Join us on Brandmeister Talk Group 31266 (Michigan Nets) for the DMR Tech Net on Monday, October 7th from 7:30 PM ET to 8:25 PM ET. The net will conclude early to allow time to switch (QSY) to the Michigan One DMR Net (which begins at 8:30 PM ET on BrandMeister Talk Group 3126).
This Monday night we want to hear your DMR hints and tips you have for other users. It’s amazing what you can learn and pick up from other DMR users, especially more experienced ones. We do this on the first Monday of each month.
Join us every Monday night as we make Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) easy to understand and fun to use!
Here are some useful hints and tips to help make Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) easier to use, especially within the context of amateur radio:
1. Understand DMR Basics
Talk Groups (TG): These are like chat rooms. Make sure you’re familiar with common ones (e.g., statewide, nationwide, regional) and how to access them. Some DMR networks, like BrandMeister, allow you to dynamically connect to Talk Groups by sending a TG call.
Time Slots (TS): DMR repeaters have two time slots (TS1 and TS2). It’s important to know which TGs are assigned to each slot. TS1 is often for wide-area (regional/national) communication, while TS2 is for local communications.
Color Codes (CC): This is similar to PL tones on analog radios. Ensure the correct color code is programmed for the repeater you’re accessing.
2. Codeplug Mastery
Codeplug Creation: The “codeplug” is your radio’s programming configuration. Start with a basic codeplug that includes local repeaters and frequently used TGs. You can add more complexity as you get comfortable.
Import & Share Codeplugs: Often, fellow hams have already created detailed codeplugs for your region. Reach out to local DMR groups to get copies, which can save time and effort.
Keep It Simple: When you’re just starting out, keep your codeplug minimal and focus on the talk groups and repeaters you will use most frequently.
3. Use a Hotspot for Better Access
Portable Hotspots: A personal DMR hotspot (e.g., Pi-Star with a Raspberry Pi) can dramatically improve your DMR experience. It allows you to access DMR networks like BrandMeister, DMR+ or TGIF from anywhere with internet.
Wi-Fi and Network Configuration: Make sure your hotspot is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. Configure the hotspot to auto-start with your preferred TGs for convenience.
Mobile/Traveling Setup: With a hotspot and a mobile data connection, you can access DMR even when outside of repeater range.
4. Monitor and Learn
Listen First: Always listen before transmitting. This is not only a good practice but also helps you understand how others are using specific talk groups.
DMR Monitor Tools: Use web-based tools like BrandMeister’s dashboard or the RepeaterBook app to see what TGs are active on local repeaters and hotspots. It helps you find activity without guessing.
5. Firmware and Software Updates
Radio Firmware: Make sure your radio’s firmware is up-to-date. Newer firmware often adds features and improves compatibility with newer repeaters or networks.
DMR Database: Keep your DMR ID contact list updated. Most radios allow you to load the worldwide DMR user database so you can see callsign and location information for those transmitting.
6. Improve Audio Quality
Mic Gain: Set appropriate microphone gain levels to avoid distorted audio. Adjust for clarity, not just loudness.
Monitor Your Own Signal: Have a friend or use a talk group where you can monitor your own transmission and get feedback on your audio quality.
7. Learn Network Differences
BrandMeister vs TGIF: Learn the differences between popular DMR networks like BrandMeister and TGIF. BrandMeister is more flexible, allowing users to link directly to talk groups via hotspots, while TGIF has flexibility and focus on user-created, specialized talk groups.
Check TG Availability: Some TGs may only be available on certain networks or may be regionally specific. Always check your repeater or hotspot setup for which TGs are accessible.
8. Get Involved in DMR Nets
DMR Nets: Regular DMR nets are a great way to get more experience, practice, and meet other DMR users. Check out local or worldwide DMR nets on popular talk groups (such as TG 91 for worldwide nets).
Practice Operating Etiquette: Be mindful of net protocols, wait for pauses in conversation, and use short transmissions when operating on busy talk groups.
9. Use the APRS Feature
Many DMR radios, like the Anytone 878, support APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System). This can be a fun and useful feature to explore, especially if you enjoy digital modes.
10. Join Online Communities
DMR Forums: Join DMR-specific online communities or Facebook groups where users share codeplugs, tips, and answer questions. You can find valuable resources and learn from other hams’ experiences.
Ham Radio YouTube Channels: Many amateur radio enthusiasts share instructional videos that can provide visual walkthroughs for programming radios, setting up hotspots, and configuring software.
These tips should help smooth the learning curve and make your DMR experience more enjoyable and effective!
Here are the Michigan DMR nets we know about.
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 31266
- 8:30pm Michigan One DMR Net on BrandMeister talk group 3126
Send an email to subscribe@dmrtechnet.net if you want to subscribe or unsubscribe to this newsletter.
To see previous newsletters, check out our website: https://dmrtechnet.net/
You can always chat with the DMR Tech Net team on TGIF talk group 31268, the DMR Tech Net channel or Brandmeister talk group 31266, the Michigan Nets channel.
The DMR Tech Net team is assisting Dustin N8RMA with NCS duties on the Michigan One DMR net.
Here’s the upcoming list of upcoming NCS’:
Oct 7 Steve KC8WXM
Oct 14 Dustin N8RMA
Oct 21 Brad KE8WNV
Oct 28 Rick AD8KN
https://www.michiganonedmr.net/
On Tuesday, October 15th from 8pm-9pm ET for DMR Tech Net TV, we’ll have Jeremiah Mulford W9JAM, to discuss his tech support work and DMR issues he deals with at Bridgecom Systems.
To join the DMR Tech Net TV Zoom meeting, click the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84447664395?pwd=djZMbFZaWVRkRDRudkRFeWc2WWV4UT09
You can also go to https://zoom.us/, then select “Join” (in the top right-hand corner), then input the following details to connect to the DMR Tech Net TV Zoom meeting:
- Meeting ID: 844 4766 4395
- Passcode: 370040
To join with only your phones’ audio, dial (312) 626-6799 and input the following:
- Meeting ID: 844 4766 4395
- Passcode: 370040