On Fri, 25 Feb 2005 01:03:38 -0700, Barnard Peters
wrote:

Though utility radio communications monitoring is fun and interesting
all by itself, there is more fun to be had participating in live
interactive radio monitoring with colleagues from around the world who
share the same interest. Having dozens of ears scanning the bands really
adds to the excitement. Having more people on-line means having more
ears on the bands. This posting is an effort to add more people to
zirc.org #monitor

Entry level as well as experienced listeners are welcome to join.

More info is at: http://s91586483.onlinehome.us/monitor/

To connect to IRC, you will need an IRC client. Mozzila and netscape
have one built in or there are many you can download and install. You
will need to connect to irc.zirc.org or pick a server from the website
at zirc.org. To connect, type "/server irc.zirc.org" and once connected
type "/join #monitor". There is a web based client at
http://www.zirc.org/chat/

For the PC user, an excellent choice is the program mIRC, which can be
downloaded from:

http://www.mirc.com

There are also IRC clients for Unix systems (and its clones like
Linux, etc.) as well as the Mac. Google up an IRC client and join some
fellow radio hobbyists!

Once logged on, simply start posting what you hear or just be a
fly-on-the-wall and watch what other people post and follow along on
your radio!

It is also worth mentioning that the ZIRC #monitor channel is linked
to #monitor channels on IRCnet, DalNET, and StarChat as well. Thus,
you can also connect to any of the four networks and /join #monitor
and participate.

ZIRC is certainly one of the easiest for U.S. users to connect to, as
opposed to IRCnet which seems to be easier for European users to get
on. I've never tried StarChat and haven't been on DalNet since about
six years ago but these networks' #monitor channels are also linked
in. I've frequented #monitor and some of the other radio-related
channels on IRC for a few years now, on and off, and it's been an
enjoyable ride. See you there!

John Kasupski, Tonawanda, New York
Amateur Radio (KC2HMZ), SWL/Scanner Monitoring (KNY2VS)