Join Us Monday Night, June 24th From 19:30-20:30 As We Discuss Talk Groups & Channels

We’re on Brandmeister talk group 3126 statewide Michigan for the DMR Tech Net on Monday, June 24th from 7:30pm ET – 8:30pm ET.

Join us Monday as talk groups & channels will be our topic. We’ll discuss different talk groups that we follow and use. This will be the last DMR Tech Net on BrandMeister talk group 3126, statewide Michigan, as we’re moving to BrandMeister talk group 31266, the Michigan Nets channel next week on July 1^st.

We’d like to hear your comments about which talk groups you’re active on, and why.

Join us as we demystify and have fun with DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) every Monday night!

Beginning July 1^{st—————————————->}

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.

If you have a comment or a DMR topic idea for the DMR Tech Net, please share it with any of us. Send an email to: steve@dmrtechnet.net, stan@dmrtechnet.net, tom@dmrtechnet.net, dana@dmrtechnet.net, brian@dmrtechnet.net, or brad@dmrtechnet.net.

If you want to subscribe to this newsletter, send an email to subscribe@dmrtechnet.net and we’ll get you added to the list. If you want to see previous newsletters, check out our website: https://dmrtechnet.net/

Here are the Michigan DMR nets we know about. Please join in & participate on them.
Saturday:

7:00pm Arrow DMR Net on BrandMeister talk group 3126

7:30pm DMR Trivia Net on TGIF talk group 31268

Sunday:

6:30pm UP (Upper Peninsula) Net on BrandMeister talk group 31268

Monday:

7:30pm DMR Tech Net on BrandMeister talk group 3126 (we’ll be moving on July 1^st to BrandMeister talk group 31266, the Michigan Nets channel)

8:30pm Michigan One DMR Net on BrandMeister talk group 3126

The DMR Tech Net team is branching out with a monthly show called DMR Tech Net TV on Zoom the third Tuesday of each month from 8pm-9pm ET. The next broadcast will be July 16.

We’re working to schedule Corey Dean N3FE to go over the BrandMeister USA network, how to get the most out of using it, and best practices.
We’re also working to reschedule Steve Miller KC1AWV and Ed Wilson N2XDD to discuss the M17 Network Project.
Stay tuned as we work on finding a time and date convenient for them.
If you missed previous DMR Tech Net TV broadcasts, you can watch them on our YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq4TAnA-_yE7kdcuaKzw8rQ
If you have a topic or issue you would like discussed, let us know.

Join the DMR Tech Net team on Telegram. Just search for “DMR Tech Net.” To download Telegram, go to: https://web.telegram.org and/or https://desktop.telegram.org/

Join the DMR Tech Net team on Discord: To join the DMR Tech Net team, click this link: https://discord.gg/EV82GNuCaS . To download Discord, go to https://discord.com

The DMR Tech Net team is helping Dustin N8RMA with NCS duties on the Michigan One DMR net on Monday nights. If you would like to help with our schedule of Net Control Station operators, send an email to dana@dmrtechnet.net as we need NCS help on July 22 & July 29.

Here’s the upcoming list of upcoming NCS’:

June 24 Bob KB8DQQ
July 1 Steve KC8WXM
July 8 Dustin N8RMA
July 15 Brad KE8WNV
July 22 ?
July 29 ?

https://www.michiganonedmr.net/

In the context of amateur radio, a Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) Talk Group is a virtual channel that allows a group of users to communicate with each other within a DMR network. These Talk Groups are organized by shared interests, geographical regions, or specific functions, enabling efficient and targeted communications among amateur radio operators. Here’s a comprehensive explanation of what an amateur radio DMR Talk Group is, how it functions, and its significance:

Understanding DMR Talk Groups in Amateur Radio:

Digital Mobile Radio (DMR):
- DMR is a digital radio standard used by amateur radio operators and other communication services. It provides improved voice quality, better spectrum efficiency, and advanced features compared to analog systems.
- In the amateur radio community, DMR is popular due to its ability to support multiple Talk Groups, enabling diverse and organized communications.
Talk Groups:
- A Talk Group in DMR is essentially a logical grouping of users who share a common interest or purpose. It functions similarly to a traditional radio channel but allows for more efficient and flexible use of the radio spectrum.
- Each Talk Group has a unique identifier (Talk Group ID) that radios use to join or participate in communications within that group.

How DMR Talk Groups Work in Amateur Radio:

Talk Group Identification and Subscription:
- Unique IDs: Each Talk Group is assigned a specific ID number. Radios are programmed with these IDs to allow users to join the desired Talk Groups.
- Programming Radios: Amateur radio operators program their DMR radios with the Talk Group IDs they want to access. This setup enables their radios to send and receive communications tagged with those IDs.
Selective Communication:
- Targeted Listening: Radios only decode and play transmissions that match the Talk Group IDs they are subscribed to. This ensures users hear only the communications relevant to their group.
- Controlled Transmission: When a user speaks, their radio transmits the voice packets tagged with the selected Talk Group ID. Other radios subscribed to that Talk Group receive and play the transmission.
Efficient Use of Spectrum:
- Time-Division Multiple Access (TDMA): DMR uses TDMA to divide a single radio frequency into two time slots, allowing two Talk Groups to operate simultaneously on the same frequency.
- Shared Frequencies: Multiple Talk Groups can share the same frequency but are logically separated by their unique IDs and the TDMA structure, minimizing interference and maximizing the efficient use of available spectrum.
Network Connectivity:
- Local vs. Global Talk Groups: Talk Groups can be local (restricted to a single repeater or network) or global (accessible across multiple repeaters and networks).
- DMR Networks and Bridging: Amateur radio DMR networks often interconnect multiple repeaters and can bridge different networks, allowing Talk Groups to operate over wide areas or even globally.

Types of Amateur Radio DMR Talk Groups:

Geographical Talk Groups:
- These are based on regions such as cities, states, or countries. They facilitate local, regional, or international communication among amateur radio operators.
- Example: A “USA” Talk Group allows hams across the United States to communicate, while a “Europe” Talk Group connects operators across Europe.
Interest-Based Talk Groups:
- These are organized around specific interests or activities, such as emergency services, technical discussions, or hobbyist topics.
- Example: A “Tech Talk” Talk Group might be used for discussions on radio technology and equipment, while an “EmComm” Talk Group is used for emergency communications.
Function-Specific Talk Groups:
- These are dedicated to specific functions or events, such as special event stations, nets, or community activities.
- Example: A “Marathon Support” Talk Group might be used by volunteers coordinating during a public event like a marathon.
Dynamic and Temporary Talk Groups:
- These are set up for temporary use during specific events or activities and can be activated and deactivated as needed.
- Example: A “Field Day” Talk Group might be activated during the annual ARRL Field Day event for coordinating activities and sharing contacts.

Advantages of DMR Talk Groups in Amateur Radio:

Organized and Efficient Communication:
- Talk Groups allow for the segmentation of communication into relevant and manageable groups, preventing unnecessary broadcasts and focusing communications where they are needed.
Wide-Area and Global Connectivity:
- Through interconnected networks and repeaters, Talk Groups can facilitate communications across vast distances, enabling global conversations and connectivity among hams worldwide.
Flexibility and Scalability:
- Amateur radio operators can join multiple Talk Groups and switch between them as needed. This flexibility allows for dynamic participation in various activities and discussions.
Enhanced Privacy and Security:
- By separating communications into specific Talk Groups, operators enjoy a higher level of privacy. Additionally, DMR systems can implement encryption, providing secure communications when needed.
Better Spectrum Utilization:
- The use of TDMA and logical Talk Groups enables more efficient use of the available radio spectrum, allowing multiple users to share the same frequency without interference.

Setting Up and Using DMR Talk Groups:

Programming Your Radio:
- Radios need to be programmed with the Talk Group IDs and network settings. This setup can usually be done through radio programming software provided by the manufacturer.
Joining and Participating in Talk Groups:
- Once programmed, operators can select and join Talk Groups using their radio’s interface. They can then listen to and participate in communications within those groups.
- Radios often allow for quick switching between Talk Groups, enabling operators to move between different conversations as needed.
Understanding Talk Group Etiquette:
- Just like in traditional radio, there are best practices for using Talk Groups. These include waiting for pauses to speak, identifying yourself, and using the appropriate Talk Group for your communication purpose.

Conclusion:

Amateur radio DMR Talk Groups are an essential feature that enhances the way operators communicate and interact. They provide structured, efficient, and flexible communication channels that cater to various interests, functions, and geographical areas. By leveraging Talk Groups, amateur radio operators can participate in a wide range of activities and connect with other hams locally and globally, all while enjoying the benefits of digital radio technology.

Here is an Excel spreadsheet list of talk groups on BrandMeister, TGIF, FreeDMR, YSF, D-Star Reflectors, D-Star Repeaters, M17, and Michigan talk groups on BM & TGIF

DMR Different Networks Talk Groups updated 6-2-2024

In the realm of amateur radio, Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) offers two primary ways to organize and facilitate communication: channels and talk groups. While they may seem similar at first glance, they serve different purposes and functions within the DMR system. Understanding the distinction between DMR channels and talk groups is crucial for effectively navigating and utilizing the DMR network. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the differences:

Definition and Function

DMR Channels:

Definition: A DMR channel is a combination of frequency and technical parameters (like color code, time slot, and mode) used for communication. It is similar to a traditional analog radio channel in that it defines a specific radio frequency and other settings.
Function: Channels determine the physical and technical aspects of how and where communication occurs. They control which frequency is used and manage the basic operational parameters for transmitting and receiving signals.

Key Components of a DMR Channel:

Frequency: The specific radio frequency used for transmission.
Color Code: A code similar to CTCSS tones in analog systems, used to distinguish different networks or groups using the same frequency.
Time Slot: DMR uses TDMA (Time-Division Multiple Access) to split a frequency into two time slots, allowing two separate communications to occur simultaneously on the same frequency.
Mode: Specifies whether the channel is for voice or data communication.

DMR Talk Groups:

Definition: A DMR talk group is a virtual group of users who share a common interest or purpose, identified by a unique ID. It allows for targeted communication within the DMR network.
Function: Talk Groups organize users into logical groups for communication. They provide a way to manage and direct communications so that only relevant parties receive the messages, enhancing efficiency and focus within the network.

Key Characteristics of a DMR Talk Group:

Unique ID: Each talk group has a specific ID used to identify and route communications within the group.
Logical Grouping: Talk Groups are not tied to physical frequencies but are instead a method of tagging and directing communications within the network.
Flexibility: Users can belong to multiple talk groups and switch between them as needed for different conversations or activities.

Technical Setup and Usage

DMR Channels:

Programming: Radios need to be programmed with the correct frequency, color code, and time slot to operate on a specific channel. This is done through radio programming software.
Usage: Channels are used to set the basic parameters for communication. Each channel operates on a specific frequency and time slot, providing the foundational layer for communication.
Example: A DMR repeater might have several channels programmed, each with a different frequency and configuration, such as:
- Channel 1: Frequency 145.000 MHz, Color Code 1, Time Slot 1
- Channel 2: Frequency 145.500 MHz, Color Code 2, Time Slot 2

DMR Talk Groups:

Programming: Talk Groups are programmed into the radio along with the channels. Each talk group is associated with specific channels and time slots.
Usage: Talk Groups are used to direct communications to specific groups of users. When a user transmits on a talk group, the message is tagged with the talk group ID and routed to all users subscribed to that talk group, regardless of the physical channel they are on.
Example: A DMR repeater might support multiple talk groups on the same channel:
- Talk Group 1: Local Communications
- Talk Group 2: Regional Emergency Services
- Talk Group 3: International DX (long-distance communication)

Communication Scope

DMR Channels:

Scope: Channels are local to the specific frequency and repeater they are configured on. They define the physical path for communication.
Range: The range is limited to the coverage area of the frequency and repeater system. It is constrained by the radio hardware and the repeater’s reach.

DMR Talk Groups:

Scope: Talk Groups can be local, regional, or global, depending on how they are configured within the network. They define the logical grouping for communication.
Range: The range of a Talk Group is determined by the network’s connectivity and can span across multiple repeaters and networks, potentially allowing global communication.
Example:
- Local Talk Group: Covers users within the range of a single repeater.
- Wide-Area Talk Group: Includes users across multiple linked repeaters in a region.
- Global Talk Group: Connects users across different countries and continents through interconnected DMR networks.

Practical Example in Amateur Radio Use

Consider a scenario involving a local amateur radio club using DMR for both local and international communication:

Channels: The club has a DMR repeater with several programmed channels:
- Channel 1: Used for local traffic within the city.
- Channel 2: Dedicated to emergency communications, prioritized and monitored for urgent use.
- Channel 3: Set up for long-distance (DX) operations.
Talk Groups: On Channel 1, they have multiple talk groups configured:
- Local Club Talk Group: For day-to-day club activities and local member communications.
- Regional Talk Group: Connecting with nearby clubs in the region for coordinated activities.
- International Talk Group: Used for contacting amateur radio operators around the world.

In this setup, channels provide the physical infrastructure for communication, while talk groups provide the organizational framework to direct and manage those communications within the network.

Summary

DMR Channels are the physical and technical settings that define where and how communication happens on the radio spectrum. They include the frequency, color code, and time slot.
DMR Talk Groups are the logical groupings that determine who communicates with whom. They use the physical channels to direct communications to specific groups of users, allowing for organized and targeted conversations.

Understanding these differences helps amateur radio operators effectively program and use their radios, ensuring they can participate in the right conversations and make the best use of the DMR network’s capabilities.

If you want to donate to BrandMeister to help them run their DMR network, Corey Dean N3FE shared the following links:

3102 and 3104 donations https://www.nfoservers.com/donate.pl?force_recipient=1&recipient=n3fe%40repeater.net

3103 donations https://www.nfoservers.com/donate.pl?force_recipient=1&recipient=w7xm%40w7xm.com

Robert Bretzman K4WZV of the TGIF network mentioned this if you want to donate to their network:

The servers that run the TGIF Network draw money from a coffer fund. We pay for much of it out of our own pockets, so we very much appreciate any donations. If you wish to donate, you may do so by clicking the donation link: https://www.paypal.com/donate/

https://tgif.network/faq.php

If you want to donate to RadioID.net, Glen Bizeau VE9GLN said you can subscribe to his website for additional features: https://radioid.net/account/membership.

You can also purchase RadioID.net merchandise at https://store.radioid.net/.

Garrett Down KD6KPC of Repeaterbook.com shared this if you want to donate to his website:

To run a website like Repeaterbook.com, revenue is needed to keep it active on the web. There are bills to be paid, hosting companies to be paid, SSL certificates to be purchased, and other expenses that go along with the research and development of the data. The costs add up.

Repeaterbook has committed to keeping access to its data completely free. Since we don’t charge for the data or access to the site, we decided to incorporate ads into the site. The ads generate revenue that has been sufficient to pay the bills (most months). With the advent of ad-blocking technology, we began to see ad revenue slip. We get it. Many people don’t want to see ads and our stats indicate that up to 30% of our site visitors are using an ad blocker. Some say the performance on the site has even suffered waiting for ads to load. And come are concerned about Internet tracking through the ads (yes, Google does it).

We think we have found a solution to meet in the middle.

You can now subscribe to Repeaterbook and obtain a membership that will silence the ads on Repeaterbook. This form of obtaining revenue while quieting ads is used on qrz.com.

So now we have two option to fit your preference:

Enjoy Repeaterbook completely free, while enduring the ads that appear.
Sign up for a Repeaterbook subscription and silence the ads.

To take advantage of this offer, you must be a registered user in good standing. Look at our Subscription Plans:

https://www.repeaterbook.com/index.php/en-us/ad-free

Finally, join and become a member of your local amateur radio club. They can use your dues to help defray the costs of running the club and repeater. And you’ll be a member of like-minded people who can help you with amateur radio and equipment.

Topics for future DMR Tech Nets:

Go over the Digimon feature to explain what it is, how and why to use it.
Private calling on your DMR radio. How to set it up on your equipment.
What’s involved with being a NCS (Net Control Station)?
Do you contribute to the DMR networks/modes you utilize? Why or why not?
Firmware and software radio updates.
Hot Keys. What are they, why use them, and how to set them up.
DMR tips. Like what Steve KC8WXM mentioned to better (and faster) utilize DMR features.
Adding or changing DMR channels via keypad programming.
How to update your DMR digital contacts via https://radioid.net/
Asking check-ins what they know now that they didn’t know when they started with DMR that would be helpful to other beginners (Elmering).
A timeline to get started of essential things to do with DMR and why.
Which DMR radio do you use the most & why?
Proper DMR practices & procedures to use on-air.
DMR text messaging
Advanced features of the Anytone 878 handheld and 578 mobile radio.
Going over the different DMR networks (Brandmeister, TGIF, M17, DMR+, YSF, etc).
Useful radio accessories to use with your DMR equipment.
Unique names used instead of the amateur radio alpha codes.
Antennas for handheld, mobile, and home radios.
Logging software.
QSL cards Do you send them out?
Repeaters, hotspots, or both? Which do you use and why?
WPSD hotspot dashboard.
APRS & GPS setup and usage.
Custom call signs.
What are your predictions for the DMR world in 2024?
What networks and talk groups do you use, and why?
What features do you wish your DMR radio had?

https://dmrtechnet.net/