For years, Hamshack Hotline (HH) provided licensed amateur radio operators with a free Voice-over-IP (VoIP) telephone network. It offered a creative way to link hams across the country and around the world using standard SIP phones, softphones, and even PBX integrations. Many clubs and emergency groups took advantage of the service to provide an extra layer of communication during events or outages.

Recently, Hamshack Hotline announced it would be shutting down. While the service had a strong run and served the community well, its closure has left many operators wondering what comes next.

An Alternative: Hams Over IP

Thankfully, there’s a community-driven replacement: Hams Over IP. Built by and for amateur radio operators, Hams Over IP follows a similar model—connecting licensed hams with an IP-based phone system that integrates easily into your shack.

Key points about Hams Over IP:

• It is open to licensed hams worldwide.
• It provides extensions for individual operators, clubs, and groups.
• It uses standard SIP-compatible phones and softphones, so no proprietary gear is required.
• The project emphasizes community support, reliability, and flexibility.

Making the Swtich

Moving from Hamshack Hotline to Hams Over IP was smooth and straightforward. Provisioning the new service took about 24 hours. The staff was very responsive, and the provisioning instructions were clear for both a hardware SIP phone and the mobile app. In short, it was super easy to get set up. For those wanting a little more technical detail, Hams Over IP provides an excellent FAQ and setup guide.

Advantages of IP-Based Phones in Ham Radio

Using IP-based phones as part of amateur radio infrastructure isn’t just a novelty—it has real advantages:

1. Redundancy in Emergencies
   • If local RF repeaters go down, an IP phone network can provide a fallback for net coordination.
2. Global Reach
   • Hams can connect worldwide using the same extension system—great for events, contests, or casual ragchews.
3. Interoperability
   • Works with existing PBX systems (like Asterisk/FreePBX) and integrates into emergency communications centers.
4. Ease of Use
   • Plug in a SIP phone or use a smartphone app—no need for complex setup once your extension is assigned. (Search your App Store for Groundwire: VoIP SIP Softphone)
   • Easily field deployable for special events or exercises with connectivity.
5. Low Cost
   • Most networks are free or donation-based, and hardware can be inexpensive (many compatible phones are under $50).
6. Club/Group Benefits
   • Clubs can have dedicated extensions for nets, events, or even “help desk” style support.

Final Thoughts

The shutdown of Hamshack Hotline is the end of an era, but it also opens the door for new projects like Hams Over IP. For amateur radio operators looking to extend their communications toolkit, IP-based phone systems provide an accessible, reliable, and global platform to connect with fellow hams. Give me a call once your set up! HOIP# 102928