The DMR Tech Net team hosts a monthly show using Zoom on the third Tuesday of each month from 8pm-9pm ET. We call it DMR Tech Net TV as we demystify interesting topics & introduce you to fascinating guests every month. And we make room for your questions. Join us!
Tuesday, January 21st, DMR Tech Net TV will discuss how to get started with Digital Mobile Radio.
DMR Tech Net TV is a monthly show broadcast on Zoom on the third Tuesday of each month. We’ll be live from 8pmET-9pm ET to explain and demystify DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) along with introducing you to fascinating and interesting amateur radio guests!
To join the DMR Tech Net TV Zoom meeting, click the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84447664395?pwd=djZMbFZaWVRkRDRudkRFeWc2WWV4UT09
Another option is to go to https://zoom.us/, then select “Join” (in the top right-hand corner), and input the following details to connect to the DMR Tech Net TV on 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
Getting started with Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) can seem complex but breaking it down into steps makes it manageable. Here’s how to begin:
Step 1: Get Your Amateur Radio License
- In most countries, you need at least a Technician Class license to use DMR.
- If you’re in the U.S., register for an exam through the ARRL or another VEC (Volunteer Examiner Coordinator).
Step 2: Obtain a DMR ID
- Register for a DMR ID at RadioID.net.
- This unique 7-digit ID is required to access DMR networks.
- It may take a few days to receive approval.
Step 3: Choose a DMR Radio
Some popular DMR radios include:
- Handhelds: AnyTone AT-D878UVII, TYT MD-UV380, Radioddity GD-77
- Mobiles/Base Stations: AnyTone AT-D578UV, TYT MD-9600
- Hotspots (if needed): OpenSpot, Pi-Star (ZumSpot, MMDVM), SkyBridge
Step 4: Learn About DMR Networks
DMR operates on different networks, including:
- BrandMeister – Most flexible, open worldwide network
- TGIF Network – Community-driven, custom talkgroups
- DMR-MARC – Linked to repeater networks, more structured
- PAPA System – Other regional DMR systems
Each network has talkgroups (TGs), which are like radio channels. Examples:
- BrandMeister TG 91 (Worldwide)
- BrandMeister TG 3100 (U.S. Nationwide)
- BrandMeister TG 31266 (Michigan Nets)
- TGIF TG 31268 (DMR Tech Net)
Step 5: Program Your DMR Radio (Codeplug Basics)
A codeplug is a configuration file for your radio. It includes:
✅ Frequencies – Local repeater or hotspot settings
✅ Color Codes – Similar to CTCSS/DCS in analog
✅ Time Slots (TS) – TS1 or TS2, depending on the network
✅ Talkgroups (TG) – The groups you want to communicate on
Many radios require programming software (CPS) and a USB cable to load codeplugs.
Step 6: Accessing a DMR Repeater or Hotspot
- Find a DMR repeater near you using RepeaterBook.com
- If there’s no repeater nearby, consider using a hotspot (like a Pi-Star MMDVM device).
- Program your radio with the correct frequency, color code, and talkgroup settings.
Step 7: Make Your First DMR Contact
- Choose an active talkgroup and listen first.
- When there’s a pause, key up, say your callsign, and listen for a response.
- Keep transmissions short and clear.
Example QSO:
“WB8QJZ monitoring BrandMeister Talk Group 31266, anyone around?”
Step 8: Join a Net & Learn More
- Join a weekly net like the DMR Tech Net (TG 31266) for beginner support.
- Explore digital dashboards like BrandMeister’s Last Heard to see activity.
- Experiment with different talkgroups, reflectors, and networks.
Setting up a Michigan codeplug for your DMR radio involves these steps:
Step 1: Install the CPS Software
- Download the latest CPS (Customer Programming Software) for your radio.
- Install the software and USB driver for the programming cable.
Step 2: Gather Michigan DMR Repeater Info
Use RepeaterBook or BrandMeister to find repeaters in Michigan. You’ll need:
- Frequency (TX/RX)
- Color Code (CC)
- Time Slot (TS)
- Talkgroups (TG)
Popular Michigan talkgroups include:
- TG 3126 – Michigan Statewide channel
- TG 31266 – Michigan Nets channel
- TG 31268 – Upper Peninsula channel
- TG 91 – Worldwide channel
- TG 3100 – USA Nationwide channel
- TGIF 31268 – DMR Tech Net channel
Step 3: Create or Import a Codeplug
Option 1: Use a Pre-Made Codeplug
- Some ham operators share Michigan-specific codeplugs.
- Check Facebook groups, forums, or DMR websites.
- Load the codeplug into CPS and tweak it to match your needs.
Option 2: Manually Build One
- Open CPS and Read from Your Radio (Read > Read from Radio).
- Create Digital Contacts for Michigan talkgroups (Digital > Talkgroups).
- Set Up Channels (Channel > Add New):
- Input RX/TX frequencies for repeaters.
- Set Color Code (usually 1 or 2).
- Assign the correct Talkgroup.
- Choose Time Slot 1 or 2.
- Build a Zone:
- Group all Michigan repeaters in a “Michigan Zone” for easy access.
- Save & Write to Radio (Write > Write to Radio).
Step 4: Test Your Setup
- Monitor TG 3126 (Michigan Statewide) and listen for activity.
- Key up and say your callsign:
“This is N8TJ testing on TG 3126, is anyone available?” - Check BrandMeister’s “Last Heard” to confirm your signal.
Step 5: Fine-Tune and Expand
- Add a hotspot channel if you use Pi-Star/OpenSpot.
- Explore other Michigan nets and weekly schedules.
- Backup your codeplug for future updates.
How to Become an Elmer for DMR
If you’re experienced with DMR, you can help others get started by:
- Participate in DMR Nets
- Join weekly nets like the DMR Tech Net (TG 31665) or Michigan-based nets.
- Offer advice and share insights on codeplugs, hotspots, and repeaters.
- Create or Share Codeplugs
- Develop and share pre-configured codeplugs for local repeaters and popular talkgroups.
- Post these resources on club websites, forums, or Facebook groups.
3️. Host Local or Virtual Workshops
- Offer in-person help at club meetings or hamfests.
- Host a Zoom or Discord session to assist hams with their DMR setup.
4️. Be Active on Social Media & Forums
- Engage in discussions on:
- DMR groups on Facebook
- QRZ.com forums
- Reddit’s /r/amateur radio
- Answer beginners’ questions and provide troubleshooting tips.
5️. Set Up a Local Mentorship Program
- Work with local amateur radio clubs to mentor new DMR users.
- Encourage “bring your radio” workshops to program radios in person.
How to Find an Elmer for DMR
If you need help learning DMR, here’s where to look:
1️. Join a DMR Net
- Listen and participate in DMR Tech Net (TG 31665) or your local talkgroups.
- Ask, “Are there any Elmers willing to help a new DMR user?”
2️. Visit Local Amateur Radio Clubs
- Many local clubs have experienced DMR users.
- Attend meetings or hamfests and ask if anyone uses DMR.
3️. Check Facebook Groups & Online Forums
- Join DMR-related groups like:
- Post a request:
“Looking for a DMR Elmer to help me with my AnyTone D878UVII+ setup in Michigan.”
4️. Search for Local DMR Repeater Owners
- Find repeaters on RepeaterBook.
- Contact the repeater owner or trustee—they often mentor new users.
5️. Attend Hamfests & Tech Nights
- Many ham radio events include DMR workshops or hands-on demos.
- Ask around and network with experienced operators.
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
To subscribe (or unsubscribe) to this newsletter, send an email to subscribe@dmrtechnet.net.
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.
To view previous DMR Tech Net TV shows, visit our YouTube channel: (https://www.youtube.com/@DMRtechnetTV) or website (https://dmrtechnet.net/dmr-tech-net-tv/).