DMR

My first step into digital radio was a TYT MD380 handheld and my first thoughts on setting it up were "where do I start". There are many new terms not seen with analogue radios, Color Code, Code Plug, Time Slots. In practice I found it relatively straight forward as there is plenty of information available on the net. After finding a suitable Code Plugs to build on it did not take too long to get on air. I was living in Cambridgeshire at the time and the GB7PY and GB7PI repeaters were well within range so these became my primary access points to the DMR system.

After relocating to the Isles of Scilly where the nearest repeater GB3SI is 49 miles away with no clear path neither my 2m nor 70cms radios were usable from my QTH so DMR took on a more important roll.

I am running 2 hotspots, 1 a RPi zero W with Simplex MMDVM running Pi-Star and hotspot 2 a RPi 3 with a Duplex MMDVM running WPSD.

Hotspot 1 is connected to a 3 element Yagi pointing long the island. Hotspot 3 is connected to a VHF broadcast halo type folded dipole with an small 2w amp. Although this aerial is technically for VHF it works very well on 70cms. Both hotspots allow me to operate portable up to 2km from my shack.

Check out the following links.

Setting up Pi-Star to use Multiple NETWORKS on a Jumbo Spot MMDVM hot spot.

After finally finding time to relook at my Pi-Star Hot Spot I have completely re-written my earlier notes combining further information on some of the more advanced features. This manual has been based on a simplex Jumbo Spot mmdvm and on the Boafeng DM1701 radio running GD77. The basic setup process can also be applied to setting up a Duplex Hot Spot as well, there are 3 settings that need changing.

I have setup 3 Networks using the DMR Gateway, Network 1 - Brandmeister, Network 2 - Phoenix / DMR+ and Network 3 - FreeDMR for the South West Cluster in Cornwall (SWC). Alternate networks can easily be setup by replacing one of the Network settings that are not required.

I have made my notes available below just click on the PDF and enjoy. If you find anything that is wrong and needs changing  or any constructive comments then please let me know via my contact form.

As of the 31st October 2024 I now have a fully functioning Duplex Repeater Hot Spot up and running.

Update May 2025

I thought I'd have a look at WPSD as it seems many users like it. My first impressions are positive as I had it up and running within an hour on my Duplex MMDVM. The only thing that gave my a issue was deciding on the correct modem to use as the first one I chose did not work, eventually I tried the ZumSpot modem and it booted up ok. This may now be my preferred OS for my HotSpot time will tell.

Version 27 updated May 2025

My early days into DMR and Hot Spots were greatly helped by Chris (F5VMR - G4NAB) and Darren M7DUB without who's help I would not have managed to get my hot spot working, further details can be found on Chris's web site https://g4nab.co.uk

Update July 2024 - Boafeng DM1701

I could not resist getting another DMR radio the Boafeng DM 1701 after seeing it on one of the Chinese sales sites at a good price. It was described as a GD77 but had the standard Firmware not the OpenGD77 Firmware. Having seen so many posts online by people using the GD77 I was eager to give this a try.

It didn't take long to find the appropriate software and once installed on my PC I was able to upgrade the stock firmware to the latest OpenGD77 with little difficulty. My next task was to find a suitable code plug. Luckily someone had all ready done a fantastic job in building the perfect file for almost all the repeaters within the UK plus other interesting frequencies within the capabilities of the radio.

The OpenGD77 firmware and CPS have been writen by radio hams for radio hams and it certainly shows. The result is a relatively simple piece of software with lots of added functionality that is easy to learn and use and turns a good radio into a fantastic radio.

My first impressions of the DM1701 on air is  that it is a very usable radio my QSO reports have all been "clear audio and good signal". I tend to use DMR when I am out and about around the island up to 2km from my HotSpot at my QTH. The DM1701 seems to receive better than my MD380 in areas where the signal generally drops out so my next task is to check what range I can achieve while out portable.

The inbuilt Satellite functionality is also very good, I've yet to really get into sat working. After setting up I have listened to a number of satellites and I'm impressed by the quality of reception just with the stock aerial indoors.

After finally building a 5 element Yagi for 2m I am able to work portable through my nearest DMR repeater GD7PC at the Marconi Center in Poldhu, Cornwall which is around 78km. Unfortunately my QTH is on the wrong side of the island with no path to the mainland.

Having spent some time using my new radio it's AWESOME.