4/10/2016 – Here you will find some technical details about one of my latest projects, a portable AllStarLink node. I decided to assemble this portable node to use it when I’m out of my Fusion repeater coverage and when traveling. One of the advantages of the AllStarLink system is that it can be used behind NAT networks without the need to forward ports. This is a big advantage vs other RoIP systems, NO VPN is needed anymore when the node is behind a firewall or NAT network that you can’t control.  The only time that you would need the port 4569 forwarded is if you want other nodes to dial into your node. I use it 90% of the time connected to my Chevrolet Silverado integrated 4G LTE hotspot. On this connection I can’t open any ports or even get a public IP, the only way to use another RoIP system would be using a VPN service. With the AllStarLink system this problem was solved.

During the assembly I realized that to make it in a smaller form factor (6x4x2) I had to install the components in multilayer components configuration instead of side by side. I assembled and disassembled the node a few times in order to make changes and improvements to the first version. Below you will find some technical details about my portable node project and a few pictures as well. If you have any questions about it I’m mostly connected to the AllStarLink HUB 41792 or you can use the contact us form and I will reply as soon as I can.

Node Hardware:

• Raspberry Pi 3
• DMK URIx Interface
• Baofeng BF-888s (UHF – FM Transmitter)
• Vonets VAP11N-300 (Wireless Bridge)
• DC-DC LM2596 Step Down Adjustable Converter Power Supply
• 6x4x2 Plastic Project Box

Node Software:

• 4/10/2016 – DIAL Distribution for Raspberry Pi 2/3 systems with few code modifications
  • Original version downloaded from “DIAL Distrobution Raspberry Pi 2/3 systems“
• 4/16/2016 – RPi2 Version 1.01 Allstar – March 22, 2016 – WA3DSP, KB4FXC, W0AMN
  • RPi2/RPi2-3_V1.02beta_Allstar.img.zip

Below are a few pictures during the assembly process:

Thanks to:

KP4AP – Alberto Puig for all his support to complete this project.

W2FGO – Felix Ortiz for all the tips.