Monday, March 17th, We’re Discussing Making International QSO’s On The DMR Tech Net

Every Monday night, join us on the DMR Tech Net as we try to make Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) easier to understand and fun to use!

Monday night, March 17^th, the DMR Tech Net team will go over and discuss making international QSO’s outside the United States.

Join us on Brandmeister Talk Group 31266 (Michigan Nets channel) for the DMR Tech Net on Monday, starting at 7:30 PM ET.

The net will conclude at 8:25pm to allow time for you to QSY over to BrandMeister talk group 3126 for the Michigan One DMR Net (which begins at 8:30 PM ET).

Upcoming (tentative) DMR Tech Net topics:

March 17 International Contacts via DMR. Best practices for making worldwide QSOs
Tuesday, March 18 DMR Tech Net TV on Zoom with Garrett Dow going over Repeaterbook.com
March 24 How to find Active DMR Talkgroups
March 31 Codeplug Best Practices – Organizing channels, zones, and talkgroups
April 7 Benoit Sylvestre VE2VB discusses the BrandMeister Canada network
April 14 Troubleshooting common DMR issues & how to resolve them
April 21 Steve White N2RWE discusses APRS & how you can set up an APRS digipeater
Tuesday, April 22 DMR Tech Net TV on Zoom with Steve White N2RWE explaining APRS.to
April 28 DMR etiquette and best practices
May 5 Using Software-Based Radios (like DroidStar or BlueDV) to connect to DMR
May 12 Robert Bretzman K4WZV and Steve Smith KWØZ answer your questions about the TGIF Network & TGIF Products Store
May 16-18 Dayton Hamvention
May 19 Dayton Hamvention 2025 recap
Tuesday, May 20 DMR Tech Net TV on Zoom with Steve Smith KWØZ about the TGIF Network
May 26 How to learn more about DMR
June 2 What is HamShack Hotline & Hams Over IP?
June 9 WB8QJZ explains AllStarLink
June 16 Antennas for DMR radios
Tuesday, June 17 DMR Tech Net TV on Zoom with Benoit Sylvestre VE2VB from BrandMeister
June 23 Using a Bluetooth headset with DMR
June 30 DMR mobile radios hints and tips

If you have a topic suggestion for a future DMR Tech Net, please let us know! Send the email to Dana@dmrtechnet.net

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 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

There are plenty of reasons why making international contacts via DMR is valuable and enjoyable for amateur radio operators. Here are a few:

Expanding Your Amateur Radio Experience

Making contacts outside the U.S. broadens your understanding of how amateur radio is used globally.
It introduces you to different radio networks, regulations, and operating styles around the world.

Learning About Other Cultures

Every contact is an opportunity to learn about someone’s country, traditions, and way of life.
Many hams enjoy discussing local weather, geography, or even unique radio challenges in different regions.

Practicing International Communication Skills

Communicating with operators who speak different languages can improve your ability to use clear and concise language.
It’s a great way to practice listening skills and patience, especially when dealing with accents or different speaking styles.

Participating in Global Amateur Radio Events

Many international ham radio groups organize nets and special event stations that you can check into.
Some DX (long-distance) awards and challenges include DMR contacts, making it a fun way to work toward new achievements.

Making Friends and Building a Worldwide Network

Amateur radio is all about community, and having friends across the globe makes the hobby even more rewarding.
Some hams even set up regular DMR schedules with international friends, just like traditional HF schedules.

Experimenting with Digital Radio Technology

DMR allows for crystal-clear international communication, making it a great platform for testing your radio and hotspot setup.
Understanding how different networks (BrandMeister, TGIF, etc.) handle global communications helps expand your technical knowledge.

Being Part of Emergency and Disaster Communications

During disasters, international contacts can provide real-time insights into conditions in other parts of the world.
Some international groups focus on emergency response, and being able to communicate globally could be useful in a crisis.

In short, making international DMR contacts isn’t just about talking to someone far away—it’s about learning, sharing, and being part of a global ham radio community.

Why Make International Contacts on DMR?

One of the biggest advantages of Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) is its ability to connect hams across the globe with just an HT and a hotspot or a local repeater. Unlike HF, where propagation conditions can make long-distance communication unpredictable, DMR provides a reliable way to reach operators worldwide. But why would you want to make international contacts in the first place? Let’s break it down for our DMR Tech Net audience.

Expanding Your Digital Radio Horizons

DMR isn’t just a replacement for local repeaters—it’s a gateway to worldwide communication. Talking to operators in different countries exposes you to new talkgroups, networks, and even different ways of using DMR. You’ll quickly realize that DMR has a much broader role in amateur radio than just chatting with the locals.

Discovering the Global Ham Community

Amateur radio is an international hobby, and DMR makes it easier than ever to experience that firsthand. A quick call on TG91 (Worldwide) or TG913 (Worldwide English) can connect you with hams in Europe, Asia, or South America in a matter of seconds. Every QSO is an opportunity to learn how amateur radio is practiced in different parts of the world.

Improving Your Operating Skills

International contacts present a unique challenge:

You might be speaking with non-native English speakers, requiring you to be clear and concise.
You’ll need to practice listening skills to understand different accents and operating styles.
It’s a great way to get comfortable using tactical talkgroups like TAC 310 when you want to move a QSO off a busy calling channel.

Participating in Global Nets and Events

There are numerous DMR nets dedicated to international contacts, covering everything from technical discussions to social chats. Some noteworthy ones include:

International DMR Net (TG91, Saturdays)
European DMR Net (TG92, Wednesdays)
Country-Specific Nets (e.g., UK Net on TG2350, Australia Net on TG505)

By participating in these nets, you’ll meet hams from all over the world and expand your amateur radio circle beyond local repeaters.

Making Lasting Connections

Many operators form lasting friendships through DMR, just like HF DXing. Some even set up scheduled QSOs with international friends, checking in regularly via DMR talkgroups or private call functions. If you travel, having contacts in other countries can be a great way to connect with local hams and learn about their radio culture.

Experimenting with Digital Modes and Network Infrastructure

For those interested in the technical side of DMR, international contacts give you insight into how different regions set up their networks. Some use BrandMeister, others rely on TGIF or DMR+—each with unique routing, linking, and talkgroup structures. Learning how these systems interconnect is a great way to deepen your technical knowledge.

Emergency Communications and Disaster Preparedness

DMR has been used in real-world emergency situations, and international contacts can play a role in disaster response. If a region experiences a disaster, listening to DMR traffic from that area can provide real-time situational awareness. Some talkgroups even focus on emergency response coordination across borders.

Making international contacts on DMR isn’t just about saying “hello” to someone far away—it’s about being part of a worldwide ham radio community. Whether you’re looking to learn something new, practice your digital skills, or just enjoy a good conversation, DMR offers a reliable and accessible way to reach out beyond your local area.

So next time you key up on TG91 or TG913, take a moment to introduce yourself and see who’s listening. You never know who you might meet on the other side of the world!

Best BrandMeister Talkgroups for International Contacts

BrandMeister is one of the most popular DMR networks worldwide, with many well-established international talkgroups.

Worldwide Talkgroups:

TG 91 – Worldwide (General international chat, busiest for global QSOs)
TG 913 – Worldwide English (For English-speaking hams worldwide)
TG 92 – Europe (General European contacts)
TG 3100 – North America (U.S. & Canada operators)
TG 31266 – The Michigan Nets Channel

Regional & Country-Specific Talkgroups:

TG 505 – Australia
TG 2350 – UK Calling
TG 202 – Greece
TG 208 – France
TG 222 – Italy
TG 260 – Hungary
TG 262 – Germany
TG 91X (TG91 plus an extra digit) – Some regions have country-specific sub-talkgroups under TG91

Tactical Talkgroups for Longer QSOs:

These are used when you want to move a conversation off a busy worldwide talkgroup:

TG 310 (TAC 310) – North American hams (often used for extended QSOs)
TG 311 (TAC 311) – Similar purpose to TAC 310
TG 312 (TAC 312) – Another option for international QSOs
Note: TAC channels often require an initial contact on a primary TG before moving over.

Best TGIF Talkgroups for International Contacts

TGIF is a growing alternative DMR network that offers a mix of open and private talkgroups. The best international groups here include:

Popular Global Talkgroups on TGIF:

TG 31665 – Worldwide (General international chat)
TG 777 – International Calling (Often used for CQ calls)
TG 320 – World Wide English
TG 22222 – International Net (Great for scheduled nets & casual contacts)
TG 31268 – The DMR Tech Net channel

Regional & Country-Specific Talkgroups:

TG 505 – Australia
TG 2350 – UK Calling
TG 91 – Worldwide (Some TGIF users mirror this from BrandMeister)

How to Use These Talkgroups Effectively

Listen First – Many of these TGs are busy, especially TG91 on BrandMeister. Avoid jumping in if a QSO is already in progress.
Call Clearly – A simple “CQ CQ, this is [your callsign] from [your location], looking for an international contact” works well.
Move to a TAC TG for Longer Chats – If you make a contact on a busy TG, ask if they can QSY to TAC 310, 311, or 312 for an extended QSO.
Use Your Hotspot or Repeater Correctly – If using a hotspot, ensure your talkgroup is properly linked via Pi-Star, OpenSpot, or another hotspot dashboard.

Best Talkgroups for Specific Countries

🇨🇦 Canada

BrandMeister:
- TG 302 – Canada Nationwide
- TG 3026 – Canada-Wide English
- TG 3024 – Ontario
- TG 3023 – British Columbia
- TG 3022 – Alberta
- TG 3021 – Quebec
TGIF:
- TG 120 – Canada
- TG 30226 – Canada East
- TG 30227 – Canada West

🇬🇧 England (United Kingdom)

BrandMeister:
- TG 2350 – UK Calling (Main TG for making contacts in the UK)
- TG 235 – United Kingdom (General UK-wide chat)
- TG 2351 – England
- TG 2352 – Scotland
- TG 2353 – Wales
- TG 2354 – Northern Ireland
TGIF:
- TG 23500 – UK Wide
- TG 700 – UK & Ireland

🇩🇪 Germany

BrandMeister:
- TG 262 – Germany Nationwide (Most popular for general QSOs)
- TG 2620 – Bavaria
- TG 2621 – Baden-Württemberg
- TG 2622 – North Rhine-Westphalia
- TG 2623 – Berlin/Brandenburg
- TG 263 – German-speaking (Includes Austria & Switzerland)
TGIF:
- TG 26200 – Germany General
- TG 1106 – German Language TG

🇦🇺 Australia

BrandMeister:
- TG 505 – Australia Nationwide (Most popular for making contacts)
- TG 5051 – Victoria
- TG 5052 – New South Wales
- TG 5053 – South Australia
- TG 5054 – Western Australia
- TG 5055 – Tasmania
- TG 5056 – Queensland
TGIF:
- TG 505 – Australia General
- TG 741 – Australia & New Zealand

🇳🇿 New Zealand

BrandMeister:
- TG 530 – New Zealand Nationwide
- TG 5309 – New Zealand General
- TG 53020 – Auckland
TGIF:
- TG 5300 – New Zealand

Best Strategy for Making Contacts

Call on the National Calling Talkgroup First – Start with TG 302 (Canada), TG 2350 (UK), TG 262 (Germany), TG 505 (Australia), or TG 530 (New Zealand).
Move to a Less Busy Talkgroup for Longer QSOs – If you establish a contact, ask if they can QSY to a regional TG or a TAC talkgroup (like TAC 310).
Check for Scheduled Nets – Many country-specific talkgroups have weekly nets where you can check in and make contacts easily.

If you can’t join us live for the DMR Tech Net, you can always listen to us via BrandMeister’s mobile Hoseline app or their Hoseline desktop software: (https://hose.brandmeister.network/).

We do record the show, so if you miss out and want to listen, or re-listen, to it, you can. The audio link is located at the very bottom of this post (after the show ends) on our website, along with the AI interpretation of the audio so you can read along.

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.

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/

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To see previous newsletters, check out our website: https://dmrtechnet.net/

The DMR Tech Net team is assisting Dustin N8RMA with NCS duties on the Michigan One DMR Net, Monday nights at 8:30 PM ET on BrandMeister Talk Group 3126, the statewide Michigan calling channel. Here is the list of the upcoming NCS (Net Control Stations) for the Michigan One DMR Net:

Mar 17 Brad KE8WNV
Mar 24 Rick AD8KN
Mar 31 6-year anniversary show with Dustin N8RMA
Apr 6 Steve KC8WXM

https://www.michiganonedmr.net/

To hear the audio from this net, please click (HERE):

Meeting summary for the DMR Tech Net (03/17/2025)

Quick recap

The DMR Tech Net meeting, led by the DMR Tech Net team, focused on explaining and using digital mobile radio, with a particular emphasis on making international QSOs. Attendees discussed various aspects of international contacts, including methods, benefits, and logging practices, while also sharing personal experiences and highlighting the advantages of DMR technology. The meeting covered additional topics such as upcoming events, DMR effectiveness in different situations, and future discussions on hotspots, concluding with announcements and reminders for participants.

Next steps

• Ben (VE2VB) to host the French/English Tech Net on talk group 30227 on Wednesday, March 19th at 7 PM Eastern time, discussing hotspots.

• Dana (KC0MYP) to host next week’s DMR Tech Net on the topic of how to find active DMR talk groups.

• DMR Tech Net team to host DMR Tech Net TV on Zoom on Tuesday, March 18th at 8 PM, featuring guest Garrett Dow discussing Repeater Book.

• Brad (KE8WNV) to host the Michigan One DMR Net on talk group 3126 at 8:30 PM.

• Steve (KC8WXM) to log the Michigan One DMR Net.

Summary

DMR Tech Net: International QSOs Discussion

Dana led the DMR Tech Net, a digital mobile radio discussion, on Brandmeister Talk Group 31266. The meeting was directed and focused on explaining and using digital mobile radio. The DMR Tech Net team, including Tom, Stan, Steve, Brad, and Rick, assisted Dana. The team created a website at DMRTechNet.net for updates and a newsletter. They also encouraged participants to join the weekly email distribution list by sending an email to subscribe@dmrtechnet.net. The main topic of the meeting was making international QSOs, which was discussed in detail. Dana shared his experiences with international contacts and highlighted the benefits of making international QSOs, such as expanding amateur radio experience, learning about other cultures, practicing international communication skills, participating in global events, making friends, and experimenting with digital radio technology.

International QSOs via DMR Talk Groups

The DMR Tech Net meeting focused on international QSOs. The attendees discussed various ways to make international contacts, including using DMR talk groups and logging contacts. They also shared their experiences with international QSOs and the benefits of using DMR for making international contacts. The meeting also highlighted the importance of logging contacts and the use of tools like Logbook of the World for this purpose. The attendees also discussed the possibility of meeting in person with international contacts.

DMR Tech Net Meeting Summary

The DMR Tech Net team discussed various topics including the Oktoberfest celebration, the effectiveness of DMR for different situations, and the upcoming topic of hotspots. Tom also congratulated the DMR Tech Net team on receiving a Good Operator Commendation letter from the ARRL. The conversation ended with a reminder about the upcoming Michigan one DMR net and the transition to normal usage on Brandmeister.

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