This is the single best video on DMR I've seen so far. Even though you're new to it, the fact that you're taking us through this process with you has been incredibly helpful!
Glad it was helpful! I believe that sharing the experience while I am learning can be helpful to others at the same stage of learning DMR. Something as simple as "unlocking" the radio after an unboxing is something that more seasoned users have probably forgotten was an issue. More coming. Take care.
You guys really helped me answer a few specific questions to get start with some basics on DMR. I went straight to your channel to unlock the keypad. Thank you. Cheers to another runner. 73 de KT7RUN
Truly appreciate how diligent you are and methodical. You always make it easy to learn from you. I have an 878 and have been challenged getting it set the way I want. Definitely appreciate your work as always!
I appreciate that! I'm not that bright, so I personally need lots of short term goals and milestones. Simple explanations are my goal. Let's make radio easier to understand and use. Cheers.
You're welcome. I'm glad that I took the time to seriously give DMR a look. I was put off as all the hams only highlighted the Internet-based based networking. I'll give LoRa and Meshtastic a look, too.
@@TheTechPrepper So glad you mentioned Meshtastic and LoRa as well. I am a ham but shy away from DMR and DSTAR (I do like PSK31 and JS8Call). I just started watching this series and if I understand what you are looking to accomplish (digital, simplex), then this will meet a need in my Comms plan. Nice to have new eyes on it!
This video is a gem. So many YTs don't give enough context and philosophy of use in their videos. To say, the what, where, how and WHY. Have you done a video on process and costs to get business license frequencies? Any issues with the radio software for MacOS?
It's great to see comms plan with as much emphasis on everyday needs (accessibility, ease of use, etc.) as many of us put on more serious but comparatively rare occasions where the need for security necessitates some level of user training and practice.
I have always found it odd that the prepper community (in general) always looks at preparedness in terms of only the worst case scenario. These are tools that have applications for every day needs, the occasional bad storm, and for when stuff goes sideways (short and long term).
Very very comprehensive walkthrough, thank you for the work in this video. What you called out as context is very key - what is the comms opportunity you are solving for. To effectively program a radio or radios one needs to have a plan, be it to simply talk on a local repeater or to build a comms network to address several different needs. Outstanding video to pull it all together!
Thank you, Mike. Everyone's needs are different, so I am a firm believer in understanding your needs and translating those needs into an actual implementation.
I have the same Anytone, and I am very happy with that. It works fine for me, I like the fact and when you purchase it you get everything with it, even this Bluetooth PTT Gadget. In other brands you have to buy everything extra, even the cps software, or they have only UHF or VHF. I think for somebody who has not that kind of budget, or want to buy a fleet of radios, they are great radios. I have also the RT3S from Retevis, this radio works also very good. It's a bit smaller and fits perfectly in your pocket.
I remember my first couple weeks learning DMR the hard way. Several helpful nuggets of info here. DMR is a bit complicated but makes mastering it more satisfying.
This was an amazing video! Great information and it's making me get back into DMR. I like your thorough overview of how you group channels in the radio. I have an older Anytone D868 but most of the DMR features are pretty much the same. 73
So Helpful! I'm new to Arizona and DMR and decided to pick up the challenge of learning DMR. I picked up a fully programmed 878 from the Bridgecom guys and have been watching their video series when I spotted your video on YT. What an an amazing technology. I've enjoyed and appreciate your other videos as well. Thanks!
Thank you. I probably would have not wanted DMR based on what I have heard, but now I think this is perfect for my needs. Just a pita to set up initially, but doable.
Thank you for reminding me why I sold my 878! Programming was just to much trouble. Stayed with my Yaesu and Wouxon. Great video though and enjoyed learning more about the possibilities. Keep up the awesome work.
I've only looked at 10% of the menu options. This appears to be a standard across vendors once you move into DMR. Motorola's CPS takes some getting used to as well.
@@TheTechPrepper use RT systems software to program. Way better software, and you can import and export excel files which makes it easier to create codeplugs for multiple radios if you are using that software.
878 is a very capable radio. I use it for both HAM and Professional radio applications. It communicates fine with the MOTOTRBO radios. While it does have good audio, Motorola is the gold standard in audio, both output, and noise reduction on the input side. Good choice for learning DMR.
This is fantastic, I have a few 878's and the way you've organized around talkgroups is superb, I've been struggling with just 2-way DMR simplex and you've solved my problems!
Thank you for taking the time to comment. I was debating whether or not to release this marathon of a video as I am very new to DMR, but I released it anyhow as I figured some people would appreciate the approach that I used to solve my communications goals.
I'm glad you started this series. Just prior to it, I was starting to look into DMR for the same reasons you have taken an interest in it. I only got as far as creating a short list of portables I liked based on my selection criteria. I think you have me sold on the Anytone. Any chance the series will get to the selection of a radio for base operation?
The next video will touch on the base station that I am using for both the home and vehicle. Glad to see that you're exploring DMR for similar reasons.
@@TheTechPrepperYour work is helping a lot. I may not be able to go fully into what you've shown so far, but I'm researching workarounds for my price range and use cases thanks to your videos. This is definitely the direction I am wanting to transition the family and neighbor comms towards. Especially with the way things are going. I don't think GMRS is going to suffice soon. We already know things are not going as good as things are being let on.
@@ke8mattj The AnyTone that I have linked is ~$200 USD, but I believe that there are sub $100 USD DMR radios companies like Radioddity. I have no experience with it, but I've heard good things about their RADIODDITY GD-77.
@@TheTechPrepper One of the things I'm researching for is one that can recharge via USB. This is one of my uncompromising conditions. I can compromise on, despite its inefficiencies, is if the HT can recharge via up-conversion from the 5v USB to 12v barrel connection, but it does not look like there is an HT for that except for the Baofeng DMR radio. It seems the HT community is still so stuck on using cradle chargers and wall-warts. Even Yaesu is guilty of this with the FT-*D series. It took a ham (W0AEZ) creating a custom battery for this series for us to finally get a battery that is directly rechargeable via USB without using up-conversion. The GD-77 was on my radar a long time ago, but I didn't grab it and it's now sold out. Don't know why Radioddity is no longer producing it. That's my mistake for not nabbing any. I wonder if it has anything to do with the ham community creating a custom firmware for it: OpenGD77? I'll be researching more or ask your community when I get back from my trip soon. Too much relaxing at the moment to deeply look into it and having the long trip back tomorrow.
I appreciate what you are doing here, my desire has been to set up similar comms blending Amateur, business, GMRS and MURS, Analog, digital and encryption depending on the use case. so this helps a LOT. I know you are considering selling the Anytone radios, as they don't do the networking/data side of what you can do with the /\/\otorola gear, among other reason. I Like Motorola gear, but I don't like the hassle of the used market, not knowing if you are really getting what you think you are, CPS compatibilities, specialized cables, etc. For that reason, I'd really like it if you would keep going with the Anyone videos, as those radios are readily available, cost effective and have a lot of online support (like the Bridgecom videos). The availability of inexpensive accessories like antennas and speaker mics, spare batteries, chargers, etc is also helpful when you need to buy multiple radios and kit them out affordably. So for the greater good of the community, I'd like you to continue with the Anytone, at least so we can see where the limitations are, and what can be gained by using the Motorola or other radios.
Great video, I’m just watching it now. Have you tried The range feature which shows the distance to another like radio. You can also check if the other radio is switched on. you can also make another radio alert go off. all this can be done in simplex mode with no Internet of course
Slightly pedantic comment. What you described (splitting the 12.5kHz channel into two 6.25kHz sub-channels) is called FDMA or Frequency Division Multiple Access. It's used with NXDN and I believe P25 is also FDMA. TDMA as used in DMR alternates between Timeslot 1 and Timeslot 2 every 15 milliseconds using the full 12.5kHz bandwidth.
Awesome video Gaston! I would also like to get some MOTOTRBO radios but the steep price tag plus rarity of the VHF models on the used market makes me consider an 878 to start with as I ease into DMR. The only thing I still don’t understand about DMR is talkgroups. What are they really and what are their use cases? Haven’t heard a good explanation of what they are and why someone would want to use one
They are just contacts. They can either be between you and someone else (a private call) or you and a group of people (a group call). Both a "private call" and "group call" are identified by a DMR ID. My wife and myself are examples of Private Call Talk Groups. If I only want to talk to the medical team, that would be an example of Group Call Talk Group.
878 has been working well for me once I found a nice working code plug for my locations! Then its about fine tuning local repeaters / TGs / Zones / contacts.
Great video. I am in the middle of watching it, but I did find one item that I want to address. With MURS, the first three 151 MHz frequencies are narrow band and the two 154 MHz frequencies are wide band. (If I remember correctly.) You have them programmed the opposite way.
You're welcome. I am sure that I am not doing everything the way the DMR ninjas would like, but at least it is a starting point with a plan. Take it slowly. Cheers.
As usual, very interesting video, with plenty of details and precise explanations. Thanks Tech Prepper. I have 2 anytones for a few month and a couple of hytera PD665. They work well together in both clear and encrypted DMR. But sms on the anytones are only CLEAR. It's sad but true. Hope anytone will implement this soon. They seem pretty active on releasing new firmwares. On the last one (3.02) they added ARC4 encryption.
Thanks for the details. I plan to look at the Hyteras. They're better built and much more affordable than the MotoTRBO line. Do you know if the PD666 supports over-the-air IP networking? I'm doing some interesting things on the IP networking side with the MOTOTRBO radios.
@@TheTechPrepper Yes, they are much more affordable than the Motorola ones, and does the job pretty well. The CPS is well made and easy to get used of, especially if you have DMR knowledge. There are some IP Networking settings : "radio to PC network", "radio to radio network" and "radio services". But its not very clear to me how to use it. I'm still stuck with that. It just configured the telemetry ports from "Radio Services" : you press one button on a radio, it sends an sms to the other one which puts 5v to a pin on the side connector and light up a LED. About repeaters, I don't know how many you've tested, but If one day you have time and money, Hytera Epack-100 is really awesome. I use it for my job, love it! But it's to expensive for my personnal wallet ! so I set up a Surecom SR628 in a small pelicase ; D878 UVII+ are perfect in analog, in DMR they tend to activate the repeater for 2" only, and PD665 are perfect for both analog and DMR with this cheap solution. 😉
11:00 All right I can understand what you're saying about Coldplug I have a little bit different view on that, let me explain why. 1. if you are a amateur and starting on DMR it's very wise to use the same cold plug that the local community around you is using that is because it's much more easier to get support from your local amateurs when you need help. 2. it is wise to start using someone else's code plug until you're comfortable using DMR radio because someone else's has built to Coldplug for the radio that you are using, it's not easy just building up a code plug when you don't understand the concept of the DMR radio, when you're comfortable using someone else's DMR code plug and have a logical understanding of how a code plug is working then you can start building your own Coldplay I've been using DMR radio for almost a year and I'm still not comfortable writing my own code plug to 100% working
These are good points. Let me clarify, the problem that I really see is when I have people outside of my state ask for my Codeplug as other than a few nationwide channels, none of my settings are appropriate for them. Also,I'm a firm believer in tailoring the radios settings to one's particular operating needs. I see this as constant issue. As you can see from this video, my Codeplug is highly customized around my personal communications objectives.
Good luck, brother. I have the AnyTone 878 and 578. Took me about 2-3 months even fairly comfortable w using them. KISS For our (prepper) purpose, I agree w NO HotSpot. The Bridgecom guys are helpful. And the online videos are good training. Still...complicated. I've had my radios in Faraday bags about 6 months. Looking forward to your videos.
Great video thanks. I'm looking at similar scenarios to you. So much to learn with DMR. Have you considered if you need to use a same frequency repeater on dmr? Cheers Paul
Likewise, Jeff. Here's the new video I dropped for the members this morning. It's shorter and should be more fun compared this very long video. ruclips.net/video/BvXjWi6XHhs/видео.html
Isn't TDMA (TIME DIVISION multiple access) simplying using the entire bandwidth but creating two sequential timeslots, basically using the entire bandwidth for both timeslots and swtiching back and forth quickly, and not dividing the 12.5 bandwidth to 6.25. @24:24 I'm pretty sure they cover that in the HAM Tech license test. What you are describing is FREQUENCY DIVISION multiplexing (FDM) - you know, same stuff as in wired networks.
Do you have any videos on SFR and its applications? You mentioned it here briefly and I would like to learn more. If it’s feasible to improve range in tactical operations without lugging a manpack. Also sorry I keep commenting on videos asking questions I’m a newbie 😂
hi, great video, but you did mention in the video that there was no need to register any ID to activate the radio, can you be a more guidance on this? As in my country, DMR does not seem to be pppular, but for the same reason of privacy, I dont want other people can listen to my network of friends using radio. I also have no idea how to register for Callsign here in Vietnam Great video again Thanks
Hello everyone! Hope you're doing well! I have an Anytone d168uv, and I would appreciate a link or a video showing exactly what I need to download and front where. Thank you!
@TheTechPrepper. Great video Gaston!! Are there any downsides to getting the commercial version of the Anytone AT-D878UVII Plus? The only difference I notice in the product description is the absence of Bluetooth in the commercial version. Additionally, some people on Reddit claim that some of the features cannot be controlled directly from the radio itself.
did you have to put your call sign to name your radio? or was that because it was handy? I am trying to set up my Any-tone 878 UV II Plus for emergency. It came with plug but instructions say to put call sign in the field. My Radio came from BridgeCom as well.
VERY informational!!!!! This is why I'm looking to get DMR capable! I don't want the internet involved. A question , with a 578 in cross repeat, would an encrypted repeater be possible in shtf times? Thanks again for the content
additionally, you stated that you'd recommend the 878 plus over the anytone at-d878uvii plus... Why is that? I'm getting ready to purchase and am trying to gain understanding on this. I am looking them up to compare functionality as we speak.
I am still very new to DMR and still exploring the "build your own repeater" side of the equation. This group will be the first to know once I solve this problem. It will be covered in a future video where I will discuss my experience trying to deploy a Single Frequency Repeater (SFR) that can be used with these HT's.
There are two version of the AnyTone D878 UV II. I am using the commercial version (link in the description) instead of the amateur radio version. 1. It is a lot cheaper (almost $100 USD less) for some unknown reason. 2. It is fully unlocked and can transmit on all frequencies on the two bands that it supports without any type of modification (hardware or software). The commercial version will work on the amateur radio, FRS, GMRS, MURS, etc.
Thank you! This video was a big help. I think I'm going to add the 878 to my wishlist. Question: What is the markdown editor you are using for your lists? I really like the layout.
Thanks, Gaston. I've been enjoying your recent DMR content. In the case of family/neighborhood communications, something like the Retevis RT43 is an interesting option. It's cheap and simple - no screen or front panel. You can just hand it to someone and say "make sure you keep the channel dial set to 7". It's DMR and analog-capable, and can TX on 400-480MHz.
One more thing - I know you've already moved on to your Motorolas, but I think the AT878 might grow on you if you spend more time with it. As a fellow tinkerer, I love how configurable the soft keys are. That's an area where I wish Yaesu would pay more attention. And channel zones, of course!
The 878 is certainly feature packed. I may hang on to it for a while and may consider some firmware hacking next year. For me, the problem is the lack of a ruggedized case and a poor ingress protection rating. I'm brutal with my gear in the backcountry. I covered 6 miles today, and the 878 was covered in salt and sweat. Time will tell...
Thanks for the pointer. I'm new to DMR, so I'll check out the RT43. Retvis offered to send it to me sometime back, but I declined as I was not ready for DMR.
@@TheTechPrepper Right on. I run with my 878 in a Salomon hydration vest. I'm careful to turn the front panel away from my body so that sweat doesn't get in through the buttons or the speaker. So far it has held up fine. Please keep beating yours up so that I know how much I can beat on mine!
Any reason you do not create scan groups on the Anytones? I create a scan group for each of my zones that includes all of the channels in that zone. Just wondering.
This is an interesting aspect of radio. It seems great for a group of people to have encrypted comms. If you fly solo like me you wouldn’t really need it. Still interesting, though. If there were more DMR repeaters and Icom or Yaesu standardized their digital to be DMR I might take it on. A Ham can dream…
The Anytone is a nice radio overall. I have the older AT-D878UV version, and I don't see that the newer version has really 'improved' enough to warrant my attention. The APRS implementation is poor on both radios. I was able to cobble together a rudimentary brute force tracker with the older one, but it was essentially useless for anything else. And while the APRS receive capability on the newer model would be nice to have, it’s still missing a lot of functionality there. I also would’ve liked to have seen them expand the size of zones and scan lists as well, and maybe allow channels to appear in multiple scan lists (these are my common complaints with many, if not most, DMR radios). The software is pretty good, and like you, I’m a firm believer in rolling your own code plug, versus using someone else’s.
I think that you made the right call sticking with your original 878. In my humble opinion, the APRS experience needs to be overhauled with the operator in mind. Glad to hear that you also roll your codeplugs. Thanks for the comment and view.
Im trying to figure out which business license type I need to get and how to go about applying for that so I can use encryption on my Anytone radios. I want to get it all set up now so I can get used to it before the end of the year and everything goes to hell in a handbasket.
Encryption & Overall Plan Questions for the Radio Gurus: Hi all, I’m looking for some assistance as I am completely clueless when it comes to encryption. I am using an assortment of DMR/analog radios for emergency communications with family members and would like to know how compatible they are. I still haven’t finalized everything, but likely will use DMR for the digital functions, ability to use individual or TG calls, etc. AND, even without encryption, it will probably stop a small number of random people from listening in with older scanners or analog receivers. Complete “privacy” is important, but not as critical as ease of use, as only 2 of the 30+ users have any radio experience. (and refuse to learn anything other than “turn on / push to talk” etc) I already have repeaters installed at 2 sites, covering most of the area I need to have communications. I’m using 4 coordinated/licensed IG (business band) UHF frequency pairs. 1 Hytera RD-982 & 1 Motorola XPR-8400 at each site and cover much of the area needed with much overlap. (NOT linked via IP or RF)
The “Radio Kits” to be given to each family group will be somewhat similar. Portables : Mostly Hytera = PD-782 / PD-682 / PD-982 / X1-P (all UHF, most 450-520MHz & some 400-470MHz) With Motorola XPR-7550e (UHF 400-520MHz or similar range) And Some AnyTone AT 878UVii Dual-Band UHF/VHF. Plus -20x TYT MD-380 older “low budget” UHF portables for “spares” and to hand out to neighbors, etc. Mobiles: Half are Hytera MD-782G (most are U2 - 450-520MHz) The other half are Motorola XPR-5550 and XPR-4550 (UHF - I can’t recall splits) Everything is going to be packed away in Pelican cases with plans, info, hardcopy of GMRS + IG + Misc licenses, cables, small NIFOG bound books, etc. 6 or 7 groups total. Each group will get 6x portables w/2 spare batteries & 2 mobiles & 2 “Base” radios (mobile in desktop Samlex chassis & power supply). Mobiles/“Base”s have magnet mount Browning or A.S. antennas and multiple methods to power everything. I HOPE that power is not affected during the type of emergency we are planning for. But… I am working on LifePO4 / solar solution for each group + repeater sites (sites have nat. gas standby gensets and UPS units w/20min of capacity for the 20-40secs for genset to start and stabilize)
Sorry for the length! I started thinking it’d be a paragraph. While I really hope the repeaters are still functioning, I plan to have a bunch of simplex channels for direct radio to radio comms. Plus all of the GMRS/FRS for random comms and to talk to outside people. I plan on building out a few portable repeaters (using portable rack cases) eventually, but am hoping simplex using the mobiles with decent antennas , will work for each group. FINALLY… encryption? What is compatible? None of the Hyteras or Motorolas have AES-256 or any encryption option (other than the “basic” or whatever is included) The
I think the model You have is the Anytone AT-D878UV PLUS not the Anytone AT-D878UVII PLUS - The II version has a green P3 button, Yours is blue. That would also explain the APRS issues You are having.
So I'm still learning about DMR. If you want to talk on a digital channel using a local repeator, does it always route the transmission through the internet or can you transmit from a digital radio to a local repeator and then back to another digital radio?
I have three 878s and can only seem to get the “common” encryption to work. The AES256 isn’t working on either of the three. Also note, line 16 and 17 in the channel set menu. I can’t figure out Encryption Type differences. 1 is normal and 2 is enhanced. All I know is that if both radios aren’t on the same “normal” or “enhanced” they won’t work together
Also, in the CPS, in the other settings tab, you can choose AES, Common or ARC4 (for newer version). “Normal and Enhanced” is no longer a menu option when AES is chosen. So idk. Lol. Anytone really ought to get it together in that area. (Also, why is normal or enhanced only programmable on the face of the radio and no where in the CPS!!) I’m downloading dsd plus for my SDR dongle and I’m going to really see what the heck Anytone is transmitting. I hope to learn the dif between Normal and Enhanced when in “Common” mode. AND to see why neither of the three radios are working together with AES.
I did the same thing and installed DSD for use with my RTL-SDR. The CPS is unnecessarily complex. It looks like an Engineer designed. Poor user interfaces drive my nuts.
Have you checked the firmware versions of your 3 radios ? If you bought them separately, they might have different versions. I know some encryption bugs have been solved through newer firmware version. 73
I am surprised to see that you recommend a 25kHz bandwidth for ham/repeater operations. I am from the EU so it may be different in the US, yet our channel setup is 12.5 kHz, and we use narrow FM as it is fully capable of transmitting voice frequency range. Using 25 kHz would interfere with neighboring channels. Can you maybe elaborate why 25 kHz is beneficial for you? Thx and 73
I discovered a very powerful over-the-air networking feature in the Motorola commercial DMR radios that blow traditional analog packet radio out of the water. More coming on this topic later.
I have the Baofeng DR-1801 UV DMR Walkie Talkie/HT. Mainly to have 32 bit en*rypti@n to avoid casual voice eavesdropping. Ability to do messaging and radio call/check is great too. DMR simplex in Australia can also does VHF, unlike CB UHF analog. Does VHF/UHF analog too, but has limited ability at scanning. Not waterproof.
I work in cybersecurity.. and this still looks so overly complicated lol! I think DMR is where I need to be due to the same reasons you went that route, but man.. I'm not looking forward to it at all. Quick question though. I've read that the BTECH DMR-6X2 is the exact same thing as the Anytone 878 and that the firmwares are even interchangeable. Do you know anything about that? I'm mainly asking due to the price tag as you can imagine.
I would like to know if two of these can communicate between each other through digital signal on their own without connecting to repeaters and other devices? I mean like if i just put two analogue radios at the same channel and they can communicate completely independent
Negative. Even when on the same frequency the analog radio will not be able to decode the DMR signal. However, you will be able to hear it and know that there is a transmission taking place.
I have actually found two things about the 878 that disappoint me: the battery latch is weak, I can take the battery and move it in and out ever so slightly which is a concern as to whether the battery is really secure and whether or not the contact seal is really working. The other issue I found is it doesn't take much audio to clip this radio's receive on analog, unfortunately that makes this radio a no go for me. If the analog receive is that sensitive it's no good. I have tried tons of different radios and I can't believe the poor quality being put out for the higher priced "ham" radios. Icom seems to have the best QC. My Yaesu ft-5 cracked by the ptt in a short period of time and it will be a very long time before I buy another one of their products. I can write paragraphs of the issues with radios marketed for the ham market. I am waiting on a TYT MD-390 after discovering issues with the CS-750 not allowing audio through when someone is talking.
The Mt Ord 2m repeater played a pivotal role in locating my missing children back in the 90's. Myself, 11 year old son and 12 year old daughter at the time, got our Technician, with code, licenses, just before an event. My son grabbed one of our HTX 202 radios as he was being rushed away. He was able to contact me to share their location a day or two later!
I am curious about something; since all of the radios you have support encryption, why even bother with unencrypted channels, why not just have them all encrypted all the time. You control the radios since you pass them out to friends and family, so there should be no compatibility problems. What am I missing, what is the disadvantage to having them always encyrpted?
You sacrifice potential interoperability with other radios. My AnyTones and Motorola can do encrypted voice, but not text message. Also, I have analog radios in my fleet. Personally, I need the flexibility of three application specific zones for my frequencies: analog (ATTP), digital unencrypted (DTTP), and digital encrypted (DSTTP). Also, I interact with other groups and don't necessarily want to share my keys. It's good to have operating options.
This is gonna be the case on any encrypted channel, even with expensive military equipment and applications. When talking in the green on a military radio you will get a “rush-beep” after keying the mic before you can start talking.
@@pilotmedic The easiest way is to pay a local LMR dealer in your area to handle everything for you. Give them your requirements and they will handle all the details along with working the frequency coordinator and filing all the FCC paperwork.
you can - DMR is completely legal in the ham bands by properly licensed hams. DMR was, however, initially designed for use in the Land Mobile Radio space, and was adopted by amateur radio once the FCC approved its use for ham also. Gaston is also using DMR on a set of commercial frequencies he obtained as part of his business model.
@@dbaum3 No, for it to be private/encrypted, you cannot do that on Ham freqs. Note: this is by FCC rule restrictions on the ham bands, not by equipment limitations.
@dbaum3 To be clear DMR is not encryption. Many if not most DMR radios can be encrypted but this is not allowed on the HAM bands in any mode, DMR, Analog, doesn't matter all HAM traffic must be in the clear.
My AnyTone models support only 2m and 70cm. I am big fan of the quad banders. My Yaesu FT-8900 supports those, but it is analog only. 6m and 220MHz are great bands for opsec. Cheers.
I don't understand why digital radio has to be so complicated. It's extremely simple (from the user's point of view) when placing a call on a cell phone. Why can't someone design a radio that works essentially like a cell phone, but handset-to-handset, rather than handset-to-tower?
This is why I held off using DMR for two years. It is unnecessarily complex. My wife actually used DMR with me today while I was on a trail run. She operated the radio just fine today and she knows nothing about radio. The trick was giving her a preprogrammed radio and locking her out of most of the features. The programming is not for normal people.
I don't understand how this is Internet free, dmr relies on network connected servers so are you deploying your own server (that won't work without Internet) or are you using talk around (which is severely limited range) or are you using analogue which by definition isn't dmr and therefore this video is completely misleading? Genuine question as I'm confused and you don't actually explain how this is working. 73's M7YOD
I am using DMR as protocol for simplex communication (i.e. no Internet). It has value from the preparedness aspect for local, more secure communication compared to analog. Also, with a business license, DMR simplex with AES-256 encryption is legal and force multiplier. This just another use case for using DMR marketed radios outside of the traditional ham/Internet use.
You'd be better off getting a 5g node and then operating that on public use frequencies designated for that (used by private 5g systems like at hospitals) instead of getting a commercial license. It has the benefit that everyone already has a 5g phone in their pocket, so all you have to do is add their SIM card info to your 5g node.
It does not have the range. I've been covering upwards of 6 miles on UHF in my terrain on 4-5 watts. 5G does NOT have that kind of range without cell towers.
I hope you find what you're looking for elsewhere. For the record, I was invited to Vail as a poor college student in 2001. I've had the vest ever since. You made a poor assumption.
My question is why do you want your Communications to be encrypted that doesn't make much sense a big part of ham radio for people who aren't even hams is listening in this is why I stay where it's at high frequency all you other hams can play with these junk Chinese anytone radios it's a waste of money and a waste of time have fun
For the record, I'm not a fan of Chinese radios for many reasons.I prefer Japanese radios, specifically the older vintage of radio from Yaesu. You appear to be one of the salty hams that I encounter frequently on HF. My application for encryption is not for amateur radio. It's for commercial use This AnyTone is not for me; I will stick with the DMR MotoTRBO radios.
Lastly, I'm a realist. That's why I want encryption. I got a similar crap while I was a corporate consultant and carried bleach wipes and hand sanitizer while traveling. I also routinely kept antibiotics. These came in handy during COVID. It will be used as a tool when needed. Someday, secure communication capabilities will be needed. The time to train and plan is now.
Why don't you just go ask your local ham who's in his eighties what he would do he's already had this all figured out without the internet. Lastly what are you prepping for the zombie apocalypse everybody who needs to have this figured out has already got it done
@timeinthefield emergency communications already been figured out this is just regurgitated crap like stuffing 5 lb of crap in a 2lb bag all you Doomsday Preppers should be prepping on how to grow food and leave the communications to the professionals
This is the single best video on DMR I've seen so far. Even though you're new to it, the fact that you're taking us through this process with you has been incredibly helpful!
Glad it was helpful! I believe that sharing the experience while I am learning can be helpful to others at the same stage of learning DMR. Something as simple as "unlocking" the radio after an unboxing is something that more seasoned users have probably forgotten was an issue. More coming. Take care.
Very practical and useful. Thank you.
How do I programme a dm tyt 398 dmr tire l and ll what do I do
Excellent video Gaston! Keep rolling! Also, very cool to learn you're a runner too! Awesome! Let's ROLL!
You guys really helped me answer a few specific questions to get start with some basics on DMR. I went straight to your channel to unlock the keypad. Thank you. Cheers to another runner. 73 de KT7RUN
Truly appreciate how diligent you are and methodical. You always make it easy to learn from you. I have an 878 and have been challenged getting it set the way I want. Definitely appreciate your work as always!
I appreciate that! I'm not that bright, so I personally need lots of short term goals and milestones. Simple explanations are my goal. Let's make radio easier to understand and use. Cheers.
I really like your non-traditional use case for DMR. Thanks for the deep dive!!
You're welcome. I'm glad that I took the time to seriously give DMR a look. I was put off as all the hams only highlighted the Internet-based based networking. I'll give LoRa and Meshtastic a look, too.
@@TheTechPrepper So glad you mentioned Meshtastic and LoRa as well. I am a ham but shy away from DMR and DSTAR (I do like PSK31 and JS8Call). I just started watching this series and if I understand what you are looking to accomplish (digital, simplex), then this will meet a need in my Comms plan. Nice to have new eyes on it!
Im glad to see you have a DMR video lol. Ive had an Anytone sitting in the box for too long! I think ill get it up and running now.
This video is a gem. So many YTs don't give enough context and philosophy of use in their videos. To say, the what, where, how and WHY. Have you done a video on process and costs to get business license frequencies? Any issues with the radio software for MacOS?
It's great to see comms plan with as much emphasis on everyday needs (accessibility, ease of use, etc.) as many of us put on more serious but comparatively rare occasions where the need for security necessitates some level of user training and practice.
I have always found it odd that the prepper community (in general) always looks at preparedness in terms of only the worst case scenario. These are tools that have applications for every day needs, the occasional bad storm, and for when stuff goes sideways (short and long term).
I appreciate how organized all of your information is. I just bought my first DMR radio, and I found your video very helpful.
Glad to hear it. Enjoy your new DMR radio. I still have not connected mine to the Internet or a hotspot.
Very very comprehensive walkthrough, thank you for the work in this video. What you called out as context is very key - what is the comms opportunity you are solving for. To effectively program a radio or radios one needs to have a plan, be it to simply talk on a local repeater or to build a comms network to address several different needs. Outstanding video to pull it all together!
Thank you, Mike. Everyone's needs are different, so I am a firm believer in understanding your needs and translating those needs into an actual implementation.
I have the same Anytone, and I am very happy with that. It works fine for me, I like the fact and when you purchase it you get everything with it, even this Bluetooth PTT Gadget. In other brands you have to buy everything extra, even the cps software, or they have only UHF or VHF. I think for somebody who has not that kind of budget, or want to buy a fleet of radios, they are great radios. I have also the RT3S from Retevis, this radio works also very good. It's a bit smaller and fits perfectly in your pocket.
Great video! Again! This one has helped me understand my 878UV II Plus and programming Keep up the great work
I remember my first couple weeks learning DMR the hard way. Several helpful nuggets of info here. DMR is a bit complicated but makes mastering it more satisfying.
There's not substitution for hardware. I guess it's a rite of passage.
This was an amazing video! Great information and it's making me get back into DMR. I like your thorough overview of how you group channels in the radio. I have an older Anytone D868 but most of the DMR features are pretty much the same. 73
Glad it was helpful! Happy programming.
So Helpful! I'm new to Arizona and DMR and decided to pick up the challenge of learning DMR. I picked up a fully programmed 878 from the Bridgecom guys and have been watching their video series when I spotted your video on YT. What an an amazing technology. I've enjoyed and appreciate your other videos as well. Thanks!
Glad to hear it! Cheers to another local. If you look me up on QRZ, I'll send you a link the spreadsheet.
Thank you. I probably would have not wanted DMR based on what I have heard, but now I think this is perfect for my needs. Just a pita to set up initially, but doable.
Thank you for reminding me why I sold my 878! Programming was just to much trouble. Stayed with my Yaesu and Wouxon. Great video though and enjoyed learning more about the possibilities. Keep up the awesome work.
I've only looked at 10% of the menu options. This appears to be a standard across vendors once you move into DMR. Motorola's CPS takes some getting used to as well.
@@TheTechPrepper use RT systems software to program. Way better software, and you can import and export excel files which makes it easier to create codeplugs for multiple radios if you are using that software.
Your videos are amazingly informative! Great help for a visual learner like me. Thank you, and please keep the videos coming!
You're welcome. I learn this way too along with experimentation. More coming.
Thanks Gaston! Great video!
Do you have any plans on doing a video on how you got your commercial license?
It's in the backlog. I'm not sure when it will be slotted in.
878 is a very capable radio. I use it for both HAM and Professional radio applications. It communicates fine with the MOTOTRBO radios. While it does have good audio, Motorola is the gold standard in audio, both output, and noise reduction on the input side. Good choice for learning DMR.
This is fantastic, I have a few 878's and the way you've organized around talkgroups is superb, I've been struggling with just 2-way DMR simplex and you've solved my problems!
Thank you for taking the time to comment. I was debating whether or not to release this marathon of a video as I am very new to DMR, but I released it anyhow as I figured some people would appreciate the approach that I used to solve my communications goals.
I'm glad you started this series. Just prior to it, I was starting to look into DMR for the same reasons you have taken an interest in it. I only got as far as creating a short list of portables I liked based on my selection criteria. I think you have me sold on the Anytone. Any chance the series will get to the selection of a radio for base operation?
The next video will touch on the base station that I am using for both the home and vehicle. Glad to see that you're exploring DMR for similar reasons.
Great job as always, Gaston!
I hope you found it useful. It was nice being able to share my early work on DMR with you and the community.
@@TheTechPrepperYour work is helping a lot. I may not be able to go fully into what you've shown so far, but I'm researching workarounds for my price range and use cases thanks to your videos. This is definitely the direction I am wanting to transition the family and neighbor comms towards. Especially with the way things are going. I don't think GMRS is going to suffice soon. We already know things are not going as good as things are being let on.
@@ke8mattj The AnyTone that I have linked is ~$200 USD, but I believe that there are sub $100 USD DMR radios companies like Radioddity. I have no experience with it, but I've heard good things about their RADIODDITY GD-77.
@@TheTechPrepper One of the things I'm researching for is one that can recharge via USB. This is one of my uncompromising conditions. I can compromise on, despite its inefficiencies, is if the HT can recharge via up-conversion from the 5v USB to 12v barrel connection, but it does not look like there is an HT for that except for the Baofeng DMR radio. It seems the HT community is still so stuck on using cradle chargers and wall-warts. Even Yaesu is guilty of this with the FT-*D series. It took a ham (W0AEZ) creating a custom battery for this series for us to finally get a battery that is directly rechargeable via USB without using up-conversion.
The GD-77 was on my radar a long time ago, but I didn't grab it and it's now sold out. Don't know why Radioddity is no longer producing it. That's my mistake for not nabbing any. I wonder if it has anything to do with the ham community creating a custom firmware for it: OpenGD77?
I'll be researching more or ask your community when I get back from my trip soon. Too much relaxing at the moment to deeply look into it and having the long trip back tomorrow.
I appreciate what you are doing here, my desire has been to set up similar comms blending Amateur, business, GMRS and MURS, Analog, digital and encryption depending on the use case. so this helps a LOT.
I know you are considering selling the Anytone radios, as they don't do the networking/data side of what you can do with the /\/\otorola gear, among other reason. I Like Motorola gear, but I don't like the hassle of the used market, not knowing if you are really getting what you think you are, CPS compatibilities, specialized cables, etc. For that reason, I'd really like it if you would keep going with the Anyone videos, as those radios are readily available, cost effective and have a lot of online support (like the Bridgecom videos). The availability of inexpensive accessories like antennas and speaker mics, spare batteries, chargers, etc is also helpful when you need to buy multiple radios and kit them out affordably.
So for the greater good of the community, I'd like you to continue with the Anytone, at least so we can see where the limitations are, and what can be gained by using the Motorola or other radios.
Great video, I’m just watching it now. Have you tried The range feature which shows the distance to another like radio. You can also check if the other radio is switched on. you can also make another radio alert go off. all this can be done in simplex mode with no Internet of course
Slightly pedantic comment. What you described (splitting the 12.5kHz channel into two 6.25kHz sub-channels) is called FDMA or Frequency Division Multiple Access. It's used with NXDN and I believe P25 is also FDMA. TDMA as used in DMR alternates between Timeslot 1 and Timeslot 2 every 15 milliseconds using the full 12.5kHz bandwidth.
Actually called TDMA time division multiple access
Just got mine last week. Thank you
Congrats. This radio is packed with features. Enjoy and happy programming.
Awesome video Gaston! I would also like to get some MOTOTRBO radios but the steep price tag plus rarity of the VHF models on the used market makes me consider an 878 to start with as I ease into DMR. The only thing I still don’t understand about DMR is talkgroups. What are they really and what are their use cases? Haven’t heard a good explanation of what they are and why someone would want to use one
They are just contacts. They can either be between you and someone else (a private call) or you and a group of people (a group call). Both a "private call" and "group call" are identified by a DMR ID. My wife and myself are examples of Private Call Talk Groups. If I only want to talk to the medical team, that would be an example of Group Call Talk Group.
878 has been working well for me once I found a nice working code plug for my locations! Then its about fine tuning local repeaters / TGs / Zones / contacts.
Thanks for sharing
Great video. I am in the middle of watching it, but I did find one item that I want to address. With MURS, the first three 151 MHz frequencies are narrow band and the two 154 MHz frequencies are wide band. (If I remember correctly.) You have them programmed the opposite way.
Thanks for catching this. I'll double check.
Thanks… lots to take in but definitely have a better idea and direction!!! Thanks for the great work.
You're welcome. I am sure that I am not doing everything the way the DMR ninjas would like, but at least it is a starting point with a plan. Take it slowly. Cheers.
Thanks for your ideas. My wife and I are doing some of these ideas but with 900 MHz ISM. We are running encryption on DMR.
Very nice. Are there any suggestions or ideas that I missed?
As usual, very interesting video, with plenty of details and precise explanations.
Thanks Tech Prepper.
I have 2 anytones for a few month and a couple of hytera PD665. They work well together in both clear and encrypted DMR. But sms on the anytones are only CLEAR. It's sad but true. Hope anytone will implement this soon. They seem pretty active on releasing new firmwares. On the last one (3.02) they added ARC4 encryption.
Thanks for the details. I plan to look at the Hyteras. They're better built and much more affordable than the MotoTRBO line. Do you know if the PD666 supports over-the-air IP networking? I'm doing some interesting things on the IP networking side with the MOTOTRBO radios.
@@TheTechPrepper Yes, they are much more affordable than the Motorola ones, and does the job pretty well. The CPS is well made and easy to get used of, especially if you have DMR knowledge. There are some IP Networking settings : "radio to PC network", "radio to radio network" and "radio services". But its not very clear to me how to use it. I'm still stuck with that. It just configured the telemetry ports from "Radio Services" : you press one button on a radio, it sends an sms to the other one which puts 5v to a pin on the side connector and light up a LED.
About repeaters, I don't know how many you've tested, but If one day you have time and money, Hytera Epack-100 is really awesome. I use it for my job, love it! But it's to expensive for my personnal wallet ! so I set up a Surecom SR628 in a small pelicase ; D878 UVII+ are perfect in analog, in DMR they tend to activate the repeater for 2" only, and PD665 are perfect for both analog and DMR with this cheap solution. 😉
@@antoinep.7420 Thanks for the confirmation on the IP capabilities. I'll definitely give the Hytera's a look next year.
Excellant video, very helpful!!
Glad to help, thanks for watching!
Love it man. I enjoyed this
I'm glad you enjoyed it. These videos are rarely this long. Take it easy.
11:00 All right I can understand what you're saying about Coldplug I have a little bit different view on that, let me explain why. 1. if you are a amateur and starting on DMR it's very wise to use the same cold plug that the local community around you is using that is because it's much more easier to get support from your local amateurs when you need help. 2. it is wise to start using someone else's code plug until you're comfortable using DMR radio because someone else's has built to Coldplug for the radio that you are using, it's not easy just building up a code plug when you don't understand the concept of the DMR radio, when you're comfortable using someone else's DMR code plug and have a logical understanding of how a code plug is working then you can start building your own Coldplay I've been using DMR radio for almost a year and I'm still not comfortable writing my own code plug to 100% working
These are good points. Let me clarify, the problem that I really see is when I have people outside of my state ask for my Codeplug as other than a few nationwide channels, none of my settings are appropriate for them. Also,I'm a firm believer in tailoring the radios settings to one's particular operating needs. I see this as constant issue. As you can see from this video, my Codeplug is highly customized around my personal communications objectives.
@@TheTechPrepper You r also very much correct.
Good luck, brother. I have the AnyTone 878 and 578. Took me about 2-3 months even fairly comfortable w using them. KISS For our (prepper) purpose, I agree w NO HotSpot. The Bridgecom guys are helpful. And the online videos are good training. Still...complicated. I've had my radios in Faraday bags about 6 months. Looking forward to your videos.
Great video thanks. I'm looking at similar scenarios to you. So much to learn with DMR. Have you considered if you need to use a same frequency repeater on dmr? Cheers Paul
Nice talking to you on the air this morning 12/6/23 have fun with the Anytones. Jeff W0NWA
Likewise, Jeff. Here's the new video I dropped for the members this morning. It's shorter and should be more fun compared this very long video. ruclips.net/video/BvXjWi6XHhs/видео.html
Great video! You have a great channel going here!
Glad to hear it. It felt like a marathon recording, so your comment is encouraging. Thank you. More on the way.
Isn't TDMA (TIME DIVISION multiple access) simplying using the entire bandwidth but creating two sequential timeslots, basically using the entire bandwidth for both timeslots and swtiching back and forth quickly, and not dividing the 12.5 bandwidth to 6.25. @24:24 I'm pretty sure they cover that in the HAM Tech license test. What you are describing is FREQUENCY DIVISION multiplexing (FDM) - you know, same stuff as in wired networks.
Do you have any videos on SFR and its applications? You mentioned it here briefly and I would like to learn more. If it’s feasible to improve range in tactical operations without lugging a manpack. Also sorry I keep commenting on videos asking questions I’m a newbie 😂
hi, great video, but you did mention in the video that there was no need to register any ID to activate the radio, can you be a more guidance on this? As in my country, DMR does not seem to be pppular, but for the same reason of privacy, I dont want other people can listen to my network of friends using radio.
I also have no idea how to register for Callsign here in Vietnam
Great video again
Thanks
Hello everyone!
Hope you're doing well!
I have an Anytone d168uv, and I would appreciate a link or a video showing exactly what I need to download and front where.
Thank you!
@TheTechPrepper. Great video Gaston!! Are there any downsides to getting the commercial version of the Anytone AT-D878UVII Plus? The only difference I notice in the product description is the absence of Bluetooth in the commercial version. Additionally, some people on Reddit claim that some of the features cannot be controlled directly from the radio itself.
did you have to put your call sign to name your radio? or was that because it was handy? I am trying to set up my Any-tone 878 UV II Plus for emergency. It came with plug but instructions say to put call sign in the field. My Radio came from BridgeCom as well.
VERY informational!!!!! This is why I'm looking to get DMR capable! I don't want the internet involved. A question , with a 578 in cross repeat, would an encrypted repeater be possible in shtf times? Thanks again for the content
additionally, you stated that you'd recommend the 878 plus over the anytone at-d878uvii plus... Why is that? I'm getting ready to purchase and am trying to gain understanding on this. I am looking them up to compare functionality as we speak.
I am still very new to DMR and still exploring the "build your own repeater" side of the equation. This group will be the first to know once I solve this problem. It will be covered in a future video where I will discuss my experience trying to deploy a Single Frequency Repeater (SFR) that can be used with these HT's.
There are two version of the AnyTone D878 UV II. I am using the commercial version (link in the description) instead of the amateur radio version. 1. It is a lot cheaper (almost $100 USD less) for some unknown reason. 2. It is fully unlocked and can transmit on all frequencies on the two bands that it supports without any type of modification (hardware or software). The commercial version will work on the amateur radio, FRS, GMRS, MURS, etc.
Yes encryption is possible cross band repeat with the 578
great! I knew I could not see a difference except pricing and was confused as DRM is a new animal for me as well
@@TheTechPrepper
Thank you! This video was a big help. I think I'm going to add the 878 to my wishlist. Question: What is the markdown editor you are using for your lists? I really like the layout.
This is a good video. Why didn't you get a DMR ID? doesn't it require a DMR ID to be entered into the radio?
Thanks, Gaston. I've been enjoying your recent DMR content. In the case of family/neighborhood communications, something like the Retevis RT43 is an interesting option. It's cheap and simple - no screen or front panel. You can just hand it to someone and say "make sure you keep the channel dial set to 7". It's DMR and analog-capable, and can TX on 400-480MHz.
One more thing - I know you've already moved on to your Motorolas, but I think the AT878 might grow on you if you spend more time with it. As a fellow tinkerer, I love how configurable the soft keys are. That's an area where I wish Yaesu would pay more attention. And channel zones, of course!
The 878 is certainly feature packed. I may hang on to it for a while and may consider some firmware hacking next year. For me, the problem is the lack of a ruggedized case and a poor ingress protection rating. I'm brutal with my gear in the backcountry. I covered 6 miles today, and the 878 was covered in salt and sweat. Time will tell...
Thanks for the pointer. I'm new to DMR, so I'll check out the RT43. Retvis offered to send it to me sometime back, but I declined as I was not ready for DMR.
@@TheTechPrepper Right on. I run with my 878 in a Salomon hydration vest. I'm careful to turn the front panel away from my body so that sweat doesn't get in through the buttons or the speaker. So far it has held up fine. Please keep beating yours up so that I know how much I can beat on mine!
Great video, however you made the comment that the radio cones “locked” and no where in the manual does it say how to unlock it. Page 41 clearly does.
My manual did not have 41 pages. It was a pamphlet. Good to know.
OK, I understand. It is however very strange that they don’t tell you how to unlock it until page 41 instead of the very beginning of the manual.
@@cherylmorey6658 Bingo. I thought that would be the first thing every operator would need to know out the gate.
Any reason you do not create scan groups on the Anytones? I create a scan group for each of my zones that includes all of the channels in that zone. Just wondering.
This is an interesting aspect of radio. It seems great for a group of people to have encrypted comms. If you fly solo like me you wouldn’t really need it. Still interesting, though. If there were more DMR repeaters and Icom or Yaesu standardized their digital to be DMR I might take it on. A Ham can dream…
The Anytone is a nice radio overall. I have the older AT-D878UV version, and I don't see that the newer version has really 'improved' enough to warrant my attention. The APRS implementation is poor on both radios. I was able to cobble together a rudimentary brute force tracker with the older one, but it was essentially useless for anything else. And while the APRS receive capability on the newer model would be nice to have, it’s still missing a lot of functionality there. I also would’ve liked to have seen them expand the size of zones and scan lists as well, and maybe allow channels to appear in multiple scan lists (these are my common complaints with many, if not most, DMR radios). The software is pretty good, and like you, I’m a firm believer in rolling your own code plug, versus using someone else’s.
I think that you made the right call sticking with your original 878. In my humble opinion, the APRS experience needs to be overhauled with the operator in mind. Glad to hear that you also roll your codeplugs. Thanks for the comment and view.
Same here but I really am glad they keep the improvements going
Im trying to figure out which business license type I need to get and how to go about applying for that so I can use encryption on my Anytone radios. I want to get it all set up now so I can get used to it before the end of the year and everything goes to hell in a handbasket.
Encryption & Overall Plan Questions for the Radio Gurus:
Hi all, I’m looking for some assistance as I am completely clueless when it comes to encryption.
I am using an assortment of DMR/analog radios for emergency communications with family members and would like to know how compatible they are. I still haven’t finalized everything, but likely will use DMR for the digital functions, ability to use individual or TG calls, etc. AND, even without encryption, it will probably stop a small number of random people from listening in with older scanners or analog receivers.
Complete “privacy” is important, but not as critical as ease of use, as only 2 of the 30+ users have any radio experience. (and refuse to learn anything other than “turn on / push to talk” etc)
I already have repeaters installed at 2 sites, covering most of the area I need to have communications.
I’m using 4 coordinated/licensed IG (business band) UHF frequency pairs.
1 Hytera RD-982 & 1 Motorola XPR-8400 at each site and cover much of the area needed with much overlap. (NOT linked via IP or RF)
The “Radio Kits” to be given to each family group will be somewhat similar.
Portables :
Mostly Hytera = PD-782 / PD-682 / PD-982 / X1-P (all UHF, most 450-520MHz & some 400-470MHz)
With Motorola XPR-7550e (UHF 400-520MHz or similar range)
And Some AnyTone AT 878UVii Dual-Band UHF/VHF.
Plus -20x TYT MD-380 older “low budget” UHF portables for “spares” and to hand out to neighbors, etc.
Mobiles:
Half are Hytera MD-782G (most are U2 - 450-520MHz)
The other half are Motorola XPR-5550 and XPR-4550 (UHF - I can’t recall splits)
Everything is going to be packed away in Pelican cases with plans, info, hardcopy of GMRS + IG + Misc licenses, cables, small NIFOG bound books, etc.
6 or 7 groups total.
Each group will get 6x portables w/2 spare batteries & 2 mobiles & 2 “Base” radios (mobile in desktop Samlex chassis & power supply). Mobiles/“Base”s have magnet mount Browning or A.S. antennas and multiple methods to power everything.
I HOPE that power is not affected during the type of emergency we are planning for.
But… I am working on LifePO4 / solar solution for each group + repeater sites (sites have nat. gas standby gensets and UPS units w/20min of capacity for the 20-40secs for genset to start and stabilize)
Sorry for the length! I started thinking it’d be a paragraph.
While I really hope the repeaters are still functioning, I plan to have a bunch of simplex channels for direct radio to radio comms. Plus all of the GMRS/FRS for random comms and to talk to outside people.
I plan on building out a few portable repeaters (using portable rack cases) eventually, but am hoping simplex using the mobiles with decent antennas , will work for each group.
FINALLY… encryption?
What is compatible?
None of the Hyteras or Motorolas have AES-256 or any encryption option (other than the “basic” or whatever is included)
The
I think the model You have is the Anytone AT-D878UV PLUS not the Anytone AT-D878UVII PLUS - The II version has a green P3 button, Yours is blue. That would also explain the APRS issues You are having.
@thetechprepper how do you like the anytone radio so far?
So I'm still learning about DMR. If you want to talk on a digital channel using a local repeator, does it always route the transmission through the internet or can you transmit from a digital radio to a local repeator and then back to another digital radio?
I have three 878s and can only seem to get the “common” encryption to work. The AES256 isn’t working on either of the three.
Also note, line 16 and 17 in the channel set menu. I can’t figure out Encryption Type differences. 1 is normal and 2 is enhanced. All I know is that if both radios aren’t on the same “normal” or “enhanced” they won’t work together
Also, in the CPS, in the other settings tab, you can choose AES, Common or ARC4 (for newer version).
“Normal and Enhanced” is no longer a menu option when AES is chosen. So idk. Lol. Anytone really ought to get it together in that area.
(Also, why is normal or enhanced only programmable on the face of the radio and no where in the CPS!!)
I’m downloading dsd plus for my SDR dongle and I’m going to really see what the heck Anytone is transmitting. I hope to learn the dif between Normal and Enhanced when in “Common” mode. AND to see why neither of the three radios are working together with AES.
I did the same thing and installed DSD for use with my RTL-SDR. The CPS is unnecessarily complex. It looks like an Engineer designed. Poor user interfaces drive my nuts.
Have you checked the firmware versions of your 3 radios ? If you bought them separately, they might have different versions. I know some encryption bugs have been solved through newer firmware version. 73
I am surprised to see that you recommend a 25kHz bandwidth for ham/repeater operations. I am from the EU so it may be different in the US, yet our channel setup is 12.5 kHz, and we use narrow FM as it is fully capable of transmitting voice frequency range. Using 25 kHz would interfere with neighboring channels. Can you maybe elaborate why 25 kHz is beneficial for you? Thx and 73
25kHz is the standard for analog ham radio here in the states
What do you think of the new firmware for the anytone upgrade to secure the encryption and are you using meshtastic yet ?
I'm still waiting for an audit to be published by a third-party.
my question is do i need a ham license or business for this? if so how can I go about business?
Just curious why DMR and not Yaesu’s cf4..? Thanks for your videos btw.
I discovered a very powerful over-the-air networking feature in the Motorola commercial DMR radios that blow traditional analog packet radio out of the water. More coming on this topic later.
I have the Baofeng DR-1801 UV DMR Walkie Talkie/HT. Mainly to have 32 bit en*rypti@n to avoid casual voice eavesdropping. Ability to do messaging and radio call/check is great too. DMR simplex in Australia can also does VHF, unlike CB UHF analog. Does VHF/UHF analog too, but has limited ability at scanning. Not waterproof.
I work in cybersecurity.. and this still looks so overly complicated lol! I think DMR is where I need to be due to the same reasons you went that route, but man.. I'm not looking forward to it at all.
Quick question though. I've read that the BTECH DMR-6X2 is the exact same thing as the Anytone 878 and that the firmwares are even interchangeable. Do you know anything about that? I'm mainly asking due to the price tag as you can imagine.
I would like to know if two of these can communicate between each other through digital signal on their own without connecting to repeaters and other devices?
I mean like if i just put two analogue radios at the same channel and they can communicate completely independent
Yes. That's exactly how I am running these. Radio to radio.
Does a dmr can talk to a analog when both radio are in the same frequencies?
Negative. Even when on the same frequency the analog radio will not be able to decode the DMR signal. However, you will be able to hear it and know that there is a transmission taking place.
I have actually found two things about the 878 that disappoint me: the battery latch is weak, I can take the battery and move it in and out ever so slightly which is a concern as to whether the battery is really secure and whether or not the contact seal is really working. The other issue I found is it doesn't take much audio to clip this radio's receive on analog, unfortunately that makes this radio a no go for me. If the analog receive is that sensitive it's no good. I have tried tons of different radios and I can't believe the poor quality being put out for the higher priced "ham" radios. Icom seems to have the best QC. My Yaesu ft-5 cracked by the ptt in a short period of time and it will be a very long time before I buy another one of their products. I can write paragraphs of the issues with radios marketed for the ham market. I am waiting on a TYT MD-390 after discovering issues with the CS-750 not allowing audio through when someone is talking.
The section, "DMR Use Cases and Scenarios" could be a separate episode.
I use mine for GMRS and DMR. I do have to change antennas
Mt Ord, you must be in AZ?
Bingo. Howdy, neighbor.
The Mt Ord 2m repeater played a pivotal role in locating my missing children back in the 90's. Myself, 11 year old son and 12 year old daughter at the time, got our Technician, with code, licenses, just before an event. My son grabbed one of our HTX 202 radios as he was being rushed away. He was able to contact me to share their location a day or two later!
@@MarkSpencerAZ Impressive story. Radio saved the day. You've got a great boy there. 73
Have you researched LORA vs DMR? Its secure, and long range.
LoRa is on the list for next year.
I am curious about something; since all of the radios you have support encryption, why even bother with unencrypted channels, why not just have them all encrypted all the time. You control the radios since you pass them out to friends and family, so there should be no compatibility problems. What am I missing, what is the disadvantage to having them always encyrpted?
You sacrifice potential interoperability with other radios. My AnyTones and Motorola can do encrypted voice, but not text message. Also, I have analog radios in my fleet. Personally, I need the flexibility of three application specific zones for my frequencies: analog (ATTP), digital unencrypted (DTTP), and digital encrypted (DSTTP). Also, I interact with other groups and don't necessarily want to share my keys. It's good to have operating options.
You don't need the software to unlock it. There is a maintenance menu you can get into when you start the radio
If you’re using Linux, could you not run the CPS using WINE?
I’ve read there is a delay on the anytone 878 when using aes-256 did you find this to be true?
Like you have to key up then wait a second to talk
Yes, that has been my experience. At some point, I need to dive into the technical reason behind this.
@@TheTechPrepperis it just annoying or deal killer?
@@BobBob-il2ku It's too early to tell. I am still on the fence about selling the 878.
This is gonna be the case on any encrypted channel, even with expensive military equipment and applications. When talking in the green on a military radio you will get a “rush-beep” after keying the mic before you can start talking.
Aw man. It would be awesome to see how you do it on a Linux with Wine. And get the USB driver going...
Hi, How can I apply for a FCC Business License?
27:01 You will hand DMRs out to your neighbors ?
The GPS in the 878 will give your position away. Right ?
I also am wondering if you can disable GPS?
Do I need to take a test for dmr
If you plan to use it over the amateur band, yes. My wife uses DMR with me, but that's over a separate business license.
@@TheTechPrepper how do I get a business lic?
@@pilotmedic The easiest way is to pay a local LMR dealer in your area to handle everything for you. Give them your requirements and they will handle all the details along with working the frequency coordinator and filing all the FCC paperwork.
So do you trust this radio in any weather ?
I do not trust this radio unless the sun is out.
@@TheTechPrepper Would you trust the alliance HD1/2?
@@Pops_607I briefly owned the HD1 a couple years ago. In terms of pure case construction, I trust it more.
So you can't use DMR with just a ham license?
you can - DMR is completely legal in the ham bands by properly licensed hams. DMR was, however, initially designed for use in the Land Mobile Radio space, and was adopted by amateur radio once the FCC approved its use for ham also. Gaston is also using DMR on a set of commercial frequencies he obtained as part of his business model.
@@michaelditurno4372 ah ok, so that being said, would this allow for 100% private comms still? Thank you.
@@dbaum3 No, for it to be private/encrypted, you cannot do that on Ham freqs. Note: this is by FCC rule restrictions on the ham bands, not by equipment limitations.
@dbaum3 To be clear DMR is not encryption. Many if not most DMR radios can be encrypted but this is not allowed on the HAM bands in any mode, DMR, Analog, doesn't matter all HAM traffic must be in the clear.
Thank you@@chublez. I'm still a noob. This is really interesting.
Does anytone support 6m/2m/1.25m/70cm?
My AnyTone models support only 2m and 70cm. I am big fan of the quad banders. My Yaesu FT-8900 supports those, but it is analog only. 6m and 220MHz are great bands for opsec. Cheers.
@@TheTechPrepper ah OK. AT options opens up the 868 to 1.25m to make it tri band. Just not quad. That is valuable addirion
Most of the DMR radios are opened up without mods. You don't have to only use anytones
I don't understand why digital radio has to be so complicated. It's extremely simple (from the user's point of view) when placing a call on a cell phone. Why can't someone design a radio that works essentially like a cell phone, but handset-to-handset, rather than handset-to-tower?
This is why I held off using DMR for two years. It is unnecessarily complex. My wife actually used DMR with me today while I was on a trail run. She operated the radio just fine today and she knows nothing about radio. The trick was giving her a preprogrammed radio and locking her out of most of the features. The programming is not for normal people.
Don't project your feelings on FM into DMR, FM should have been faded out for no reason
I don't understand how this is Internet free, dmr relies on network connected servers so are you deploying your own server (that won't work without Internet) or are you using talk around (which is severely limited range) or are you using analogue which by definition isn't dmr and therefore this video is completely misleading? Genuine question as I'm confused and you don't actually explain how this is working. 73's M7YOD
I am using DMR as protocol for simplex communication (i.e. no Internet). It has value from the preparedness aspect for local, more secure communication compared to analog. Also, with a business license, DMR simplex with AES-256 encryption is legal and force multiplier. This just another use case for using DMR marketed radios outside of the traditional ham/Internet use.
I have a business license, just not with the FCC
It's sad that you have to make multiple disclaimers.
It's out right annoying. And, I still get the occasional hate mail and comment. Sigh...
This radio is V/U and not HF so a MARS Mod would not apply.
Not true. Navy MARS does use VHF/UHF as part of their training.
😂 switching to DMR with encryption will piss off those basement dwellers who can no longer entertain from your conversation.😅
Sorry, your long videos are nothing compared to other RUclipsrs, like HRCC as one example. Keep up the good work!
Good point. Thank you. I'll return to my normal 15-20 minute format.
No internet even?
You'd be better off getting a 5g node and then operating that on public use frequencies designated for that (used by private 5g systems like at hospitals) instead of getting a commercial license. It has the benefit that everyone already has a 5g phone in their pocket, so all you have to do is add their SIM card info to your 5g node.
It does not have the range. I've been covering upwards of 6 miles on UHF in my terrain on 4-5 watts. 5G does NOT have that kind of range without cell towers.
clicked away after seeing the vail vest
I hope you find what you're looking for elsewhere. For the record, I was invited to Vail as a poor college student in 2001. I've had the vest ever since. You made a poor assumption.
That’s odd. I clicked on it when I saw the vail vest. Net zero I guess
My question is why do you want your Communications to be encrypted that doesn't make much sense a big part of ham radio for people who aren't even hams is listening in this is why I stay where it's at high frequency all you other hams can play with these junk Chinese anytone radios it's a waste of money and a waste of time have fun
For the record, I'm not a fan of Chinese radios for many reasons.I prefer Japanese radios, specifically the older vintage of radio from Yaesu. You appear to be one of the salty hams that I encounter frequently on HF. My application for encryption is not for amateur radio. It's for commercial use
This AnyTone is not for me; I will stick with the DMR MotoTRBO radios.
Lastly, I'm a realist. That's why I want encryption. I got a similar crap while I was a corporate consultant and carried bleach wipes and hand sanitizer while traveling. I also routinely kept antibiotics. These came in handy during COVID. It will be used as a tool when needed. Someday, secure communication capabilities will be needed. The time to train and plan is now.
Why don't you just go ask your local ham who's in his eighties what he would do he's already had this all figured out without the internet. Lastly what are you prepping for the zombie apocalypse everybody who needs to have this figured out has already got it done
@@peterg.2081I think you’re in the wrong place if you don’t know why we’d want to encrypt our traffic at times.
@timeinthefield emergency communications already been figured out this is just regurgitated crap like stuffing 5 lb of crap in a 2lb bag all you Doomsday Preppers should be prepping on how to grow food and leave the communications to the professionals
_DMR_ and _AREDN_ both have potential uses for *_SHTF._*
_DMR_ on Part 90? I hadn’t thought of that.
*73 de AF6AS in **_“DM13”_** land*