Showing posts with label Shark RF Openspot Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Shark RF Openspot Review. Show all posts
Private Calls between Two Openspot users
Private Calls between Two Openspot users
Can the Openspot be used to place a private call between two Openspot users? I have tried with no success so if it can be done, please explain. I have tried in local mode and when connected to a talkgroup that both stations were linked to.
Can the Openspot be used to place a private call between two Openspot users? I have tried with no success so if it can be done, please explain. I have tried in local mode and when connected to a talkgroup that both stations were linked to.
Basic openSPOT setup
You need to set up a simplex channel in your radio with same RX and TX frequencies. You need to set the channel's TX contact to the talkgroup ID you want to talk to.
You'll need to create an RX group list also, put TG9 in the list, and assign that list to your simplex channel. openSPOT transmits voice announcements on TG9, so this way you'll be able to hear them.
openSPOT: How to connect to BrandMeister
openSPOT: How to connect to BrandMeister
This tutorial video shows how you can connect openSPOT to the BrandMeister network.
This tutorial video shows how you can connect openSPOT to the BrandMeister network.
SharkRF openSPOT
SharkRF openSPOT
SharkRF openSPOT Standalone IP Gateway/Hotspot (US) Designed for amateur radio Connect openSPOT easily to DMR, D-Star reflectors, C4FM/System Fusion rooms, and use your radio with excellent voice quality without sync errors Customize communication settings on the web interface Discover how digital protocols work, and connect your own apps by sending and receiving RF frames in UDP packets Create your own RF protocol by customizing RF modem settings, packet format, sync words (even with TDMA support) Use single, or separate RX/TX frequencies Optional erroneous packet generator module for testing other digital receiver State of the art hardware design 2 CPUs running at 100 and 120MHz USB mass storage device bootloader for easy firmware upgrades 4 multicolor, bright LEDs for easy real time state monitoring Low power usage Automatic recalibration DMR features Use openSPOT not only as a DMR hotspot, but as a base or mobile station with 2 timeslots simultaneously Timeslot repeating in base station/repeater mode Send and receive DMR SMS messages Built-in echo service Controllable with calls and custom short messages to preconfigured DMR IDs
SharkRF openSPOT Standalone IP Gateway/Hotspot (US) Designed for amateur radio Connect openSPOT easily to DMR, D-Star reflectors, C4FM/System Fusion rooms, and use your radio with excellent voice quality without sync errors Customize communication settings on the web interface Discover how digital protocols work, and connect your own apps by sending and receiving RF frames in UDP packets Create your own RF protocol by customizing RF modem settings, packet format, sync words (even with TDMA support) Use single, or separate RX/TX frequencies Optional erroneous packet generator module for testing other digital receiver State of the art hardware design 2 CPUs running at 100 and 120MHz USB mass storage device bootloader for easy firmware upgrades 4 multicolor, bright LEDs for easy real time state monitoring Low power usage Automatic recalibration DMR features Use openSPOT not only as a DMR hotspot, but as a base or mobile station with 2 timeslots simultaneously Timeslot repeating in base station/repeater mode Send and receive DMR SMS messages Built-in echo service Controllable with calls and custom short messages to preconfigured DMR IDs
SharkRF openSPOT Dstar/DMR/Fusion hotspot setup and test
SharkRF openSPOT Dstar/DMR/Fusion hotspot setup and test
Finally i got my SharkRF openSPOT. Discount available at www.gigaparts.com when using promo code HRCspot.
VERY easy to set this up, and very easy to switch between modes of digital operation. This unit operates on D-Star, System Fusion and DMR with the ability to interconnect System Fusion and DMR. Check out the video for complete details.
Finally i got my SharkRF openSPOT. Discount available at www.gigaparts.com when using promo code HRCspot.
VERY easy to set this up, and very easy to switch between modes of digital operation. This unit operates on D-Star, System Fusion and DMR with the ability to interconnect System Fusion and DMR. Check out the video for complete details.
Shark RF Openspot Review
I've got a DVMega, DV4mini, DV4home, and now the OpenSPOT.
Out of all 4 devices, the OpenSPOT is the most stable and just works all the time.
The DVMega is good, but lately the Raspberry Pi seems to lose connection with the DVMega board modem forcing me to shut it down and power-cycle it.
The DV4mini...well, I think we all know the horror stories with that one.
The DV4home is also an unmitigated disaster. Google "dv4home review" for more info on that one.
But SharkRF has come up with a simple, small device that just plain works and I've been running it non-stop for over a week now with no issues.
DMR and DSTAR audio feedback reports are that the audio is clear with no packet loss.
From what I hear, the C4FM users are also having no issues with it but I have yet to try that mode. It just does so much I haven't enough time to try out everything it can do.
Add to that they've released a complete set of APIs to remotely control the device for anyone who wants to build their own web-based or stand-alone app and they're light years ahead of the amateur radio digital hotspot competition with maybe the exception of the bluetooth-connected DVMega hotspots out there since the SharkRF OpenSPOT doesn't currently do bluetooth or wifi connections.
But for at home or hotel stays (with appropriate travel wifi bridge device) it really can't be beat
Out of all 4 devices, the OpenSPOT is the most stable and just works all the time.
The DVMega is good, but lately the Raspberry Pi seems to lose connection with the DVMega board modem forcing me to shut it down and power-cycle it.
The DV4mini...well, I think we all know the horror stories with that one.
The DV4home is also an unmitigated disaster. Google "dv4home review" for more info on that one.
But SharkRF has come up with a simple, small device that just plain works and I've been running it non-stop for over a week now with no issues.
DMR and DSTAR audio feedback reports are that the audio is clear with no packet loss.
From what I hear, the C4FM users are also having no issues with it but I have yet to try that mode. It just does so much I haven't enough time to try out everything it can do.
Add to that they've released a complete set of APIs to remotely control the device for anyone who wants to build their own web-based or stand-alone app and they're light years ahead of the amateur radio digital hotspot competition with maybe the exception of the bluetooth-connected DVMega hotspots out there since the SharkRF OpenSPOT doesn't currently do bluetooth or wifi connections.
But for at home or hotel stays (with appropriate travel wifi bridge device) it really can't be beat
Review SharkRF openSPOT
Hotspots were not developed to replace repeaters, but rather to supplement them. In areas where there is No repeater, a hotspot allows the user to connect directly to a digital network via the internet. In areas of Heavy repeater use, a hotspot allows the user to access the network without competing for an available time slot.
If your local repeater gives you access to a network such as DMR-MARC, an openSPOT can give access to networks such as Brandmeister. You will now have access to the best of both worlds.
Summary
DMR repeaters are being placed in service daily, but currently there are only around 800 repeaters in the US. As for me, I am 25 miles away from my two nearest repeaters and require an outside antenna to reliably use them (and I’m one of the lucky ones). In some areas of the country, digital repeaters don’t exist.
The solution quickly became obvious. To enjoy the freedom of a handheld, I needed the help of a hotspot. After listening to several configurations over the past several months, I am convinced daily that I definitely made the right decision with an openSPOT, with everything I need condensed into one small package.
If your local repeater gives you access to a network such as DMR-MARC, an openSPOT can give access to networks such as Brandmeister. You will now have access to the best of both worlds.
Summary
DMR repeaters are being placed in service daily, but currently there are only around 800 repeaters in the US. As for me, I am 25 miles away from my two nearest repeaters and require an outside antenna to reliably use them (and I’m one of the lucky ones). In some areas of the country, digital repeaters don’t exist.
The solution quickly became obvious. To enjoy the freedom of a handheld, I needed the help of a hotspot. After listening to several configurations over the past several months, I am convinced daily that I definitely made the right decision with an openSPOT, with everything I need condensed into one small package.
What's So Special?? Shark RF Openspot Review
What's So Special?? Shark RF Openspot Review
This week I'm reviewing the Openspot by Shark RF. No images to hunt down, It runs D-Star, DMR & Fusion all in one box.
This week I'm reviewing the Openspot by Shark RF. No images to hunt down, It runs D-Star, DMR & Fusion all in one box.
SharkRF OpenSPOT Review
SharkRF OpenSPOT Review
First, let me say that I have been engaged in digital voice radio since the early 2000's and I have had experience with Project-25, D-Star, NXDN, DMR, and C4FM and I have owned and built several hotspots over the past ten or so years; to-date, I have not found a better product for use with digital voice. As of this writing on 09/21/2016, firmware version 0056, the device supports three modes; DMR, D-Star, and C4FM. One unique feature of this product is the ability to transcode from DMR to C4FM and C4FM to DMR, meaning you only need one radio to work both modes. No need to waste your money on purchasing crappy Yaesu hardware that is plagued with numerous interface and firmware issues. If you have a DMR radio, just setup the transcode mode and talk to your buddies on C4FM; though there aren't many there as the bulk of the users are in the DMR and D-Star worlds. For the money, this is an excellent device, that is quality built, has a very clean web interface for control and the firmware updates couldn't be any easier to perform, even for novice computers users. If you are new to DMR or D-Star, this is the device for you; don't waste your money on the DV4mini or ANY product from Wireless Holdings, they are plagued with software and firmware issues, lack support, and sound just awful on the network with VERY few exceptions. This device powers up and works and experienced users can even tweak the advanced settings to perfect their audio and operating conditions. This will be the best $225 you'll ever spend exploring digital voice operations on amateur radio. If you want to hear live audio from it or just ask questions about this device, give me a call either on DMR via "USA Nationwide" talkgroup or on "D-Star Reflector 030C" as I am always monitoring both. Get yourself a Shark RF OpenSPOT, you won't be disappointed... As for the DV4mini, if you have one, please stop polluting the DMR talkgroups and toss that POS in the garbage where it belongs so we can all enjoy the clean, crisp-clear audio of DMR again!
First, let me say that I have been engaged in digital voice radio since the early 2000's and I have had experience with Project-25, D-Star, NXDN, DMR, and C4FM and I have owned and built several hotspots over the past ten or so years; to-date, I have not found a better product for use with digital voice. As of this writing on 09/21/2016, firmware version 0056, the device supports three modes; DMR, D-Star, and C4FM. One unique feature of this product is the ability to transcode from DMR to C4FM and C4FM to DMR, meaning you only need one radio to work both modes. No need to waste your money on purchasing crappy Yaesu hardware that is plagued with numerous interface and firmware issues. If you have a DMR radio, just setup the transcode mode and talk to your buddies on C4FM; though there aren't many there as the bulk of the users are in the DMR and D-Star worlds. For the money, this is an excellent device, that is quality built, has a very clean web interface for control and the firmware updates couldn't be any easier to perform, even for novice computers users. If you are new to DMR or D-Star, this is the device for you; don't waste your money on the DV4mini or ANY product from Wireless Holdings, they are plagued with software and firmware issues, lack support, and sound just awful on the network with VERY few exceptions. This device powers up and works and experienced users can even tweak the advanced settings to perfect their audio and operating conditions. This will be the best $225 you'll ever spend exploring digital voice operations on amateur radio. If you want to hear live audio from it or just ask questions about this device, give me a call either on DMR via "USA Nationwide" talkgroup or on "D-Star Reflector 030C" as I am always monitoring both. Get yourself a Shark RF OpenSPOT, you won't be disappointed... As for the DV4mini, if you have one, please stop polluting the DMR talkgroups and toss that POS in the garbage where it belongs so we can all enjoy the clean, crisp-clear audio of DMR again!
Ham Radio 2.0: Episode 65 - SharkRF Openspot Demonstration
Episode 65 - SharkRF Openspot Demonstration
The SharkRF Openspot is currently the newest and hottest DV hotspot in the Amateur Radio world. It performs cross-talk between DMR and Yaesu System Fusion, allowing users with DMR radios to talk on a YSF network, and vice-versa. Watch this video for setup and demonstration.
The SharkRF Openspot is currently the newest and hottest DV hotspot in the Amateur Radio world. It performs cross-talk between DMR and Yaesu System Fusion, allowing users with DMR radios to talk on a YSF network, and vice-versa. Watch this video for setup and demonstration.
openSPOT Setup and Interface
openSPOT Setup and Interface
To set up the openSPOT, I connected it to the USB power source and my WiFi router using the supplied Ethernet cable. The openSPOT has two internal micro-controllers, designed to use a web based interface. Once connected to my WiFi router, the openSPOT was accessed by simply logging into //openspot.local. I didn’t need to load any additional software or drivers. Everything is self contained.
At that point, all that was necessary was to enter:
– The operating mode (DMR, C4FM, D-Star)
– My callsign
– My DMR ID (available from DMR-MARC)
– The desired server
– The input and output frequency of my handheld
Note: The openSPOT allows you to select two different frequencies if desired.
After that, a 30 second calibration, and I was on the air.
The LEDs give a clear status indication during operation.
Once configured, time slot, trunk group, etc. information is controlled by your handheld. You set it, and forget it.
To set up the openSPOT, I connected it to the USB power source and my WiFi router using the supplied Ethernet cable. The openSPOT has two internal micro-controllers, designed to use a web based interface. Once connected to my WiFi router, the openSPOT was accessed by simply logging into //openspot.local. I didn’t need to load any additional software or drivers. Everything is self contained.
At that point, all that was necessary was to enter:
– The operating mode (DMR, C4FM, D-Star)
– My callsign
– My DMR ID (available from DMR-MARC)
– The desired server
– The input and output frequency of my handheld
Note: The openSPOT allows you to select two different frequencies if desired.
After that, a 30 second calibration, and I was on the air.
The LEDs give a clear status indication during operation.
Once configured, time slot, trunk group, etc. information is controlled by your handheld. You set it, and forget it.
openSPOT: How to set up cross mode operation
openSPOT: How to set up cross mode operation
This tutorial video shows how you can connect openSPOT to BrandMeister with a C4FM radio. There's a quick demo showing cross mode operation.
This tutorial video shows how you can connect openSPOT to BrandMeister with a C4FM radio. There's a quick demo showing cross mode operation.
openSPOT intro
openSPOT intro
A short introductory video in which you can see openSPOT working, the desktop and mobile web interface, and hear the DMR voice quality in two short echo tests.
A short introductory video in which you can see openSPOT working, the desktop and mobile web interface, and hear the DMR voice quality in two short echo tests.
openSPOT is now available for backorder!
Dear customers,
The next batch of openSPOT is now available for backorder in the shop!
All units backordered before 17th November have been shipped.
Estimated shipping date for units backordered after 17th November is 20th December.
UPDATE: Now our payment gateway provider is Braintree (subsidiary of PayPal). If you had payment problems on shop.sharkrf.com in the past, please try again
https://www.sharkrf.com
The next batch of openSPOT is now available for backorder in the shop!
All units backordered before 17th November have been shipped.
Estimated shipping date for units backordered after 17th November is 20th December.
UPDATE: Now our payment gateway provider is Braintree (subsidiary of PayPal). If you had payment problems on shop.sharkrf.com in the past, please try again
https://www.sharkrf.com
openSPOT is a standalone digital radio IP gateway / hotspot
- Supports DMR (Brandmeister, DMRplus), D-Star (DCS, REF/DPlus, XRF/DExtra, XLX), System Fusion (FCS, YSFReflector) networks. More supported networks and features will be available with new firmware releases.
- Supports cross modem modes. Talk with your C4FM radio on DMR, and with your DMR radio on System Fusion networks!
- Very easy to use, works without a computer. No additional hardware required, works out of the box. All accessories included.
- Web interface for configuration and monitoring.
- HTTP, UDP/TCP API support.
- Custom 2FSK/4FSK RF protocol support with TDMA.
- USB powered, low energy consumption, 20mW RF output.
- Create your own private radio network using our open source server application.
- Runs fully embedded software written in pure C, running on an embedded real time operating system. No Linux, bulky Windows software or failing SD cards!
SharkRF openSPOT Mobile Installation
But how about Mobile Installation
Here’s where I became a bit creative. Rather than connecting directly to my router (downstairs), I wanted to see the lights flashing, so I purchased a TP-Link TL-WR802N and set it up as a client to access my in home WiFi. The openSPOT never missed a beat.Why the TP-Link? Well, it is just slightly smaller than the openSPOT, connects via an Ethernet connection, and fits nicely on top of my RAVPower 22000mAh battery. I linked the TP-Link to my Cellular WiFi hotspot and now, instant digital mobile. I also successfully tried a Vonets VAR11N-300 mini.
Now when traveling or on vacation, I no longer need to program a codeplug for every repeater along the way. I set the radio to mate with the preselected openSPOT frequency, and that’s it. I now have access to the worldwide Brandmeister network
The entire mobile hardware configuration is approximately 2 x 3 x 6.5″ (5.5 x 8 x 16.5cm), not counting a few cables sticking out. The entire configuration fits inside a pencil box.
I also noted that the cellular data required is relatively small. Approximately 6MB per hour.