Down Memory Lane: Koffie Drink - Reboot Amateur Radio WhatsApp Groep – 22 Junie 2019 – Root Koffie op George.

Die afgelope Saterdag, 22 Junie 2019 om 9vm was weer ‘n genotvolle en suksesvolle byeenkoms vir radio amateurs in George by Root-Koffie.

Die “venue” was uiters geskik, aangenaam en ideaal vir gewone asook koue dae met ‘n swart gietyster stofie wat die lokaal net op die regte hittevlak gehou het. Baie dankie aan Francois ZS1Q en Danie ZS1DBJ wat die nodig aanvoerwerk en reelings getref het om by Root te kon koffie drink.

Die byeenkoms was bygewoon deur 12 radio amateurs die meeste nog sedert die totstandkoming van die Reboot Koffie Drink. Die Reboot Amateur Radio WhatsApp groep en sy aktiwiteite is beskikbaar vir alle- en voornemende radio amateurs in Suid Afrika. Sluit gerus by ons aan op die groep en wees deel van hierdie dinamiese groep radio amateurs.

Ek het besluit om slegs ‘n kriptiese oorsig te lewer van die geleentheid. So as jy nie die geleentheid kon bywoon nie gaan jy ongelukkig nie die fynere detail kry oor die samekoms nie. Die rede vir die besluit is heel eenvoudig. Ons soek almal in lewende lywe by die Reboot Koffie Drink. Woon die geleenthede by en kry al die fynere detail tydens die samekoms. Ek praat nie eers van die goeie gesindheid en kameraderie by die byeenkomste nie. Die samekoste het hulself nou al bewys as nie amateur radio polities van aard nie en met geen persoonlike menings verskille of onaangenaamhede nie!! 

Hier volg ‘n kort opsomming van Saterdag se gebeure:

Nadat almal die nodige verslaafde koppie koffie aangekoop het en hulle plekke ingeneem het, het ons sonder enige seremonie of formaliteite die byeenkoms afgeskop, maar meer hieroor later.

Die volgende persone was teenwoordig: Dave ZR1OAC, Hennie ZS1IK, Willie ZS2CC, Llewellyn ZS003, Saney ZR1S, Johann ZS2BVD, Andre ZS1AFB, Johan ZS1WD, Conrad ZS1KG, Francois ZS1Q, John ZS1ZR en Johan ZS1I.  Die volgende persone het verskoning aangebied: Thys ZS1TBP, Kobus ZS2BBB, Nick ZS1N, Jimmy ZS1RB, Danie ZS1DBJ, Abe ZS1ZS en Mari ZS1MEH.

Na verwelkoming is almal teenwoordig bedank vir die moeite wat hul gedoen het om die byeenkoms by te woon in die gure weersomstandighede wat toe nou ook nie so onaangenaam was nie. Ek het besluit dat daar geen Reboot Amateur Radio aangeleenthede bespreek gaan word nie. Die Reboot Koffie Drink is immers ‘n informele geleentheid en nie ‘n formele vergadering van een of ander aard nie. Daar is dan ook sommer dadelik weggespring met die gewilde “Rondomtalie/Round Robin” mini lesings/demonstrasies en lekker gesels. Net soos in die verlede het elkeen wat kom koffie drink het gretig deelgeneem aan die Rondomtalie self die nuwe en ou gesigte wat die eerste keer teenwoordig was.

Hier volg ‘n kriptiese samevatting tov van die “Rondomtalie/Round Robin”:

•  Francois ZS1Q George – Amateur radio almanak van vroeer jare - PEARS VHF/UHF Analoog Kompetisie deelname vanuit die Suid Kaap. 
•  John ZS1ZR George – John was verantwoordelik dat die manne se lagspiere oefening gekry het. Dankie daarvoor John dit het die manne sommer lekker laat lag en ons kort van meer lag – VHF Radio in die Suid Kaap. 
• Johan ZS1I Mosselbaai – Saambring van 2m/70cm Draagbare Radios -Analoog UHF 70cm Eksperimentele 10mW baken – Propogasie 2m/70cm. 
• Hennie ZS1IK George – Oorsig van Amateur Radio Aktiwitiete – 2m Mobiele Werking – Luister vir Hennie op die 145.700 Herhaler. - Toevoeging tot die Reboot Amateur Radio WhatsApp groep. 
• Willie ZS2CC George - Aktiwiteite op die HF bande – 80m Band is huidiglik “kookwater” dag en nag – 6m Band openinge – 11m Band openinge - HF Verslag. 
• Llewellyn ZS003 – Reboot se IT Spesialis – Fibre Internet – Topografie van Internet Torings – Reikafstande van WiFi – WiFi tussen George en Mosselbaai – All things Internet -80dB Seine – Vrae oor WiFi. 
• Johann ZS2BVD George - Raspberry PI T-Hemp logo en Park-Run - Andre ZS1AFB ontmoet Johann en vandag sit hulle altwee aan die Reboot Koffie Drink Tafel - Sterrekunde, Teleskope, Elektronika, Mikrogolf Tegnologie, Raspberry Pi en Arduino Projekte en sommer vele meer. Johan bespreek 3 projekte nl: Raspberry Pi 3+ Mini Rekenaar en 3D drukker kassie; 4 “poort” 24v na lae spanning omsetters ook gemonteer in 3D drukker kassie en die Radio Amateur se beheerde kookpan stelsel - Sien fotos in die verband. 
• Saney ZR1S Wilderness - 40m Beacon Engineer and Care Taker - Willie ZS2CC Beacon Controller (Good laugh) – Summary of the 40m Beacon characteristics – The beacon is truly a “Green” Beacon – running of solar panel power – Unfortunately the beacon causes RF Pollution, HiHi. - which is fortunately a very good thing!! 
• Andre ZS1AFB George – Amateur Radio in Australia – Toekomstige amateur radio planne vir die Suid Kaap – Herhalers en herhalernetwerke – Mikrogolf skottels en die Ghz bande – Toekomstige onbeperkte perseel beskikbaar vir Reboot Koffie Drink aktiwiteite – Andre die PR van die dag toe hy lid van die publiek inlig oor amateur radio na die byeenkoms. Dankie Andre!! Sien die draagbare radio ding het toe tog gewerk!! 
• Johan ZS1WD Blanco – Johan (ZS1Wasgoed Draad) is terug na ‘n tydsverloop van meer as 20 jaar!! Nog besig om weer sy stasie aan die gang te kry – Afgetree – Johan bied gratis koffie aan vir alle rebooters by sy huis. Al voorwaarde is dat hulle sy gras moet sny en tuin bewerk - Dis nou ‘n bargain – HF Radio asook 2m simplex en herhalers – Johan reeds aktief op die 145.700 George herhaler. Kyk gerus uit vir Johan. 
• Conrad ZS1KG Blanco - Werksverpligtinge – Weersatelliet prente en ontvangs – weersatelliet grond stasie - Conrad dankie dat jy gekom het al was dit tydens die Rondomtalie. Die feit is jy was daar en dit is wat saak maak. Jammer jy is nie in die groeps foto nie maar ek het dit eers later agter gekom. 
• Dave ZR1AOC Mosselbaai – Digitale Radio - Peanut Dstar – Verstelling en toets handstel van Andre ZS1AFB tydens byeenkoms – Sukses die radio is nou ten volle operasioneel – Nou dit is wat Reboot Koffie Drink lekker maak. Sommer gou gou help die manne mekaar. Dankie, Dave!  

Soos gesien kan word is daar vele aspekte van amateur radio bespreek en gedemonstreer. Waar kry jy nog soveel inligting en kennis in twee ure se tyd? 

‘n Groot dank ook aan Thys ZS1TBP wat bereid was om die 145.700 George Herhaler te beman en te monitor voor en tydens die koffie drink sessie. Thys ek weet jy sou graag teenwoordig wou wees maar het jy ‘n groter rol verfil op die herhaler. Verskeie kontakte is met Thys gemaak voor en tydens die geleentheid. Dankie Thys!! 

Iets wat ek opgemerk het tydens die Koffie Drink wat ander dalk nie van weet nie. Ons het die voorreg gehad en dit is ook ‘n eerste in die Suid Kaap om twee pa’s en twee seuns by ‘n Koffie Drink saam op dieselfde tyd en plek teenwoordig te gehad het. Wat ‘n voorreg!! Willie- ZS2CC en Llewellyn Hewitt ZS003 (pa en seun). Johan- ZS1WD en Conrad Scheepers ZS1KG (pa en seun) 

Teen 11 uur se kant was dit huistoe gaan tyd gewees. Weereens ‘n baie en genotvolle koffie drink sessie gewees. Weereens ‘n groot en hartlike dank aan ‘n ieder en elk wat die byeenkoms bygewoon en aan die Rondomtalie deelgeneem het. Een persoon maak nie die byeenkoms nie maar dit is julle wat die moeite doen on dit by te woon wat die geleentheid ‘n groot sukses maak. Sonder julle deelname sou die koffie drink nie suksesvol gewees het nie. 

Die volgende Reboot Koffie Drink sal gehou word te Mosselbaai op die 20 Julie 2019 om 9vm. Die plek van byeenkoms sal mettertyd aangekondig word. Teken asb nou al die datum aan in julle dagboeke dat daar nie botsende belange is nie en dat jy die geleentheid kan bywoon. 



73 

Johan ZS1I, Mosselbaai 
24 Junie 2019

Fotos:  (Klik op fotos om te vergroot.)

Hennie ZS1IK, Willie ZS2CC en Llewellyn ZS003

                                        Hennie ZS1IK, Willie ZS2CC en Llewellyn ZS003

Johann ZS2BVD, Saney ZR1S, Andre ZS1AFB en Johan ZS1WD

So kuier die manne

  Francois ZS1Q en John ZS1ZR

Saney ZR1S, Andre ZS1AFB, Johan ZS1WD, Francois ZS1Q en John ZS1ZR

  Middel:  Dave ZR1OAC

Die Raspberry Pi Rekenaar in 3D kassie

So lyk die Raspberry Pi uit sy kassie

Die 24 volt na laer spanning omsetters in 3D kassie

Die 24 volt omsetter verwyder uit sy 3D kassie

Die Amateur Radio beheerde braaipan stelsel.  Arduino Nano ens.

Kontrole kas van die braaipan beheerde stelsel

Ai dis darm maar lekker!!

Analoog UHF 70cm Eksperimentele 10 mW baken

   

Zayn ZR3VO - AllStar Portable / Mobile Node Project

Image: ZR3VO Portable / Mobile AllStar  Node.  (Click on image for larger view.)

Zayn informed me that he is busy building an AllStar Portable / Mobile Node and a DMR Mobile Hotspot which he will be using whenever the need arises.  In the first article we will be looking at the AllStar Portable / Mobile Node and in the second article we will be looking at his DMR Mobile  / Portable Hotspot.

Now what on earth is a Portable / Mobile AllStar Node?

A

DIY mobile AllStar node is a custom-built, portable device that uses a low-power computer, a radio interface, and amateur radio equipment to connect to the global AllStarLink network via the internet  (often a mobile hotspot). This setup allows amateur radio operators to communicate with thousands of other nodes and repeaters worldwide using their handheld or mobile radios, essentially acting as a personal gateway or "hotspot". 

The "DIY" aspect means the operator assembles the components themselves, which is a common and cost-effective approach within the ham radio community, as opposed to buying a pre-built commercial unit. 

 

Key Components:

 

A typical DIY mobile AllStar node requires the following main components: 

• A Computing Device: A small, low-power computer, most commonly a Raspberry Pi (Pi 3 or Pi 4 are popular choices). It runs a Linux-based operating system with the AllStarLink software, often a pre-configured image like HamVoIP.
• A Radio/Audio Interface: A small circuit board or device that connects the computer's USB port (via a C-Media CM108/CM119 sound IC) to the radio's audio input/output and Push-to-Talk (PTT) lines. Pre-made interfaces like the DMK URIx or Masters Communications DRA boards are available, or advanced users can build their own from scratch.
• A Node Radio: A simple, often inexpensive, UHF or VHF radio (e.g., a Baofeng UV-5R or similar) dedicated to the node. This radio receives signals from your personal handheld radio and transmits audio back from the network.
• Power Source: For a mobile setup, a portable battery bank or a buck converter for a vehicle's power system is used.
• Internet Connection: The node needs internet access, which can be provided by Wi-Fi or by tethering to a mobile phone hotspot.

Functionality:

 

The setup works by:

1. Receiving an FM signal from your handheld radio on a specific frequency.
2. Converting the audio to digital data via the sound interface and the Raspberry Pi.
3. Transmitting that digital data over the internet to other AllStar nodes.
4. Receiving internet audio from other nodes.
5. Converting the digital audio back to an FM signal for transmission to your handheld radio.

This allows for seamless communication over vast distances, bridging the gap between local RF (Radio Frequency) coverage and the global internet network. 

 

Building Your Own:

 

To build a DIY node, you would typically follow these general steps:

1. Register for an AllStar node number on the AllStarLink website.
2. Gather the necessary hardware components.
3. Install the AllStar software (like HamVoIP) onto the Raspberry Pi's SD card.
4. Wire the radio to the interface board (if necessary).
5. Configure the software settings, including audio levels and network parameters, often using a program like PuTTY for remote access.
6. Test the node using the "Parrot mode" feature.

There are many online guides and YouTube tutorials available to walk users through the process.

 

Information regarding the ZR3VO AllStar Portable / Mobile Node:

 

Call Sign:  ZR3VO

Frequency:  145.350 Mhz

CTCSS:  88.5 Hz

Node Number: 46615

Location: Orania

Site: Orania Township

Affiliation: ZS Link Network Group

 

The "inauguration"   of the node took place recently He use the node regularly while mobile and even portable. The node is functioning well and is definitely a great asset when going mobile or portable.  Congratulations on constructing a useful and effective node, Zayn. 

Images:  Click on images for larger view.

 

 

How do I save TalkGroups (TG) in DroidStar?

The articles relating to Droidstar resulted in the following question being asked:  " How do I save TalkGroups (TG) in DroidStar?"

Saving talkgroups in DroidStar involves entering them in the TGID field on the main screen, which generally saves them as part of your application settings when you close the app. To ensure they are permanently associated with your DMR ID, you should configure static talkgroups in your BrandMeister SelfCare profile, as DroidStar functions as a hotspot. 

How to Save/Set Talkgroups in DroidStar

• Enter the TGID: On the main screen, locate the TGID box, enter the talkgroup ID number, and ensure you transmit (PTT) while that ID is entered to link it.
• Save Settings: Once all your settings (Callsign, DMR ID, Password, TGID) are entered, exiting the program properly should save these in the app's configuration, according to user experiences.
• Static Talkgroups (Best Method): To prevent losing your talkgroup, log in to the BrandMeister SelfCare website and add the desired talkgroups to your hotspot configuration. This ensures that DroidStar stays connected to them, similar to a physical DMR radio.
• Unlinking: To disconnect from a talkgroup, you can "Key 4000" (Group Call) for one second, which is a common practice to unhook from a previous TG.

Key Tips

• Initial Setup: Ensure you have your BrandMeister security password entered in the settings, not your login password.
• Testing: Use Talkgroup 91 (Brandmeister Worldwide) for testing functionality.
• Host Selection: Select a valid DMR host (e.g., BM_6551_South_Africa) in the host field.

Give the above a try!!

Enjoy!!

BREAKING NEWS: The Ultimate SvxLink Client For Smartphones & POCs. 145.500 QSO.link MHz

 

Forget the old dial! We no longer say 145.500 MHz, but QSO.link MHz.

Whether you use a high-end flagship or a rugged POC handset (the kind that looks like a 90s brick and could probably survive a tank), QSOLink is your professional gateway to SvxLink networks.

It runs on almost anything. As long as it has Android 9 or higher, it's a radio! (We decided Android 8 was just too "vintage", even for us). 

Dear SvxLink Community,

I am pleased to announce the release of QSOLink, a new Android application designed to connect to SvxLink Reflectors and Hotspots.

Built upon the solid foundation of the "Latry" project by Silviu (YO6SAY), QSOLink pushes the concept further with a complete UI overhaul, enhanced audio processing, and features dedicated to active operators.

Key Features:

• Advanced Audio Processing: Includes a configurable Jitter Buffer (essential for mobile/4G connections), Microphone Gain control, and AGC (Automatic Gain Control) for both TX and RX to ensure consistent audio levels.

• Network Management: Save up to 10 different network configurations (Reflectors/Hotspots) with a quick-switch grid. You can also Export/Import your networks via JSON files to share configs easily.

• Hardware Integration: Full support for Bluetooth PTT buttons (pedals, handheld mics) with a built-in "Key Sniffer" tool to easily detect and map your device's key codes.

• Integrated Logbook: The app automatically logs your reception history. You can view QSO details and export your log in ADIF format directly from the app.

• Modern UI: Designed with a dark, high-contrast interface suitable for AMOLED screens and low-light environments.

Availability:
You can download QSOLink here: https://www.swisstransfer.com/d/7d28daf3-680b-420e-bad4-8ecea383770a

I would appreciate your feedback and testing reports. My goal is to provide the most reliable and complete mobile client for the SvxLink ecosystem. Please keep in mind that this is an initial release, so there might still be some bugs.

Special thanks to Silviu (YO6SAY) for his initial work which made this project possible.

73,

Cedric, F4JGI

 

QSO LINK features:

QSOLink

is a feature-rich Android client for SvxLink reflectors, designed for connecting to Reflectors and Hotspots. It features advanced TalkGroup management with "Auto-Switch" (jumping to active, higher-priority TGs) and visual radar for station activity.

Key Features of QSOLink:

• Audio & DSP: Features a DSP audio chain with Auto Gain Control (AGC) for TX/RX and adjustable jitter buffer.
• Radio Control: Includes a Digital Tuning Wheel, Dual VFO management (A/B), and support for modes like LSB, USB, AM, FM, and CW.
• Networking & Scanning: Features intelligent network scanning, auto-switching to active TalkGroups, and real-time DX spot importation.
• APRS Integration: Features full integration with the global APRS-IS network, allowing for tracking and text messaging, with position broadcasting to services like aprs.fi.
• Interface & Usability: Includes a dedicated "Ultimate Car Mode" HUD for safety, Bluetooth support for headsets and handmics, and a resource-efficient design for mobile devices.
• Logging: Includes an integrated QSO history with ADIF format export capabilities.
• Compatibility: Designed for Android 8.0 or higher, with optimization for ARMv8 64-bit processors.

The application is highly optimized for network radio (POC) devices and includes a "Lite Edition" for older smartphones to reduce RAM and CPU usage.

 

QSOLink is a dedicated Svxlink Client for Android. It is not a standalone radio network. Users are required to configure the app to connect to their preferred third-party reflectors.

For more information, images and videos about QSOLink click HERE

Here is a highly detailed User Manual for QSOLink V1.2.0.

---

QSOLink User Manual

Version 1.2.0

Welcome to QSOLink, a lightweight and efficient Reflector/Hotspot client. This guide covers every aspect of the interface, configuration, and advanced audio settings.

---

1. The Main Interface

The screen is divided into distinct zones for quick access to essential features.

A. The Top Bar (Controls)

From left to right:

1. Connect Button (Link Icon):

   • Blinking: Connecting.

   • Solid Link: Connected.

   • Broken Link: Disconnected.

   • Action: Tap to Connect/Disconnect. If you are disconnected, tapping this opens the connection popup for the selected network.

2. Network Name: Displays the name of the currently selected configuration.

3. Smart TG Button (The colored rounded box):

   • Displays current TalkGroup (e.g., "TG 208").

   • Displays Monitoring status (Scan, Pause, or Revert Timer).

   • Short Click: Opens the Change TalkGroup popup to manually enter a TG.

   • Long Press: Opens the Monitor/Scan Configuration menu.

4. Audio Device Icon (Phone/Headset):

   • Shows the current audio output (Speaker, Wired Headset, Bluetooth, Car).

   • IMPORTANT: If you plug in a headset or connect Bluetooth after the app started, tap this icon once. It triggers a "Force Audio Restart" to re-detect the best audio device immediately.

5. Mute Button (Speaker): Toggles incoming audio On/Off.

6. Menu Button (Gear): Opens the main Settings.

B. Network Grid

Located below the Top Bar.

• Contains 10 Memory Slots.

• Blue/Highlighted: Active configuration.

• Grey: Empty or inactive configuration.

• Short Click: Selects the network. If disconnected, it prompts to connect. If connected to another network, it disconnects and connects to the new one.

• Long Press: Opens the Network Editor to configure that specific slot.

C. Status Frame (The "Ticker")

A rounded rectangle that displays real-time info:

• Ready: System is idle.

• Transmitting (Red): You are on air (shows TX timer).

• Receiving (Green): Shows the callsign of the person talking and their TG.

• Scan Info (Orange): Shows scanning status.

D. Log & Dashboard (Middle Section)

This area has two tabs:

1. HISTORY: A list of recent calls received.

   • Click a line: View details (Callsign, Date, Duration) or look up the user on QRZ.com.

2. DASHBOARD: Shows currently active stations on monitored TGs.

   • Mute Icon: Mute a specific TG temporarily.

   • JOIN Button: Immediately QSY (switch) your TX TalkGroup to that station's TG.

E. VU Meter

A compact bar above the PTT.

• Left (RX): Green bar showing incoming audio level.

• Right (TX): Red bar showing your microphone level. Use this to check if your Mic Gain is too high or too low.

F. PTT Button (Push-To-Talk)

• Green: Ready to TX.

• Red: Transmitting.

• Lock Icon / "RX BUSY": The button is disabled because someone else is talking (unless "Duplex" behavior is allowed by the reflector).

---

2. Configuration (Network Setup)

To set up a hotspot or reflector:

1. Long Press an empty slot in the Network Grid.

2. Fill in the fields:

   • Name: A label (e.g., "Home Hotspot").

   • Host: IP Address or DNS (e.g., srv.reflector.com or 192.168.1.50).

   • Port: Usually 5300 or 5301.

   • Callsign: Your callsign.

   • TG: The default TalkGroup to connect to (e.g., 208).

   • Password: The hotspot/reflector password.

3. Import from Clipboard: If you have a JSON config string copied, paste it in the bottom field and click "IMPORT" to auto-fill.

4. Click SAVE.

---

3. Monitoring & Scanning (The "Smart TG" Button)

QSOLink includes a powerful TalkGroup monitor.

To Configure: Long-press the Smart TG Button (top center).

Settings:

• Enable Switch: Turns monitoring On/Off.

• Mode:

  • Info Only: Shows activity on screen but does not switch audio.

  • Auto-Switch (Favorites): Switches audio to the active TG if it is in your list.

  • LIVE SCAN (ALL): Listens to any traffic sent by the reflector (promiscuous mode).

• Revert Delay: If the app switches to a monitored TG, it will wait this many seconds of silence before returning to your "Home TG".

Adding TGs:

1. Priority:

   • Normal: Standard priority.

   • High (+): Interrupts Normal traffic.

   • Max (++): Interrupts everything (Red).

   • Low (-): Only listened to if channel is totally free.

2. TG ID: Enter the number (e.g., 91).

3. Click ADD.

---

4. Main Settings Menu (Gear Icon)

A. SYSTEM

• Network Quality (Jitter): Crucial for audio stability.

  • 40ms - 80ms: Only for perfect Wi-Fi.

  • 150ms - 250ms: Recommended for 4G/LTE.

  • 400ms - 500ms: Use in cars or areas with bad signal. Higher = more delay but fewer audio cuts.

• Time-Out Timer (TOT): Automatically stops transmission after 60/90/120/180 seconds to prevent overheating or blocking the channel.

B. DISPLAY

• Show Networks: Toggle between 10 slots (small) or 5 slots (large).

• Show Logo / Status Bar / Logbook: Hide elements to save screen space.

C. AUDIO (Advanced)

• Mic Gain: Hardware amplification.

  • Adjust while watching the TX VU Meter. The red bars should peak near the top but not hit the max constantly.

• AGC TX (Auto Level): Automatic Gain Control for your microphone.

  • Enabled: The app dynamically adjusts volume to hit the "TX Target" (e.g., -10dB). Recommended.

• AGC RX (Limiter): Automatic volume leveling for incoming audio. Prevents loud stations from hurting your ears.

D. OPTIONS (PTT Config)

• Screen PTT Mode:

  • PTT (Momentary): Press and Hold to talk. Release to listen.

  • Switch (Locked): Tap once to talk. Tap again to stop.

• External PTT Mode: Same logic but for Bluetooth buttons/Headsets.

• Bluetooth Button Setup:

  • Enable "Bluetooth Button".

  • Click SCAN.

  • A popup appears ("Bluetooth Sniffer").

  • Press the physical button on your Bluetooth Handmic/Headset/Pedal.

  • The code appears (e.g., "Code: 126" or "Code: 79").

  • Click SAVE.

E. DATA & STORAGE

• Backup Config (JSON): Saves all your networks and settings to a file in your Downloads folder. Use this to transfer settings to another phone.

• Restore Config: Loads a previously saved JSON file.

• Export Logbook (ADIF): Exports your received calls history to a standard ADIF file for logging software (QRZ, LOG4OM, etc.).

---

5. Troubleshooting / Pro Tips

Audio Routing Issues

If the audio is coming out of the wrong speaker (e.g., phone ear-piece instead of loudspeaker, or not going to Bluetooth):

1. Connect your Bluetooth device.

2. Tap the Audio Device Icon (top bar, next to Mute).

3. You will see a small animation. This forces the internal audio engine to restart and grab the correct device.

"RX BUSY" on PTT

If the PTT button shows a lock icon and says "RX BUSY":

• This means someone is currently talking.

• QSOLink blocks TX by default to prevent "doubling" (talking over someone).

• Wait for the person to finish.

Backing up before update

Always go to Menu > DATA & STORAGE > EXPORT > Backup Config before uninstalling or updating the app to ensure you don't lose your 10 memory slots.

Here is the Support & Information section, professionally translated into English, ready to be added to the end of your User Manual.

---

6. SUPPORT & INFORMATION

Need Help?

If you encounter configuration issues, bugs, or have feature requests, please contact the developer:

• Support Email: f4jgi.cedric@gmail.com

• QRZ.com Page: https://www.qrz.com/db/F4JGI

Support the Project

QSOLink is free software developed during spare time. If you enjoy using this application and wish to contribute to server costs or encourage future development, you can make a donation via PayPal:

• PayPal Donation: redgis01@free.fr

• Or simply click the "Donate" link at the bottom of the main screen in the app.

Credits & Acknowledgments

QSOLink is an evolution based on the open-source project Latry.

• Android Development & Adaptation: Cedric F4JGI.

• Original Core Code: Special thanks to Silviu YO6SAY for his formidable work on the original Latry engine.

Legal Information

QSOLink V1.2.0
Copyright © 2025 Cedric F4JGI.

This program is free software: you can redistribute it and/or modify it under the terms of the GNU General Public License.

Disclaimer: This software is provided "as is", without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The author cannot be held liable for any direct or indirect damages resulting from the use of this application. Please use it responsibly and in accordance with the amateur radio regulations in your country.

---

End of Document - QSOLink User Manual - Rev 1.0

 

Another way to use Digital Radio Modes if you do not have an RF Radio = DroidStar on Linux Mint 22 (Wilma) (Part 2)

In November 2023 I described how to install DroidStar on you mobile phone (cellphone) to work digital radio modes.  Click HERE to read Part 1.

In Part 2 (this article) I will be looking at installing DroidStar on a PC running Linux Mint 22 (Wilna).

What is DroidStar?

DroidStar is an open-source digital voice client application for Android, iOS, Windows, and Linux that allows amateur radio operators to connect to various digital voice modes—including DMR, D-Star, Fusion (YSF/FCS), M17, P25, NXDN, and AllStarLink (IAX2)—directly from their device without needing a radio or hot spot. It connects to reflectors via IP and supports software vocoders. 

Key Features of DroidStar:

• No Radio Required: Enables access to digital networks directly from a smartphone or computer.
• Multi-Mode Support: Supports DMR, D-Star, C4FM (Fusion), M17, P25, and NXDN.
• AllStarLink: Functions as an IAX2 client to connect to AllStar nodes.
• Hardware Support: Compatible with AMBE USB devices (e.g., DVSI, DVstick 30) and MMDVM modems.
• Platforms: Available on the Google Play Store, iOS/Android, and via source code for desktop.

How it Works:

 
You do not need a hotspot for DroidStar to work, however you will have to sign-up for a DMR ID if you do not have one yet.  You will also have to register  with BrandMeister whose servers will enable you to link to different digital radio modes. 

 

Register HERE to obtain a DMR ID

Register HERE to gain access to BrandMeister

DroidStar Vocoder Plugins Downloads (Needed for audio and TX to work)

Setting up a BrandMeister Password  (Read more)

The above registrations need to be done before installing DroidStar.  Google is your friend here to assist you in getting registered.
 

DroidStar connects to M17, Fusion (YSF/FCS, DN and VW modes are supported), DMR, P25, NXDN, D-STAR (REF/XRF/DCS) reflectors and AllStar nodes (as an IAX2 client) over UDP. It is compatible with all of the AMBE USB devices out there (ThumbDV, DVstick 30, DVSI, etc). It also supports MMDVM modems and can be used as a hotspot, or as a stand-alone transceiver via direct mode to the MMDVM device. This software is open source and uses the cross platform C++ library called Qt. It will build and run on Linux, Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS. 

 

Installing DroidStar on Linux Mint 22 (Wilna):

 

To install DroidStar on Linux Mint, the recommended method is using Flatpak via Flathub, as it manages dependencies easily. Alternatively, you can compile from source or use a pre-compiled binary if familiar with make. It requires a valid amateur radio callsign and DMR ID to operate. 

Preferred Method : Installing via Flatpak (Recommended)

    Open a terminal and run:
  
sudo flatpak install flathub io.github.nostar.DroidStar

 

You must ensure that the Vocoder Plugin  is installed.  For my system I installed the following Vocoder:

 

http://pizzanbeer.net/droidstar/plugins/vocoder_plugin.linux.arm64

 

How to install the Vocoder?

Open DroidStar by launching the application from the Menu - Sound and Video - DroidStar.  Once open go to Settings and scroll down to the Vocoder URL slot.  Copy the above pizzanbeer url link into the slot and click the Download vocoder button.  The vocoder will be downloaded.

Setup DroidStar for use:

With DroidStar still open go to the Main heading.  Select DMR, S2, CCo, BM_6551_South_Africa and TGID:  65522.  Now go to Settings.  Add your callsign, DMRID, ESSID = 01, BrandMeister Password and Location.  Scroll down to Update hosts and Update ID files by clicking on the TABS.  The log will show you the updates.  Leave other settings as is. (default)

We are nearly ready to use DroidStar.  If your Vocoder or Soundcard settings is not setup correctly Droidstar will crash (program close on  desktop)

 

Lets look at the audio setup of DroidStar:

 

Linux Mint 22 uses AlsaMixer for audio purposes. I use alsamixer for Qtel Echolink Client and it works fine.  However I found that DroidStar on my machine "preferred" PulseAudio.  I am sure that you can use Alsa instead but DroidStar keep on crashing if I tried to use it on my machine.  

 

Therefor I had to stop Alsa from directly controlling the audio hardware and force DroidStar to use PulseAudio.  

To stop ALSA and use PulseAudio in DroidStar on a Linux system, you need to ensure PulseAudio is running and properly configured to handle the audio routing, allowing it to act as the intermediate server between DroidStar and the underlying ALSA drivers.

 

Here are the steps to switch from ALSA to PulseAudio:

 

1. Ensure PulseAudio is Running 

 

If PulseAudio was disabled or replaced by ALSA, restart it:

Open a Terminal window and enter

sudo pulseaudio --start

2. Configure DroidStar for PulseAudio

• Open DroidStar.
• Go to the settings or audio configuration menu.
• Locate the input and output device settings.
• Select PulseAudio (or default) rather than selecting direct ALSA hardware devices (like hw:0,0).

3. Ensure PulseAudio Takes Control of ALSA 

 

If ALSA is grabbing the hardware exclusively, PulseAudio cannot function. To force PulseAudio to take control, you may need to prevent ALSA from autospawning, or kill existing ALSA processes if they are blocking it.

• Check/Kill PulseAudio: pulseaudio -k
• Restart PulseAudio: pulseaudio --start
• Ensure it's loaded: pactl info


Forcing DroidStar to use PulseAudio generally applies to running the application on Linux-based systems (like Raspberry Pi or desktop Linux) rather than Android, where DroidStar typically uses the native Android Audio HAL

.

On Linux, DroidStar is a Qt application and will default to PulseAudio if it is active on the system. If it is not defaulting to it, you can force it using environment variables.

 

Using

SDL_AUDIODRIVER=pulseaudio before launching DroidStar on Linux is a common workaround to force the application to use the PulseAudio sound server, which can resolve issues where the app fails to initialize audio or has no sound output. 

 

Run DroidStar from your terminal with the following command:

We are using the Flatpak version of DroidStar, you may need to use:


flatpak run --env=SDL_AUDIODRIVER=pulseaudio io.github.nostar.DroidStar

Why this is necessary:

• SDL2 Backend Selection: Modern SDL2 applications often need to explicitly be told to use pulseaudio rather than pulse (which is for older SDL1.2) to work correctly, particularly on newer Linux distributions.
• Fixing Audio Issues: If DroidStar shows it is receiving packets (RX) but you have no sound, or if it crashes on startup, it is likely unable to properly connect to your system's audio output.
• Vocoder Requirements: For modes like D-Star, DMR, and Fusion, DroidStar requires a vocoder plugin to function, which should be downloaded and configured in the settings tab.

Troubleshooting Audio Issues:

 

If DroidStar is connected but has no audio output, it might be using the wrong sound card.

• Use pavucontrol: Install and open pavucontrol (PulseAudio Volume Control) while DroidStar is running and connected. You can select the specific input/output device under the "Recording" or "Playback" tabs for the DroidStar app.
• Check Build Dependencies: Ensure your Linux system has the proper PulseAudio development libraries installed before compiling:

sudo apt install libpulse-dev

• ALSA still grabbing device: If PulseAudio isn't taking over, ensure that you do not have autospawn = no set in your /etc/pulse/client.conf.

cd /etc/pulse (enter)

sudo nano client.conf  (enter)

 

Move curser to autospawn =yes and ensure that it is set to yes.

 

Reboot your computer and start DroidStar.  You should be in business using DroidStar on DMR.

I currently use DroidStar to monitor my personal DMR Repeater TalkGroup 65522 which is permanently connected to AllStar and Echolink via the ZS1I DMR Bridge.  More information available HERE.

Finally:

DroidStar is a fun, free and easy way to experiment with the digital radio modes. If you have an Android, IOS or PC and have an interest in playing around with digital radio modes, then get going with DroidStar. 

That's it!  You can now use DroidStar on Linux Mint 22 (Wilna) to access DMR and the ZS Link Netwerk.

Enjoy!!

Images:  Click on images for larger view.