What is an amateur radio station that connects other amateur stations to the internet?

• A. A repeater
• B. A gateway
• C. A node
• D. A transponder

Answer: (B)

An amateur radio station that connects other amateur stations to the internet is known as a gateway. This type of station serves as a critical link between the radio frequency (RF) communications on the amateur bands and the internet, allowing for enhanced communication capabilities.

Gateways facilitate the transfer of messages, data, and even entire conversations between radio operators and users on the internet, enabling broader connectivity and access to various online services. In many instances, gateways are part of the Packet Radio network, which uses AX.25 protocol, where they allow radio users to send and receive messages through internet protocols.

In contrast, while repeaters and nodes play important roles in local radio communications—retransmitting signals to extend range and allowing for connecting multiple paths—they do not inherently provide internet connectivity. A transponder, on the other hand, typically refers to a device that receives a signal and retransmits it on a different frequency, primarily used in satellite communications. Therefore, the specific function of connecting to the internet directly aligns with the definition of a gateway.