Get Started with DMR

Register for a radio ID.  All DMR users must register for a radio ID at radioid.net/register.  In most cases, a single radio ID can be used on all equipment you own.  You will need a PDF Official Copy of your FCC license grant (not a Reference Copy from a ULS lookup).  You cannot go on the air until your radio ID has been issued.

Download and install your radio's Customer Programming Software (CPS) application.  Some older radios may also require USB device drivers.  Refer to your radio manufacturer's website for official downloads, along with any available radio firmware updates.  For best performance, always use the most recent available firmware and CPS.  Here are links to downloads for the most popular DMR equipment manufacturers.

Program your radio.  If you have one of the radios supported by the RATS DMR Codeplug Project, find your codeplug and any required conversion procedures by visiting codeplugs.rats.net > DMRVA Codeplugs > Find by Manufacturer.  Or, you can build your own codeplug from scratch using the information on the DMRVA Talkgroup Matrix and our helpful guide to DIY Codeplug Programming Basics.  Remember to set your radio ID!

Test your radio.  All DMRVA network repeaters have an Echo Test feature.  Use this as often as you'd like.  Troubleshoot talkgroup access issues and check signal quality by monitoring DMRVA Callwatch.  If the Callwatch Destination Bridge Group shows "UnKnown Ipsc" when transmitting to a talkgroup, then something is wrong -- check your talkgroup number and timeslot.  Note:  Please limit test transmissions on the statewide talkgroups.

Throw out your call sign.  Switch to RVA Metro or VA Statewide, listen for a few moments to make sure the channel is free, and make a call.  Always specify which talkgroup you're using.  "AB1CDE listening on Richmond Metro" or "W9XYZ monitoring Virginia Statewide."  This way, users with radios in scan mode, or who are using radios without displays (which is common) will know which talkgroup to respond on.