Outer Banks, North CarolinaDMR, Winlink, EMCOMM, licensing, and practical radio training
OBRA learning center

Training Hub

A structured training library for DMR, Winlink, EMCOMM/AUXCOMM, licensing, and practical radio operation across the Outer Banks.

Training pathways

Use these tracks for self-study, club workshops, mentoring, and formal OBRA training events.

DMR

DMR

Understand repeaters versus hotspots, color codes, time slots, talkgroups, BrandMeister, PRN/NCPRN, and codeplug setup.

WL

Winlink

Install, configure, test, and operate Winlink Express using packet, VARA FM, or HF paths for resilient message handling.

ICS

EMCOMM

Prepare operators for public service events, AUXCOMM support, net discipline, resource worksheets, and ICS message workflows.

HAM

License Support

Guide prospective amateurs through license training, testing, first radio setup, and initial on-air confidence.

DMR training

The DMR track is built around practical operation: what DMR is, why it behaves differently from analog FM, how repeaters differ from hotspots, and how to avoid common codeplug mistakes.

OBRA DMR Fundamentals & Practical Operations
Full PowerPoint training package with instructor notes, schematics, diagrams, and practical exercises.
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DMR Technical Note
Detailed technical note covering TDMA, talkgroups, repeaters, hotspots, BrandMeister access, and EMCOMM implications.
Download
DMR Basics Training
Existing OBRA DMR overview deck.
Download
Codeplug & Radio Programming Library
Radio-specific codeplugs, programming checklist, and DMR support workflow.
Open

Winlink training

The Winlink track supports both routine practice and emergency communications readiness. Members should be able to install Winlink Express, configure a station, send a test message, and troubleshoot audio/PTT issues before a real event.

WinLink Express Introduction, Module 1
Introductory Winlink Express training.
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Winlink Setup and Operate, Modules 3 and 4
Operational setup and practical use material.
Download
Quick Winlink VARA FM Install Setup V2.0
Quick-start VARA FM setup guide.
Download
Winlink FM Troubleshooting
Focused troubleshooting aid for FM Winlink issues.
Download
Winlink information page
OBRA Winlink overview and EMCOMM relevance.
Open

EMCOMM and AUXCOMM training

This track supports public service events, exercises, storm readiness, net control, tactical messaging, and resource planning.

ICS-217A Dare County Repeaters
Repeater resource worksheet for local communication planning.
Download
ICS-217A Dare County Winlink Resources
Winlink resource worksheet for local emergency messaging planning.
Download
OBRA HUREX 24 After Action Report
Exercise learning material from an OBRA hurricane exercise.
Download
WebEOC Basics
WebEOC familiarization material.
Download
WebEOC Essentials
WebEOC operating essentials.
Download

License and new ham support

OBRA supports training, testing coordination, and practical first steps for new amateur radio operators. OBRA holds a minimum of four test sessions per year and can coordinate additional sessions when needed.

Introduction to Ham Radio and OBRA
New operator and club introduction slide deck.
Download
HAM License Training enquiry
Request help starting or continuing the license process.
Enquire
License Testing enquiry
Ask about the next test session or request a testing session for Technician, General, or Amateur Extra.
Enquire
Become a HAM
OBRA education landing page for prospective operators.
Open