This Monday night is the fourth of four January DMR Tech Nets about “How to Get Started with DMR (Digital Mobile Radio)”. Last week was an overview of DMR hotspots. This week will be a discussion of the different DMR Networks available for you to use. Your question on Monday will be letting the DMR Tech Net team which DMR networks you monitor & utilize.
Join us on Brandmeister Talk Group 31266 (Michigan Nets channel) for the DMR Tech Net on Monday, January 27th starting at 7:30 PM ET. The net will conclude at 8:25pm to allow time to QSY to BrandMeister talk group 3126 for the Michigan One DMR Net (which begins at 8:30 PM ET).
Every Monday night, join the DMR Tech Net as we try to make Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) easier to understand and fun to use! If you have a topic suggestion for a future DMR Tech Net, please let us know! Send the email to Dana@dmrtechnet.net
Understanding DMR Networks: A Guide for New Users
Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) is a popular mode in amateur radio that enables clear, digital voice communication over repeaters and personal hotspots. However, for a newcomer, the different DMR networks can be confusing. This article will explain the major DMR networks, their features, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
- BrandMeister
BrandMeister is an open, flexible, and highly popular DMR network used worldwide. It allows users to connect through repeaters and personal hotspots while offering advanced features.
Key Features:
- Open system—allows user-configurable talkgroups
- Dashboard for monitoring real-time activity (brandmeister.network)
- Supports dynamic talkgroups and private calls
- Works with hotspots like Pi-Star, OpenSpot, and ZumSpot
Best For:
- Users who want flexibility and the ability to create private talkgroups
- Personal hotspot users
- Worldwide communication
- TGIF Network
The TGIF Network is a newer, community-driven DMR network known for its relaxed approach and custom talkgroups.
Key Features:
- Allows users to create and manage their own talkgroups
- Dashboard available for monitoring (tgif.network)
- Compatible with hotspots
Best For:
- Experimenters who want to create private talkgroups
- Users looking for a more casual, user-driven network
- FreeDMR
FreeDMR is a decentralized and open-source DMR network that offers even more flexibility than BrandMeister.
Key Features:
- No centralized control—each server can operate independently
- Allows local system administrators to customize settings
- Supports private talkgroups and dynamic linking
Best For:
- Advanced users who want complete customization
- Groups setting up their own independent DMR networks
- DMR+
DMR+ is a widely used network that offers structured talkgroups and reliable connectivity for repeater users.
Key Features:
- Strong presence in Europe
- Compatible with major DMR radios
- Reliable and stable network structure
Best For:
- Users looking for a structured and well-maintained system
- European and international users
- YSF (Yaesu System Fusion)
YSF is a digital voice mode developed by Yaesu, often integrated with DMR through cross-mode reflectors.
Key Features:
- Supports both C4FM digital and analog FM modes
- Can be linked to DMR, NXDN, and P25 networks via hotspots
Best For:
- Yaesu radio users
- Those interested in cross-mode operation
- FreeStar
FreeStar is an evolving digital network focused on cross-mode communication and interoperability.
Key Features:
- Supports multiple digital modes
- Community-driven network
Best For:
- Users wanting seamless cross-mode integration
- AmComm
AmComm (American Communications Network) is a growing network aimed at providing seamless digital radio communications.
Key Features:
- Supports multiple digital voice modes
- Focused on interoperability
Best For:
- Users looking for a reliable and expanding digital network
- M17
M17 is an open-source digital voice and data network designed for amateur radio.
Key Features:
- Uses a completely open-source protocol
- No reliance on proprietary hardware or software
Best For:
- Open-source enthusiasts
- Experimenters and developers
- DMR-MARC (Motorola Amateur Radio Club)
DMR-MARC is one of the original DMR networks, created with Motorola infrastructure. It is more structured and often used for regional and statewide communication.
Key Features:
- Requires approval for repeater access
- Uses a structured talkgroup system
- Primarily repeater-based (less hotspot-friendly)
- Strong presence in North America and Europe
Best For:
- Repeater users in well-established DMR communities
- Those who prefer a structured network with dedicated talkgroups
- NXDN
NXDN is a digital voice system used by both commercial and amateur radio operators.
Key Features:
- Narrowband digital voice mode
- Cross-linkable with DMR and other systems
Best For:
- Users who need interoperability with commercial radio systems
- P25
Project 25 (P25) is a digital voice mode commonly used by public safety agencies but is also available for amateur radio.
Key Features:
- Secure and reliable communication
- Can be linked with other digital systems
Best For:
- Public safety professionals and hobbyists interested in P25 technology
- POCSAG
POCSAG is a digital paging system that can be used alongside amateur radio for message broadcasting.
Key Features:
- One-way digital message system
- Used for emergency notifications and amateur paging
Best For:
- Operators interested in digital paging and alerts
- Wires-X
Wires-X is Yaesu’s proprietary internet linking system, allowing users to connect repeaters and nodes worldwide.
Key Features:
- Uses C4FM digital mode for clear audio
- Enables worldwide connectivity through Yaesu’s network
- Supports node and room linking for wide-area communication
Best For:
- Yaesu System Fusion users
- Those looking for global connectivity with high-quality digital voice
- C4FM Network
C4FM is a digital voice mode used primarily by Yaesu radios, often integrated with networks like Wires-X and YSF.
Key Features:
- High-quality digital voice communication
- Supports direct and internet-linked communications
- Interoperable with Yaesu’s digital infrastructure
Best For:
- Yaesu radio users
- Operators looking for clear digital voice with easy linking options
15. D-STAR (Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio)
D-STAR is the first Digital Voice network and is still in use today.
Key Features:
- Has integrated GPS support, APRS-like features, and slow-speed digital data transmission.
- Supported by ICOM & Kenwood
- Uses reflectors (talk groups)
- Requires D-STAR-specific repeaters and gateways.
- Allows call sign routing, meaning you can call a specific user directly, regardless of location.
Best For:
- ICOM & Kenwood radio users
- Operators looking for clear digital voice with easy linking options
- Designed exclusively for amateur radio by the Japan Amateur Radio League (JARL)
Choosing the Right DMR Network
When selecting a DMR network, consider the following factors:
- Repeater Access: If you rely on repeaters, check which network they support.
- Hotspot Usage: If you use a hotspot, BrandMeister and TGIF are great choices.
- Flexibility vs. Structure: BrandMeister and FreeDMR offer flexibility, while DMR-MARC and DMR+ are more structured.
- Talkgroup Needs: If you want custom talkgroups, TGIF or FreeDMR are ideal.
Final Thoughts
Each DMR network has unique strengths, and the best choice depends on your personal needs and available infrastructure. Beginners often start with BrandMeister due to its ease of use, but exploring other networks can enhance your experience.
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To see previous newsletters, check out our website: https://dmrtechnet.net/
You can always chat with the DMR Tech Net team on TGIF talk group 31268, the DMR Tech Net channel or Brandmeister talk group 31266, the Michigan Nets channel.
The DMR Tech Net team is assisting Dustin N8RMA with NCS duties on the Michigan One DMR Net, Monday nights at 8:30 PM ET on BrandMeister Talk Group 3126, the statewide Michigan calling channel.
https://www.michiganonedmr.net/
Here is the list of the upcoming NCS (Net Control Stations) for the Michigan One DMR Net:
- Jan 27 Rick AD8KN
- Feb 3 Steve KC8WXM
- Feb 10 Dustin N8RMA (Allan N4ALK is backup)
- Feb 17 Brad KE8WNV
To hear the audio from this DMR Tech Net, please click HERE:
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| Quick recap | ||
| The meeting focused on the use of digital mobile radio (DMR) and its various modes and networks, with participants sharing their experiences and preferences. The discussion also covered the different digital voice networks and modes available, including Brand Meister, Tgif, and Free DMR, and the challenges and benefits of using them. The conversation ended with a discussion on the Michigan DMR network and its operations, and a reminder about the Michigan Statewide DMR net at 8:30. | ||
| Next steps | ||
| • Dana to upload new content to the DMR Technet website (dmrtechnet.net). | ||
| • Rick (A8KN) to run the Michigan One DMR Net at 8:30 PM on Brandmeister talk group 3126. | ||
| • DMR Technet team to prepare for discussing talk groups as a potential topic for February’s meetings. | ||
| • DMR Technet team to consider inviting Dave (W7DEG) to speak about drones and drone photography on a future net. | ||
| • Listeners to check out the DMR Technet website for new uploaded content. | ||
| • Listeners to explore different DMR networks and talk groups mentioned during the net. | ||
| Summary | ||
| DMR Technet Discussion and Updates | ||
| Dana, the host of the DMR Technet, initiated a discussion on the use of digital mobile radio (DMR) and its various modes and networks. The meeting was broadcasted on Brandmeister talk group 31266, which is the Michigan Nets Channel. The DMR Technet is a directed net, and participants were asked to wait for acknowledgement before proceeding with their comments. The meeting was part of a series of two back-to-back nets on Monday night, with the second one being the Michigan one DMR net at 8:30 PM. Dana also encouraged participants to visit the DMR Technet website for updates and to join the weekly email distribution list. The conversation ended with Tom, the co-founder of the DMR Technet, sharing his experiences with DMR modes and networks. | ||
| Exploring Digital Modes and Networks | ||
| Tom discussed the various digital modes and networks, including DMR, D-Star, and YSF. He mentioned his personal experience with C4FM and DMR, and how he uses BrandMeister and TGIF as his primary networks. Tom also mentioned the DMR Technet website and its informative videos. The conversation ended with a discussion on the different DMR networks, their key points, and who they are best suited for. Dana encouraged attendees to share their experiences and preferences regarding the networks. | ||
| DMR Network Usage and Communication | ||
| Dana led a discussion on the use of DMR networks and modes, with participants sharing their experiences. Paul, from Wellington, New Zealand, primarily uses the BrandMeister network for communication with the DMR Technet and occasionally uses TGIF, DMR plus, and a coordinate array. Norm, from New York, uses TGIF and BrandMeister for communication. He also mentioned using TGIF and bridges from Allstar to DMR for Mcom. The meeting highlighted the versatility and effectiveness of digital voice networks, such as DMR, in facilitating communication across different locations and networks. | ||
| Exploring Digital Networks and Modes | ||
| Dana led a discussion on various digital networks and modes, including BrandMeister, TGIF, and FreeDMR. Larry from Pleasant Lake shared his experience with BrandMeister and TGIF, while John from the Zombie Alert group mentioned his use of the DMR to YSF Bridge. Brad from Ironwood primarily uses BrandMeister and is also experimenting with Motorola radios for P25 configuration. The team also discussed the potential of exploring more networks and talk groups. | ||
| DMR Network Preferences Discussed | ||
| Dana led a discussion on the use of DMR networks, with participants sharing their preferred networks and modes. Brad primarily uses the TGIF network, while Patrick WA4DSR uses BrandMeister. Steve, who was handling netlogger, mainly uses the TGIF network. The team emphasized the importance of keeping things simple, as there are numerous talk groups and channels available. The conversation ended with a call for further check-ins on the topic of different digital voice networks and modes. | ||
| Exploring Digital Modes and Networks | ||
| Dana led a discussion on various digital modes and networks used by participants. Erwin from Melbourne, Australia, shared his experience with DMR Tech Net, while Stan from Port Saint Lucie, Florida, discussed his use of TGIF Network and All-star. Stan also mentioned his involvement with the East Coast Reflector and the DMR-MARC system. The conversation ended with Dana expressing interest in hearing more about Stan’s experiences. | ||
| Digital Voice Networks and Preferences | ||
| Dana led a discussion on various digital voice networks and modes, with participants sharing their experiences and preferences. Lucille reported that her network was working again, and she primarily uses BrandMeister. Dennis from Pennsylvania also uses Brandmeister and TGIF. Erwin from Melbourne, Australia, uses three to four systems, including BrandMeister and FreeDMR, which he finds superior in terms of audio quality. The group also discussed the challenges of using different networks and the importance of understanding the preferences of others in the community. | ||
| Exploring Digital Modes in Amateur Radio | ||
| The discussion focuses on the variety of digital modes and networks available in amateur radio. Tom and Stan both emphasize the benefits of having multiple options, with Tom noting that it’s natural and beneficial for the hobby to have many networks to explore. Stan compares the diversity in digital modes to the limited options in high-frequency bands, suggesting that the abundance of choices in digital radio is a positive development for amateur radio. They agree that while the number of options can be overwhelming, it’s good for operators to find networks and talk groups that suit them, and to continue exploring and innovating in the field. | ||
| Michigan DMR Network Operations Discussed | ||
| In the meeting, Dana initiated a discussion about the Michigan DMR network and its operations. Rick, AD8KN, shared his experiences with the network, mentioning his transition from Mi5 to Brandmeister and his involvement with TGIF. He also expressed interest in trying out different modes and networks. Larry, N8BNE, shared his interest in trying out the DMR Tech Net web page and attempting to set up different group setups for on WPSD. Stan, WB8QJZ, raised an interesting observation about a 5-second delay in audio between two identical radios on different networks. Lucille, KD8PTE, echoed Stan’s observation and suggested that it could be due to different data throughput speeds. Justin, N4FOX, checked in for the first time and expressed his interest in the network. The conversation ended with a reminder about the Michigan One DMR net at 8:30 and the announcement of Rick AD8KN as the net control for the night. | ||