MichiganOne DMR Tech Net

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

Monday night, July 7th, the MichiganOne DMR Tech Net team will discuss DMR Apps available for your mobile devices.  We want to hear what apps you use on your devices.

The MichiganOne DMR Tech Net is on Brandmeister Talk Group 31266 (Michigan Nets channel) every Monday night, starting with check-ins and comments at 7:30 PM ET, followed by the DMR Tech Net portion after that.

Ed W8EMV presents, “Using Tailscale” for the Tuesday, July 15 MichiganOne DMR Tech Net TV on Zoom broadcast from 8pm-9pm ET.  He’ll explain how to use Tailscale for amateur radio and answer your questions about it.  To learn more about what Tailscale is, check out: https://tailscale.com/tailscale-ssh and  https://lika.be/wp/2022/06/connecting-to-your-sdr-from-anywhere-using-tailscale/

To join the MichiganOne DMR Tech Net TV Zoom meeting on July 15th, click the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84447664395?pwd=djZMbFZaWVRkRDRudkRFeWc2WWV4UT09

Another option is to go to https://zoom.us/, then select “Join” (in the top right-hand corner), and input the following details to connect to the MichiganOne DMR Tech Net TV Zoom meeting:

• Meeting ID: 844 4766 4395
• Passcode: 370040

To join with only your phone’s audio, dial (312) 626-6799 and input the following:

• Meeting ID: 844 4766 4395
• Passcode: 370040

To watch any of the previous 18 MichiganOne DMR Tech Net TV episodes, visit https://www.youtube.com/@DMRtechnetTV

Table of Contents:

Essential Apps for Amateur DMR Users  3

1. DMR User Database (PD2EMC) 3
2. RepeaterBook 4

Apps that are Absolute Gems to Improve Your DMR Experience   Error! Bookmark not defined.

3. DroidStar / iOS Equivalent (BlueDV, etc.) 4
4. EchoLink 5
5. QRZ XML App 6
6. DVSwitch Mobile (Android) 6
7. Ham Radar: Amateur Radio Tools (Android)  7
8. BrandMeister Hoseline App: Overview, Usage, Pros & Cons 8

Why it’s a gem: Ham Radar is indispensable for finding DMR repeaters and operator info on the go, especially when traveling or troubleshooting  9

Which App is the Best to Use for DMR?  9

Summary of Gems to Improve Your DMR Experience   10

Final Thoughts for the MichiganOne DMR Tech Net  10

Comparison Table   11

Best Mobile Phone Apps for DMR Users

This guide highlights the best mobile phone apps that enhance your Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) experience, whether you’re using BrandMeister, TGIF, or other networks.

Here’s a breakdown of the best mobile phone apps for amateur DMR users, what they do, their pros and cons, which ones are highly recommended, and “gem” apps:

Essential Apps for Amateur DMR Users

1. DMR User Database (PD2EMC)

This is arguably the most essential app for any amateur DMR user. It’s a comprehensive digital phonebook for the DMR community.

• What it does:
  • User Lookup: Allows you to search for DMR users by Callsign, Radio ID, Name, or Location across various integrated databases (RadioID, NXDN, Hamvoip, HamshackHotline, Dapnet, and Repeater Database). This is crucial for seeing who you’re talking to or finding specific individuals.
  • Repeater Information: Provides details on DMR repeaters, often with interactive maps to show nearby repeaters and their configuration (frequency, offset, color code, talkgroups).
  • Logbook: Features a built-in logbook to track your radio contacts, including callsigns, timestamps, and notes.
  • Offline Functionality: Most features, including the user databases, are accessible offline, which is invaluable in areas with limited or no internet connectivity.
  • Database Export: Allows export of databases for use in some radios (like Anytone) or VoIP phones (available on Windows/macOS companion software).
• Pros:
  • Comprehensive Data: Pulls from multiple, up-to-date databases.
  • Offline Access: Crucial for field operations or areas with poor cellular service.
  • Intuitive Interface: Generally easy to navigate and search.
  • Useful for Identification: Quickly identify who is transmitting on a talkgroup.
  • Repeater Finder: Helps in programming your radio when traveling.
• Cons:
  • Data Accuracy (Minor): While generally good, data for new users or repeaters can sometimes lag slightly as updates are processed.
  • Export requires companion software: The direct export feature for radios often requires a desktop application, not just the mobile app itself.

2. RepeaterBook

While not exclusively for DMR, RepeaterBook is an indispensable tool for finding all types of amateur radio repeaters, including DMR.

• What it does:
  • Worldwide Repeater Directory: Provides a vast database of amateur radio repeaters globally, including details like frequency, offset, CTCSS/DCS tones, and often digital mode information (DMR, D-STAR, Fusion).
  • GPS Integration: Uses your phone’s GPS to show repeaters near your current location, with distance and bearing.
  • Offline Capability: The database can be downloaded for offline use.
  • Search and Filter: Powerful search and filtering options to find repeaters by band, mode, location, etc.
  • “Connect” Feature (Premium): For some radios with Bluetooth CAT interfaces, it can directly program repeater settings into your radio.
• Pros:
  • Extremely Comprehensive: Arguably the most complete repeater database available.
  • Crucial for Travel: Essential for finding repeaters when away from your home area.
  • Offline Access: Great for remote locations.
  • Easy to Use: Simple interface for quick repeater lookups.
  • Community-driven: Data is frequently updated by users and coordinators.
• Cons:
  • “Connect” is Premium: The radio control feature requires a subscription.
  • General Purpose: Not DMR-specific, so you’ll filter for DMR repeaters.

3. DroidStar / iOS Equivalent (BlueDV, etc.)

These applications turn your smartphone into a digital voice (DV) hotspot, allowing you to connect to DMR (and other digital modes like D-STAR, Fusion, P25, NXDN) networks via your phone’s internet connection.

• What it does:
  • Software Hotspot: Allows you to connect to BrandMeister, TGIF, or other DMR networks directly from your phone. You can transmit and receive DMR audio through your phone’s microphone and speaker.
  • Multi-mode Support: Often supports a variety of digital voice modes beyond just DMR.
  • Last Heard/QSO Log: Shows recent transmissions and sometimes offers a basic QSO log.
  • Background Operation: Newer versions support running in the background, allowing you to monitor while using other apps.
• Pros:
  • Portability: Use DMR from anywhere you have an internet connection, without a dedicated hotspot device.
  • Cost-Effective: No need to purchase a separate MMDVM hotspot (though a physical radio is still needed for RF).
  • Experimentation: Great for trying out different digital modes.
  • Monitoring: Excellent for just listening to DMR talkgroups when you don’t have your radio handy.
• Cons:
  • Not a Replacement for a Radio: You still need a DMR radio for actual RF communication. This is an IP-based bridge.
  • Audio Quality: Can be variable depending on your phone’s mic/speaker and internet connection.
  • Battery Drain: Can be demanding on your phone’s battery.
  • Configuration: Can be a bit more complex to set up than other apps, requiring knowledge of server addresses and ports.
  • Latency: There can be some latency due to the internet connection.

4. EchoLink

While not a DMR-specific app, EchoLink is a cornerstone for many amateur radio operators, and it’s worth mentioning because many DMR repeaters and hotspots are linked to EchoLink nodes.

• What it does:
  • VoIP for Ham Radio: Allows licensed amateur radio operators to communicate with other hams worldwide using Voice over IP (VoIP) over the internet.
  • Repeater & Conference Access: Connect to EchoLink-enabled repeaters (which may or may not be DMR themselves, but act as gateways) and conference servers.
  • Direct Station-to-Station: Connect directly to other EchoLink users.
• Pros:
  • Worldwide Connectivity: Talk to hams globally.
  • No Radio Needed (for IP connections): Can be used solely with your smartphone’s internet connection.
  • Gateway to RF: Many repeaters are linked to EchoLink, allowing you to bridge from VoIP to RF.
• Cons:
  • Not Native DMR: It’s a separate VoIP system, not direct DMR.
  • Requires Validation: You need to validate your amateur radio license to use it.
  • Can Be Latent: Like any VoIP system, there can be delays.

5. QRZ XML App

While not directly for DMR operation, the QRZ.com app is invaluable for any amateur radio operator, including those using DMR.

• What it does:
  • Callsign Lookup: Quickly look up information on amateur radio operators by callsign. This often includes name, QTH (location), license class, and sometimes even email or bio information.
  • Biography and QSL Info: Access other hams’ profiles for QSL card information, interests, etc.
• Pros:
  • Essential for DXing/Logging: Helps identify who you’re talking to and gather information for your logbook.
  • User-Friendly: Simple and fast lookups.
  • Official QRZ: Reliable data from the most widely used callsign database.
• Cons:
  • Requires Internet: Primarily an online lookup tool.
  • Not DMR Specific: General ham radio tool.

6. DVSwitch Mobile (Android)

• What it does:
  DVSwitch Mobile connects your smartphone to AllStarLink nodes and, via bridges, to DMR, D-STAR, Fusion, P25, and NXDN networks. It’s ideal for those with access to an AllStar node or a home hotspot.
• Pros:
  • Supports multiple digital modes, including DMR via USRP/Analog_Bridge
  • High-quality audio and intuitive interface
  • Works with network radios and supports dedicated PTT buttons
  • Multiple account support
• Cons:
  • Primarily for Android (no iOS version)
  • Requires setup of AllStar node or digital bridge (not plug-and-play)
  • Not a standalone DMR client—needs backend infrastructure
• Why it’s a gem:
  For those with an AllStar node or hotspot, DVSwitch Mobile is exceptionally flexible and allows mobile DMR access with excellent audio quality.

7. Ham Radar: Amateur Radio Tools (Android)

What it does:
Ham Radar is a utility app for DMR users, offering:

• DMR ID lookup (operator info, location)
• Callsign search (license class, status, address)
• DMR repeater finder (by city, state, country, frequency)
• ElmerAI chatbot for ham radio advice
• Real-time weather and band conditions
• Google Maps integration for repeater/callsign locations

Pros:

• All-in-one tool for DMR info, repeaters, and operator lookup
• ElmerAI chatbot for instant help
• Hands-free text-to-speech
• Up-to-date databases

Cons:

• Not a DMR-over-IP client—doesn’t let you transmit/receive DMR directly
• Android only

8. BrandMeister Hoseline App:

What It Does:

BrandMeister Hoseline is a real-time, web-based audio streaming platform that allows users to listen to live Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) talkgroups on the BrandMeister network directly from any modern web browser or the official mobile app. It is a receive-only service—no radio hardware or DMR ID is required to listen in, making it accessible to both licensed amateurs and interested listeners.

Pros and Cons

Why Use BrandMeister Hoseline?

• Monitor DMR Activity:Instantly listen to any talkgroup, making it ideal for net control, event monitoring, or just exploring global DMR traffic.
• No Equipment Needed: Great for those without a DMR radio or when traveling without gear.
• Troubleshooting Tool:Check if your transmissions are reaching the network or monitor audio quality for your group.
• Learning and Discovery:New hams can explore DMR without investing in hardware.

Convenience:Quick access from any device, with features like auto-reconnect and saved subscriptions for seamless use.

How to Use BrandMeister Hoseline

Getting Started:

• Visit the Hoseline website (hose.brandmeister.network) or use the official mobile app.
• The homepage displays a grid of “blocks,” each representing an active talkgroup with current or recent transmissions.
• Click on a block to start listening to that talkgroup. Audio will play instantly if there is ongoing traffic.

Key Features:

• Single Talkgroup Listening:Click a talkgroup block to listen. Selecting another block switches you to that group.
• Multiple Talkgroup Listening: Use the “Player” feature to subscribe to several talkgroups at once. Audio from all selected groups will play, and you can mute or solo any group as needed.
• Solo Mode:Focus on one talkgroup by muting all others with a single click.
• Auto-Reconnect:If your internet drops, Hoseline will automatically reconnect when service resumes.
• Volume Normalizing:All audio is automatically leveled for consistent listening.
• Real-Time VU Meter:Visual feedback on audio levels is provided for each talkgroup.
• Auto-Save:Your selected talkgroups are saved and restored if you close and reopen the app or browser.

Which App is the Best to Use for DMR?

For amateur radio users specifically focused on DMR, the DMR User Database (PD2EMC) app is the absolute best.

• It provides the core functionality needed to identify users, find repeaters, and log contacts within the DMR ecosystem. Its offline capabilities make it a true standout for amateur use, where internet access might be sporadic.

Summary to Improve Your DMR Experience

• DMR User Database (PD2EMC): Your go-to for identifying stations, finding repeaters, and generally navigating the DMR community. It’s the “phonebook” for DMR.
• DroidStar / iOS Equivalent: If you want the ability to access DMR talkgroups and conversations from your phone without a physical radio (using only an internet connection), this is an absolute gem. It effectively turns your phone into a portable DMR hot spot.
• RepeaterBook: While not DMR-exclusive, having a comprehensive repeater directory at your fingertips is critical for finding DMR repeaters when traveling or exploring new areas.

By combining a dedicated DMR radio with these powerful mobile apps, amateur radio operators can significantly enhance their DMR experience, making it easier to connect, identify, and explore the digital world of ham radio.

Final Thoughts for the MichiganOne DMR Tech Net

• Combine and Conquer: The real power comes from using these apps in conjunction with your DMR radio.
• Net Participation: DroidStar/Peanut are fantastic for monitoring the MichiganOne DMR Tech Net (or any talkgroup) when you’re away from your radio, allowing you to hear the discussion and potentially chime in via your phone if needed.
• Travel Prep: Before a trip across Michigan (e.g., to the Upper Peninsula), download the RepeaterBook and DMR User Database to ensure you have all repeater and user information available offline.
• Security & Privacy: Always be mindful of the data permissions you grant to apps and understand what information they might access or share.

By leveraging these apps, you’ll be a more informed, connected, and efficient DMR operator, ready to enjoy the MichiganOne DMR Tech Net and beyond!

Comparison Table

*Via bridge (not direct DMR client)

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

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

You can chat with the MichiganOne Tech Net team on TGIF talk group 31268, the MichiganOne DMR Tech Net channel or Brandmeister talk group 31266, the Michigan Nets channel.

Join the MichiganOne DMR Tech Net team on Telegram. Just search for “DMR Tech Net.”  To download Telegram, go to: https://web.telegram.org and/or https://desktop.telegram.org/

Join the MichiganOne DMR Tech Net team on Discord:  To join the MichiganOne DMR Tech Net team, click this link: https://discord.gg/EV82GNuCaS .  To download Discord, go to https://discord.com

If someone else forwarded this newsletter to you, get rid of the middleman and subscribe now!  It’s so easy to join the MichiganOne DMR Tech Net email distribution list. Send an email to: [email protected] with your name and callsign. That’s it!  If you need to unsubscribe, follow the previous procedure but put “unsubscribe” in the subject line.  We will miss you!  To see previous newsletters, check out our website: https://michiganonedmrtech.net/

The MichiganOne DMR Tech Net starts at 7:30 pm with the check-in portion for your comments.
After all check-ins, comments, and re-checks are completed, we switch over to the DMR Tech Net segment (we estimate 8:00 pm-8:15 pm ET).
The MichiganOne DMR Tech Net NCS schedule is:

• Jul 7 Dana KCØMYP
• Jul 14 Bob KB8DQQ
• Jul 21 Brad KE8WNV
• Jul 28 Rick AD8KN

These are the articles posted over the past week on https://michiganonedmrtech.net