FAQ and troubleshooting

Common connection issues and how to fix them. Click a question to expand the answer. If your issue is not here, see the Rules page for how to reach the operators.

General

What is XLX159?

XLX159 is a multi-mode amateur radio reflector running the open-source XLX daemon. It bridges D-Star, DMR, YSF, P25, NXDN, and M17 in a single place, with cross-mode audio mixing so a QSO can span multiple protocols.

Do I need to register to use it?

No. The reflector is open. Point your hotspot or client at xlx159.duckdns.org and you're connected.

Is there a cost?

No. Free to use. Supported by the operators on volunteer time.

Who runs it?

Brent (K7...) and a small group of operator volunteers. VPS hosted at Linode, Tailscale-meshed to other home infrastructure.

Connection issues

My hotspot says "Linked" but I can't make a QSO

Check your module letter

Make sure your URCALL has the right module suffix: XLX159 A for D-Star gateway default, XLX159 D for P25, etc. If you're on the wrong module, the link will appear to succeed but you'll only hear yourself (or nothing).

My DMR radio says "TS1 CC1" but nothing happens

Check your timeslot and color code

XLX159's DMR side uses Timeslot 1, Color Code 1 by default. If your codeplug has different settings, no traffic will pass through. Match CC and TS in your codeplug.

P25 audio cuts off mid-transmission

Watch your NAC and TG

Make sure you're on the right talkgroup. The reflector uses NAC $293 and the default TG for module D. Mismatches cause silent or cut-off audio.

M17 won't connect at all

M17 requires a registered callsign

M17 uses real callsigns (not SSID-based). Register at https://m17.projectmooncrew.org/ if you haven't. Then configure your reflector call as XLX159 F in your M17 client.

Hotspot-specific

Pi-Star shows "No network" for XLX

Check DNS resolution

From the Pi-Star command line, run ping xlx159.duckdns.org. If it fails, your hotspot can't resolve the hostname. Check Pi-Star's DNS settings under Configuration → Expert → System Control → DNS resolvers.

WPSD refuses to apply settings

!!! tip "Filesystem permission error?** WPSD sometimes locks down when it can't write to its config partition. SSH in and run sudo chmod 777 /etc/mmdvmhost then retry. Don't leave it like that.

Performance / audio

Audio is choppy or robotic

This is usually network jitter or buffer issues on your end. Try:

Reduce your hotspot's TX/RX buffer size
Use wired Ethernet for your hotspot instead of WiFi
Check the monitoring page to confirm XLX159 is healthy

I hear myself delayed when I transmit on cross-mode

This is normal

Cross-mode bridges (modules B, C) translate audio between digital protocols. That takes time. Your own audio is delayed back to you by ~200-500ms. Ignore it — the other end hears you in real time.

Still stuck?

Reach out via the contact modal on xlx159.whiskey7.site or open an issue on GitHub.

Updated by Hermes

This page can be amended by the Hermes agent.