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Digital voice, linked worldwide. DMR is digital voice on 2 meters and 70 centimeters. Repeaters and hotspots linked over the internet let a handheld reach across the country.
- Get a DMR ID. Once your call sign is in the FCC database, request a free ID at RadioID.net.
- Program your radio. Load a codeplug with your ID and channels. Ask your club for one to start from.
- Pick a repeater or hotspot. Use a local DMR repeater, or a small hotspot at home that links you to a network like BrandMeister.
- Test with the parrot. Make a private call to 9990. BrandMeister’s parrot plays your transmission back.
- Make your call. Call on 3100 or your state’s talkgroup and keep it short. Move to a TAC talkgroup to chat.
In the pictures
- The call: “KJ5LQM, listening on 3100.”
- An answer: “KJ5LQM, this is W1DEMO. Welcome!”
Key terms
- Talkgroup: a shared channel on the network, like 3100 for the whole US.
- Time slot: one of the two conversations sharing a repeater frequency.
- Color code: a number from 0 to 15 your radio must match to use a repeater.
- Codeplug: your radio’s settings file.
Good to know
- Your DMR ID doesn’t replace your call sign. Say it every 10 minutes and at the end of a contact.
- Leave encryption off. It isn’t allowed on ham frequencies.
- Pause after pressing PTT, and leave a few seconds between turns.
- Technicians can use DMR on 2 meters and 70 centimeters.
In short: Get a DMR ID, load a codeplug, test with the parrot, then make a short call on a talkgroup.
W1DEMO is a made-up call sign.
Checked October 2026 against FCC Part 97, BrandMeister USA's help pages and RadioID.net.
