Notes From The Shack…
I have come to the realization that while for most new amateur radio operators, the first radio is a HT. That is great, but too many are encouraged or choose to get a DMR, D-Star, or System Fusion radio as their first. Then they struggle to get it programmed and use it. And then become discouraged and leave the wonderful world of amateur radio.
That is sad.
I know money matters. I know you want to get the “most bang for your buck”. Why spend $130 or $150 on an Icom V86 or Kenwood TH-K20A handheld, when for a few dollars more you can buy a Yaesu FT70DR dual band with C4FM digital or an Alinco DJ-MD5XTG dual band DMR radio?
If this is your very first radio, please, do yourself a favor. Buy the simple analog radio, and use it. Get the RTS programming software for that radio and use it. That will get you some experience on the air, give you an idea of what you can accomplish and get you some experience using simple, easy to configure software.
Once you have mastered the analog HT, then move up to the DMR, D-Star or C4FM radio of your choice. Digital radios have to be programmed. Many of the DMR radios have their roots in the commercial radio world and CANNOT be programmed from the front panel.
If you are grumbling that a simple Yaesu FT60 is difficult to program, DMR may be a very challenging hurdle. So before you get frustrated and quit, master the simple!
For more information about radios, setting up your station and another topics, follow the trail to:
https://www.radioclub-carc.com/resources/
See ‘ya down the log.
Frank KB3PQT