Continuing the discussion from Radio Types to Start With:
I now have the 578uv iii pro. I would suggest getting the code plug to save you a lot of time. (Bridgecomm systems ) The code plug will not have any of you local repeaters so you have to put that in. They have good videos to show you step by step.
The 878uv2plus is very good also a d you can use the codeplug files to set them up the same. Or to save some money, radoddity has some other good HTs or DMR HTs.
is this a good radio for someone considered a “newbie?” I have my DMR ID, etc. but have yet to learn how to use the radios.
I have been hunting for a step-by-step tutorial on how-to, but after looking through everything is as literally as clear as mud. Thanks for your input.
I just recently joined my local radio club, I am hoping they are also helpful in learning shortwave usage.
You are right, it’s a lot.
I now have the slightly older 578uv III pro. I would suggest getting the code plug to save you a lot of time. (Bridgecomm systems ) The codeplug will not have any of your local repeaters so you have to put that in. They have good videos to show you step by step. When you purchase through them (Bridgecomm) they include a step-by-step tutorial. It will get you set up. other suppliers/dealers do not have phone or much email support.
YouTube has a lot and it is a little confusing but again you can use the Bridgecomm channel. and they have dozens of set-up videos for different parts of the setup without buying anything specifically from them. (But they are a very good company.)
You will use a PC to setup a software program. It is a database to list repeaters and Talkgroups. Once filled out and uploaded into the radio, then you will be able to click to “Zones” of different repeaters for regular HAM traffic or simplex talk. You can also switch over to “DMR Zones” using a small hotspot unit or local DMR repeaters in your community and then use hundreds of talk groups to talk locally or around the world.
The training will teach you about setting up the: Channels, Zones, and Talkgroups. One nice thing is whichever brand of DMR radio you buy, the software and terms are the same.
A drawback to all digital mods is when you get the radio out of the box you can’t just dial to a frequency and hear something. You don’t even get squelch when you turn it on! So pressing many buttons or using the software is required before you hear anything.
This is why the “plug and play” option is appealing (more expensive but) you can buy the package preprogrammed for DMR and use it right away. You would then put in your local repeaters to talk with your friends, the local club, etc. the radio then transforms into 2-3 radios in one box.
I hope that helps a little. I’m a non-jargon kind of person. We get lost in jargon sometimes.
Sometimes I miss: Push to talk - release to listen
Hello, I just ordered the plug-n-play mobile starter pack from Bridgecom.
Hopefully I will be able to understand it and get it up and running not long after receiving it.
I had to call that company as they have no idea about Internet security and I refused to order via the website. (even on the phone they required information they should not require to make a purchase).
I think I have enough money invested in shortwave and DMR to use it if needed. I really wanted to get started in this as part of my prepping, so far my shortwave experience has been anything but fun.
I think you will like it. Just give them your call sign and Brainmester ID# and you should be happy with the results. They are also happy to talk and help you on the phone.
Is it my understanding that my purchase of my shortwave radio was misguided for my license? I am studying on my General license now and should take it shortly.
I have GMSR radio’s, Radioddity GS-5B, a TYT TH-9800, and CB radios, etc. I wanted to set up a shack with many different forms of communications available to me.
I found this the other day DMR Basics Tutorial - Miklor. KN3NXU is probably one of the top people I would look to when trying to explain DMR better. His PDF is 37 slides.
In my terms, a “shortwave” radio is a receiver for frequencies between 3 and 30 MHz (HF). I think it’s a fine addition as something to have for listening and most are very portable. So, a shortwave radio is not a bad radio in itself, (like the C.Crane Skywave) but if you want to talk on HF as a Tech or General licensees holder it won’t get you there.
The radios you have listed seem like they would work on 2 Meter, 1.25 Meter and 70 CM bands (commonly called VHF/UHF). So, not misguided if you want to talk to people on those bands. They don’t have any functionality that you would use as a General class license that I can see. I think you would want to look at dedicated HF transceivers in that case.
I hope that helps sort things out.