A Yaesu System Fusion (YSF) Reflector is now online in Johannesburg South, South Africa and World Wide. This is another extension to ZS6CMO Network and radio amateurs now have access to
Yaesu System Fusion from hereon called YSF.
There are DMR to YSF (and vice versa) bridging technologies
that not only allow Southern Cape, Johannesburg South or South African radio amateurs to
use DMR or YSF but they can now converse more widely with the UK, USA,
Australia, Europe and even World Wide using a YSF Reflector.
The Johannesburg South YSF Reflector can currently be accessed with either a DMR-,
YSF radio linked to a Hotspot or using DroidStar on a cellphone.
Please note that this reflector is still being tested and might be
offline from time to time. Myself and Curtis ZS6CMO is currently
testing two reflectors. One in the Gauteng Province and the other one
in the Southern Cape Area.
If you interested
in the digital radio modes follow this series and feel free to join
myself and Curtis ZS6CMO on this exciting venture.
In the previous posting (Part 1) I introduced you to the Yaesu System Fusion (YSF) Reflector now online in the Southern
Cape, South Africa and World Wide. This is another extension to the
Garden Route Hub (GRHUB) Network and radio amateurs now have access to
Yaesu System Fusion from hereon called YSF.
In this topic I will provide a few pointers on "How to use DroidStar to access the GRHub Reflector via your smartphone." No I am not going to tell you how to install and setup DroidStar as this was already discussed in the topic below: (Click on link for more information.)
Once you have DroidStar up and running you can change the following settings to access the GRHub YSF Reflector.
Open DroidStar on your phone.
For the locals that connected on DMR to my Talk Group 65511, the above image reflect what my screen looks like. Yours might be different depending how you used DroidStar the last time before shutting it down.
We need to update hosts and ID files in order to select the ZA-GRHUB reflector. Go to settings and scroll down to find the Update hosts and Update ID files tabs. First Click the Update hosts, wait some time and click OK. Then click Update ID files, wait some time and click OK. Click on Log.
As can be seen the log indicate that the file update was successful. Hopefully the ZA-GRHUB reflector will now show up in the hosts.txt file.
Go back to the Main window. On the left top side of the screen select YSF by clicking on the tab pointer. Once you have selected YSF, click on the tab below YSF and scroll right down until you see ZA-GRHUB, select. Once selected your screen will look like the image below.
Click on Connect and you should be connected to the YSF ZA-GRHUB Reflector. Image below.
Now activate the reflector by pressing the TX button for a short period. You can once again press the TX and call to make a contact.
That's it! You can now use DroidStar to access the YSF GRHub Reflector. Big deal? Definitely not but watch this space for future developments with regards to this reflector. You can also connect to other reflectors by selecting one from the list of hosts. Curtis ZS6CMO also has a YSF reflector up and running. The name of his reflector is ZA-JHBSOUTH. We both awaiting your call and looking forward to make contact with fellow radio amateurs via the reflectors.
Note: This topic will be compiled in several parts.
A Yaesu System Fusion (YSF) Reflector is now online in the Southern Cape, South Africa and World Wide. This is another extension to the Garden Route Hub (GRHUB) Network and radio amateurs now have access to Yaesu System Fusion from hereon called YSF. Radio Amateurs also have access to the ZS1I DMR Bridge which links Analog Radio to Digital Radio. The following links provide more information on the ZS1I DMR Bridge:
As can be seen I invested many hours in DMR and also DMR digital radios and equipment. No I do not complain, brag or boast here. All the effort was worth the while as many radio amateurs now have several options available to work different digital radio modes. Very few radio amateurs in the Southern Cape have DMR or YSF digital radios but with their analog radios they can now communicate on DMR and YSF. Fortunately there are DMR to YSF (and vice versa) bridging technologies that not only allow Southern Cape or South African radio amateurs to use DMR or YSF but they can now converse more widely with the UK, USA, Australia, Europe and even World Wide.
The GRHUB YSF Reflector is currently not connected to the GRHub Network and is currently running parallel to the Hub Network on a test basis. Once I am satisfied with its performance and reliability I will add the reflector to the GRHub Network.
The GRHUB YSF Reflector can currently be accessed with either a DMR-, YSF radio linked to a Hotspot or using DroidStar on a cellphone.
Please not that this reflector is still being tested and might be offline from time to time. Myself and Curtis ZS6CMO is currently testing two reflectors. One in the Gauteng Province and the other one in the Southern Cape Area.
In part two I will provide more details on how you can setup DroidStar to access the YSF GRHub Reflector using your phone. As already mentioned this topic will be compiled in several parts. More info about YSF, Pi-Star, DMR etc will also be available and how to use your DMR Radio on YSF.
If you interested in the digital radio modes follow this series and feel free to join myself and Curtis ZS6CMO on this exciting venture.
New amateur radio repeater technology soon available in the Southern Cape on the "Aasvoëlkop" Repeater Site.
There is great excitement amongst the users of the 145.750 Mhz "Aasvoëlkop" Repeater.
What is the hype about this new repeater? I will try to explain. The new repeater has arrived and was recently programmed by Rassie ZS1RP and Dolf ZS1DRP. The repeater is currently with Johann ZS1AAC who is tending to the duplexer and other equipment needed to bring this repeater to life. The repeater will soon be installed at the 145.625 Mhz Repeater Site in Still Bay. Once all parameters is confirmed it will be moved to the 145.750 Mhz "Aasvoëlkop" Repeater Site.
A big word of thanks to Johann ZS1AAC, Dolf ZS1DRP and Rassie ZS1RP who is instrumental in the purchase and setting up/programming of this repeater to the benefit of all radio amateurs. As mentioned before this is only the beginning. There will be more repeater installations and future upgrades in the Southern Cape. Watch this space!! I will keep you posted in this regard.
Now we still do not know what repeater you are talking about. Let's have a closer look. Here is two photos of the brand spanking new repeater on the test bench.
It is the Yaesu DR-2X 50W Digital Repeater (C4FM IP Interconnect Dual Band Receiver System Multi-function Repeater)
Now lets look at the specifications and other interesting information:
YAESU DR-2X supports C4FM digital / regular FM dual mode and dual receive function relay platform, which includes VHF and UHF amateur radio band. Through the AMS function, the DR-2X mixes communication using conventional FM mode communication and C4FM digital mode.
1. C4FM digital mode provides perfect audio quality Compared with other digital models, the C4FM modulation mode has better bit error rate (BER) characteristics to ensure good speech quality in communication. The C4FM digital high definition voice technology using 12.5kHz bandwidth enables the high quality voice communication to be transmitted perfectly.
2.
AMS makes conventional FM and digital FM friendly co-exist (automatic
mode selection).
System integration enables all users,
including users using different modes, to communicate with each
other. AMS makes all systems possible. AMS automatically identifies
C4FM digital signals or regular FM signals, and then DR-2X transforms
the identified signals into the current communication mode.
3.
Flexible double receiver function
The unique real-time
double receiver relay – DR-2X can assign an additional control
relay to the relay administrator, transmit an emergency signal, or
specify second uplink frequencies. Relay administrators can also
independently allocate downlink frequencies based on uplink
frequencies.
4.
Enhanced Digital Group ID Function
The
revolutionary digital group ID function enables users who share the
same digital group identification code to quickly and quickly track
multiple communication resources and display group member signal
strength and telemetry information. DG-ID
A
group ID (0-99) can specify members to participate in group
communication. In addition, multi-point relay transmission can be
controlled by DG-ID. DP-ID
For safe relay
station operation, you can register the sole ID of the relay station
for personal operation identification. DP-ID can restrict access to
the relay station members of registered ID.
5.
Based on Internet connection relay link system (IMRS), large area
expands signal coverage (option).
The Internet link
Relay link system (IMRS) allows relay use to connect multiple relays
via LAN or WAN. Based on the inherent stability defects of WAN
connection, such as the Internet, or the words happen all happened,
the new DR-2X mixed a variety of forms of network environment, making
the connection between the relay more direct, ensuring the quality of
digital communication. Digital group identifier can be used
to control relay activation. * required component LAN unit (LAN-01A)
6.
Friendly interactive settings interface 3.5 inch
full touch screen
7. Advanced operation
The rear panel
controls the I/O port and can be connected to the S-COM7330 relay
controller. Up to 3 DR-2X units can be connected to provide
programmable sound, clock, access modes and other functions. 8.
Other functions
Built-in AC power supply (North
American and Asian versions)
Digital squelch code (DSQ)
signaling
19-inch standard cabinet connection
CTCSS and DCS
sub audio
High stability +-2.5ppmTCXO
Overtime Interdiction
Function (TOT)
Firmware upgrade 9. Supplied
accessories
AC power cord
DC power cord with
fuse
Spare fuse (5A/15A)
Plastic foot
PC Cable
SC-20
Operation Manual
Warranty Card
The Yaesu DR-2X is a full feature, heavy duty,
C4FM/FM dual band repeater/base station. And unlike many other
repeaters, the DR-2X handles conventional FM and C4FM
digital transmission. The Yaesu System Fusion technology
features the AMS – Automatic Mode Select function
that instantly recognizes whether the signal is C4FM digital or
conventional FM and automatically switches to match the received
mode. The front panel features a full color 3.5 inch, high
luminescence TFT touch screen display. The rear panel has both AC
input and backup DC input. The power input is auto-switched to backup
DC input during power outages.
System Fusion Key Features:
– AMS (Automatic Mode
Select) function automatically recognizes the signal as C4FM digital
or conventional FM
– Better BER (Bit Error Rate)
characteristics of C4FM provides Superior Audio Quality and Crisp
Clear Voice
– Better BER (Bit Error Rate) characteristics of C4FM provides
better reception while moving and challenging weak signal
–
Full 12.5 kHz bandwidth system provides high-speed data
communication
– Snapshot Function allows you to enjoy image
data with time and GPS information
– Digital Group
Monitor (GM) Function
– Smart Navigation Function
Radio Features:
– Modulation Modes: 12.5 kHz
C4FM Digital, Conventional FM
– AMS (Automatic Mode
Select) function automatically recognizes the signal as C4FM digital
or conventional FM
– 3.5-inch Full Color Touch Panel
Operation
– Extremely reliable, high RF Output Power: 50/20/5
Watts
– Emergency Operation: Supports auto-switched backup
battery power operation
– Front panel microphone connector is
provided for use in repeater transmitter testing, and enables use as
a base station
– Built-in large-size monitor speaker with
front panel volume control
– Internal AC power supply
–
19″ Rack Mount Available
– High Stability ±2.5 ppm TCXO
included
– DSQ (Digital Squelch Code) Signaling feature
–
CTCSS and DCS Signaling feature
– ID announcement feature
(Voice Mode: Requires FVS-2)
– Rear panel Control I/O port is
connectable with the “S-COM 7330” repeater controller
–
Base Station Operation – Adjustable Squelch Hysteresis (requires
a stronger signal to open the squelch than it does to keep it
open).
– Adjustable Squelch Tail
– CWID/Voice
announcements with stripped PL Tones
DR-2X Exclusive Features:: - Dual
Receive Operation - Improved
News Station feature permits sharing the voice and text messages to
members. - Group
Monitor feature supports easy Grouping Set-up - Stable
High Power Output with large heat sink - Commercial
grade components for long-term reliable operation - IMRS
(Internet-linked Multi-site Repeater System) function for simple
expanded area coverage via the Internet (option).
Specifications:
RX/TX Frequency Ranges: 144 to 148
MHz, 430 to 450 MHz
Channel Steps: 5/6.25 kHz
Circuit Type:
Double conversion superheterodyne
Modulation Type: F1D, F2D,
F3E, F7W
Power Output: 50/20/5 Watts
Case Size (W x H x D):
19″ x 3.5″ x 15″ (482x88x380mm) excluding knobs and
connectors
Weight (approx.): 22.05 lbs. (10 kg)
Final Remarks:
I did some research and played around with various digital radio communication "nodes" in the past. I would like to share my opinion on a few aspects:
1. This repeater is multi-purpose. VHF/UHF, FM Analog or C4FM Yaesu System Fusion (YSF) and lends itself to having many more communication choices. Something that is very beneficial these days in Amateur Radio. The audio compared to FM Analogue is excellent as is the Digital Audio C4FM.
2. The repeater function IMRS Lan Module, allows 99 other repeaters to be connected via IP Linking through the Internet.
3. Another function is that the repeater can distinguish which mode is used and then automatically switch between the modes. This makes the repeater compatible with traditional FM mode radios and
repeaters.
4. In C4FM mode, call signs and GPS location information can be included in the digital speech data, which is displayed on digital radios. The following information is displayed: Call sign, Distance and Direction to the other station. Even small photos can be sent to other stations.
5. Yaesu is the sole manufacturer of YSF equipped radios. The current Yaesu radios are: FT- 1XDR, FT-2DR, and FT-5DR for hand radios, with the FTM-3200R, FTM-100R, FTM-300, FTM- 400R and FTM500DR for mobile units.
6. I hear radio amateurs murmuring that they will now have to buy new radios to be able to use YSF. No, not at all. There are always alternative ways. If you already have a Hotspot then use Pi- Star's ability to connect to YSF. You can then use DroidStar or a DMR Radio via a YSF "gateway" or "reflector". The second solution is to create a Bridge between YSF and DMR. The last option enables radio amateurs to communicate with Analogue or Digital using Echolink, AllStar or DMR radios whichever option you choose. No one will be left out in the cold.
7 The IMRS Lan Module is optional but is required if you want to connect other repeaters via IP Links. It also enables you to connect Echolink / AllStar directly to the repeater site. The connection can be controlled via DTMF or the Internet. In my opinion, the IMRS Lan Board is a good addition to the Yaesu DR-2 X Repeater and I encourage repeater owners to buy it as this is the direction in which the technology and amateur radio networks are moving.
8. Here and there radio amateurs might experience small "hiccups" but this is attributed to failure to read and study manuals. The repeater has a learning curve that one will have to overcome and I am sure there might be a few bumps along the way.
9. Having played around with various digital platforms, I think Yaesu's C4FM (YSF) and DMR are currently the forerunners in the field of digital technology. In my opinion, C4FM from Yaesu is a short head in front of DMR in terms of audio quality. Even in "Digital Narrow" (DN) mode the Yaesu audio is more natural than all the current digital platforms.
10. Important: The Yaesu DR-2X repeater does NOT have a "full duty cycle" at 50 watts but does at 25 watts. Something to take note of, but 25 watts is more than adequate power output vs the location of the Aasvoelkop Repeater.
The Yaesu DR-2X repeater receives an average of 4.7 out of 5 for operation and reliability from radio amateur ranks. The rating says something about this repeater, doesn't it?
I am looking forward to utilize the new Yaesu DR-2X Repeater soon to be installed on the "Aasvoëlkop" Repeater Site!!
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