PIMP - the Phone IndyMedia Patch system

Despite the widespread acceptance of the internet as a news resource in the developed world, there are many occasions where access to computers is limited or non-existant. In such circumstances, a more `low-tech' solution is called for.

The PIMP allows anyone with access to a telephone to submit reports to indymedia. It was originally developed to allow up-to-the-minute reports to be made from actions such as Mayday and Woomera, where computers are in short supply, or not easily accessible to the `people on the ground.' Reports are submitted to indymedia as audio files, and indymedia followers not physically involved in the action are encouraged to transcribe these.

How to Use the PIMP

If you wish to make reports with your personal details specified, you can pre-register for a log-in number here. This step can be skipped for anonymous postings.

The number to call to make a voice report is 03 9343 6697. This number currently services the Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane IndyMedia sites.

After dialing, you will be asked to enter an ID code, or 0 for anonymous postings. A couple of options follow, including the IndyMedia server to submit to, the topic-group of the story, and the report type. Calls from old (non-touch-tone) telephones are still OK, but can only report to the default server with the default options.

When leaving your report, remember to speak clearly and loudly.

After you have finished recording, pressing '#' will allow you to make another report. You will be asked to re-enter the story options.

• It may be a good idea to write down your report on paper first, then read it out over the phone.
• This system can be used for interviews - just pass the phone between yourself and the interviewee (make sure they speak clearly).

This is a slightly tricky process. The source files are available here, or you can read the installation instructions first to see if you are up for the challenge. Remember that the Australian PIMP server can be extended to service other areas in Australia.