2020-05-03
A new version of Pi-Star is v4.1.1 available from Update. If you are still running a
version earlier than v4.1 then I reccomend an Upgrade. One of the new features for YSF
is the YSF-Reflector selector on the dashboard, so you no longer have to go into
configuration just to change reflector.
There are more improvements to YSF2xxx modes and DMRGateway that I have not tested as yet.
Check the PI-Star User Forum Update May-03 for more information.
2020-04-03
I was asked about YSF2DMR for the OpenSpot1. It's changed a little since my previous post
back in 2017 so here is just the basic info.
Your Fusion radio knows nothing about DMR so talkgroups are handled by the YSF2DMR software
in the Openspot. To set the Openspot1 for YSF2DMR you leave your "Modem" (radio) set to C4FM.
1. Then select a "Connector" as DMR with "Homebrew/MMDVM". Then scroll down to the section
"DMR/Homebrew/MMDVM" and set the following:
2. Protocol: Homebrew
Server: Canada/3021 (that's the server number not a talkgroup)
Enter your Callsign and your DMR-ID.(You should have/get one if you intend on using DMR)
Server Password: passw0rd
3. Route YSF calls to ID: 3029
* This setting is the Talkgroup that your DMR signal will use across the network when
you transmit with your YSF radio * eg: 3029=NB, 3021=NS
Click the SAVE button and Openspot should say that you you're connected to Brandmeister
and list any talkgroups enabled. If you intended on using DMR a lot, I recommend that
you create an account on Brandmeister for Self Care where you can easily manage the
Static talkgroups. More info on this on my DMR page.
For a Quick Start, you can just make a transmission which will go out across BM and other
networks on talkgroup 3029. That transmission will also set the Dynamic talkgroup timer so you
can monitor TG3029 for the next 15 minutes. You will probably want to set one or more
Static talkgroups for regular monitoring, but remember that YSF2DMR will grab any active
static and dynamic talkgroup signals and transmit them to your C4FM radio. This could be
confusing when more than one is active, but thankfully the TG number is displayed on
your radio. If want to switch talkgroups, just go to step 3 and enter the new TX
talkgroup number. To help manage receiving talkgroups there are sections in the
"Connector' menu like "Actions" to Drop talkgroups.
2020-03-26
A long time ago the YSF2DMR program was developed to allow a YSF Radio to work through
the Hotspot and link directly to a DMR server. However, there were a few bugs and operational
challenges. So the current versions of Pi-Star (4.1.0) running the MMDVM software have
the YSF2DMR working quite well with only minor issues.
The big issue that gave me grief was that DMR signals from the network would transmit on YSF
from my Hotspot but would NOT be decoded by my FT2D, yet worked fine on my FTM100.
While I havn't found the exact cause of this, I have found a good workaround. That is
to Reboot the Hotspot (Admin/Power/Reboot) if I was going to change talkgroups.
It's important to note that the YSF2DMR program uses the Configuration setting in
"Yaesu System Fusion Configuration", "DMR TG:" to set the outgoing (TX) DMR Talkgroup.
If your DMR server does not have any active Talkgroups (set Dynamic or Static) then
you will hear (RX) nothing. The best method is to use the BM Selfcare on your BM server
account for that Hotspot. That way you can easily control the enabled Talkgoup(s)
for your feed. For general monitoring, you can set a few of your common Talkgroups
to be Dynamic or Static, but be aware if ANY of these TG's become active you can easily
have multiple Talkgroups alternating and making it difficult to listen to a QSO.
As with all DMR Hotspots, be aware of this and enable (static) Talkgroups for only the
ones you need. When you are in a QSO it's best to have Only that Talkgroup enabled.
Unlike Pi-Star in DMR only mode, in YSF2DMR the DMR server connection is secondary and
you won't be able to use the BM API in Pi-Star to monitor and control your static
talkgroups, so do that with a web browser to your BM account in Selfcare.
Here are the steps to using YSF2DMR:
1. In the Config Section "MMDVMHost Configuration", set YSF Mode=ON, YSF2DMR=ON
2, In the section "Yaesu System Fusion Configuration", set "YSF Startup Host:" in
the drop down menu to "YSF00002 - Link YSF2DMR".
You can set an extended DMR-ID to add "01,02..etc" for multiple Hotspots.
Select your "DMR Master" server from the list (BM_Canada_3021).
3. Set your (TX) DMR Talkgroup using "DMR TG: = 3029" (3029=NB)
Then "Apply Changes".
Note that setting "DMR TG:" does not immediately send anything to the DMR server.
On your first transmission, that TG info will be sent and that Talkgroup will be
enabled as Dynamic if not already enabled. The problem with Dyanamic TG is the
amount of time a Dynamic Talkgroup is active varies on different servers and is
typically only a few minutes.
That's why I recommend you use BM selfare to manage your Hotspot talkgroups as Static.
So far so good, but if you want to transmit on a different talkgroup. Then change the
TG as per step #3..but after "Apply Settings", I recommend doing a Hotspot Reboot.
That ensures all the YSF2DMR information and it's routines are set at the same time.
That Reboot is what solved my no decode problem with my FT2D.
Of course if a YSF user wants to use TG-3029 or TG-3023, the easiest method is to use
the YSF Reflectors directly. (YSF #53710 CA-Maritimes=3029)
2020-02-22
Since both Fusion/YSF and DMR activity has grown significantly over the past 2 years,
I have created separate web pages for all three of the popular Digital Voice Modes.
D-STAR, DMR, and Fusion/YSF pages.
2020-01-05
As of today the VE1CRA digital repeater near Charlottetown, PEI on 146.715-, has switched
from D-Star to Wires-X Fusion. It will normally be connected to the CQ-Maritimes Room 60207.
2020-01-04
From VE1JBL:
The Maritime Fusion Net starts this Wednesday Jan.8th, 2020 at 7pm AST,
on CQ-Maritimes Room 60207.
"This net will focus on Maritime Fusion Digital users. Operators will be asked to
check-in via their province PEI, NB and NS. Depending on the amount of hams checking
in there will be a second and maybe a third go around in case some are late getting
to the net. After the check-ins (time permitting) there will be a Question-Answer session
(and or) topic of discussion."
2020-01-03
Yaesu USA has an "Official" YouTube channel.
Some great new videos that are more of the 3 part series"
"Yaesu WiRES-X: Everything You Wanted to Know but Were Afraid to Ask".
2019-12-29
For Pi-Star users, there is a new v4-RC7 out now. More about that on my Zumspot/Hotspot Page.
With Pi-Star v4 there is just one version, which is now v4-RC7.
2019-12-15
Working with Wires-X can be frustrating compared to other digital networks. Being closed
source software we have to live with it, and Windows.
A great document on Wires-X use is called The Wires-X Bible pdf.
The only way to see what's going on is to have a Wires-X node and run that software.
Here is what I see on Wires-X for the Maritimes:
2019-12-12
Now that I have a dedicated FTM-100 for a Wires-X node, I am running a test of this node
as Gateway for the VE1CRA Fusion repeater. The DR-1X was used for more than 3 years as a
MMDVM repeater, mostly for DMR, but I have a portable repeater that will take over that role.
During the testing period, VE1CRA Fusion is on 443.300+ Mhz and will remain there for now.
If things work out, the repeater part will go up to my main site and replace the D-Star repeater
on 146.715-Mhz. This node may have a separate room, VE1CRA-ROOM but the VE1CRA-RPT repeater
will probably be connected to one of the other local Rooms most of the time, like "CQ-Maritimes".
To see a list of Active Wires-X rooms, a nice dashboard was created by K9EQ.
WIRES-X Occupied Rooms Report de K9EQ
2019-11-17
Thanks to Nick VE9MP, an upgrade to the MMDVM_Bridge software has fixed a problem with
the YSF-2-DMR link. It's working perfectly again.
For those who have a YSF Hotspot, connect to YSF Reflector YSF-53710 which is
"CA Maritimes".(As listed in Pi-Star YSF Reflector list)
Unlike Yaesu Wires-X Rooms and it's crappy software, this Open-Source YSF Reflector
allows easy access from Hotspots and provides useful information on who's connected
and who has been using it (heard list). (YSF Reflector CA Maritimes Dashboard)
The MMDVM_Bridge software provides the link to our NB-DMR network on the IPSC2 server.
YSF signals from the Reflector are translated directly to DMR TG 3029 (NB), so a YSF
station will appear on DMR TG3029 Slot2 with the proper ID if registered. This is on
both the DMR+(IPSC2) Network and the DMR-MARC network using the Can-Trbo switch.
Note that the IPSC2 DMR server is also linked with Brandmeister Network so TG3029 data
is available from that network as well.
Any DMR stations on TG3029 (NB) from any of these Networks will be heard on this YSF
Reflector and QSO's in both directions sound great.
YSF_Hotspot->YSF53710=>DMR->IPSC2_DMR-TG3029->DMR_MARC-TG3029->BM_DMR-TG3029
2019-09-30
From VE1YZ comes news that he and VE1PYE have their UHF Fusion repeater on the air
in Halifax. Located at the VE1CDN site in Upper Sackville on 442.975+ mhz.
It will run in AMS mode so analog stations can use CTCSS tones of 82.5 Hz.
Fusion users can QSO locally but will have to wait a little bit for networking,
as that is still under construction.
2019-09-02
The Moncton Club, MAARC has a new Fusion repeater on the air in Moncton, NB.
VE9MFR is on 146.625 Mhz - offset with CTSS of 103.4Hz for Analog use.
2019-07-16
A note from VA3UV has word of a new YSF-DMR-D_Star Reflector system.
It accepts DMR and YSF directly and transcodes D-Star nicely as well.
D-Star XRF005-B or XLX416-D
DMR 302050
YSF 36010 CA ON-Procom
Here is the FREE STAR Dashboard.
2019-07-03
From VE9GM comes news that a new Fusion repeater has been installed in Grand Falls, NB.
It's VE9GFY on 147.195+ in Yaesu Fusion with 123.0 CTSS for Analog.
2019-06-30
I saw a post on FB about using 145.5625 MHz as a 'World-Wide' Fusion Simplex channel.
It's too bad these people don't do some easy research on existing Band-Plans for various
countries and regions. In IARU Region-1 the 2m band is very limited and they have a
completely different Band Plan layout.
That's why the there are separate designated APRS channels, 144.390 for North America and at
least 4 other channels in various regions around the world. (eg: 144.800 EU, 145.175 AU)
AMSAT also uses different channels for Region-1 vs Region-2, etc.
So for Europe, 145.5625 Mhz may work for them since they use 12.5Khz channels, BUT a quick look
at RAC and ARRL Band Plans for 2 meters shows that the 145mhz segment uses 20Khz channels.
So why would anyone promote non-standard channels?
Why not have a properly researched recommendation for North America, and another for other Regions?
Picking 145.610 or 145.630 mhz would be the proper choice...if you asked any coordinator.
For Canada, the RAC 2m Bandplan lists this part as:
145.500 - 145.590 SAREX/ARISS LINKS
I don't know for sure what frequencies are still used in this segment since some ARISS operations
are not publised but we still should respect this allocation.
Oh, and why does it have to be a "Fusion" channel? Does that mean D-Star, DMR, P25 and NXDN are
going to need their "own" channels? It's good to separate Digital modes from the traditional
Analog modes, but really do we need a separate "Fusion" Simplex channel?
FYI many users have been using 147.525 Mhz as (Digital Voice)/Fusion Simplex which is a much better fit.
2019-06-20
From VE9MP and NB DMR, comes word that the YSF-DMR Reflector has upgraded software so
that it now properly displays the Callsigns of stations regardless of source.
If you are using YSF, and the transmitting station is coming in from DMR (TG 3029),
you will see the Gateway listed as "YSF2DMR" with the station callsign decoded properly.
From the Reflector Dashboard (link below), you can tell who was transmitting which mode
since DMR stations will have a Gateway listed as "YSF2DMR" and YSF stations will show
the user's gateway callsign. This will also show as such on your Hotspot's Nextion display.
2019-06-13
Thanks to VE9MP and NB DMR, we have our own local YSF Reflector: YSF #53710 "CA Maritimes".
It's already populated into Pi-Star's YSF server list, but if you don't see it listed,
then run an Update. If your Hotspot device needs the IP Address, it's currently 178.128.231.202.
The Dashboard for the YSF (Fusion) Reflector is here: YSF.NBDMR.Net.
You can read about NB DMR happenings on their FB Page: NB DMR Facebook Page,
or their updated Website: NB DMR Website.
For those who are not aware of YSF Reflectors, they are very similar to Wires-X Rooms that are on the
Yaesu Network. The 'Wires-X Network' is owned by Yaesu and allows only certain registered Yaesu
radios to connect, NO HOTSPOTS. (Used to have an HRI-200 box before PDN firmware came along)
The 'YSF Reflectors' are individual Network servers that are OPEN to allow all YSF capable
Repeaters and Hotspots to connect and communicate.
The full list of YSF Reflectors available is here: YSFReflector Registry.
You will even find a few YSF Reflectors that have links to Wires-X Rooms.
2019-05-20
Another Fusion repeater is on the air in the Maritimes. Thanks to the WestCumb ARC this
new repeater is VE1AMH on 145.190 Mhz - offset is on the air from Amherst, NS.
2019-04-26
The 4th edition of SMART Symposium was held Saturday in Springhill, NS.
As expected it was "bigger and better". Many thanks to the Westcumb Club and all
those who worked on this great event. Website: SMART 2019
Also for the fourth time I setup a complete Digital-Voice Hotspot and Repeater DEMO.
I had 4 Hotspots, one Home-Brew DV Repeater, and one Desktop DV Repeater in operation using
D-Star, DMR and Fusion modes. Despite the failure of the local Wifi, I did manage to get my
TP-Link travel router (TL-WR802N) to connect with my Eastlink cell phone AP and ran the whole
system off that all day no problem.
2019-04-08
Quite awhile ago I upgraded my little SDR to the top quality RSP1a from SDR-Play.
It's an amazing radio that receives from 1 kHz (VLF) to 2GHz in 14 bits and available
from Radioworld for $150 CDN. There are plenty of great reviews and youtube videos on
this but I wanted to mention 2 things I've done with mine lately. The first is related
to my MMDVM Hotspots and repeaters. While I do have HP & IFR test gear, that's in the
shop and it's great to have some test gear of decent quality in the shack.
All the software for the RSP1a is free and the latest one I've tried is a Spectrum Analyser.
Below is a screenshot of this program that's monitoring my MMDVM Hotspot in MMDVMCAL mode.
From MMDVM or Pi-Star the mmdvmcal program sends out a 1200hz tone for DMR ref modulation.
When the deviation is correct the center point will null. It's very easy to adjust/check
your TX this way. The RSP1a is also very accurate and stable so a decent frequency reference too.
(right-click and view-image for full screen)
Another fun thing with the RSP1a is using it to receive signals from space. AMSAT sat's and
ISS transmisions are fun because finding the signal is so easy. The best part is you can
use the SDR-Play's recorder to save the whole RF bandwidth and playback later.
In this picture I am playing back the whole 1.5Mhz section around 145.800 Mhz that was
recorded during an ISS pass in Feb, when the SSTV event was on. (Another one this Thursday).
When playing back the IF file, you can tune anywhere in it's bandwith that was recorded.
This could be up to 10Mhz if you have hard drive space. Since space signals can have fast
moving doppler effect, this method allows one to easily track and tune the signal for
best SSTV reception. There are also versions of these programs that can auto-tune with
AFC. The SSTV decoder is another free program called MMSTV that attaches to SDR-Uno
and other SDR programs, or can be use with just normal audio feed.
Many other free add-on software are availble for the SDR's that can decode other modes as well.
For example DSD+ will decode D-Star, DMR and Fusion. Below is a screenshot of DSD+ decoding
DMR from my Hotspot, and I can hear the audio pretty well.
2019-03-29
Almost 2 years ago now, I did a bit of a review of the ZUM Radio modem on my Zumspot page,
but now I also have the Repeater Builder version of that STM32 MMDVM modem.
You can order it from the Repeater Builder website .
It has some added features like a Clip LED for help with adjusting RX level, and 2 pots
for TX Level (Fine/Coarse). Also a pot for adjusting RSSI input.
It is easily setup using the mmdvmcal program. In Pi-Star you can use it's SSH access menu
to run "sudo pistar-mmdvmcal" to adjust the TX deviation and check RX levels.
As with other MMDVM gear, it can automatically detect any of the D-Star, DMR, Fusion,
P25 or NXDN modes. Unlike Hotspots, the STM32 MMDVM Radio modem can scan mutliple modes
very quickly and lock on the RF mode it hears. My other repeater scans for D-Star, DMR,
and Fusion and decodes very quickly and reliably.
Here is an image of my latest MMDVM repeater build, using the RB STM32-MMDVM modem and
two FC-301D data radios. These work great on all the digital voice modes and the TX is
1-5W output, so perfect for a portable repeater or it can drive an external PA with 50-100w.
2019-02-20
From "Down Under" comes another great video on the History and Progress of MMDVM
systems. Central Coast Amateur Radio Club MMDVM Presentation.
2019-02-08
More information for YSF2DMR users on the DMR+_IPSC2-CAN-TRBO network.
For those using Pi-Star with YSF2DMR that have not setup DMR on your Hotspot, the
"Options" configuration would not have been set. To do that, just enable the DMR mode
along with YSF and YSF2DMR in the Configuration. Then edit the Options line as below:
Options="StartRef=4000;RelinkTime=60;UserLink=1;TS1_1=302;TS2_1=3023;TS2_2=3027;
TS2_3=3029;TS2_4=3181"
You may not want all of these TG's active so enable only those you want to listen to.
eg: just the NB talkgoup
Options="StartRef=4000;RelinkTime=60;UserLink=1;TS2_1=3029"
Note no Reflectors are connected as our current DMR+ server does not link them.
Now just unselect DMR as a mode in the configuration and the Options setting will
remain. If you need to edit it, just turn DMR mode back on. If DMR and YSF modes are
both enabled, it will slow down the RX-mode detect time so it's best to use only one
mode turned on.
Also note that when you transmit on YSF the actual DMR Talkgroup is defined in the
"DMR TG:" entry. You will have to edit this whenever you want to TX on another TG.
2019-01-12
For Pi-Star users, there is a new v4-Beta out now. More about that on my Zumspot/Hotspot Page.
This is a game changer for those using a RPI3+ (plus) which previously had a separate
beta software version. With Pi-Star v4 there is just one version, which is now v4-RC3.
2018-12-12
As posted today on my D-STAR page, the multi-mode Gateway/Reflector System
for "CA Canada" has done an excellent job adding D-Star to the mix of DMR, Fusion
and even NDXN/P25. The active transcoding sounds good, and the transporting of station ID
data is done correctly so you see the correct callsign data.
D-Star on XLX302-D, DMR on TG3023, Fusion on YSF Reflector "CA Canada", NXDN and P25 TG3023.
Read more about this for D-Star on that page, and you can check out the CA Canada Dashboard here.
2018-12-03
For those interested in Fusion/C4FM/Wires-X, Yaesu has a number of great videos
on their Yaesu USA Official YouTube page.
There are new Videos on Wires-X, DR-1X and DR-2X subjects.
Lots of good info on the Official Yaesu System Fusion FB group as well.
2018-11-24
From Pacificon 2018 comes two very interesting Videos.
Here is a video of the presentation by G4KLX called "The Road to the MMDVM".
Jonathan, G4KLX is the main developer of the famous MMDVM software.
This video of a presentation by KI6ZUM on MMDVM hardware development history.
Jim was the designer of the famous Zumspot which is an excellent Hotspot and
readily available from HAM Radio Outlets like HRO & MLS.
When shopping for MMDVM Hotspot hardware, please consider suppliers who Support Ham Radio
and respect the amazing work done by such developers.
There are legitmate suppliers in many countries around the world, including China.
You can tell the Real ones, as they have Real Callsigns, Real Addresses, and provide
Real Support for their products.
2018-11-28
The previous software for FCS servers had a limit of 250 connections, and for FCS002
that was full most of the time. As of Nov-26 new FCS software has a much higher allowable
connections. Right now more than 277 are connected to FCS002.
If you've had trouble connecting to FCS002 in the past, you should have better luck now.
http://xreflector.net/
2018-11-12
There is a pdf going around about the DMR_MARC/DMR+/BM networks connectors.
For OpenSpot users, especially those using the C4FM-DMR cross-mode, here is some additional
info. Instead of using "DMRplus dongle" as the Connector, which gives one Reflector,
use MMDVM with DMRPlus Options.
2018-11-05
I see the Openspot 2 is finally available. The price is $199Eur=$298CDN.
"The openSPOT2 is a standalone digital radio internet gateway (hotspot) designed
mainly for amateur radio. You can talk with others on digital radio networks by
using an openSPOT2, Wi-Fi internet access, and your radio."
Openspot 2 Shop Oline
2018-10-10
Not long ago there was info posted about the FCS and DCS servers shutting down in the near future.
Now we have word from the xreflector website that replacement sysops have come forward to keep
these valuable services going.
http://www.xreflector.net/
---------------------------
" UPDATE:
With Stefan (DL1BH), Peter (DG9FFM) and Rolf (HB9SDB) a new operator group was founded, which
took over xreflector.net and will continue to operate. These include the DV systems such as
DCS, DMRplus (IPSC2 based only), FCS and NXDN.
The databases for DVRPTR 1-3, Home 1+2 and DV4mini will continue to be operated and updated.
At this point we would like to thank Torsten (DG1HT), Hans-Jürgen (DL5DI) and Kurt (OE1KBC) for
the numerous developments in the field of digital voice systems within the last 10 years. "
-----------------------
2018-08-30
For those wondering what happened to the Openspot, it's not a surprise to find the new
Openspot is finally coming. After almost 3 months with no Openspot inventory the new
version is finally announced as OpenSpot2.
As you can read from the website, it finally includes WiFi and now the radio antenna is
also internal. The new software supports all the current MMDVM-type modes and the cross-modes
as well. No pricing yet which will be the next surprise?
2018-06-14
A reminder to new users of Pi-Star. The Facebook Group is still available and very active.
Unfortunately, it's filled with newbie's anxious to have someone answer their basic questions.
Most of these questions have been asked and answered many, many times. A quick search of the
topic in this FB Group would find them. However, the best method is to use the PI-Star User Forum.
There you see all the questions/answers already posted in order, and hopefully find what you need.
There are other resources like YouTube Videos, and websites like this one. A very good website that
documents most of what new users need is by Toshen, KE0FHS Hotspot Info.
There are many other websites in the LINKS list below.
2018-06-13
An update on NXDN Reflectors. Awhile back, when NXDN first became available in Pi-Star, there was only
one Reflector. Now the official list has grown to about 12 but almost half of these are non-english.
It's also known that there are many other NXDN Reflectors that are not on the "official" list kept here:
NXDNHosts.txt
Unlike YSF, there is no central system to enable and publish NXDN Reflector info, not yet.
For Pi-Star users, you can manually add Reflectors that you know about and wish to have in your list.
Open an SSH terminal session and create you own reflector list in the /root folder. Use a commands like
"rpi-rw" (to make the OS writable),
"sudo nano /root/NXDNHosts.txt", then enter the reflector info, like the 4 lines shown below:
# NXDNHosts.txt from Root
# The format of this file is the number of the Talk Group followed by the host name or address and port
# Canada 302
302 p25canada.hopto.org 41400
Then Save using "Cnrtl-O" and Exit using "Cntrl-X".
When you restart Pi-Star the entries you created will be added to the MXDNHosts file on your Pi.
In case you're wondering, the same method can be used to add Host info for D-Star, DMR, and YSF modes with the
corresponding Host file in the /root folder.(Also APRS Hosts)
2018-05-30
I've enjoyed the YSF2DMR and YSF2NXDN functions in MMDVM/Pi-Star which I compile and use on my VE1UHF repeater.
Now the same cross-mode functions are available for DMR with Pi-Star 3.4.15. Andrew has taken Andy's
great modules and set them up in an easy to use fashion for Pi-Star. If you have just a DMR radio,
you can now talk on YSF and NXDN networks.
1. For DMR2YSF, go to the Configuration menu and turn DMR MODE = ON, and DMR2YSF: = ON, then click Apply.
When configuration comes back, scroll down to the DMR Configuration section and select DMR2YSF and Apply.
2. The last part is to Select the YSF Reflector you want to use. It's a big list since it now also includes
all the FCS servers/groups. For an Echo Test, you can select FCS00299-ECHO and Apply.
Since YSF doesn't know about Talkgroups, you can just use TG9 or TG2 on your DMR radio for TX, the return
signal will be on TG0 so no need for any talkgroup programming.
It might take 20-30 seconds for the FCS server to connect so wait a bit, you should hear the word "CONNECT"
come back when it's active.
Your Pi-Star Dashboard should show TS2=Enabled TG0 (all incoming traffic is on TG0)and DMR Master as DMR2YSF.
Make a test DMR transmission and you should hear your ECHO moments later. If all this works you can now go
back to YSF Configuration and select the YSF/FCS Reflector to use.
For those who forget how to Upgrade Pi-Star, go to the Expert menu and open an SSH terminal connection.
Enter "pi-star" and the password you used. From the console enter these commands:
"sudo pistar-update" (wait until this finishes, then enter:)
"sudo pistar-upgrade"
Note this Upgrade only moves one step at a time, so if you have a version less than 3.4.14 it will take
multiple runs at this process to get to 3.4.15.
Part2: I had to do more testing on DMR2NXDN to verify what's needed. You may have read about using DMRGateway with
DMR2YSF and DMR2NXDN to make Reflector switching easier. In my mind the complexity of DMRGateway isn't worth the
trouble when you can select the Reflector much easier just using the Pi-Star Dashboard.
I mentioned in DMR2YSF that Talkgroup programing was not a problem because YSF doesn't use talkgroups and the
RX side comes in as TG0 which can be heard on any TG, and on the TX side it's ignored, so TG9 is fine.
However, with DMR2NXDN the Talkgroup is important. For example the default Reflector for NXDN is World-Wide 65000, and it
shows on the list as "65000 176.9.1.168". That means that the DMR signal on your radio side will come out as TG65000.
To use it, you will need to program NXDN talkgroup in a separate channel, the same as you would for DMR.
Right now the English speaking NXDN Reflectors number only about a dozen, but this might grow rapidly as it did with YSF.
Quick Tip for MD-380:
In a QSO today on NXDN I learned about using the MD380 tools to edit a temporary talkgroup. To enter this TG editor,
press the "#" key twice, then edit the existing talkgroup. This change remains only while you are on this channel.
This handy for testing Talkgoups that you havn't programmed.
2018-05-07
Yesterday Pi-Star had a signifigant upgrade for those wanting the YSF2-OtherModes cross connections.
While YSF2DMR has been working well for awhile, Andrew finally got the other 2 modes going in version 3.4.13
of Pi-Star. Since this is a major upgrade, the normal overnight or "Upgrade" menu doesn't do it. Go to the
EXPERT menu and select "Tools:SSH Access". A SSH terminal screen opens for you to login with your "pi-star"
user and password. Then run these two commands: "sudo pistar-update" then "sudo pistar-upgrade".
When done, just "exit" back to the main menu and you should have v3.4.13 and Dashboard:20180506.
So to use the YSF2NXDN, select the YSF mode AND YSF2NXDN in MMDVMHost config. Next select the proper
"Bridge" for YSF-2-NXDN from the long YSF Reflector list. It's "YSF00003 - YSF2NXDN".
For P25, select YSF2P25 in MMDVMHost, and "YSF0004 - YSF2P25" as the Bridge "YSF Reflector".
Note that for P25 ONLY, your Fusion radio must be in VW mode, all others are DN.
For P25 the ID is your CCS7/DMR-ID, but NXDN doesn't have the full range of numbers.
You can enter one yourself at this website: NXDN Info
2018-04-13
I had the opportunity to borrow a NXDN radio to test on my Hotspots. The Zumspot does NXDN very well. The sound
is smooth and about the best digital voice I've heard so far. There is only 1 Reflector for Hotspots at the
moment but MMDVM systems growth will no doubt change that soon.
2018-04-07
The addition of the BM API to Pi-Star happened almost a month ago but sometimes new features go unused until
you need them. Adding the BM API Key to your Pi-Star setup makes control of your Hotspot so much easier,
especially when rag chewers tie up the talkgroup. You can read about the BM API install and usage here:
Pi-Star Wiki - BM API
2018-03-31
MMDVM software continues to add new features, and one I talked about earlier is now part of
the main Branch. The YSFGateway module now contains info to connect to the FCS Fusion Network.
This has been available on the OpenSpot for awhile but now part of MMDVM systems. In the G4KLX
system the YSFGateway.ini has added entries for the FCS servers and Groups you wish to use.
At this point you add them manually to the ini file but it's a first step. I added a couple of servers
and Groups like FCS002-90 America Link WIRES-X, FCS001-17 CANADA, and the Group 99 ECHOs.
Selecting a FCS Server/Group is just as easy as a YSF Reflector Room.
A "DX" command will show you your YSFReflector list with the FCS entries added in alphabetical order.
DMTF commands also work, eg "A117"=FCS00117, and "#"=Disconnect.
You can look at the FCS Reflectors
FCS Server 001
FCS Server 002
FCS Server 003
Here is my FTM-100 showing part of the YSF List:
2018-03-03
A couple of comments about YSF2DMR that have come from user feedback. First off,
the YSF2DMR function in Pi-Star is just a Configuration setting of "YSF Startup Host:".
In this list is the normal YSF Reflectors,but by selecting "0002 - YSF2DMR gateway" it
creates this special setup with YSF on the RF side, DMR on the Network side.
In order to make it work, you ALSO have to select with the slider control "YSF2DMR:"
in the MMDVM config section, to turn it on. While doing that, it's important to
NOT have DMR Mode selected which could create 2 DMR Network connections.
(unless you know how to handle special configurations)
It's also important to note that Talkgroup selection for your TX is only defined by
the "DMR TG:" setting. Since you'll be using a Fusion radio, the only control over
Talkgroups is via this config setting PLUS any Static/REF TGs already enabled on that
server. You should check the BM Dashboard to verify the active TGs for your Hotspot.
(Your Hotspot will not show this in YSF2DMR mode as it normally would in DMR mode)
On the RX side, your Fusion radio will hear ALL of the active talkgroups. A DMR radio
is used to having multiple DMR TGs coming to it and can be selective, but the Fusion
radio will hear it all. So turn off any extra TGs from the server using the BM Self Care
or send TG4000 to clear them. Most DMR operation is similar when using YSF2DMR. If using
a Reflector, set "DMR TG:" to the Reflector number 4xxx, then Press "Apply". When Pi-Star
service comes back on, Press PTT for 1 second and then you will hear the Reflector's voice
message, "Linked To...xxxx".(Same as normal DMR operation) Next change the "DMR TG:" setting
to "9", the local TG, again just like you would if using a DMR Radio. Now when you TX, it
will go out the Reflector (via TG9) and you will RX from that Reflector (via TG9) as normal.
Note: When you enter the "DMR TG:" with a new setting, the Pi-Star service restarts a
connection to the DMR server, but it does NOT send anything at that time. You have to press
PTT on the radio to send the TG control command.(eg: 4000,4100,4326...5000)
So setting "DMR TG:" to "4000" sends a Group call to the DMR Server, which will disconnect
ALL Static, and Reflector TGs. You can use the TG 5000 command to get the DMR Server Link
STATUS. Enter DMR TG:5000, Press Apply, wait for restart, then press PTT and you will get the
Status Reply. Put the YSF2DMR back to normal with DMR TG: 9 for Reflector.
Again, as with normal DMR operation you have the choice of using TG9 with a preset Reflector
link or a direct TG Group call, such as DMR TG:3026 which is a direct TG TX/RX.
2018-02-27
New MMDVM/Pi-Star features are moving along well. Today I gave YSF2DMR a workout and had
some good QSOs. Now that it's part of Pi-Star, a lot of people will be trying it out.
There is work going on to develop a way to select the DMR Talkgroups when using your
YSF Radio. Today I was able to test this new feature called the TGlist. It uses the
"Wires'X" commands to display a custom list of TG's you might use. So instead of displaying
"Rooms", it's a list of talkgroups, some Group Calls, some Private Calls for Reflector
connections. The same as you would use on regular DMR. See screenshots below from my FTM-100
showing the DMR TG Status and the TGlist.
Another MMDVM project in the works is connecting to the FCS servers for Fusion.
The FCS servers are used by DV4mini and Openspot and now we will have access to them from MMDVM.
This is still in beta but will be part of main MMDVM/Pi-Star soon.
For FCS the "Group" can be selected by DTMF on your Fusion radio. eg: "A199" gives you the ECHO
reflector on FCS001.
2018-02-26
The release of new MMDVM code for NXDN was somewhat buried in the excitement about YSF2DMR
and a new version of Pi-Star (v3.4.10). When new versions of host software arrive, along
with new modes, there is a mad rush to update the firmware on Hotspots/modems. Sometimes
this is required if you want to run the new modes, etc. However, it's important to note that
upgrading firmware requires good research. It's easy to confuse hardware/models etc and using
the wrong firmware can leave your Hotspot disabled. In most cases, reflashing the firmware
with the correct code will get it back but that can be very frustrating. I'm not going to
detail those processes here, but just a warning to do your homework. Be very sure what
hardware you have, Zumspot, Zumspot-Libre, MMDVM_HS, DV-Mega, Nano-Spot, STM32-DVM, STM32-ZUM-Radio,
Zum-Aruino, etc. For example, a lot of hotspots use the term "Zumspot" but are not the exact same thing.
(Actual model here)
Also be aware that the STM32 modem by Scott use a different CPU than the one from Bruce (STM32F4xx)
and so have different firmware. Even the code itself identifies differently and may show as
MMDVM YYYMMDD, MMDVM_HS vx.x.x, Zumspot vx.x.x. So again, do your homework and use the built-in
routines that Pi-Star has for the devices it supports directly. This firmware is already
compiled and ready to download automatically using the "sudo pistar-zumspotflash" routine.
2018-02-24
Wow, that was fast..from testing to production with YSF2DMR. It's now part of Pi-Star and
easy to use. It's also the 1st Birthday of Pi-Star, so a new version 3.4.10 is in order as well.
It would seem obvious from the name of the program but people always want something different.
For those wondering about DMR2YSF, it may be in the works, who knows, but be thankful for what new
things we have today. So a few short notes:
It's called YSF2DMR, that means the Radio side of your Hotspot uses YSF (Fusion/C4FM), and
the Internet side uses DMR (BM or DMR+). The conversion is done in software so no transcoding,
meaning perfect audio each way. Also the Callsign/DMR-IDs and even the Talkgroup info is handled
properly. OK, the TG selection is a bit cumbersome as its changed via a Config file but not
a big deal for a new process. Pi-Star makes that easy. A TG select method via YSF radio is in
the works, probably using DTMF and you'll here more about that as soon as there is something
working. Also part of the new config is the way the YSF connection is made, using the YSFGateway.
The YSF2DMR program is activated by the YSFGateway when selected as if was a YSF-Reflector,
from the list. This makes it easy to run YSF2DMR and change back to regular YSF-YSFReflector
operations. When using YSF2DMR, be sure to have only YSF mode enabled and not DMR are there
will likely be conflicts and loops.
Below are two shots of my Fusion & DMR radios listening to TG3026 DMR at the same time using
the YSF2DMR progam inside the new Pi-Star.
2018-02-23
The YSF2DMR project has some more updates and I was able to get some fixes and requests
handled quickly. It's now in a good running state and the logging/display of callsigns
works well both ways. Buffer problems seemed to be fixed, and in the last 2 days a I've
had a number of good QSOs from DMR->YSF and YSF->DMR, all sounding great.
The next step is to build a user Talkgroup interface so that the YSF radio can select
the Talkgroup to use. Right now it's manually defined in a setup file. It will also be
possible to use it as part of YSFGateway on Pi-Star once the setup files are finished.
The basic code is there now but will not run as is...yet.
** Update: Well Andrew has been cranking out a lot of new code into Pi-Star today.
Along with the new NXDN mode, we now have the configuration for YSF2DMR and it works well. **
2018-02-19
A new project on the MMDVM front is called YSF2DMR.
While its still in beta testing mode it does a decent job of converting DMR signals to Fusion.
In my tests I created an MMDVM project with only DMR under MMDVM with a direct BM network
connection using the YSF2DMR a separate program that acts like a gateway. At this time
the YSF2DMR requires manual setup of DMR talkgroup but it does a good job with the
DMR-ID->YSF Callsign process. The picture shows my MD-380 VHF radio listening to my VHF
DMR Hotspot on TG3026, while my FT1D is listening to the same station coming out on my UHF
Zumspot. Transmitting on the FT1D in Fusion its converted to DMR out to the BM server and
my Fusion callsign is converted to the DMR-ID using the DMRIds.dat lookup file.
Receiving o the FT1D I get a DMR->Fusion nicely converted and showing the user Callsign
and Talkgroup. Now, some work is need to allow the Fusion HT to select the Talkgroup but
I'm sure that's in the works.
The advantage of compiling the MMDVM source code is getting all the latest features right
away. I just finished updating the firmware on my Zumspot_Libre with v1.2.1 when I saw
that v1.3.1 was out even though the binary is not released yet. So I complied and uploaded
it from the RPi2 I use for development. Now my Hotspot has fw MMDVM_HS v1.3.1 with RSSI
turned on. Even though I'm normally near my Hotspot with the HT, its still fun to see
the RX signal level and do some tests on range and sensitivity (more on that later).
Using a sample RSSI.dat file I found very strong RX signals everywhere in the house, and
the best part is that RSSI value shows up on the Nextion LCD, as well as on the BM Dashboard.
2018-01-12
On my Zumspot page I mentioned that demand for MMDVM Hotspot boards has outpaced the production.
Well here is some Hotspot gear that is in commercial production and available now.
For truly plug & play, this company produces 2 versions of MMDVM based packages.
For a Hotspot, the Nanospot has it all together. (photos from Micro-Node website)
Similar to the Openspot but runs MMDVM/Pi-Star based software and includes WiFi.
The second package is for hi-power Hotspots or Repeater applications.
The Teensy Modem is similar to other Zum modems with a dB9 for radio interface, and Micro-USB for the
Host computer (RPi running MMDVM/PI-Star).
2018-01-08
I see a flood of new callsigns on the DV modes which is probably due to Santa delivering new
radios and Hotspots. However, it's still disturbing that some Hotspot owners do not consider the
proper RAC Bandplan. RAC has even created designated segments for "DIGITAL" use.
As I wrote once before, the Hotspot might be just 10mW and heard only around your house
but the 1-5W HT is another thing. Using AMSAT frequencies is never a good idea unless
you're actually talking to AMSAT stations. The same goes for regular FM voice channels.
435.000 - 438.000 Amateur Satellites (Global Secondary Allocation)
So please respect the Bandplans and pick a frequency like those suggested here:
DV FREQUENCIES & Bandplans
2017-11-07
As reported on my D-STAR page, the
callsigns of my 2 digital repeaters were swapped to match the current locations.
This is a bigger change for D-Star users where the callsign is programmed into the user radio,
so see that page for info on VE1CRA, D-STAR programming.
Most DMR & YSF users connect to me via Reflectors. Also note with the change to callsign
comes the change in DMR-ID. FYI the MMDVM Repeater in Cornwall, PEI is now VE1UHF with ID 302003
and the frequency remains the same at 443.300+. All 3 modes are still supported automatically,
D-Star (VE1UHF-B), DMR (302003) and YSF (VE1UHF-R) as before.
2017-10-31
A number of people are using the OpenSpot Hotspot on DMR, some using the special
feature where a Fusion (C4FM) radio can be transcoded to DMR on the Network.
I have a set of slides with info for a quick How-To in the link below.
Use C4FM Radio to work DMR with an OpenSpot
If you have questions just let me know.
2017-08-08
I'm running a new image called PI-Star.
It supports all of the MMDVM features and works great on a headless Hotspot.
More of my notes on this project in the Zumspot web page.
2017-04-29
This year's SMART Symposium was held in Springhill, NS.
Again this year I setup some Hotspot demos. Below is a picture of my demo setup that
has 3 running digital voice Hotspots. A DV4mini for Fusion, a VHF DVMega for DMR,
and a UHF DVAP for D-Star. I also had my Openspot but did not get the TP_link to
work with the WiFi. At far right was my ZUM-MMDVM interface for Repeater or Hotspot use.
(Right-click and View Image for full size)
2017-03-15 MMDMVM.ini ?
Almost every week I see the same basic problems showing up on the MMDVM Yahoo Group.
That is new users trying to get started with a new MMDVM image on their fresh Raspberry Pi.
These images and the MMDVMHost program itself have only minimal error-checking. One should realize
that the MMDVM Project is all Amateur based and supported by Volunteers. It has also changed
rapidly at times over the past year in both features and therefore settings. So much that
the biggest problem getting MMDVM going is the setup file MMDVM.ini. This should be a new users
first stop since this file must be edited for your Callsign and DMR-ID number at the very least.
(While the DMR-ID is absolutely required for DMR operation, it is also a necessity for many D-Star
and Fusion operations. See LINKS below about this.)
To find out more about editing the MMDVM.ini file, look at these 2 links. Be aware that some
documentation on MMDVM.ini may be slightly out of date as new settings are added and others removed.
F5UII Configure MMDVMhost
or
N4IRS MMDVM -Install- MMDVM.ini
The very latest version of MMDVM.ini is located with the source code here on the
G4KLX/MMDVMHost GIT MMDVM.ini website.
Now go through the MMDVM.ini file line by line. I suggest Enabling only one mode
(and its network/gateway) to start with. Remember that many of the images used for this
system do not have complete error-checking so when you start the MMDVMHost program it may
crash or just close a window quickly with no hint of the problem. Normally a log file of
the format MMDVM-YYY-MM-DD.log is produced which may help track down any problems. If not
then the MMDVMHost program did not get very far and you need to double-check your settings.
This troubleshooting can very frustrating, but once you understand the setup you will be able
to run it reliably as well as keep it updated. Yes, you will need to revisit this file if the
program is updated with new settings.
2017-03-05
I think the flood of back-orders should be clear by now, allowing new orders for the
v1.01 ZUM modem. This second production run of ZUM modems works very well in all Digital
Voice modes. It can be used as a high-power Hotspot with a xcvr or with a full-duplex repeater.
Look at the Clone Arduino DUE Package.
2016-12-22
While updates to the OpenSpot have been my focus of late, I should mention that the
DVMega firmware has had some signifigant updates as well.
DVMega Firmware Downloads
As of Oct-2016 new firmware has added C4FM/Fusion to the modes available.
The DVMega running MMDVMHost software can now work in either D-Star, DMR, or Fusion.
To use D-Star effectively you run the the G4KLX ircddbgateway in the backgroud.
For C4FM/Fusion you would run the YSFGateway software from the MMDVM package.
This Gateway will allow clients to use "Wires-X" functions to select the YSF
Reflector to connect with. Note that YSF Reflectors are on the OpenSource Network
and not the Private Yaesu Network. There are presently
62 active YSF Reflectors , and some have cross-mode connections as well.
The MMDVMHost running on DVMega can be setup to automatically detect the mode of
RF or Internet signals and activate that mode. However, since it might take 2-3
seconds for the modem to switch modes, I would recommend the Hotspot run in a single
defined mode. You can easily stop the MMDVMHost and restart it with another defined
.ini file for a different mode. eg: ./MMDVMHost ./dmr.ini or ./MMDVMHost ./ysf.ini
The MMDVMHost and YSFGateway software running on the DVMega/RPi is the same as
that used on the MMDVM/MMDVMHost repeater setup.
(described earlier in my MMDVM Repeater Project)
There will soon be a new MMDVM (ZUM) modem available and we may see more MMDVM
Hotspots using that modem with a regular transceiver to make a high powered Hotspot.
MMDVM Modem Products
2016-12-08
The OpenSpot continues to upgrade its firmware which adds and improves many features.
The exciting ones involve the Cross-mode capabilities.
It was fun to use my FTM-100D Fusion radio to work DMR.
Just configure the Openspot modem as C4FM and the Connector as DMR.
The web monitor screenshot below shows my connection to USA Reflector 4639 (TG3100)
on the Brandmeister Network and cross-mode linked to my C4FM radio.
Here is my Tytera MD-380 listening to TG3100 on BM network from my MMDVM Repeater in DMR mode.
Next to the HT is my FTM-100D listening to the same TG3100 cross-mode on C4FM.
The 7 digit numbers are CCS7, DMR-IDs.
2016-10-04
Some exciting updates with the new Openspot hotspot.
New firmware adds Fusion(C4FM) mode and connections to both FCS servers
as well as the growing open source network for MMDVM.
The FCS servers are usually client like DV4mini and DVMega hotpsots,
The growing open source network for MMDVM has YSFReflectors that have MMDVM repeaters,
as well as MMDVM-DVMega Hotspots.
An interesting feature of the Openspot allows it to have its radio modem configured
separately from its internet "connector". This means you can connect to YSF/FCS servers
that send C4FM signals over the internet but come out the radio modem in DMR.
Similarly, using a C4FM radio, you can connect and talk to DMR Reflectors on the
Brandmeister network or the DMR+ network.
It does not have an internal AMBE chip so cross-mode with D-Star is not possible.
All setup and changes are managed via the built-in web server.
Here is the status page screenshot taken while I was using my DMR HT and talking to
HAMs on a FCS (C4FM Fusion) Reflector.
Next a picture of the Openspot Hotpsot with my FTM-100 Fusion radio listening to
a YSFReflector called "America Link". This reflector has mutliple connects to other
Fusion networks as well as other modes.
For a complete review of the OpenSpot device, check out the Blog of VA2PV.
VA2PV OpenSpot Product Review
2016-09-24
The MMDVM Project has added another Digital Voice mode. P25 is now under development
with the MMDVM system. I personally don't have any P25 gear so will only be able
to point you to the MMDVM Yahoo Group for info:
MMDVM Yahoo Group P25 announcement
2016-09-23 Last week I received the latest multi-mode Digital Voice Hotspot device. The OpenSpot by SharkRF is a self-contained Digital Voice 10mW Hotspot similar to DV4mini except it contains its own micro-computer. All setup and most control is done via the internal web page. It has only wired ethernet so that's the only drawback. Its also a bit pricey ($300 cdn) and in high demand as there is limited production runs. It does work very well in cross-mode operation between DMR & Fusion (FCS not Wires-X). Unlike the DV4mini, its DMR works great, in fact the D-Star, DMR and Fusion modes worked as they should. D-star connects to REF,XREF and DCS Reflectors. DMR connects to BM Reflectors and Fusion(C4FM) connects to the FCS Reflectors on servers FCS1,2 and 3. More on this exciting project as testing continues. 2016-07-29 A lot of new FTM-100DR users asking questions about Wires-X. Yaesu provides a separate document for that radio here: FTM-100DR_WIRES-X pdf For users that have the FT-1D HT, here is the Wires-X document for it. FT1DR_DE_WIRES_1407-A0.pdf For users that have the FT2DR HT, here is the Wires-X document for it. FT2DR_WIRES-X_1506-A0.pdf (Notes: FT1D HT, Connect with 'DX' button, Disconnect with 'BAND' button. List, Select with 'ENT' button and scroll menu. FMT-100D, Connect with 'DX' button, Disconnec with HandMic '*' button. List with 'BAND' button, scroll then select with 'DISP' button. Press & hold DX button to get out of 'Wires-X' mode.) Be sure to note that there are differences in how Wires-X repeaters work whether the Wires-X node is analog or digital.(Currently VE1BFB=digital, VE1XK=analog) A great document on Wires-X use is called The Wires-X Bible pdf. More Fusion related info is at their web site in the Fusion Help page. 2016-07-20 In the past 2 months there have been some exciting changes in the MMDVM project. Most of these updates relate to C4FM/YSF the Yaesu-Fusion mode. The Yaesu Fusion Network is run by Yaesu itself and not open to experimental connections or modes. However, there is now a new Open-Source YSF network that has most of the "Wires-X" functionality for MMDVM Repeaters. Two new pieces of software have been developed by G4KLX that give a MMDVM repeater the "Wires-X" network functions. The YSFGateway runs on the RPi of the MMDVM repeater. It has a YSF Hosts list the sysop can maintain, and from that it regularly verifies the status of the available Reflector Hosts. These external Hosts run a separate application called YSFReflector. This reflector software operates similarly to D-Star and DMR reflectors in that it will allow multiple link connections. There are even cross-links between the YSF Reflectors and DMR or D-Star networks. Here is a list of the current YSF Reflectors and their status. From the status page (Dashboard) of VE1CRA MMDVM repeater, you can see the past activity of the various modes on the repeater, as well as a list of the active YSF Reflectors I have enabled. A YSF user on this repeater will be able to enter "Wires-X" mode, List ALL available Reflectors, and connect to the one they choose. I've had a number of great YSF QSO's with HAMs in UK, DE, AU, and US countries. Below are images from my FT-1DR HT screen showing a List ALL of Reflectors,
and my repeater Connected to YSF001 the Australian Reflector.
2016-05-21
My latest project is an upgrade from the DV4mini. You may recall from previous
notes on this Blog that the DV4mini has challenges to work properly on DMR.
In fact it's barely useable in that mode. So lately the DVMega DVAP has a firmware
upgrade that will change it from a D-Star-only Hotspot to now work with the MMDVMHost
software by G4KLX. The MMDVMHost works very well on DMR and will work with the
ircddbgateway software for D-Star. When the firmware update came out there was
such a rush on the DVMega that suppliers quickly ran out of stock but they are
available again from Gigaparts US
and from the main supplier in the Netherlands.
(As I write this they are out of stock at Gigaparts again, probably because of
the Dayton Hamfest).
The upgrade requires a mod with the addition of the green wire shown from GPIO-7
to the CPU-Reset. Then you can download and compile the hex loader and upload the
new firmware to the CPU. An article on how to do that is shown here.
This new DVAP works only with the Raspberry PI as it sits directly on top of the
GPIO pins. The unit shown is the DVMega 70cm band only but there is a dual-band
version available as well.
2016-05-16
As you can see from my Dashboard, the MMDVM Repeater really does work in muti-mode.
It will automatically switch to the mode when it receives an input of that type.
Note it stays in that mode for 10 seconds, to allow someone to respond in time using
the same mode. Since DMR & D-Star have live network connections, you can easily work
either mode anytime. Currently the YSF (Fusion) mode does not have networking but
it does work well as a stand-alone repeater in DN mode. *** As of 2016-05-20 the
MMDVM system has developed its own YSF Reflector software. After just one day, there
are at least 3 of these new Reflectors running. (image below updated to show the
YSF network data )***
2016-05-03
Updates to MMDVM Host and modem software continue to add features and improve the
system performance. The latest new feature is a dashboard, although basic at the moment,
it will develop to produce most of the info that we are used to seeing on a D-Star
Dashboard. Here is the VE1CRA MMDVM Repeater Dashboard.
2016-01-03 Over the past few weeks I have been working with the DV4mini.
This is a new DVAP (Digital Voice Access Point), that not only works with
D-Star signals, but also C4FM, DMR, P25 and experimental modes.
It has been working well on D-Star Reflectors of all types, DPlus, XRef and DCS.
I was able to QSO with stations using C4FM via the FCS001 Reflector using a
Yaesu FT1DR digital HT. I am still waiting for delivery of a DMR HT, but will
be able to work DMR+ Reflectors as soon as that arrives. Reviews will follow.
A group of VE2's are very active with this and other projects. They have some
good info and videos on their website.
laboenligne.ca(Lab OnLine)
The DV4mini is $130 US. (Wireless World)
However, keep in mind the older DVAP is a proven reliable product that does
D-Star very well and works with a number of powerful software packages for
Linux, Windows and Mac.
The software for the DV4mini right now is only one basic Control Panel program
for Windows, but runs well on Linux under the Mono program. The control panel is
shown below. You need to use the current Test/Beta versions of this software in
order to reliably receive D-Star. The G4KLX gateway and repeater software used
by my existing DVAP and the 2 D-Star repeaters will NOT be supporting the DV4mini.
However, there are so many rapid developments in the digital modes over the past
year that who knows what we'll have access to in the future.
Here is a picture of my DV4mini connected to a Raspberry Pi2.
This is the DV4mini Control Panel screen, using the latest Beta version 12-15-2015.
Digital Voice FREQUENCIES
The following frequencies are being used in Canada and US for DV Simplex (Hotspots).
(For Other countries, please check the Bandplan for your area)
Band Frequency
2 m 145.670 MHz
2 m 145.750 MHz
2 m 145.790 MHz
2 m 147.525 MHz (Fusion)
2 m 147.555 MHz
70 cm 431.100 MHz
70 cm 433.300 MHz
70 cm 434.400 MHz
70 cm 445.800 MHz
70 cm 446.800 MHz
Please do NOT use AMSAT/SAREX/ARISS frequencies.
(145.500-145.590, 145.800-146.000, 435.000-438.000mhz)
The RAC bandplans have designated these segments for Digital use:
2 m 144.300 - 144.500
144.900 - 145.100 (Packet 144.970-145.090)
145.590 - 145.790
147.435 - 147.585 (Simplex)
70 cm 430.025 - 431.500
433.000 - 434.800
445.800 - 445.975
446.500 - 446.975