Ham radio is the least beginner friendly hobby I have ever dipped my toe in. Thank you for making a "beginner" friendly video that actually has understandable content.
+1 for this comment. Taking my tech exam in a couple of weeks. To get into very complicated, very expensive version of old-time CB Radio. I have a Yaesu FT3D and no matter how many vids I watch, System Fusion confuses the *** out of me... maybe DMR will be more my "thing"... looking at you, Anytone AT-D878UVII...
Very much agree with your comment - DMR is NOT beginner friendly - I am trying to get my head around this but it is difficult. The video is a good help to start understanding this concept.
@fanooch1 *lol* I can totally understand that sentiment. I got my novice ticket in 1989, and things were a bit different back then. Obviously, Morse Code was a requirement, but then, for the most part, we'd get a radio, try to put up a highly efficient antenna, and do Ham Radio. I did get into packet right after getting my Novice, and then my Technician Class License, but we didn't have the D-Star/DMR/YSF/Internet, and so much else to confuse us. *lol* I do like learning the technology, however. Regardless of what technology is available though, the best part of Ham Radio for me will always be working DX on the HF bands.
Ham radio can be easier. Simple 1 tube transmitter on cw/ morse, plus old but still good beginners receiver on up to used but working well fm mobile plus power supply for local chat, civil defense. Similarly an HF shortwave , 100 watts, from 1985 or later for world wide chat on SSB voice or CW ( lots of fun, not hard to learn - aps on cell. Antenna can be about 36 ft of wire fed in middle with coax about 20 ft up in tree. Talk all over NA and often overseas. DMR later. Local repeaters on FM around 146 MHz or 445 Mhz. Like fishing, bamboo pole and hook on string catches fish. Fancy rod and reel, net, boat catch more, all fun.
Wow, the world's 1st perfect DMR presentation. Not too fast, not too slow. Not too simple, not too complex. I like how you made it about DMR and not about what a funny, colorful, showy personality and image you have. Good job.
I got my ticket back in the mid 90's and fell out of the hobby after the turn of the century for a few different reasons. Anyways, I'm starting to crawl back into the hobby and boy have things changed! I appreciate the effort you put into this video: quick intro, sources and plenty of examples. I still have a lot to do and to learn, but I'm starting to feel better about the content. Good job and thanks again!
@@johnbarolo7083 I ended up using a Motorola Astro Saber model 3. But I also found old ones I used back in the day: Radio Shack HTX 202 & Kenwood TH-22AT. I've ended up with plenty of others for various reasons nabd thankfully one HF rig to get me started with a lil 40m & 80m work.
I was working in terrestrial microwave for the phone company during the transition from analog to digital. Many of the terms being used are bringing back a lot of memories
@@TheSmokinApe yes I did. I had a 1st phone back in the early 70s that was changed to a general. I worked in the days when we still had a tweeker in our shirt pocket. Lol
Thanks for making this video, it answered a lot of my questions. What I particularly like about your videos is that you give the information in an unhurried way, so that the viewer has time to aborb what you are saying. Too many other channels, talk too fast and unclearly or do shouty gabble and have annoying music to distract you in the background. You do it right!!👍👍👍👍👍
Thank you so much for such an informative video. I have been looking for just this video. Without bashing other TH-cam channels I will say that you have cleared up a lot of questions for me. That said I will be watching this video a couple more times so I can fully digest all of the information. Thank you for keeping it simple.
Very nice primer. I'm in Colorado very close to where we just got a massive fire that destroyed much of Superior and Louisville. I need to get serious about emergency communications, and DMR is used quite a bit there. Thank you.
CTCSS is a generic name for it, "PL" is a Registered trade mark for " Private Line " it came into play so repeater users would only hear traffic ment for them. But as you know nothing is private. I have been in commertial radio service and have had a GROL or FCC General Radio Operators Licanse for over 50+ years... lol I guess that dates me. But I have loved Amateur Radio for ever. By the way great video!
Good starter video. Santa brought me a DMR ht and a Jumbo Spot. I use the hotspot with my YSF radio and there is a YSF repeater in range but no DMR repeaters. This video gives me some motivation to drag out the DMR radio and start programming it. Thanks! Jack K5FIT
Thanks Ape,now you’ve explained things in an understandable way,I’m going to commit and get a DMR radio and hotspot,I’ll be working my way through your other DMR content!
Thanks for the great intro to DMR! Just picked up my first DMR (RD-5R) at a local hamfest. Hope to QSO with you at some point once I figure this all out! 73's N8TLS
This is the kind of video that, if you're really not interested in DMR, your eyes will gloss over from the amount of information presented. But, if you are a ham operator, and want to get into DMR, you should really watch this. This does a really good job of walking you through understanding all the aspects so, when you buy your radio, you already have all the information you need to get set up and start utilizing it. Well done!
5:50 “need to connect to DMR network” - so DMR is NOT possible directly from radio to radio? (ie in a desert, no other radio or internet infrastructure) “Simplex” on the end is confusing, sounds like radio to radio (HT to HT) may be possible?
Everything I need to do digitally I can do with Echolink. I prefer to make all my radio contacts on analog, that's where the fun and challenge is at with RF. Great video though for someone who is wanting to do digital. 73' JOHN KC2FBH
Why would you even comment and try and tear down his process. I prefer HF, but I am not coming in here to try and bash what he is saying. I bet DMR would be fun.
FYI - There is a misspelling on your "What DMR Networks Are There?" slide on this video. Check the spelling of the Motorola Amateur Radio Group. Amateur is spelled "Amareur". Great video!
Great starting point! A big help. Newly licensed Ham. Just checking out "what's it all about"? I typically am never satisfied where I am, and will move that way. Still a lot to do to clear my thoughts, but feel more conversational on what to ask for. One question, does this make communications regional, national, and international, or are there limits? Again Thanks!
I'm looking for a quality Mobile DMR unit but can't find anything other than expensive dual DMR/analog units with SOC. I want a superheterodyne unit under $500 if they exist. I Ilike the Yaesu but it uses fusion. Anyone have any suggestions?
Okay. Very good...but, how do Hotspots work? Do I need an ongoing subscription? Do they connect, with wifi, to my modem? ??? I am not even sure of the question/s I should ask.
Hi there. Love your channel name 🤩 you should consider in getting your website domain name (even if you don't have a website you could forward that domain to any url) All the best! 🤙🏽
Thanks for that, it makes it a bit clearer. Here is my problem that sound crazy to me but it is true, I guess. I have purchased a DMR radio twice and then sent it back because I only use a Mac. I get to that part of downloading a CSP and it is always a .exe. Locke me out. Bridge Systems told me to go buy a Windows machine. Or get Windows loaded into my Mac. That is not going to happen. It is hard to believe that the whole DMR community only uses Widows. I really want to get going with this but it seems I am stopped even before I get going.
Especially for DMR radios, I don’t know why they can’t be programmed (code plugs) via standard CSV files or a mobile app via BT, like the Radioddity GS-5B. 🧐☹️
You can buy a $100 laptop from Walmart. Tighten up and prepare your damn self by familiarizing yourself with these radios and communication in general.
@@kurtcobain2632 No shit! So what is your point? I became a HAM in 1977 and used a Windows machine from the time they came out. Windows OS still sucks and yet I had to buy that $100 machine almost a year ago and yes, they still suck. It was, and still is, interesting that the HAM world is still stuck back then when the Apple OS just works with less than half the trouble. It took you this long to make a comment on a 9-month-old TH-cam post? Anyway, thanks for your feedback. The problem was solved months ago.
Thanks for your video! Very good and detailed. It doesn’t inform a complete beginner though if one can create a none-ham ID, you immediately switch into expressing your preferences of siding with the established law/rules. So can one file a none-ham ID? For example my callsign is a registered none-ham callsign. Thanks!
Great video. Can you explain the simplex 99 code. My understanding is it is a code plug place holder to allow your radios to work radio to radio without repeaters which the code IDs do. It is a jumper code? Thx
I have a question about didital as a whole. I do not have a ham license just a gmrs. But I enjoy listening to other hams and air band. Is there a way I can only listen to people around the world without having to put in my call sign which I do not have?
You could listen to a local digital repeated if you have a radio with promiscuous mode. With the hotspots, you do need a call sign to connect to the networks 👍
I'm a big advocate of people writing their own code plugs...painful though that process may be the first time (or two) around. You'll learn a great deal about DMR as you work through all the minutia and gotchas, and you'll be in a far better position to modify it later on if needed. DMR repeaters seem to come and go or make changes with alarming regularity, and that can be a real problem if you're waiting around on someone else to hopefully create an updated version of an older code plug. Not to mention the fact that no two Amateurs seem to organize things quite the same way, and a lot of code plugs are just plain badly written.
The most critical aspect and value I see in ham radio is the fact that it DOESN'T need to work through the Internet to get the real value out of it. In fact, I have it essentially for emergencies when I CAN'T use the Internet. I'm surprised that many hams have an interest in chatting through the Internet via ham radio. Why not just use a cellphone, tablet, or laptop to communicate over the web and save a whole lot of money and hassle?
You don’t actually need a DMR ID to receive on DMR. To talk yes but to just listen. I have a XPR7550 and i have DMR frequencies and talk groups programmed and set to RX Only. No ID required.
So would you recommend someone’s first “real” radio be dmr? I’m looking to upgrade and set up a base station but would like to take it into my car as well so something mobile ideally.
DMR HAM can cause a headache! Its definitely not simple, thats why im the only who try something about that in my city :D but license callsign stopped my registration :(
I am listening to DMR repeaters on my Uniden Bearcat BCD160DN. It has me interested in getting my license. Are you telling me I can't listen on a Tx/Rx radio without a license?
No, I am not. With some of the DMR radios that folks were using at this time, folks had to key-up (which requires a license) to connect to a TG on the repeater. There are radios that can listen w/o keying up and those do not require a license.
Like many others, I wanted to thank you for this FANTASTIC video - you have answered ALL of my questions and I now have a clear idea of what I will need to do. Many thanks, 73 G0BLQ
If we are talking digital then does how many watts your radio has really matter,? I can see if we are talking trying to reach a repeater or simplex but if I have an Open Spot3 tethered to my cell and use my HT I can keep it on low power and talk longer and I will be getting out just fine. HT vs Mobile are = when talking digital or am I wrong?
Are there any radios where you can use both DMR or FM modes, or is a DMR radio exclusively DMR? Would love to have the best of both worlds if possible. thx
I'm not HAM licensed and really am not into being a radio nerd (no offense intended, I'm a computer nerd), however, recent events have motivated me to have a SHTF contingency. Have done a lot of research over the past couple weeks. Probably going to get a Radioddity GS-5B for analog and ease of use. But I also want to be able to communicate radio to radio via encryption and it does not seem this is possible without DMR or other digital protocol which requires a HAM license. Is this correct? Is there no other way to talk encrypted over the air, radio to radio, except with a DMR? I'm willing to get two different radios - one analog and one digital.
You see encryption options more often on DMR radios, it's important to note that it is illegal for a Ham to broadcast an encrypted signal. Also, encryption standards / protocols vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and from radio to radio.
It sucks that DMR is only available to those with a ticket, it stops it being useful for many of our day to day use-cases, (replacing PMR's with something of better quality+distance). Kind of consigns it to be a niche thing for hobbyists :(
USA Ham's are prohibited from using unpublished encryption methods over the air. However businesses are not. Also some bands do have approved radios with such support like AES256. Look at the Motorola DTR radios on the license free ISM 900mhz band. They use digital voice & texting in a frequency hopping spread spectrum method that allows for private radio to radio, talk groups and text messages. These are cheap. Expensive radios like the XPR6550 or XTS5000 can be had with encryption keys but managing key hardware, key loaders and equipment is extremely complex & expensive
@@JohnBaxendale DMR is available to everyone, technically, but you have to check your country's laws first. There is something called dPMR446 which is basically digital radio with 0,5W TX power.
I personally believe DMR as it applies to Amateur Radio, is the most unorthodox mode, Amateurs have ! As it is typically found in the Public Safety realm, under Motorola's moniker, " Moto turbo " ! And fair warning, in my opinion, not for the light hearted, as it offers a large learning curve, as the methods employed by this mode, are strange to a typical Amateur Analog installation Hams are familiar with ! Newer Amateurs may however have an easier time understanding it, as they are typically not marred down with typical beliefs and the operating characteristics Analog systems offer ! And therefore may be more open minded ? And as with other digital modes, your signals are either into the system, " On ", or not into the system, " Off " ! The same is true with Simplex operations. As your signal must meet the threshold of a given receiver, or communications won't be had ! Too, it has been my experience, that you will experience times when, for whatever reason you will believe you are transmitting, and your radio did not communicate with the repeater. ? Which can cause some frustration ! And has made myself and others wonder if that is the nature of the beast, how safe would it be for Police departments to use, with these types of glitches ? Something as Amateurs, we can live with ! Fair Warning, I have known more than one Amateur to leave DMR, and never look back ! One even throwing his HT into the Circular File ! So my advice is do your due diligence, before diving in, head first ! As you may discover DMR is not for you ! Hope someone found this useful !
Well organized video and very informative....thanks!! Have a question, if I loaded a dedicated laptop with Linux Is there a way I could use it as a hotspot? Somehow attach a generic MMDVM board to it?
Glad you liked the video! I’m sure there is a way to do it, I think I have seen mmdvm boards that have an USB plug to attach to a laptop but I have not tried it 👍
@@TheSmokinApe Well I may give it a try. I've been in the computer business for 25 years and have a few laptops hanging around. Just tested out tech and general Saturday. New to ham and waiting on my call sign.
I really wish you had published the slides with a link either in the description or a pinned comment. Hard to read low contrast slides on my cracked screen! Lots of DMR traffic on local repeaters. I have a DMR ID & an inexpensive DMR radio. Yours is the least confusing 'beginners' intros of the half dozen I've read/watched. I still don't understand: • What is the purpose of Listen list? • Does DMR hotspot allow you to ... ... DMR with an analog radio? ... DMR without a DMR radio? ... have a voicemail function? ... serve as a local DMR 'repeater' for your DMR radio even if your neighborhood repeater(s) are full of other traffic or unreliable?
Are you able to knock up a video on using /setting up a duplex hotspot for dmr and how / what is needed in the radio to take advantage of the duplex capability, yet to find an video that is understandable, good job on this video 73 ZL1CTS
Thanks for the very good presentation. Maybe I am not getting it but is there a reason why DMR radios don't have a Hotspot integrated in the radio? The WiFi modem can connect to the available WiFi network and you won't need to carry a HotSpot.
Hotspots are NOT repeaters. They don't work like repeaters at all. They are simplex access points that connect your handheld or mobile to the dmr network directly.
Hello question, I have a new in the box tyt 380 hand held DMR can I just enter my location will it load the DMR groups and tiers and stuff? Thank you friend.
Is dstar its own stand alone digital system, or is it just their format for accessing dmr? If that makes sense. I am interested in dmr, but Im a bit unclear as to what direction to go. Fusion, dstar, etc etc. If I get fusion, am I limited to just that “system” for format....or does it allow me to access the dmr world?
Ham radio is the least beginner friendly hobby I have ever dipped my toe in. Thank you for making a "beginner" friendly video that actually has understandable content.
Much of the info isn’t approachable or consumable, I’m trying to help with that. Thanks for watching and for the comment 👍
+1 for this comment. Taking my tech exam in a couple of weeks. To get into very complicated, very expensive version of old-time CB Radio. I have a Yaesu FT3D and no matter how many vids I watch, System Fusion confuses the *** out of me... maybe DMR will be more my "thing"... looking at you, Anytone AT-D878UVII...
Very much agree with your comment - DMR is NOT beginner friendly - I am trying to get my head around this but it is difficult. The video is a good help to start understanding this concept.
@fanooch1 *lol* I can totally understand that sentiment.
I got my novice ticket in 1989, and things were a bit different back then. Obviously, Morse Code was a requirement, but then, for the most part, we'd get a radio, try to put up a highly efficient antenna, and do Ham Radio. I did get into packet right after getting my Novice, and then my Technician Class License, but we didn't have the D-Star/DMR/YSF/Internet, and so much else to confuse us. *lol* I do like learning the technology, however.
Regardless of what technology is available though, the best part of Ham Radio for me will always be working DX on the HF bands.
Ham radio can be easier. Simple 1 tube transmitter on cw/ morse, plus old but still good beginners receiver on up to used but working well fm mobile plus power supply for local chat, civil defense. Similarly an HF shortwave , 100 watts, from 1985 or later for world wide chat on SSB voice or CW ( lots of fun, not hard to learn - aps on cell. Antenna can be about 36 ft of wire fed in middle with coax about 20 ft up in tree. Talk all over NA and often overseas. DMR later. Local repeaters on FM around 146 MHz or 445 Mhz. Like fishing, bamboo pole and hook on string catches fish. Fancy rod and reel, net, boat catch more, all fun.
Wow, the world's 1st perfect DMR presentation. Not too fast, not too slow. Not too simple, not too complex. I like how you made it about DMR and not about what a funny, colorful, showy personality and image you have. Good job.
Glad it was helpful!
Notarubicon does that too . Not too slow not too fast not too complex.
Re : "not to fast not to slow"
>> cogwheel button on youtube
>> speed
Usually always solves the quoted aforementioned
Thinking of getting into DMR. This was one of the best videos I have seen for the beginner. Thanks for taking the time to record and upload this.
Awesome, glad you liked it 👍
The multitude of painful tutorials I sat through before I found yours. Thank you Ape!!!
I’m new to DMR and yours is the perfect gateway.
Hey CB, glad it was helpful 👍
I got my ticket back in the mid 90's and fell out of the hobby after the turn of the century for a few different reasons. Anyways, I'm starting to crawl back into the hobby and boy have things changed! I appreciate the effort you put into this video: quick intro, sources and plenty of examples. I still have a lot to do and to learn, but I'm starting to feel better about the content. Good job and thanks again!
Glad you liked the video, best of luck jumping back into the hobby 👍
I am doing the exact same thing you did. Can you share with me which radio you chose to get back in the hobby?
@@johnbarolo7083 I ended up using a Motorola Astro Saber model 3. But I also found old ones I used back in the day: Radio Shack HTX 202 & Kenwood TH-22AT. I've ended up with plenty of others for various reasons nabd thankfully one HF rig to get me started with a lil 40m & 80m work.
Great review, you hit on some topics that are often heavy with questions. Thanks!
Thanks Jason, glad you liked it 👍
Thank you!! I got a BTECH 6x2 as a gift and have been trying to understand DMR. This, and the other 6x2 videos you have are so helpful.
Awesome TG, glad you like the videos 👍
I was working in terrestrial microwave for the phone company during the transition from analog to digital. Many of the terms being used are bringing back a lot of memories
Thats cool, did you work with RF?
@@TheSmokinApe yes I did. I had a 1st phone back in the early 70s that was changed to a general. I worked in the days when we still had a tweeker in our shirt pocket. Lol
By the way you are a great presenter. It’s not over the top but right to the point. You should be an instructor at the local college.
@@gregbeckern9wxg580 that’s awesome, I bet that was a fun time to be in telecom.
@@TheSmokinApe I really enjoyed it. Had a truck load of high end test equipment that there is no way I could afford for myself.
Great Job. Thanks for taking your time to give us a clue. It's appreciated.
Thanks for watching 👍
Smoking ape I greatly appreciate the simple knowledge you have kind sir
Glad you like the videos! Thanks for watching!
Absolutely the best DMR video I have found
Awesome Clem, glad you liked it 👍
Awesome presentation. I just got my first DMR radio and this is a perfect introduction. Thanks for taking the time.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for making this video, it answered a lot of my questions. What I particularly like about your videos is that you give the information in an unhurried way, so that the viewer has time to aborb what you are saying. Too many other channels, talk too fast and unclearly or do shouty gabble and have annoying music to distract you in the background. You do it right!!👍👍👍👍👍
Thanks Ace, glad you like them 👍
Thank you, just started looking into DMR and this was really helpful! 73 from Athens, Greece
Glad it was helpful 👍
Great video. I'm going for my test in 2 weeks and looking to purchase a dmr mobile I had lots of questions and you answered a bunch. Thanks
Glad it was helpful, good luck on the test 👍
Wow! I'm happy I spent time watching this to learn about DMR.subscribed!
Awesome, glad you liked the video 👍
Thank you so much for such an informative video. I have been looking for just this video. Without bashing other TH-cam channels I will say that you have cleared up a lot of questions for me. That said I will be watching this video a couple more times so I can fully digest all of the information. Thank you for keeping it simple.
Glad it was helpful, thanks for watching Arnold!
Exceptional video - sorted through it without being overwhelmed
Glad it was helpful, thanks for watching Joe 👍
I've read that tier 1 is basically the european PMR446 bands and spec, but digital, meaning license free use in Europe.
Good Video :) Sean, here. WB4UR in Central Virginia. I am currently using a TYT UV MD380 as well as the MD 380 UHF only HT.
Very nice!
Nice job Ape! Thanks for sharing.
Glad you liked it Bob!
great video Ape! I'm sending the link to my buddy John who is trying to get up to speed with DMR - this is going to help him immensely
Thanks Rob! Hopefully he finds it helpful 👍
Very nice primer. I'm in Colorado very close to where we just got a massive fire that destroyed much of Superior and Louisville. I need to get serious about emergency communications, and DMR is used quite a bit there. Thank you.
Glad you liked it, thanks for watching Tom
Wow. I’ve been out of Amateur Radio for a good while. Just started back. Soo much has changed/developed. Thanks for the info on DMR. Liked and sub’d.
Thanks for the sub, glad you liked the video 👍
CTCSS is a generic name for it, "PL" is a Registered trade mark for " Private Line " it came into play so repeater users would only hear traffic ment for them. But as you know nothing is private. I have been in commertial radio service and have had a GROL or FCC General Radio Operators Licanse for over 50+ years... lol I guess that dates me. But I have loved Amateur Radio for ever.
By the way great video!
Thanks for the comment Coy!
Pointing those who ask me frequently about DMR here!!!! Good video.
Thanks Kyle, appreciate the support 👍
TheSmokinApe yes, this has been a great orientation - I’ve been trying to make sense of DMR for a couple days via various TH-cam videos 😆
Good starter video. Santa brought me a DMR ht and a Jumbo Spot. I use the hotspot with my YSF radio and there is a YSF repeater in range but no DMR repeaters. This video gives me some motivation to drag out the DMR radio and start programming it. Thanks! Jack K5FIT
Hey Jack, glad it was helpful. Thanks for watching!
Thanks Ape,now you’ve explained things in an understandable way,I’m going to commit and get a DMR radio and hotspot,I’ll be working my way through your other DMR content!
Glad it was helpful, thanks for watching Simon!
Thanks for the basic explanation. For the way I operate, I’ll just stick with FM.
Nothing wrong with FM, thanks for watching QRPL 👍
P25 is another easy one
informative overview for a beginner in DMR
Thanks John, glad it was helpful 👍
thanks for this, gave me a big quick start on DMR
Awesome, glad it helped Daniel 👍
Good presentation, still very relevant.
Thanks, glad you liked it 👍
Just starting to learn about DMR. Thanks for this video, helped alot
Glad it was helpful Andy 👍
Excellent coverage of a complex subject matter. Thank you!
Thanks Neubert 👍
Great video. I shared the link with a friend for his edification.
Thanks, glad you liked it 👍
I think that wraps that up!
Temporarily Offline haha, sure does, thanks for watching 👍
Thanks for the great intro to DMR! Just picked up my first DMR (RD-5R) at a local hamfest. Hope to QSO with you at some point once I figure this all out! 73's N8TLS
Best of luck, thanks for watching!
New to this so found your video helpful. Thanks.
Thanks Dirk, glad you liked it. Welcome to the hobby 👍
Thnxs have no idea about DRM in and out. What I need live in the country KQ4CD
Outstanding and most informative video!
Thanks, glad you liked it! 👍
@@TheSmokinApe Hell yeah! Wish this video was out years ago when I started using DMR with an MD-380
Same! 😆
This is the kind of video that, if you're really not interested in DMR, your eyes will gloss over from the amount of information presented. But, if you are a ham operator, and want to get into DMR, you should really watch this. This does a really good job of walking you through understanding all the aspects so, when you buy your radio, you already have all the information you need to get set up and start utilizing it. Well done!
Thanks for the feedback Ky4LJ, glad you liked it...
Hahahaha I'm sure this would put my wife (non-ham) to sleep! However, as a ham wanting to try out DMR this was very enjoyable! Well done Smokin!
5:50 “need to connect to DMR network” - so DMR is NOT possible directly from radio to radio? (ie in a desert, no other radio or internet infrastructure) “Simplex” on the end is confusing, sounds like radio to radio (HT to HT) may be possible?
Connecting to a DMR Network requires a connected repeater or hotspot. You can communicate radio to radio via simplex.
Everything I need to do digitally I can do with Echolink. I prefer to make all my radio contacts on analog, that's where the fun and challenge is at with RF. Great video though for someone who is wanting to do digital. 73' JOHN KC2FBH
Thanks for watching Nightowl 👍
Why would you even comment and try and tear down his process. I prefer HF, but I am not coming in here to try and bash what he is saying. I bet DMR would be fun.
Wow. This guy thanks US for watching? Thank you!!
Thanks Susie, glad you liked it 👍
Thanks for the information
No worries
Excellent vid! Thanks so much.
Glad it was helpful!
I hold several licenses for ham gmrs and so forth but am just learning dmr
DMR is allot of fun 👍
9:48 “which DMR HT should II buy” should be updated for Anytone AT-868! 👍
I'm still pretty happy with the BTECH DMR-6X2
Anytone 878 plus is the better model.
Fantastic!! Thank you. Next question: witch portable tranceicer do I need?
I really like the Anytone DMR radios 👍
@@TheSmokinApeThank you. Received my dmr id. 😊 is it nescessary to use an hotspot? I think not when I am in the mountains for a walk….?😊
You would use the hotspot unless using a local repeater or talking simplex with someone close by...
Perfect, just what I needed to help get me started. Thanks!
Awesome Brian, glad you liked it 👍
I love your content , it has helped me so much !
Glad to hear it HOLTZ, thanks for watching 👍
lots of great info dude awesome video
The Baofeng DM-1702 is a Digital DMR Radio just to update
Thanks Paul 👍
Good info Mr Clarence Ape. :)
I will be programming my radio and hotspot this week and need all the help I can get.😄👍
Good luck with it!
FYI - There is a misspelling on your "What DMR Networks Are There?" slide on this video. Check the spelling of the Motorola Amateur Radio Group. Amateur is spelled "Amareur". Great video!
Thanks for the heads up!
Great starting point! A big help. Newly licensed Ham. Just checking out "what's it all about"? I typically am never satisfied where I am, and will move that way. Still a lot to do to clear my thoughts, but feel more conversational on what to ask for. One question, does this make communications regional, national, and international, or are there limits? Again Thanks!
There are people using DMR everywhere so you can literally talk to people world wide 👍
I'm looking for a quality Mobile DMR unit but can't find anything other than expensive dual DMR/analog units with SOC. I want a superheterodyne unit under $500 if they exist.
I Ilike the Yaesu but it uses fusion. Anyone have any suggestions?
Very informative. Thank you.
Glad you liked it TM!
Okay. Very good...but, how do Hotspots work? Do I need an ongoing subscription? Do they connect, with wifi, to my modem? ??? I am not even sure of the question/s I should ask.
I connect mine to WiFi which doesn’t require a subscription 👍
Hi there. Love your channel name 🤩 you should consider in getting your website domain name (even if you don't have a website you could forward that domain to any url) All the best! 🤙🏽
Hey Goanfranco, thanks for checking it out 👍
Thanks for that, it makes it a bit clearer. Here is my problem that sound crazy to me but it is true, I guess. I have purchased a DMR radio twice and then sent it back because I only use a Mac. I get to that part of downloading a CSP and it is always a .exe. Locke me out. Bridge Systems told me to go buy a Windows machine. Or get Windows loaded into my Mac. That is not going to happen. It is hard to believe that the whole DMR community only uses Widows. I really want to get going with this but it seems I am stopped even before I get going.
Yeah, it’s a problem for sure. Someone may have developed a solution but I’m not aware of it... best of luck 👍
Especially for DMR radios, I don’t know why they can’t be programmed (code plugs) via standard CSV files or a mobile app via BT, like the Radioddity GS-5B. 🧐☹️
You can buy a $100 laptop from Walmart. Tighten up and prepare your damn self by familiarizing yourself with these radios and communication in general.
@@kurtcobain2632 No shit! So what is your point? I became a HAM in 1977 and used a Windows machine from the time they came out. Windows OS still sucks and yet I had to buy that $100 machine almost a year ago and yes, they still suck. It was, and still is, interesting that the HAM world is still stuck back then when the Apple OS just works with less than half the trouble. It took you this long to make a comment on a 9-month-old TH-cam post? Anyway, thanks for your feedback. The problem was solved months ago.
Stan brother. I might have came off harsh. My point was don't let a small obsticle or prejudiced feeling against windows stop your hobby.
Thanks for your video! Very good and detailed. It doesn’t inform a complete beginner though if one can create a none-ham ID, you immediately switch into expressing your preferences of siding with the established law/rules. So can one file a none-ham ID? For example my callsign is a registered none-ham callsign. Thanks!
Great video. Can you explain the simplex 99 code. My understanding is it is a code plug place holder to allow your radios to work radio to radio without repeaters which the code IDs do. It is a jumper code? Thx
Check example 1.8, they explain way better than I could: dm3mat.darc.de/qdmr/manual/ch01s03.html
Thank you
Great video Ape.
Thanks Shane, glad you liked it 👍
good Job! Thanks for all the info.
Thanks!
Right away, you have to dive into the networks.
Do these work simplex?
They do work on simplex 👍
Nice coverage of the material Ape! Keep up the relevant content! 73, KF6IF
Thanks for watching Phil 👍
I have a question about didital as a whole. I do not have a ham license just a gmrs. But I enjoy listening to other hams and air band. Is there a way I can only listen to people around the world without having to put in my call sign which I do not have?
You could listen to a local digital repeated if you have a radio with promiscuous mode. With the hotspots, you do need a call sign to connect to the networks 👍
Thank you, good tutorial... 73!
Glad it was helpful!
I'm a big advocate of people writing their own code plugs...painful though that process may be the first time (or two) around. You'll learn a great deal about DMR as you work through all the minutia and gotchas, and you'll be in a far better position to modify it later on if needed. DMR repeaters seem to come and go or make changes with alarming regularity, and that can be a real problem if you're waiting around on someone else to hopefully create an updated version of an older code plug. Not to mention the fact that no two Amateurs seem to organize things quite the same way, and a lot of code plugs are just plain badly written.
I totally agree, the last thing a new DMR user needs is a badly organized and poorly written CP. Thanks for checking out the video Tom.
The most critical aspect and value I see in ham radio is the fact that it DOESN'T need to work through the Internet to get the real value out of it. In fact, I have it essentially for emergencies when I CAN'T use the Internet. I'm surprised that many hams have an interest in chatting through the Internet via ham radio. Why not just use a cellphone, tablet, or laptop to communicate over the web and save a whole lot of money and hassle?
You do know that you can talk radio to radio without the aid of the internet right?
Thus may be a primitive question but will I be able to listen to police in my area that use DMR on my extended coverage 2m/70cm transceiver
It's going to depend on the radio and the frequencies the public services in your area use.
You don’t actually need a DMR ID to receive on DMR. To talk yes but to just listen. I have a XPR7550 and i have DMR frequencies and talk groups programmed and set to RX Only. No ID required.
Correct
So would you recommend someone’s first “real” radio be dmr? I’m looking to upgrade and set up a base station but would like to take it into my car as well so something mobile ideally.
If they are interested in digital modes, not all people like DMR for various reasons.
I programmed DSTAR sometime ago but used a commercial DMR on a job I worked but nobody knew the programming. At the moment this looks complicated.
It can be at first but with practice it gets easy 👍
not sure if I would ever need to but will a regular analog amp work on dmr? I've had no problems with c4 fm
It would have to be able to handle the fasts switching of the Time Slots
DMR HAM can cause a headache! Its definitely not simple, thats why im the only who try something about that in my city :D but license callsign stopped my registration :(
I am listening to DMR repeaters on my Uniden Bearcat BCD160DN. It has me interested in getting my license. Are you telling me I can't listen on a Tx/Rx radio without a license?
No, I am not. With some of the DMR radios that folks were using at this time, folks had to key-up (which requires a license) to connect to a TG on the repeater. There are radios that can listen w/o keying up and those do not require a license.
So I could not connect an icom id-5100a directly to wifi. I have to go through Raspberry? Too bad
Yeah, you need a vocoder like what’s on the MMDVD board 👍
Thank you sir 73s
👍
Very informative thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Like many others, I wanted to thank you for this FANTASTIC video - you have answered ALL of my questions and I now have a clear idea of what I will need to do. Many thanks, 73 G0BLQ
Awesome Henry, glad to hear it was helpful.
If we are talking digital then does how many watts your radio has really matter,? I can see if we are talking trying to reach a repeater or simplex but if I have an Open Spot3 tethered to my cell and use my HT I can keep it on low power and talk longer and I will be getting out just fine.
HT vs Mobile are = when talking digital or am I wrong?
Use the lowest power when using a hotspot. You will want the extra power if / when doing repeater of simplex work like you said.
Are there any radios where you can use both DMR or FM modes, or is a DMR radio exclusively DMR? Would love to have the best of both worlds if possible. thx
Most DMR radios will do digital and analog 👍
I'm not HAM licensed and really am not into being a radio nerd (no offense intended, I'm a computer nerd), however, recent events have motivated me to have a SHTF contingency. Have done a lot of research over the past couple weeks. Probably going to get a Radioddity GS-5B for analog and ease of use. But I also want to be able to communicate radio to radio via encryption and it does not seem this is possible without DMR or other digital protocol which requires a HAM license. Is this correct? Is there no other way to talk encrypted over the air, radio to radio, except with a DMR? I'm willing to get two different radios - one analog and one digital.
You see encryption options more often on DMR radios, it's important to note that it is illegal for a Ham to broadcast an encrypted signal. Also, encryption standards / protocols vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and from radio to radio.
It sucks that DMR is only available to those with a ticket, it stops it being useful for many of our day to day use-cases, (replacing PMR's with something of better quality+distance). Kind of consigns it to be a niche thing for hobbyists :(
@@JohnBaxendale allways remember, if your not caught and your not bothering other people, its not wrong/illegal, use this info how you will
USA Ham's are prohibited from using unpublished encryption methods over the air.
However businesses are not.
Also some bands do have approved radios with such support like AES256.
Look at the Motorola DTR radios on the license free ISM 900mhz band.
They use digital voice & texting in a frequency hopping spread spectrum method that allows for private radio to radio, talk groups and text messages.
These are cheap.
Expensive radios like the XPR6550 or XTS5000 can be had with encryption keys but managing key hardware, key loaders and equipment is extremely complex & expensive
@@JohnBaxendale DMR is available to everyone, technically, but you have to check your country's laws first. There is something called dPMR446 which is basically digital radio with 0,5W TX power.
Curious if anyone knows the approximate data rates for DMR operation? Great video and thanks for posting Ape!
Glad you liked it, sorry I don’t know the data rates
great stuff!
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching Sam!
@@TheSmokinApe I'm almost done with this video and think you did a pretty good job of explaining everything
I see that my BTECH has AES256 support, will that work even on repeater networks? I know it wouldn't be legal, but is it technically possible?
Sorry man, I don't have any experience with that.
@@TheSmokinApe all good, great video regardless it really helped me understand this thing
I personally believe DMR as it applies to Amateur Radio, is the most unorthodox mode, Amateurs have !
As it is typically found in the Public Safety realm, under Motorola's moniker,
" Moto turbo " !
And fair warning, in my opinion, not for the light hearted, as it offers a large learning curve, as the methods employed by this mode, are strange to a typical Amateur Analog installation Hams are familiar with !
Newer Amateurs may however have an easier time understanding it, as they are typically not marred down with typical beliefs and the operating characteristics Analog systems offer !
And therefore may be more open minded ?
And as with other digital modes, your signals are either into the system,
" On ", or not into the system,
" Off " !
The same is true with Simplex operations.
As your signal must meet the threshold of a given receiver, or communications won't be had !
Too, it has been my experience, that you will experience times when, for whatever reason you will believe you are transmitting, and your radio did not communicate with the repeater. ?
Which can cause some frustration !
And has made myself and others wonder if that is the nature of the beast, how safe would it be for Police departments to use, with these types of glitches ?
Something as Amateurs, we can live with !
Fair Warning, I have known more than one Amateur to leave DMR, and never look back !
One even throwing his HT into the Circular File !
So my advice is do your due diligence, before diving in, head first !
As you may discover DMR is not for you !
Hope someone found this useful !
Well organized video and very informative....thanks!! Have a question, if I loaded a dedicated laptop with Linux Is there a way I could use it as a hotspot? Somehow attach a generic MMDVM board to it?
Glad you liked the video! I’m sure there is a way to do it, I think I have seen mmdvm boards that have an USB plug to attach to a laptop but I have not tried it 👍
@@TheSmokinApe Well I may give it a try. I've been in the computer business for 25 years and have a few laptops hanging around. Just tested out tech and general Saturday. New to ham and waiting on my call sign.
Congrats of passing the test 👍
I really wish you had published the slides with a link either in the description or a pinned comment. Hard to read low contrast slides on my cracked screen!
Lots of DMR traffic on local repeaters.
I have a DMR ID & an inexpensive DMR radio.
Yours is the least confusing 'beginners' intros of the half dozen I've read/watched.
I still don't understand:
• What is the purpose of Listen list?
• Does DMR hotspot allow you to ...
... DMR with an analog radio?
... DMR without a DMR radio?
... have a voicemail function?
... serve as a local DMR 'repeater' for your DMR radio even if your neighborhood repeater(s) are full of other traffic or unreliable?
Are you able to knock up a video on using /setting up a duplex hotspot for dmr and how / what is needed in the radio to take advantage of the duplex capability, yet to find an video that is understandable, good job on this video 73 ZL1CTS
Sorry, I haven't messed with the duplex spots.
great video thx
Thanks for watching Chris 👍
@@TheSmokinApe I was impressed it was very technical
Thanks man, coming from a DMR expert like you means something 👍
Thanks for the very good presentation. Maybe I am not getting it but is there a reason why DMR radios don't have a Hotspot integrated in the radio? The WiFi modem can connect to the available WiFi network and you won't need to carry a HotSpot.
It would be great if they did.
Hotspots are NOT repeaters. They don't work like repeaters at all. They are simplex access points that connect your handheld or mobile to the dmr network directly.
Hello question, I have a new in the box tyt 380 hand held DMR can I just enter my location will it load the DMR groups and tiers and stuff? Thank you friend.
Is dstar its own stand alone digital system, or is it just their format for accessing dmr? If that makes sense. I am interested in dmr, but Im a bit unclear as to what direction to go. Fusion, dstar, etc etc. If I get fusion, am I limited to just that “system” for format....or does it allow me to access the dmr world?
Dstar is a different stand anlone environment. You can cross over from Fusion to DMR with a HotSpot.
Thank you! Basic.
You’re welcome 👍
thanks for the content. been looking at anytone 878uvII. looking for some input.
thank you KQ4CD
No problem 👍