Is GPS really needed with DMR radios?

[graywoulf]

I am considering buying a DMR HT and in seeing that some have GPS and some don't I would like to know if GPS plays a big part in communicating or if APRS is sufficient. I will say that I am just starting my research into the world of DMR so you will know my level of knowledge. Thanks.

 

[w2xq]

Unless you travel a lot and want DMR users to track you in your vehicle, using aprsdirect.com or aprs.fi, there is no particular need to use APRS. Just sayin'.

 

[djs13pa]

If you are talking about on DMR itself it depends. Many networks ban its use since one timeslot gets used by the data and the other for the voice. It makes a bit of a kludge.

In general APRS can be useful depending on what you want it to Fox there are some really useful groups on Facebook that do quite a bit with APRS. Some good applications:

- outdoors activities so people can see you

- communicating in an area where infrastructure is significantly damaged

- tracking groups during an off-road trip

- hikers and bicyclists pinging as they trek along

Not all of these though are gear for HTs as you might imagine. Coverage varies greatly.

Look at APRS.fi for real-time APRS data and that may help you make a good choice.




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[graywoulf]

Thanks guys! I believe that tells me what I needed to know. I don't travel a lot and I don't really care about being tracked. APRS will suffice and I can save about twenty or so bucks as well.

 

[w2xq]

Let me clarify; I wasn't clear as I could have been. You don't need a GPS in the DMR radio unless you want to be tracked by sending out APRS packets, and djs13pa is correct. Given your statement above, save your money.

 

[graywoulf]

Let me clarify; I wasn't clear as I could have been. You don't need a GPS in the DMR radio unless you want to be tracked by sending out APRS packets, and djs13pa is correct. Given your statement above, save your money.

I thank you for your information and suggestion. I have found that most HTs under $200 do not have analog APRS but do have digital APRS which I think is good for DMR use. Most have GPS but I see that it can be turned off which is a good feature. With that in mind, I just bought an AnyTone AT-D868UV Version 2 w/GPS HT. So, let the journey begin.

 

[djs13pa]

What would your APRS application be? We can give you ideas.


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[mikewazowski]

If you are talking about on DMR itself it depends. Many networks ban its use since one timeslot gets used by the data and the other for the voice. It makes a bit of a kludge.

Data can be sent on either time slot and it happily coexists with voice traffic. It does not restrict voice to just one time slot.

 

[djs13pa]

On some systems it does split because it’s how they set it up, particularly in commercial applications where they are doing lots of data. On some systems it is banned.


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[WX4JCW]

Data can be sent on either time slot and it happily coexists with voice traffic. It does not restrict voice to just one time slot.

True, but there are a few repeater owners who hate it, Columbus, OH is a good example

 

[graywoulf]

What would your APRS application be? We can give you ideas.

Honestly, at this point I don't know. I am just getting started in all of this and I know that I have a lot to learn. Fortunately, I have some club members that have said that they will help me get started.

 

[djs13pa]

I would toss a couple thoughts:

If you are just beeboping around town for fun, the TMD710ga or the THD72 both by Kenwood would be best. The 710 is mobile and the 72 is an HT. They are the best implementation of the full APRS standard.

If you are doing off the beaten path middle of no where traveling and want someone to be able to see your position, read up on HF APRS and HF Robust Packet Radio. These will work much better than VHF APRS as they work over much longer distances and use much less infrastructure.

APRS is fun and worth exploring.


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[KE5MC]

Honestly, at this point I don't know. I am just getting started in all of this and I know that I have a lot to learn. Fortunately, I have some club members that have said that they will help me get started.

Just to add a little clarity. GPS does not always mean APRS functionality. For a analog mobile radio it would. APRS using a simplex frequency on one side of the radio and talking to various repeaters on the other side. For a digital mode radio the LAT/LONG information could be part of the talk channel and whoever you are talking to will know the bearing and distance to you from that information. Or you could have it setup for APRS. Digital radios bring more capability with additional confusion factors. Club members can be of great help!
Good Luck,
Mike

 

[graywoulf]

Thanks Mike for that information. So much to learn from here but I'm getting there.