What is an MMDVM Hotspot?

MMDVM stands for "Multi-Mode Digital Voice Modem." An MMDVM hotspot is a small, low-power radio device that enables amateur radio operators (hams) to connect to various digital voice networks using the internet. These hotspots are designed to work with a variety of digital modes, such as DMR (Digital Mobile Radio), D-Star, System Fusion (YSF), P25, NXDN, POCSAG and the new FOSS M17 Project digital mode.

The hotspot acts as a bridge between a ham radio and the internet. When you talk into your radio, the hotspot receives the signal, converts it into a digital format (if necessary), and transmits it over the internet to a linked repeater, reflector, or other digital radio network. This allows you to communicate with other hams globally, even if you're only using a low-power handheld radio.

The digital ham radio modes are interesting when connected via internet because of they allow the use to connect to specific voice chat rooms that are called various names depending on the digital mode. They are called “talk groups” in DMR, “reflectors” in D-Star and rooms in YSF. These groups can be regional or topic based and etc. Folks with skills running servers can even start their own talk groups rooms and reflectors (hint hint, look into it).👀

Common Components of an MMDVM Hotspot

1. Raspberry Pi: The most common computer used for an MMDVM hotspot is the Raspberry Pi, typically a Raspberry Pi Zero or Raspberry Pi 3. These are small, low-cost, single-board computers.

2. MMDVM Hat with antenna: This is the radio module that attaches to the Raspberry Pi. It contains the necessary circuitry to handle the digital modes and interfaces with the Raspberry Pi through GPIO pins.

3. Case: optional

Cost and Ease of Building: aka You really should build your own.

- Cost: Depending on the components you choose, the total cost of an MMDVM hotspot typically ranges from $50 to $100, making it a very affordable project for amateur radio enthusiasts.

- Ease of Build: The project is relatively simple and requires basic skills in assembling electronics and setting up software. The most challenging part is configuring the software, but numerous online resources and communities are available to help, there are great YouTube videos on this. You can even save a few bucks (fiat) if you have basic soldering skills.

Overall, MMDVM hotspots provide an excellent entry point into the world of digital amateur radio communication at a low cost and with relative ease.

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More unserious irreverent cringe fun wild child type stuff honestly is what would really do it for me

Came home from work to find we now have a pigeon. Apparently Frida bought it in and it doesn’t seem to be able to fly. Otherwise it seems fine, maybe just a bit shocked after having a meeting with a cat.

The question is now what?!

#Pigeon

An interesting new meshtastic device.

#mesh #meshtastic #radio #lora