Monday, December 18, 2023 from 7:30pm ET – 8:30pm ET on Brandmeister’s DMR Talk Group 3126
- There are lots of networks to use and utilize DMR such as BrandMeister, TGIF, FreeDMR, YSF, D-Star, P25, M17, DMR-MARC, DMR-Plus (+), and NXDN.
- Which ones do you listen to, and make QSO’s on?
- Which ones are you interested in using?
- We’ll try again to get Chip Cuccio WØCHP to discuss the M17 network if he’s available.
Let us know on the DMR Tech Net.
Tom N8TJ Stan WB8QJZ Steve KC8WXM Dana KCØMYP Brian KE8NJT
The DMR Tech Net starts at 7:30pm ET on Brandmeister Talk Group 3126 (statewide Michigan) and runs until 8:30pm ET.
Stay on TG-3126 to join the Michigan One DMR net (the longest running Michigan DMR net) at 8:30pm, hosted by Dustin N8RMA.
The DMR Tech Net team has our own TGIF talk group 31268 that you are welcome to use. We’ll leave the lights on and best of all, there is no 10-minute limit!
You’re welcome to join Jeremiah W9JAM for the DMR Rag Chew every Tuesday from 2pm ET – 2:45pm for news, stories, and your comments. It is broadcast on TGIF talk group 31111.
There is a new DMR Net every Saturday night at 7:30pm on the TGIF network, talk group 31268.
It’s the DMR Trivia Net, hosted by Brad, KE8WNV.
Check out the leaderboard at https://ke8wnv.com/michigan-trivia-net
Upcoming DMR Tech Net topics
Monday, December 18, 2023 from 7:30pm ET – 8:30pm ET on Brandmeister’s DMR Talk Group 3126
- There are lots of networks to use and utilize DMR such as BrandMeister, TGIF, FreeDMR, YSF, D-Star, P25, M17, and NXDN.
- Which ones do you listen to, and make QSO’s on?
- Which ones are you interested in using?
- We’ll try again to get Chip Cuccio WØCHP to discuss the M17 network if he’s available.
Monday, December 25, 2023 from 7:45pm ET – 8:30pm ET on Brandmeister’s DMR Talk Group 3126
- We’re taking Christmas off but will probably have an informal Rag Chew net for you to say hi.
Monday, January 1, 2024 from 7:45pm ET – 8:30pm ET on Brandmeister’s DMR Talk Group 3126
- We’re not having an official DMR Tech Net that night but may open up for an informal Rag Chew.
*This is our tentative schedule and it can change*
We have created a website at https://dmrtechnet.net/ for you to keep up with our DMR Tech Net topics.
If you want to join our email list, send an email to Subscribe@DMRTechNet.net with “subscribe” in the subject line.
We will send out information about our weekly DMR Tech Net topics no more than once or twice a week.
Please check out our website, https://dmrtechnet.net/, and share this newsletter with other DMR users.
Michigan Brandmeister statewide Michigan DMR talk groups:
- 3126 Statewide Michigan (10-minute limit except for nets)
- 31260 Michigan WX ARES EmComm
- 31261 Mi-5 Statewide 1
- 31262 Mi-5 Statewide 2
- 31263 Mi-5 Event 1
- 31264 Michigan TAC
- 31265 Mi-5 Event 3
- 31267 West Michigan Talk Group
- 31268 UP (Upper Peninsula) of Michigan
- 31269 West Michigan Technical Group
DMR Networks
Brandmeister Network
The Brandmeister Network was born from several worldwide hams and software engineers who joined together to create a digital repeater network consisting of master servers and peer repeaters all over the world. The network has over 1300 repeaters and more than 3000 hotspots across the globe and it’s growing every day!
Brandmeister is tailored to the Motorola TRBO technology and allows for DMR repeaters to connect worldwide via the internet and link systems together by utilizing organized Talkgroups.
The Brandmeister Network offers several neat features for amateur radio enthusiasts to take advantage of:
- Private Call
- Talkgroups
- APRS
- SMS Text Messaging
- D-Star Gateway
- Echolink Gateway
- Autopatch Call Gateway
- Roaming via Hytera Equipment
- and more…
https://brandmeister.network/
TGIF Network
TGIF Network was started in October, 2018 By Robert K4WZV and Mitch EA7KDO.
They started the TGIF Network with just one talkgroup which became 31665, and about 5 Amateur Radio Operators joined the Network, at this time the system was running on a Raspberry pi.
Later on, Ty (KG5RKI) came on board to help improve the hblink code it was currently running on and move it to a cloud server, then later rewrote the backend to make what was called Callmgr. Michael (K5MRE) and Andy (G7LRR) also joined the team and created many of the features we enjoy on the website and plenty more behind the scene.
Over the course of the next year, the network quickly grew from just a few hundred users to just under 1,500.
The network now is home to over 1,500 active talkgroups available for all to use.
The main/original talkgroup is original 31665, and is sometimes referred to as the ‘Mothership’ by many.
All Amateur Radio Operators are welcome to join and try out what the network offers.
The Network is still growing rapidly. Last year, Pi-Star and Shark RF Openspot added the TGIF Network to their list of networks.
But this tale has not ended.. around the end of 2019, Ty (KG5RKI) could see limitations to how far Legacy would be able to scale with the growing number of clients.
So Ty took it upon himself to once again use his coding skills and knowledge of digital networking and in his spare time rewrite and design a network from the roots up which was codenamed ‘Prime’ and was open do beta testers during development. With Andy (G7LRR) as his partner in crime against the code, and Rob (K4WZV) having his back, the team is making fast progress at creating a great solution for ham radio operators around the world.
https://tgif.network/index.php
FreeDMR Network
The new system is derived from HBlink and is fully-open source and available on GitHUB. The server software allows the implementation of features as we would like to see them, making the software completely customisable to your needs. This also allows the response to issues and bugs more effectively. This system is bridged to other Servers, providing a frontend system with enhanced functionality. It also enabled repeaters to be able to communicate even if a Server upstream is down. An overview of the added functionality is below. Note, all of this functionality is optional and configurable.
The FreeDMR Server.
The new system is derived from HBlink and is fully-open source and available on GitHUB. The server software allows the implementation of features as we would like to see them, making the software completely customisable to your needs. This also allows the response to issues and bugs more effectively. This system is bridged to other Servers, providing a frontend system with enhanced functionality. It also enabled repeaters to be able to communicate even if a Server upstream is down. An overview of the added functionality is below. Note, all of this functionality is optional and configurable.
FreeDMR UK.
FreeDMR UK (The UK Network)
Enhanced Talk Groups (dial-a-tg)
Implementation of an enhanced version of a low level talks group, including all of the voice announcements, timeouts etc. The confusing numbering used for the old reflector system (TG9) is obsolete. Instead, you can simply manual-dial a private-call to any talk group number to have it routed to Talk Group 9 on Time Slot 2 on a FreeDMR repeater. This also works on Hotspots if you decide to use it. There is control of the timer and fallback to the default Talk Group (Reflector) as before. Another abbreviation of a Enhanced Talk Groups or Reflectors as they were known is “Dial-a-TG”.
Single mode.
Only allows a single Talk Group to be routed to a Time Slot on a repeater/hotspot at one time, whilst the Time Slot is active. Even if several static Talk Groups are set up on the slot. As soon as a Talk Group is keyed up, only that single Talk Group is routed to the Time Slot until either the timer expires or another Talk Group is keyed up, which then replaces the first one. This is similar to Hotspot behaviour on other networks. This works even between Dial-a-TG (TalkGroup 9) and other TalkGroups.
Voice idents.
Optionally, (set in Options) a 15 minute voice ident in DMR can be set on Time Slot 2. The repeater’s or hotspot call-sign is (spoken) “sent” via “All Call” for optional voice ident. “This is CALL-SIGN FreeDMR”
Things it doesn’t do.
Currently we have not implemented:
- Private calls that transit the network (PC on the current repeater still works)
Why use the FreeDMR network over others?
The FreeDMR Network offers many features that other networks do not.
Go to any talk group with only the minimum number of talk groups preprogrammed into your radio.
Dial-a-TG lets you access any and all talk groups from talk group 9 on Slot 2.
No need to keep reprogramming your radio when you want to access new talk groups.
Single mode stops you being locked out of the talk group you had been talking on as another talk group takes control.
Network settings you have been told this is it and you have to follow.
Have your settings as you want them via options calculator and override the network defaults.
Hang-times, Languages, Static talk groups, Voice Idents and much more.
Static talk groups via Pi-Star and OpenSpot you can set without registering for an account.
No more having to give your information to strangers.
No emails and waiting for a confirmation email that never seems to arrive.
No more passwords you have to remember.
Move to a different FreeDMR server and your settings follows you.
Languages and Voice Idents, pick the language that announcements reply back to you via advanced options for Pi-Star.
Gone is the days that all announcements is in English.
Move to new talk group without the need of a 4000 unlink.
Have your own talk group via your 7 digit ID number. Just use your 7 digit ID as a talk group.
Dashboards that give clean information and let you see what Talk Groups is in use on Repeaters and Hotspots.
Much more to come……
How to connect to the FreeDMR Network.
What is the FreeDMR Network.
It is made up of Independent Servers running the FreeDMR Server Software.
They have OpenBridged “OPB” to each other to make up the FreeDMR Network.
Neither Master nor Slave :-
All FreeDMR systems are equal, just like all of the individuals who run them. Each server is free to run as this wish.
FreeDMR is developed by hams for hams.
We have worked on many of the old bugs that commercial systems would never fix to meet amateur radio requirements.
- How do I contact FreeDMR United Kingdom?
You can contactus via Telegram FreeDMR Users Group. - How do I connect my hotspot to FreeDMR Network?
You can connect BlueDV Windows, OpenSpotand Pi-Starat this time. - How do I connect my repeater to FreeDMR Network?
All info you need is on this page. If you need any help just contact us. - How do I know if my hotspot or repeater is connected to FreeDMR UK?
You have two options via the hotspot dashboardor repeater dashboard. First is search the page for your callsign. Second is PTT on any talk group for 3 seconds and see if you show on the dashboard. More info on how dashboards work. - What talk groups does FreeDMR have?
We have the United Kingdomand Worldwide. - Can I set static talk groups?
That all depends on the Hotspot you are using and the software to control it.
Pi-Star= Yes, OpenSpot= Yes, BlueDV for Windows = No. - Do you offer any dashboards?
We have a range of dashboardsyou can access, depending on your needs. - Should I use Dial-a-TG?
That all depends on the radio you have. If your radio does not offer manual dial as a group call. Then Dial-a-TGwill be ideal for you to use. - Can I have a talk group named?
Please read this first– Naming, Clubs, Personal, Repeater, Gateway etc - Can I bridge to FreeDMR UK?
Yes you can. Please read this. Also please use one of the Bridge IDslisted if you do not have one. - Talker Alias (TA)
FreeDMR does not support TA, and it should be turned off.
Some Hotspot also have issues with TA.
Best Practices. –
· A 3 to 5 second pause/gap should be left between each over.
This is to let all Repeaters/Hotspots and Bridges to reset.
Also lets others break in or unlink the Talk Group.
· Radio – TOT (Radio Timeout Timer) Should be set to 180 seconds.
This is to let all Repeaters/Hotspots and Bridges to reset.
· Please enjoy the FreeDMR Network and be considerate at all times to others.
On the 9 November 2020, the birth of a new way of working with DMR was born. A network name was devised and was called…
FreeDMR is the freedom for Repeater/Gateway Keepers and some Hotspots to have full control of what happens instead of being told what has to go where. We look forward to a great and bright future. FreeDMR is a DMR Network for Amateur radio users around the world.
FreeDMR is currently looking for OpenBridge connections to connect to a rapidly growing system. Open Source is here! FreeDMR – Open networking – Reaching out to the World.
For more information, click here.
https://www.va3dbj.ca/amateur_radio/digital-amateur-radio/dmr-network/
Open Source Amateur Radio.
We are M17.
M17 is a community of open source developers and radio enthusiasts. We’re building understandable systems in support of the hackers and experimenters’ history of ham radio.
M17 is developing open source hardware, software, and offers a complete digital radio protocol for data and voice, made by and for amateur radio operators.
Our protocol’s voice mode uses the free and open Codec 2 voice encoder. This means there are no patents, no royalties, and no licensing or legal barriers to scratch-building your own radio or modifying one you already own.
This freedom to build, understand, and innovate is core to amateur radio, but has been missing from the commercially available digital voice modes. This is part of why amateur radio digital voice modes have largely stagnated since the 1990s and we’re almost wholly dependent on commercial products that aren’t well designed for amateur radio users.
M17 is about unlocking the capabilities that amateur radio hardware should already have.
Here you will find people working on radio hardware designs that can be copied and built by anyone, software that anyone has the freedom to modify and share to suit their own needs, and other open systems that respect your freedom to tinker.
So, what do you want to do with M17?
I want to get involved in the community however I can
I want to understand how the M17 Protocol works
I want to get started with hardware hacking
I want to get started with software development
I want to use M17 over the Internet (no radio needed)
I want to use M17 over RF (radio required)
https://m17project.org/
Our Technology – What is System Fusion?
System Fusion is Yaesu’s implementation of Digital Amateur Radio, utilizing C4FM 4-level FSK Technology to transmit digital voice and data over the Amateur radio bands. In the early 2000’s GMSK emerged in the Amateur radio market as the dominant digital mode, however in 2013 Yaesu introduced “System Fusion” which quickly became the dominating digital format in Amateur radio because of quality, reliability and enhanced performance in a wide range of environments.
Digital Communication modes have gained popularity over the years in the market because of superior performance in environments with interference, noise and other contributing factors that degrade the quality of a standard FM Analog signal. Narrower bandwidth and the need for increased spectrum have led to the development of digital communications technology, which has been widely adopted in the Public safety and private business sectors that use two-way radio technology. Unlike it’s commercial counterpart, System Fusion is an Amateur Friendly Digital Operating mode, straying away from some of the design considerations that make commercial solutions less appealing and more difficult for Amateur Radio Operators, providing a simpler interface and features that meet the demands and needs of the Amateur enthusiast specifically. Below you will find more information on this marvelous new technology, and how it can meet every operators demand and needs for a clear and simple Digital Experience.
The Four Operating Modes of System Fusion
V/D (Digital Narrow) – Voice+Digital or “V/D” mode
Voice FR (VW) Mode – Utilizes all available bandwidth for high-fidelity voice operation, providing the most crystal clear of voice communications.
Highspeed Data
Transfer data such as images or text messages at full rate with speeds up to 9600 Bits-per-second
Analog FM Mode
Maintains backwards compatibility with existing Analog FM Equipment, allowing a wide range of users to experiment with System Fusion Digital.
Capabilities such as Automatic Mode Select (AMS) On the DR-1X Repeater allow an even wider range of users to communicate, by running the repeater in “Fixed FM” mode on Transmit, and “Automatic Mode Select” on receive the repeater will automatically detect the incoming signal and convert it to an Analog FM Transmission. This mode allows digital users to communicate with existing Analog FM users without the need to switch their radios into FM Mode, allowing crystal clear Digital reception into the repeater that is converted into a conventional FM Signal.
Automatic Mode Select – Complete Digital Co-existence
This function instantly recognizes whether the received signal is C4FM digital or conventional FM. The communication mode automatically switches to match the received mode. Even if a digital signal is being used, you can switch to FM communication if radio signals are received from a FM station. This function enables stress-free operation by removing the need to manually switch the communication method each time.
AMS function breaks down into the following operating modes that are fully selectable by the radio user:
- AUTO: The both RX/ TX mode is automatically selected from one of the four operating modes (DN, VW, DW and FM) to match the characteristics of the received signal. This is the current AMS operation.
- TX MANUAL: The both RX/ TX mode is automatically selected from four operating modes to match the characteristics of the received signal. And if desired to change the TX mode, by pressing the Microphone PTT switch momentarily, the TX mode switch between DN and FM modes.
- TX FM FIXED: The RX mode is automatically selected from one of the four operating modes, but the TX mode is fixed to FM.
- TX DN FIXED: The RX mode is automatically selected from one of the four operating modes, but the TX mode is fixed to the ‘DN’ (Digital Voice Narrow) mode.
- TX VW FIXED: The RX mode is automatically selected from one of the four operating modes, but the TX mode is fixed to the ‘VW’ (Digital Voice Wide) mode.
Enhanced Communication Functions of System Fusion
Yaesu incorporated a suite of features within the System Fusion product line that are designed specifically for Amateur Radio Use. These features allow the operator to transmit High quality digital voice simultaneously along with Digital Data, and a High Rate (Data FR Mode) dedicated Digital Data mode that provides a method of transmitting Images, Text message and Telemetry Data at a high rate of speed.
Group Monitor (GM)
Digital Group Monitor automatically checks whether users within a communication group are in or out of range, and displays information such as distance and orientation on the screen of the client radio for up to 24 Stations.
Each individual group can share Text and Picture messages between themselves, allowing intelligent control of how content is distributed amongst a large operating group.
Group Monitor is almost an invaluable feature when an operator or group of operators needs to track resources, such as in an emergency communication operation. Resources can easily be tracked and controlled, letting operators know when they are going to fall out of range and may need to return to the coverage area, or providing invaluable telemetry data for locating and tracking individual operators.
Snapshot Function (Picture Messaging)
By simply connecting the optional MH-85A11U Speaker Microphone with Camera, an operator can quickly take advantage of the high speed data functions of any System Fusion C4FM radio and can easily transmit images to other C4FM users.
Image data which sent from a group member is displayed on the full-color screen of the FTM-400DR or Monochromatic display of the FT2DR. This image data also retains a time record and the GPS location data of the snapshot. It is easy to navigate to that pictured location by using back track function. In addition, you can observe on the screen whether the transmitted data was successfully received by the member station. The snapshot image or received data is stored in a high capacity micro SD card, and you can recall and send that image data from the SD card anytime. The pictures and data files may be easily viewed and edited by using a personal computer by simply inserting the SD Card into any SD Card reader.
Smart Navigation Functions/Backtrack Function
The Smart/Real-time navigation function enables location checking at any time. In digital V/D mode, information such as position data is transmitted together with voice signals so the distance and direction to the other stations can be displayed in real-time while communicating with them.
The Backtrack Function enables navigation to a registered location at the touch of a button. When hiking or camping, simply register your starting point or campsite before departure, and the distance and orientation from the current location are displayed on the screen.
Text Messaging
Text messaging could not be simpler, with direct entry via T9 Text input or the On Screen Keyboard (FTM-400), messages can be sent quickly to an individual operator or group of operators (GM Mode).
Easy Infrastructure Migration
Migrating to System Fusion could never be easier! Since System Fusion enables the operator to quickly select operating modes using the revolutionary AMS (Automatic Mode Select) System, backwards-compatibility is fully maintained. Using the Yaesu DR-1X Repeater enables seamless integration with existing Analog systems.
Two main factors make System Fusion the ideal choice for existing infrastructure replacement:
- Increased spectrum efficiency – Yaesu System Fusion allows a repeater trustee, club or group to install a Digital Repeater that is also analog, thus eliminating the need for an extra frequency pair to perform digital communications. By using the System Fusion DR-1X Repeater the trustee can add Digital AND Analog capabilities to an existing 2-Meter or 70CM Repeater pair without the need for an additional frequency pair that is dedicated to Digital Only communications.
- Easy Installation and configuration – Most Yaesu System Fusion customers have reported replacing current infrastructure only takes about 15 minutes. Intuitive touch screen interfaces and simple programming make repeater installation a breeze.
WiRES-X – Wide-Coverage Internet Repeater Enhancement System
WIRES-X (Wide-Coverage Internet Repeater Enhancement System) is a comprehensive and easy-to-use system for linking repeaters and/or home stations together, using Internet voice technology. Now you can talk to old friends, or make new ones, around the world.
More information on WiRES-X Can be found by visiting the WiRES-X Information Page
https://systemfusion.yaesu.com/what-is-system-fusion/
What is P25 Technology?
Project 25 (P25) is the standard for the design and manufacture of interoperable digital two-way wireless communications products. Developed in North America with state, local and federal representatives and Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) governance, P25 has gained worldwide acceptance for public safety, security, public service, and commercial applications.
The published P25 standards suite is administered by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA Mobile and Personal Private Radio Standards Committee TR-8). Radio equipment that demonstrates compliance with P25 is able to meet a set of minimum requirements to fit the needs of public safety. The P25 standard was created by, and is intended for, public safety professionals.
Clcik here to read more about the Technology Benefits of P25 .
Page | 1 Project 25 Technology Interest Group April 2016
The Benefits of Project 25
Introduction
When disaster strikes, help rushes in from many directions. It comes from different people,
different agencies, and different levels of government. These are the people fighting the fires,
chasing down criminals and digging through rubble to save lives. They know the danger of
being isolated in an unpredictable situation. They also know what they can accomplish when
they work together in one massive, well-coordinated effort rather than dozens of individual
undertakings. It is this knowledge that created the Project 25 (P25) radio standard for
interoperability. The standard’s benefits are unique because the same people who use the radios
created P25.
Radio users around the world depend on P25 for their mission critical communications. The P25
Standard is also adopted by many industries such as utilities, airports, transit, petroleum, and
chemical companies that rely on mission-critical communications and interoperability with
public safety agencies in an emergency.
Page | 2 Project 25 Background
The P25 standard has a twenty-six year history within the public safety community. It was
established in October 1989 when APCO1, NASTD2, NCS3, NTIA4, and NSA5 collaborated in
the creation of the APCO-NASTD-Fed Project 25 which is now known as Project 25 or P25.
This link to the people on the front lines of emergency response is still a fundamental aspect of
the standard. Public safety professionals play a critical role in the standards development
process in cooperation with the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA). These users
define and prioritize user requirements for possible P25/TIA standardization. Users also
participate in and contribute to technical working groups drafting the standard documents.
Project 25 is unique because the people who actually use the radios contribute directly to the
specification. This ensures P25 provides the benefits they need. Below are some of the key
benefits
.
P25: Enabling Interoperability in the US and Around the World
The P25 standard enables interoperability among multiple manufacturers’ P25 products designed
to the P25 standard. There are a total of 34 P25 equipment manufacturers and service providers
in the marketplace offering a large portfolio of Project 25 solutions to choose from. This robust
competition within the P25 market space continues to drive Project 25 product and service
enhancements and innovation.
In the United States, Project 25 is widely adopted by local, county, tribal, state, and federal
agencies. There are currently over 700 Project 25 systems on the air supporting interoperable
communications in the United States, Australia, Canada and the UK. There are additional P25
systems operating in over 80 other nations worldwide. The P25 Standard has the support of the
US Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The Office of Emergency Communications Fiscal
Year 2015 SAFECOM Guidance on Emergency Communications Grants6
specifies that,
“grantees should continue to invest in equipment that is standards-based to enable interoperability
between agencies and jurisdictions, regardless of vendor”, and further recommends P25-compliant
LMR equipment for mission critical communications. Additionally, the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) defines specific channels within the 700 MHz band
allocation as “Narrowband Interoperability Channels” and requires P25 to maintain
interoperability7
.
1 Association of Public Safety Communications Officials
2 National Association of State Technology Directors
3 National Communication System (In 2012 NCS was retired and its functions were transferred to the OEC.)
4 National Telecommunications and Information Administration
5 National Security Agency
6 http://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/FINAL%20FY%202015%20SAFECOM%20Guidance%20V2%200
40815%20508C.pdf
7 FCC Rule 90.548(a)(1)
Page | 3 A Public Safety Grade Standard
The Public Safety Community requires a wide variety of interoperable, standards based
Communication Services, Configurations, and Capabilities with well-defined performance,
interoperability, and testing specifications. This is the essence of the Project 25 suite of
standards as it relates to “Public Safety Grade” Communications Systems.
A “Public Safety Grade” Communications Standard first and foremost provides a set of features,
capabilities and services required by the diverse group of Public Safety users. The Project 25
User Needs Sub-Committee (UNS) has defined those required features and the Project 25 Suite
of Standards supports those features. Manufacturers take the features and specifications defined
by the Project 25 Standard and implement them in reliable software, hosted on rugged hardware
platforms that are exhaustively tested to ensure systems are reliant and resilient and the Project
25 features and capabilities are available even under severe conditions.
A P25 “Suite of Standards” with Multiple Interfaces for Interoperability
The P25 Common Air Interface (CAI) is the “core” of interoperability and is the most widely
deployed P25 interface enabling interoperability between P25 radios and also between P25
radios and P25 infrastructure regardless of manufacturer. Public safety users can now obtain
documented proof of interoperability between P25 Phase 1 FDMA (Frequency Division Multiple
Access) CAI Trunked Subscribers and P25 Phase 1 FDMA CAI Trunked Infrastructure in
manufacturer issued SDoCs (Supplier’s Declarations of Compliance) and STRs (Summary Test
Reports) as part of the DHS Compliance Assessment Program. These can be found on the DHS
first responder Website8
.
In addition to the FDMA Common Air Interface, the P25 standard suite also enables
interoperability for the TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access) Common Air Interface and
wireline interfaces as part of Phase 2 of the project. The TDMA interface provides the capability
to support two simultaneous conversations in a 12.5 kHz channel bandwidth, which meets the
FCC requirements for 6.25 kHz spectrum efficient equivalence.
Unlike most LMR technical standards, which focus on the over-the-air protocols, Project 25 also
includes a complete suite of technical standards for its wired infrastructure. One of the most
important wireline interfaces for interoperability is the Inter-RF Subsystem Interface (ISSI),
which is used to connect P25 networks together, independent of the manufacturer. This
intersystem connection allows users to roam from one network to another network, have
encrypted communications across the networks, and permits roamers to talk back to their home
system. ISSI gateways have been commercially available for a number of years and several
manufacturers have successfully demonstrated this capability. Recently, second generation
versions of the ISSI capability have become available which support “automatic” roaming and
caller ID.
8 http://www.firstresponder.gov/P25%20CAP%20Resources/Pages/GrantEligibleEquipment.aspx
Page | 4
Additional wireline interfaces that are part of the P25 suite of standards are the Console SubSystem Interface (CSSI) and the Fixed Station Interface (FSI). The CSSI defines a standard interface between a dispatch Console Subsystem (CSS) and a P25 RF Subsystem (RFSS). This
interface provides for interoperability between multiple dispatch console vendors and system or
infrastructure manufacturers. It currently supports Trunked P25 systems, and partially supports
Conventional P25 system, with enhanced conventional support coming in the future. Support for
the CSSI is currently available from several manufacturers as well.
The Fixed Station Interface (FSI) is used for connecting conventional base stations and repeaters
to other infrastructure components, such as dispatch Console Subsystems. The FSI supports both
an analog connection using 2 and 4-wire circuits, known as the Analog Fixed Station Interface
(AFSI), and a digital connection known as the Digital Fixed Station Interface (DFSI). These two
modes allow the use of legacy E&M and/or Tone Remote Control (TRC) wireline control
equipment, with a moderate level of control, or pure-IP based equipment, with full control. The
support for legacy interfaces allows users to retain their large investment of control equipment
(consoles, desktop remotes, etc.), while giving them a migration path to full digital control as
their budget allows.
The DFSI supports all conventional P25 features, including group and individual calls. The
AFSI supports group calls. Both the AFSI and DFSI may be used for analog and digital (P25
CAI) mode air transmissions and also support fixed station control, which includes the ability to
change the transceiver’s channel, NAC code, repeat enable/disable, and coded/clear
transmissions.
The P25 suite of standards also enables interoperability for Data and Secure Services including
but not limited to Over-the-Air-Rekeying (OTAR) that provides for key management of
encrypted voice and data communications regardless of radio or Key Management Facility
(KMF) manufacturer. Today there are multiple P25 Manufacturers offering OTAR and KMF
solutions.
Wide-ranging Project 25 Benefits
First responders have various needs. P25 is designed to enable those users to focus on the
mission, not the technology itself. Some key benefits include:
Feature Rich Variety of P25 Call Types
A wide variety of P25 call types and features are available to each radio user travelling across the
CAI, ISSI, CSI, and DFSI interfaces detailed in the last section. These call features include:
group and individual calls, emergency calls, unit IDs, supplemental services (e.g. call alert, radio
check, radio monitor, radio disable, status), all with and without encryption. A complete listing
of Project 25 Features and capabilities can be found in the P25 capabilities guide link on the
www. Project25.org Website homepage.
Geography and Frequency Flexibility
P25 supports a variety of system configurations including direct mode, repeated, single site,
multi-site, voting, multicast, and simulcast operation addressing a wide array of unique agency
coverage requirements. This flexibility is available for both conventional and trunked
applications. This variety of system configurations allows the system developer to choose a
Page | 5 Project 25 Technology Interest Group April 2016
system design that offers the highest performance from a cost effective infrastructure that best
matches their specific needs and local environment. For example, P25 offers high-power
operation allowing large geographic areas to be covered with fewer sites than other technologies,
making P25 technology an economical and efficient choice. Additionally, simulcast operation
allows agencies in more urban, crowded environments to reuse scarce frequencies and increase
coverage penetration within a given area.
The P25 standard itself is frequency agnostic. P25 equipment is available from numerous
suppliers in VHF, UHF, 700, 800, and 900 MHz frequency bands to meet the diverse frequency
requirements of agencies around the world. Consult your local regulatory authority or frequency
coordinator to determine appropriate frequency bands available in your area. The Project 25
standard enables multiple frequency bands to be supported on one system and today there are
P25 radios available that support multiple bands, further enhancing interoperability.
Improved Spectral Efficiency and Ease of Migration
One of the primary benefits of P25 has always been to allow users to gracefully migrate from
established 25 kHz channel bandwidth system operation to more spectrally efficient
“narrowband” operation in a 12.5 kHz channel bandwidth and even further to a 6.25 kHz channel
bandwidth (or equivalent). This is especially important in certain frequency bands where
narrowband operation is required by the FCC.
The P25 standard is spectrally efficient as it operates in a 12.5 KHz channel bandwidth for both
P25 Phase 1 FDMA and Phase 2 TDMA operations. Additionally the P25 Phase 2 TDMA
interface meets the US FCC regulatory requirements for 6.25 kHz spectrum efficiency
equivalence due to the fact that it supports two simultaneous conversations in each 12.5 kHz
channel.
Project 25 is unique in that both P25 Phase 1 and Phase 2 equipment is compatible with and
designed to coexist with existing analog systems. This flexibility allows users to utilize existing
bandwidth and frequency allocations as they migrate from one technology era to the next
Additionally, trunking systems utilize the same structure for the control channel for Phase 1 and
Phase 2. This allows users to migrate their systems from Phase 1 to Phase 2 gradually on a
channel-by-channel basis. This feature even allows dynamic channel allocation where the
trunking infrastructure can operate in either Phase 1 or Phase 2 mode for each communication
depending on the subscriber unit capabilities participating in a given call. This further helps to
maximize channel and infrastructure efficiency.
Flexible Operations Support
P25 meets the wide array of needs of users ranging from local and small areas to wide area
configurations. Both Conventional and Trunked operation is available in local and wide area
configurations.
• Conventional Operation: Conventional Operation meets the needs of agencies for costeffective, low-density communications systems. Conventional Operation enables users to
operate on fixed RF channels without the need for a control channel, yet the P25 standard still
provides conventional users with advanced features such as caller ID and digital encryption.
Conventional operation also allows for direct user-to-user communications where a repeater may
not be available, or off-network operation is desired, such as for fire-ground operation, or traffic
control at an incident scene. Users simply select the appropriate channel in their radios and
communicate immediately with no repeater set-up time.
• Trunked Operation: Trunked Operation meets the needs of agencies that have a high-density of
users by enabling resource efficiencies. Unlike conventional operation in which a radio channel
is dedicated to a particular user group for communications, trunking provides users access to a
shared collection of radio channels. Trunked Operation provides many advanced features and
may be particularly attractive to agencies in communities that want to join together to form
shared regional systems.
Security
P25 supports both voice and data digital communications. Project 25 offers both clear and
encrypted voice and data communication enabling a wide array of features and functionality.
P25 defines numerous features and functions that enhance a user’s communication, such as
location and OTAR (Over-The-Air-Rekeying).
P25 supports secure communication through the use of Federal Government endorsed 256 bit
key AES encryption, key management, and equipment authentication. For added security when
communicating sensitive information, agencies should consider encrypting radio traffic.
An Evolving Suite of Standards
P25 continues to expand and evolve. Changes to the Standard occur when new requirements are
introduced, existing requirements are modified, and when new technological enhancements and
innovations become available. Current work items include…
• Link Layer Encryption is in progress. This is the first big new technology upgrade for
improved Security for all air interfaces of P25. It protects control channel control messages, and
hides group and individual IDs.
• An addendum to the Key Fill Interface standard is in progress. This will enable Key Fill
Device (KVL) interface to a KMF, an Authentication Facility and another Key Fill Device
• A revision to the Fixed Station Interface Standard is in progress. This revision adds additional
capabilities the most significant of which is Packet Data to support OTAR and other data
features.
• A new standard for a TDMA Control Channel is in progress. This standard provides the
messages and procedures for operating a 12.5 kHz channel with 2 TDMA slots where either or
both may service Control Channel traffic.
Conclusion
Thus, “Public Safety Grade” Project 25 equipment is the foundation of North American Public
Safety Communications and the cornerstone of many Public Safety Grade Systems around the
world. The non-proprietary, open standard gives purchasers a wide variety of options among
many vendors, which helps ensure interoperability while providing competitive pricing. The P25
“user driven” technology standardization approach continues to guide the decision making
process for P25 technologists and engineers into the future. The result will be updates and
improvements to existing Standards and the development of new P25 Standards that result in
capability and performance improvements for Project 25 products and services.
https://www.project25.org/images/stories/ptig/Benefits_of_P25_Final_April_2016_REV_02_160407.pdf
NXDN™: A brief overview
NXDN stands for Next Generation Digital Narrowband, and is an open standard for public land mobile radio systems; that is, systems of two-way radios (transceivers) for bidirectional person-to-person voice communication. It was developed jointly by Icom Incorporated and Kenwood Corporation as an advanced digital system using FSK modulation that supports encrypted transmission and data as well as voice transmission. Like other land mobile systems, NXDN systems use the VHF and UHF frequency bands. It is also used as a niche mode in amateur radio.
NXDN is implemented by Icom in their IDAS system [1] and by Kenwood as NEXEDGE;[2] both Kenwood and Icom now offer dual-standard equipment which supports the European dPMR standard
NXDN™ is a very narrowband protocol employing 6.25/12.5 KHz FDMA technology (It is generally accepted that 12.5 kHz channel spacing is narrowband as per the FCC mandate.) (More on this later in The history of NXDN™).
NXDN™ is the result of a joint technical alliance between Icom Incorporated and JVC KENWOOD Corporation. At the beginning, the main goals of this collaboration were to provide a low complexity digital two-way radio protocol that satisfied the FCC narrowbanding mandate at the initially proposed deadline of 2005, be a future-proof protocol that would still be viable even when 12.5 kHz spectrum became full and to offer an alternative “de-facto” standard to the Land Mobile Radio (LMR) industry that allowed the development of digital radio products without the excessive premium of some competing digital technologies.
The number of radio terminals alone provided by the vendors with product has reached well over half a million units worldwide by the end of 2011, and is growing in the tens of thousands each month. NXDN™ has truly become a “de-facto” protocol as per one of the initial goals mentioned above.
The history of NXDN™
NXDN™ was developed to satisfy the FCC “refarming” mandate that called for all LMR use in the VHF and UHF bands to shift to narrowband capability by January 1st, 2005. The requirement of this mandate was that any technology complying with it also had to have the capability to provide voice and/or data at 6.25 kHz or an “equivalent” bandwidth.
For many years it was thought that achieving 6.25 kHz bandwidth and maintaining acceptable communications quality at the same time, was a huge technical challenge, if not technically impossible. However, research on the advances in vocoding technology and other elements essential to digital wireless communication showed that it was indeed possible to achieve communications at this bandwidth and the birth of NXDN™ became a reality.
Icom and JVC KENWOOD began the collaboration in 2003 and the first NXDN™ capable conventional radio products appeared in 2006. The announcement of the NXDN™ protocol was made at IWCE 2005, which indicated that there were companies that were able to comply with the initial narrowband mandate deadline. Subsequent requests for delay of this deadline resulted in it being pushed back to 2013, but NXDN™ was ready to go, and the release went ahead.
The first products to come out were conventional radios and repeaters that had the capability of “dual-mode” from the start i.e. to operate in both digital and analog modes. This was an important requirement in the migration to digital as analog systems still had many years of use. The complete replacement of an entire system was not a feasible financial option for most users.
In the last six years, the NXDN™ suite of standards has grown to include single and multi-site trunking solutions. The graphic below shows a simple representation of the NXDN™ standards suite structure. Enhancements already added to this are AES and DES encryption, for example.
While primarily targeted as a solution for business and industry market segments, the acceptance of NXDN™ worldwide has now reached a level where virtually all market segments including public safety entities are using NXDN™.
Below is a brief timeline of the evolution of NXDN™ historical milestones.
| 1997 | The FCC announced the “re-farming” mandate for LMR VHF and UHF bands in the U.S.A. |
| 2003 | Icom Incorporated and Kenwood Corporation (Now JVC KENWOOD Corporation) made a technology alliance to develop the NXDN™ protocol |
| 2005 | NXDN™ protocol development was announced at IWCE 2005 |
| 2006 | First NXDN™ products released to the market |
| 2008 | The NXDN™ Forum was established by an initial eight member companies |
| 2009 | The NXDN™ web site was opened (http://www.nxdn-forum.com/). |
| 2009 | Five new member companies were added to the Forum. |
| 2010 | The NXDN™ Forum expanded to 16 members. |
| 2010 | An informal collaboration with the dPMR™ Association was announced. |
| 2011 | The “Type-D” NXDN™ trunking protocol was added to the standards suite. |
| 2011 | Five new member companies joined the Forum and membership increased to 21. |
| 2011 | AES and DES encryption standards were added to the standards suite. |
| 2012 | Nine new members joined the Forum and membership is now 30. |
| 2012 | The NXDN™ standards suite was opened up. |
Technical specifications of NXDN™
| Access Method | FDMA | |
| Modulation | 4-level FSK | |
| Vocoder | AMBE+2™ | |
| Channel Spacing | 6.25 kHz | 12.5 kHz |
| Transmission Rate | 4800 bps | 9600bps |
| Codec Rate | 3600bps | 7200bps |
| Conventional | Yes | |
| Trunking operation | Yes Type-C and Type-D |
Yes Type-C |
| Digital Scrambling | Yes (15-bit/32,000 keys) | |
| Encryption | Yes (AES/DES) | |
The NXDN™ hardware platform utilizes the same basic structure as analog FM radio designs with the addition of the components/circuits for digital capability. It was the specific intention to maintain as much of current analog FM technology in the hardware design to:
- Reduce the complexity of development
- Reduce the cost of development and the resulting products
- Maintain ease in manufacture
- Reduce the probability of parts obsolescence by utilizing as many common devices as possible
- Maintain commonality in maintenance and repair
- Reduce the need for specialized testing equipment
NXDN™ Trunking
NXDN™ contains two trunking protocols within the same standards suite. For the purpose of simplicity these two trunking protocols have been called NXDN™ Type-C and NXDN™ Type-D trunking.
Type-C trunking is a centralized, control channel based architecture where the trunking logic and allocation of traffic channels is done via a dedicated control channel.
Type-D trunking is a distributed logic based architecture where no control channel is used, and all channels available in the system can operate as traffic channels.
As the NXDN™ standard contains a broad spectrum of functions, the feature set of a system is determined by the manufacturer developing their system for the market needs they will serve. There are mandatory and optional features defined in the standard here, but the following could be considered to be common to most NXDN™ trunking systems of either variety.
- Single and Multi-site capability
- Individual and Group call capability
- Data features (Short text, GPS and status messaging)
- Automatic Roaming
- Maximum of 60,000 ID’s per system
- Wide area networking capability via IP linking
Vocoder
NXDN™ has utilized the AMBE+2™ vocoder from Digital Voice Systems, Inc. (DVSI). This vocoder is recognized as the leading low-bit rate vocoding technology and has also been widely adopted in other two-way radio standards like dPMR™, DMR, P25 Phase 1 and Phase 2. The use of this vocoder in its “half-rate” mode is also a leading factor in achieving 6.25 kHz operation. The vocoding advancements in P25, an accepted digital standard, allowed further enhancements to signal quality.
Audio Quality and Coverage
Much debate about whether digital audio quality is better than FM analog has gone on over the years. The diagram below is a commonly used reference for analog and digital coverage.
While audio quality can be subjective to a user’s historical experience, the noise suppression characteristics of digital radio is superior to FM analog, and as with CD’s versus LP’s, it will soon be safe to say “gone are the days of that analog background noise”.
Comments about “improved” coverage need to be considered carefully. The perceived gain in coverage is as the diagram shows, based on the distance a signal is able to be clearly understood or heard, within the RF signal footprint. In the case of NXDN™ versus FM analog, total RF coverage is at minimum the same, however, experience from the field indicates that the NXDN™ signal in many cases provides a wider footprint than analog.
For more details on specific equipment technical specifications, refer to the respective manufacturer’s product data.
Key Benefits and Markets
Two initial key goals of NXDN™ were to satisfy the narrow banding mandate of the FCC in North America, and to become a next generation de-facto standard in the land mobile radio market. NXDN™ has succeeded in achieving both of these goals and more. Below are some of the key benefits that NXDN™ can provide.
Proven, reliable digital protocol with a worldwide acceptance: In just 5 short years, NXDN™ has been deployed in the hundreds of thousands of units in a myriad of single and multi-site communications networks.
Multi-vendor climate:NXDN is supported by over 30 companies and is rapidly growing with the public release of the NXDN™ protocol. The membership’s multi-faceted range of competences allows for a wide range of products and services to be provided to meet many differing market needs.
Meets the FCC narrow banding mandate: NXDN™ met the narrowbanding mandate eight years before other technologies. It will still be a viable solution when 12.5 kHz spectrum becomes full.
The advantages of digital technology: Integration with IP for wide-area systems capability, data applications like messaging and location services and enhanced communication performance while remaining spectrally efficient.
Interoperability
Interoperability is a key factor with any technical standard supported by multiple entities. Interoperability testing standards are part of the total NXDN™ standards suite, and procedures for actual testing are expanding.
Interoperability (Image)
The DMR-MARC Worldwide Network
Registration system now open, you will be transfered to RadioID.net
Our network is an all-digital group of over 500 DMR-MARC repeaters in 83 countries with over 144000 registered users. There are over 6600 registered DMR repeaters world-wide in our database. we are all amateur radio operators many of whom are Motorola Solutions employees, Motorola Service Station employees, dealers, system installers and Motorola equipment aficionados.
Please consider a donation to support the registration system and talk group distribution servers by clicking on the Donate button to the right. Even small amounts help!
Repeaters on our network are connected all the time. TRBO radios have great voice quality, great coverage, and extended battery life all in LESS THAN 1/3 the channel bandwidth of a traditional analog FM repeater with TWICE as many voice channels! Our mission is to offer you a reliable and scalable choice in connectivity: local, regional, national and international. Isn’t it time you upgraded to digital radio’s cutting edge?
DMR-MARC Statement Regarding Proposed Brandmeister ID Restictions
Worldwide Amateur Users,
DMR-MARC would like to thank amateur radio hobbiests worldwide for working as a team and supporting the universal ID system in place since 2010. Before that time we had many fractured groups using multiple ID schemes that were often incompatible. There were many hams complaining about stolen IDs from a different group. Many groups came together in 2010 and agreed on a common format so we could use one ID on multiple systems without disruption to other users or repeaters. This system has worked well for over 8 years and it allows us to expeditiously root cause many technical issues with a logical ID scheme. Our admins have tirelessly worked to accommodate most people, even those who were unnecessarily demanding at times. We noticed recently that the Brandmeister group which has been in existence for a couple years now has made an ultimatum which we feel is neither practical, necessary, nor reasonable. In fact, the USA overflow ID range using a 1 prefix to address the explosive growth of DMR, especially in the USA, was agreed upon by members of the US, Canadian, European, Australian, and New Zealand teams more than a 2 years before Brandmeister came into existence. Hundreds if not more IDs have already been allocated for operators and have worked just fine on the Brandmeister system as quoted on their website. It is only now that the Brandmeister authorities have decided they no longer wish to support these IDs starting in May. It is not reasonable to expect volunteers who have spent much of their valuable free time setting up servers, designing databases, maintaining those servers and databases, and answering email change requests for IDs that have already been issued and are working perfectly fine to reissue new IDs which would cause an unreasonable burden on our volunteers. Please note, we will continue issuing IDs to USA hams in the 316x to 319x range to accommodate DMR growth. But, this only prolongs the inevitability of again reissuing IDs in the 1x range as we have for over 2 years already. Therefore, we ask the Brandmeister authorities to consider the inevitable ramifications of DMR growth with the understanding there are only a finite number of IDs in each prefix space. We ask that they exhibit common sense flexibility by cooperating with the many other respected worldwide groups that use the universal ID system which was established before their group was formed so that we may continue to share an international and interoperable ID system that works for all.
73s,
The DMR-MARC Admin Team
Choices and Reliability with our DMRPlus Partnership!
Amateur radio is constantly evolving. We support your desire to have control of your repeater. You probably want access to numerous talkgroups but don’t want to be forced to carry talkgroups with inappropriate behavior or those that burn out your repeater’s power amplifier rendering it an expensive paper weight. Maybe you want an network that embraces experimentation. Maybe you want a network that embraces reliability and great sounding audio. We can bet you want a network that offers multiple and portable connectivity options like traditional repeaters, hotspots, and MMDVM devices. You can have the best of both worlds with DMR-MARC and DMRPlus on one repeater. Read all about it here and apply here if you’re interested. We’d love to have you join us. We offer connectivity to over 300 talkgroups and reflectors and access to the best hams in the world.
DMR-MARC and DMRPlus Partnership Update
Dear DMR-MARC users,
As a follow-up to our announcement in August 2016 regarding our partnership with the DMRPlus network, we have some more exciting news to share with you regarding our collaboration with the DMRPlus team. Firstly, our testing of the new DMRPlus interconnection talkgroups, which include DMR+ USA (TG133), DMR+ UK (TG143) and DMR+ South Pacific (TG153) has been very successful and we have decided to roll these talkgroups out to all repeaters connected to our network. We have also added DMR+ Quebec – French (TG131), and DMR+ Latin America – Spanish (TG134). This will allow any device connected to the DMRPlus network, including commercial Motorola or Hytera repeaters, homebrew MMDVM repeaters or base stations, the upcoming DV4mobile and DV4mini users worldwide to access users on either the DMRPlus or DMR-MARC networks. The rollout has already started and will be completed over the next few weeks.
Secondly, we have decided to allow all of our US regional talkgroups (TG3169, TG317x), and Canadian provincial talkgroups (TG302x) to be interconnected with the DMRPlus network as well. By combining the stable and robust nature of DMR-MARC network with the flexibility and experimental nature of the DMRPlus network, we hope to create a combined global DMR network that suits the needs of all ham DMR users.
With regard to the traditional DMR-MARC talkgroups, we have heard numerous concerns expressed by our users around the potential impact of experimental devices on these talkgroups, so accordingly these talkgroups will remain exclusive to the DMR-MARC network for the time being. These talkgroups include:
– Worldwide (TG1)
– Europe (TG2)
– North America (TG3)
– Oceania (TG5)
– Worldwide German (TG10)
– Worldwide French (TG11)
– Worldwide English (TG13)
– Worldwide Spanish (TG14)
We believe that by providing a two tier approach to talkgroups with some designated as robust and reliable, while others open to experimentation and feature development, we can provide our users with the best possible DMR experience.
In addition, we would like to thank all of our loyal users for their generous contributions to our network over the last seven years. Many of you have invested time, hardware, and financial resources to our network, which has helped us to build the world’s largest DMR network consisting of over 500 repeaters in 60 countries that is used by over 10,000 hams every day. Most importantly, your efforts have helped to change the face of ham radio digital communications forever and we hope the hobby is all the better for it.
Again, we appreciate all of your support and look forward to making DMR great for the benefit of the entire ham radio community.
The DMR-MARC Administrative Team. .
North American Talkgroup has Returned to Full-Time Usage, not Just a Calling Channel
DMR-MARC Network Users,
Effectively immediately, the North America talkgroup (TG3) will return to its original purpose as a wide-area talkgroup available to all North American hams for general QSO at any time. We believe that the North America talkgroup is more effective as a meeting place for all hams, rather than only as a calling channel. Accordingly, we encourage all hams to use this talkgroup for general QSOs spanning across multiple North American repeaters as a way to bridge the distance between us. In addition, we kindly ask that hams respect the fact that this talkgroup is widely distributed and that they keep conversations to a reasonable length and take regular pauses to accommodate others that might want to join the QSO. Remember, User Accessible English 1 (TG113) and User Accessible English 2 (TG123) are available on many systems as talkgroups to continue your conversation if you feel that it is going to be lengthy in nature.
Hope to hear you all on North America soon! Best regards & 73’s!
The DMR-MARC Administrative Team
Featured Stories
Help DMR-MARC maintain the Infrastructure that you enjoy, please donate today to help us keep the Servers and C-Bridges running as well as purchasing new infrastructure to help expand the network you love.
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- The Weekly Tech Net has moved back to North America TG3 at 02:00 UTC Thursday (Wednesday night in the Americas – 9pmET, 8CT, 6PT)
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- DMR-MARC needs your help! We’re looking for additional curators for our Facebook site to help keep it current with good quality content related to the growth of DMR within amateur radio, plus the latest DMR-MARC news. Good writing skills and experience with blogging would be a definite asset. If interested, please message us via Facebook with your application now! – DON, VA3XFT
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- Read all about DMR-MARC at the Ontario Science Centre. Thanks VA3XPR!
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- BEWARE! CPS 8.5 requires a 25 kHz entitlement key to program 25 kHz analog channels. The entitlement key is free with a paid CPS subscription but we see no need to update subscriber firmware newer than R01.09.10 using CPS 8.0
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Network Update
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- Please make sure you read the radio programming instructions before transmitting on the network!
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- FIRMWARE MATRIX – We HIGHLY recommend ALL DMR-MARC trustees and bridge partners to ONLY use the below firmware. This helps minimize system incompatibilities.
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| Repeaters | ONLY R02.40.20 |
| XPR4550,DM3601,XPR6550,DP3601 Mobiles and Portables |
R01.09.10* (or newer) |
| XPR5550,DM4601,XPR7550,DP4601,SL7550 Mobiles and Portables |
R02.30.01 (or newer) |
| CP200d, CM300d, XPR2500 Mobiles and Portables |
R01.00.00 (or newer) |
| C-Bridge | ONLY 9154 |
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- IMPORTANT!! Repeater Firmware R02.30.20 has been released. Please update your repeater immediately. NEVER BLINDLY UPGRADE TO THE LATEST VERSION OF REPEATER FIRMWARE!!! Newer firmware is not always better. Sometimes it has serious flaws. Only follow the Firmware Matrix suggestions. You have been warned. Again.
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- ADVISORY! If you upgrade an XPR4550 or XPR6550 past R01.09.10, you will need a 25 kHz entitlement key for wideband 25 kHz analog channels. Therefore, we recommend R01.09.10 and CPS version 8 for programming those units.
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- The Regional talkgroups are now available to users in any region.
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- Regional Talk Group Status:
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| Talkgroup Name | Group Call | Activation |
| Northeast | 3172 | |
| Mid Atlantic | 3173 | |
| Southeast | 3174 | |
| Southern Plains | 3175 | |
| Southwest | 3176 | |
| Mountain | 3177 | |
| Midwest | 3169 |
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- NETWORK ISSUES: If you notice any problems, complete the form under the Contact Us link at the top of the page. This way your observation gets routed to the specialists. Complaining on the air, even during the weekly net, will do you no good. Thanks for your patience and help in this matter. If you have any additional detailed questions, contact your local repeater trustee.
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Do you have a coordinated repeater pair, a repeater site identified, and high speed access? Would you like to be our newest network affiliate? Apply to join our network today!
Welcome to DMR Plus North America
| DMR Plus is the original network that developed tools to interconnect ETSI Tier 2 DMR repeaters. It has been popular in Europe for years but now, with the cooperation of DMR-MARC, it has finally arrived in North America and the South Pacific. The DMR Plus architecture is similar to D-Star. Users have talkgroups to converse, to disconnect, and to monitor channel status. Users choose from a large pool of reflectors and move back to the converse talkgroup for all QSOs.
The DMR-MARC and DMR Plus partnership is ideal. The DMR-MARC network is robust and reliable. The DMR Plus network is more aligned with experimentation and interoperability of technologies. Think of DMR Plus as the best possible implementation of the former DMR-MARC Sandbox. DMR Plus also supports a configuration that features the traditional DMR-MARC talkgroups like Worldwide English, North America, Latin America, etc. on TS1 and the DMR-Plus reflectors on TS2. The USA Regional talkgroups and the Canadian Provincial talkgroups are now connected to the TS2 reflectors. DMR Plus supports connectivity via the DV4mini USB hotspot and the DVMEGA add-on board for the Raspberry Pi. DMR Plus also features MMDVM connectivity. Be sure to visit the Contact Us link at the top of the page and join either Traditional DMR-MARC or DMR Plus North America. You asked for more control over your repeaters and now you have it! |
DMR Plus Reflectors
Dongle Access is Here!
DMR-MARC is excited to announce remote access with the DV4Mini from Wireless Holdings, the DVMEGA using MMDVM, and the Open Spot from Shark RF. You may access any of the below DMR-MARC talkgroups on your traditional repeater or via a hotspot connected to DMRPlus. Somone locally must PTT the talkgroup to ensure the connection is made between the stable portion of our network (DMR-MARC) and the experimental (DMR Plus). The inactivity timeout to disconnect is 10 minutes.
Shared Talkgroups between DMR-MARC and DMR Plus
| DMR-MARC Talkgroup Number |
DMR-MARC Time Slot |
DMRPlus Reflector Number | Talkgroup Name |
| 131 | 1 | 4581 | DMR+ Quebec (French) |
| 133 | 1 | 4639 | DMR+ USA (English) |
| 134 | 1 | 4380 | DMR+ Latin America (Spanish) |
| 143 | 1 | 4404 | DMR+ United Kingdom (English) |
| 153 | 1 | 4851 | DMR+ South Pacific (English) |
| 3169 | 1 | 4640 | Midwest Regional |
| 3172 | 1 | 4642 | Northeast Regional |
| 3173 | 1 | 4643 | MidAtlantic Regional |
| 3174 | 1 | 4644 | Southeast Regional |
| 3175 | 1 | 4645 | Southern Plains Regional |
| 3176 | 1 | 4646 | Southwest Regional |
| 3177 | 1 | 4647 | Mountain Regional |
| 3020 | 1 | 4590 | Newfoundland/PEI Provincial |
| 3021 | 1 | 4591 | Nova Scotia Provincial |
| 3022 | 1 | 4592 | Quebec Provincial |
| 3023 | 1 | 4593 | Ontario Provincial |
| 3024 | 1 | 4594 | Manitoba Provincial |
| 3025 | 1 | 4595 | Saskatechewan Provincial |
| 3026 | 1 | 4596 | Alberta Provincial |
| 3027 | 1 | 4597 | British Columbia Provincial |
| 3029 | 1 | 4599 | New Brunswick Provincial |
Our partner group, Phoenix UK, also offer the following Talkgroup to Reflector Mappings
Instructions for DV4Mini Software Configuration
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Download and install Visual C++ 2013. (both x86 and x64 for 64-bit machines and x86 for 32-bit machines).
2. Download and install the DV4mini software
3. Follow the screenshots to configure your personal information in the DV4mini software in the DV Control tab.
4. Go to the Expert Settings tab and select you nearest server and adjust the DMR – QRG Correction in the Expert Settings tab to show the lowest error rate. Red is high error, Yellow is medium, green is low error. You need to transmit to see the bit error rate (BER) bar. We have seen +150 to +300 Hz be optimal, depending on the type of radio you use.
5. Choose the USA-Wisconsin or USA-California servers. These are the only official DMR-MARC to DMRPlus supported servers. We cannot vouch for the interoperability of the other servers. They may or may not work. Do not choose a BM server.
6. Choose a talkgroup after selecting the TS2 radio button. Then Choose “Connect” on the DV Control tab.
7. Go to TS2 TG9 on your radio for all calls. (This is similar to what D-Star does with the “T” channel profile.)
Configuration of MMDVM on DVMega/Raspberry Pi
- Purchase a Raspberry Piand a DVMEGA
2. download the latest Jessie Western D-Star Widget Image
3. Follow these helpful instructions.
4. Below is an example MMDVM.ini file that works well. Our partners in the UK, Phoenix, are hosting this service for Europe. You may use their server in the event ours is down.
[General]Callsign=YOURCALLSIGNTimeout=180Duplex=0# ModeHang=10RFModeHang=10NetModeHang=3Display=NoneDaemon=0 [Info]RXFrequency=436500000TXFrequency=436500000Power=1# Positive Latitude is degrees northLatitude=0.00# Negative Latitude is degrees westLongitude=-0.00Height=1Location=YOURGRIDSQUAREDescription=DVMEGAURL=dmr-marc.net [Log]# Logging levels, 0=No loggingDisplayLevel=1FileLevel=1FilePath=.FileRoot=MMDVM [CW Id]Enable=1Time=10 [DMR Id Lookup]File=DMRIds.datTime=24 [Modem]Port=/dev/ttyAMA0# Port=\\.\COM3TXInvert=1RXInvert=0PTTInvert=0TXDelay=100DMRDelay=0RXLevel=50TXLevel=50# CWIdTXLevel=50# D-StarTXLevel=50# DMRTXLevel=50# YSFTXLevel=50# P25TXLevel=50OscOffset=0RSSIMappingFile=RSSI.datDebug=1 [UMP]Enable=0# Port=\\.\COM4Port=/dev/ttyACM1 [D-Star]Enable=0Module=ASelfOnly=0 [DMR]Enable=1Beacons=0Id=Your7DigitDMRIDColorCode=1SelfOnly=0# Prefixes=234,235CallHang=3TXHang=4 [System Fusion]Enable=0#RemoteGateway=0 #[P25]#Enable=1#NAC=293 [D-Star Network]Enable=0GatewayAddress=127.0.0.1GatewayPort=20010LocalPort=20011Debug=0 [DMR Network]Enable=1# Address for East and Midwest USAAddress=67.53.13.50# Address for West USA and South Pacific# Address=104.236.174.209# Address for Europe and Africa# Address=109.69.105.88Port=55555Jitter=300# Local=3350Password=PASSWORDOptions=StartRef=4639;RelinkTime=60;UserLink=1RSSI=0Slot1=0Slot2=1Debug=0 [System Fusion Network]Enable=0LocalAddress=127.0.0.1LocalPort=3200GwyAddress=127.0.0.1GwyPort=4200Debug=0 #[P25 Network]#Enable=1#GatewayAddress=127.0.0.1#GatewayPort=42020#LocalPort=32010#Debug=0 [TFT Serial]# Port=modemPort=/dev/ttyAMA0Brightness=50 [HD44780]Rows=2Columns=16 # For basic HD44780 displays (4-bit connection)# rs, strb, d0, d1, d2, d3Pins=11,10,0,1,2,3 # Device address for I2CI2CAddress=0x20 # PWM backlightPWM=0PWMPin=21PWMBright=100PWMDim=16 DisplayClock=1UTC=0 [Nextion]# Port=modem#Port=/dev/ttyAMA0Brightness=50DisplayClock=1UTC=0IdleBrightness=20 [OLED]Type=3Brightness=0Invert=0 [LCDproc]Address=localhostPort=13666#LocalPort=13667DimOnIdle=0DisplayClock=1UTC=0
Instructions for Shark RF Open Spot
Extra Information
Last Heard List
DV4mini Software
DV4mini Blog
You Tube Video 1
You Tube Video 2
You Tube Video 3
https://www.dmr-marc.net/FAQ/dmrplus-america.html
What is D-STAR? D-STAR, which stands for Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio, is a digital voice and data protocol designed for amateur radio. It was developed in the late 1990’s by the Japan Amateur Radio League (JARL) in an effort to find new ways to bring digital technology to amateur radio. The original study was funded by Japan’s Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, and administered by the JARL. By 2004, Icom, which was involved with the development of the protocol, began releasing “D-STAR optional” transceivers, beginning with the IC-2200H. Although “D-STAR ready,” these transceivers required the yet-to-be-released UT-118 add on card required for use with D-STAR. D-STAR transfers both voice and data via digital encoding over the 2 m (VHF), 70 cm (UHF), and 23 cm (1.2 GHz) amateur radio bands. There is also an interlinking radio system for creating links between systems in a local area on 10 GHz, which allows emergency communications oriented networks to continue to link in the event of internet access failure or overload. D-STAR application chart above, shows the various modes and applications available with D-STAR The D-STAR Protocol Within the D-STAR Digital Voice protocol standards (DV), voice audio is encoded as a 3600 bit/s data stream using proprietary AMBE encoding, with 1200 bit/s FEC, leaving 1200 bit/s for an additional data “path” between radios utilizing DV mode. On air bit rates for DV mode are 4800 bit/s over the 2 m, 70 cm and 23 cm bands. In addition to digital voice mode (DV), a Digital Data (DD) mode can be sent at 128 kbit/s only on the 23 cm band. A higher-rate data protocol, currently believed to be much like ATM, is used in the 10 GHz “link” radios for site-to-site links. Radios providing DV data service within the low-speed voice protocol variant typically use an RS-232 or USB connection for low speed data (1200 bit/s), while the Icom ID-1 23 cm band radio offers a standard Ethernet connection for high speed (128 kbit/s) connections, to allow easy interfacing with computer equipment. Advanced Multi-Band Excitation (AMBE) is the technology that is used in D-STAR to compress the voice for transmission. AMBE is implemented in the AMBE-2000 or AMBE-2020 chips which are found within every D-STAR radio. The AMBE-2000™ Vocoder Chip, which is manufactured by Digital Voice Systems, Inc.(DVSI), implements DVSI’s patented and award winning AMBE® Voice Compression Algorithm. The field-proven success of this technology has resulted in its recognition as the standard for voice quality in communication systems around the globe. Satellite systems such as ACeS, AMSC/TMI, ICO, Inmarsat, Iridium, Optus and Thuraya use this technology because of its superior voice quality at low bit rates. D-STAR radios, repeaters, and dongles One of the biggest criticisms of D-STAR is its use of a closed-source proprietary codec, which unfortunately means that amateur radio operators do not have access to the specification or the rights to implement it on their own without buying a licensed product. This goes against amateur radio’s long standing tradition of building, improving upon and experimenting with radio designs. The modern digital age equivalent of this would be designing and/or implementing codecs in software. Critics say the proprietary nature of AMBE and its availability only in hardware form (as ICs) discourages innovation, however, hams have been involved with other areas of D-STAR development, including reflectors and linking. Since the early 2000’s, D-STAR has developed into a robust communications system that utilyzes both radio frequency (RF) and Internet components. D-STAR Repeaters in Maine & New Hampshire
D-STAR Resources For more information about D-STAR, click on the links below:
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http://www.ws1sm.com/D-STAR.html
Topics for future DMR Tech Nets:
- Go back over the Digimon feature to explain what it is, how and why to use it.
- 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 contacts via 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, 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?