registered, go to this link to see who is logged onto SunflowerNet and other RF links around the world.  The Author uses Groundwire (available on Google Play for Android and IOS) using WiFi over DSL or celluar to roam the planet.

M17 offers the best audio quality on the Digital Voice side.  To use it, grab a copy of DroidStar on Android or Dudestar for your Windows or Linux devices.  For less than $50, users should be able to get an Android phone to use over wifi and a copy of Droidstar from Google Play.

The rest of the modes can be joined over wifi and a hotspot BUT:

RepeaterBook lists all the repeaters in Kansas, for example.  Search there for your local repeater listing the mode you wish to use.  Connect as you can.

Clearly, Sunflower is not the only multimode system.  Alabama, Oklahoma, Illinois, Colorado and just a few States with their own version.