Is DMR radio REAL radio?
As
Digital Mobile Radios (DMR) gain in popularity, there are some that
question whether or not DMR radios are real. Most DMR radios offer
Digital and Analog (FM) for accessing your favorite local repeaters.
Radios like the Radioddity GD-77
offer VHF/UHF. So why does this question come up at all.
Ham radio operators.
Ham
radio operators over the years have found a niche that they are
comfortable in, and then stagnate in that mode. Whether it be Digital
computer communications, or SSB HF. Their are always those that are
going to balk at the new modes coming out. This happened throughout
the history of Amateur radio. If it wasn't for the advancement we
have made, we would still be using spark gap generators.
My QTH is DEAF!
I
have always enjoyed CW operations, using ancient transmitters and
receivers. These tube type radios are fun for me to operate. Would
those be considered real radios. DMR radio DO operate on the Amateur
Radio bands, transmitting a digital signal to a hotspot or repeater.
The only difference is the distance the signal travels. A hotspot set
up at your house may be a few feet away from you. A repeater may be
up to 60 miles away. With my DMR radio I can enjoy local
conversations on the Analog repeaters, and talk to friends worldwide
on the DMR system.
In
my current situation, I find that the HF bands are not usable at all.
The noise levels are S9 plus most days from 80M all the way up 6M.
This makes VHF/UHF my only option if I want to be active on the ham
bands. DMR radio is a perfect
solution for me. I can monitor on TAC 310 when I want to hear chatter
from all over the US, and sometimes Worldwide. When I want to talk
with someone locally, I can still go to a local repeater. I have
access to Talk Groups from the PNW region, as well as anywhere else
in the world.
So,
is DMR radio REAL radio? Leave a comment and let me know what you
think of DMR Radio.
If
you are interested in getting into DMR radio, be sure to check out
great deal on DMR radios HERE!!