Baofeng Baofeng DM-1801 - Programming without a PC

[qmsarge]

I have got my first DMR radio, a Baofeng DM-1801. Unfortunately it did not come with a programming cable, so I had to place a separate order for the same. In the mean time, is there any way I can program this radio using the keypad? The user manual is not very friendly, and there is no step-by-step direction on how to program a Talk Group, attach it to a Channel (and group into a zone etc.).

I changed the mode to VFO mode, and set the frequency to a known DMR frequency*. I also changed the mode to digital. But when ever a Tx happens on this frequency no audio is heard. The green light on the rig glows (indicating that it is copying the signals). I did scout around the internet to see if there are any better versions of the user manual, but could not find any.

Any information on programming this radio using the keypad is highly appreciated. Thanks in advance .

* This frequency is used to transmit a DMR/MOTOTRBO signal as identified by AirSpy & DSD+ softwares on my PC.

 

[Hit_Factor]

I can't imagine entering a code plug via keypad. There are so many data points.

Even without the cable, create the code plug using the software. Then use the software to help you place keep while entering values. Maybe print screen to hard copy, check things off.

Good luck.

 

[jaspence]

Most of the lower end ham oriented DMR radios can be programmed from the keypad. It is a little tedious but for one or two entries not that bad. Each brand seems to think they have the best way, and without knowing more about your radio, I can't judge your situation. The bTech 6x2 has one of the best, but others I have seen do not have the ability to create a talk group. Unless talk groups have been previously added to the radio from the computer, you cannot do a complete entry.

Before you create a code plug and upload it to the radio, be sure to read the radio and save the results.

 

[qmsarge]

I can't imagine entering a code plug via keypad. There are so many data points.

Most of the lower end ham oriented DMR radios can be programmed from the keypad. It is a little tedious but for one or two entries not that bad.

Once again re-read the Baofeng user manuals. But looks like I can only create a "single point" contact (and not a GroupAll kind of contact) using the keypad. The user manual too seems to be suggesting repeatedly the use of the programming software. The cable has started its journey from China.

In the mean while,I would have to see if there is any way I can get the radio working in "promiscuous" mode; i.e it listens to a digital frequency and blurts out the audio from any talk group which is active on that frequency.

 

[Hit_Factor]

In the mean while,I would have to see if there is any way I can get the radio working in "promiscuous" mode; i.e it listens to a digital frequency and blurts out the audio from any talk group which is active on that frequency.

There is custom firmware for md380/md390 radios that allow enabling promiscuous mode.

Your Rx contact list can do the same thing, if necessary/available on that radio.

 

[jaspence]

The 6x2 and K1 Rfinder have the promiscuous mode already in the firmware. The newer Anytone radios are the same as the bTech 6x2 and should also offer that.

 

[qmsarge]

There is custom firmware for md380/md390 radios that allow enabling promiscuous mode.

The 6x2 and K1 Rfinder have the promiscuous mode already in the firmware.

Thank you for your suggestions DM-1801 from Baofeng has a "Monitor" mode which can be enabled by pressing a specific key for a longer time. It then snoops on the frequency, and gives out the Talk Group and the Radio ID (+ the audio) when there is a transmission happening. .

This feature would be helpful for Amateur Radio Operators who may not know the Talk Group configuration done on a repeater.