the technical smarts to deal with new technologies like Echolink and
IRLP (which is connected to Echolink, BTW).


It way have been connected during the emergency, but there are some basic
differences between the two. IRLP is REPEATER LINKING. This does not mean
using your PC as a radio like Echolink. You are not allowed to connect to
IRLP with a computer, you must use a radio.

I don't use echolink because I cannot be guaranteed a radio on the other end.
I haven't used IRLP much because it's fake skip. I can talk real skip on my
old 11 meter radio. It's not legal, but you can't stop mother nature.

P.S. I use all radios, Ham, MURS, FRS, CB, scanners, SWL, cellphone, etc.
TV sucks. I don't watch it.