TGIF Network | Pi-Star Hotspot Setup - Best DMR Hotspot 2020

[@AlfonsoFaustino]

After viewing your video, I purchased one for use with my Motorola APX 8000HXE; I received it yesterday, 12-November-2020. Robert provided me with excellent post-sale support; I never used Pi-Star. This I one of the best purchases. Easy to use (e.g., FPP (Front Panel Programming)), great build-quality, and the RX/TX are crystal clear: BER is adjustable, and I’m at .2% ~ .4%. All the P25 operators told me I sound great. I use the TGIF-Spot exclusively for my Motorola APX 8000HXE. I like the TGIF-Spot more than my openSPOT3. Thanks for your video and review: honest and helpful.

[@valentin.32]

Love all your content, thanks to you, i have been studying, and next month i have my official license test. Cross finger I learned alout thanks to you!

[@valentin.32]

Thanks!

[@madmax9813]

thanks Jason, helped me.....AGAIN! hooking up my new skybridge plus to use in conjunction with my icom 9700 for DSTAR

[@vparmato]

Just picked up a TGIF Spot...great hotspot!

[@Nanci43]

I ordered one today. Robert called me, to verify a few items on my setup request. He's dropping it in the mail to me today. Thank you Jason for all you do !

[@HamRadio2]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@josephschmidt9298]

Keith Mavin how did I order this? Will it work with iPhone hot spot? My current one doesn’t. Thanks

[@Nanci43]

@@josephschmidt9298 go to Roberts website: tgifspot.com I would ask him about iPhone. I'm not sure.

[@Nanci43]

@@HamRadio2 got the unit yesterday. I love it. Robert has a GREAT product here ! Thanks again for your review.

[@Photoeye65]

Yes, Robert is very eager to help! TGIFSpot.com is a first class operation. I am using the 3.5” version in shack and bought the Junior for mobile operation.

[@rickcross2326]

Great video, even better hot spot! I believe the reason Robert uses a 90 degree fitting for the antenna is that in that configuration with the hotsport set vertically it runs much cooler that when laid flat.

[@ronniecasey494]

Absolutely a great Digital Hot Spot, could not ask for any better. You are spot on with your comments on them.

[@eddiecollins459]

I built a MMDVM dual hat hotspot with a 2.4 nextion display and a c4labs case . I have the Brandmeister network on time slot 1 and the TGIF network on time slot 2. The setup works great.

[@HamRadio2]

Agreed, that sounds like a great setup.

[@Stephenwolfejenkins]

Got a question how you split up your time slot?

[@tbatt469]

I purchased one of these after watching your video. GREAT Product. GREAT customer service right over the air. Robert and his team make a fantastic product.

[@Brianflys]

Just got my TGIF Spot based on this video from Jason. Thanks! Also made sure to tell Robert where I saw the review and that this sealed the deal to buy it. Can't wait to get it online when my Anytone arrives.

[@clarkarturo579]

I know im asking randomly but does anybody know a trick to get back into an instagram account?? I somehow lost my password. I appreciate any tricks you can give me!

[@JustLearning]

I love that the power cable connects from the top of the hot spot and not the bottom.

[@billsbullets]

Just pulled the trigger on one. Thanks..

[@HamRadio2]

Nice

[@barndweller4573]

I wish you would do a walkthrough on how to make it work with D-Star and Fushion. I purchased one used and I am lost. I do not have a DMR rig.

[@aldewitt9]

I just had that repeating/looping experience on 3100 the other day. The guy who did it was clueless as to the cause. Thanks for sharing.

[@HamRadio2]

Yeah most people are clueless about it - they aren't doing it on purpose. It helps to share info so people can learn about it.

[@edwardharding8148]

I have 2 TGIF hotspots, the junior and the 2.5 Nextion screen version, both work flawlessly. I plan to get this larger version soon. I have received help via phone, email and radio with the builder, Robert K4WZV, numerous times! Great customer service ! I recommend TGIF products. KO4DJM

[@lowcountryhdrider7644]

Still using my reliable OpenSPOT2!

[@HamRadio2]

I like that one also.

[@michaelpunt-kf0akl685]

Just set up my TGIF Hotspot. So far it's great. Within 5 minutes of setting it up I had some DMR QSOs and a Fusion QSO as well.

[@HamRadio2]

Great!

[@jemalone1]

I see that you can use any digital radio to talk to YSF, DSTAR and DMR all from one radio using this Hotspt. So how would I program my DMR radio to use DSTAR or YSF with this Hotspot? thanks I am planning on getting a Hotspot ASAP, trying to decide on this one or another brand.

[@HamRadio2]

That's done in the hotspot setup menu. Basically you would use TS2/TG9 and program the hotspot to connect that to a DSTAR or YSF reflector.

[@mattcero1]

What about firewall rules? Ports? Everyone is behind a firewall now and a video describing what ports and rules need to be configured in a firewall to allow pi-star to communicate behind it. Thanks mate.

[@W5HSJ]

Jason, keep up the fantastic work! I enjoy your reviews and sharing your knowledge of our fantastic hobby. God bless, Mark W5HSJ Corpus Christi, Texas.

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks, will do!

[@zohanzohan]

nice video. looking into one of these TGIF's spots... yes that 3.5 screen looks nice, plenty of info. nice features as well...

[@HamRadio2]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dwayne5530]

I think if I was buying a prebuilt pi-star hotpot at this price I would probably spend the extra $20 and get the DXmini that you reviewed a couple of weeks ago that has duplex and IMO the build quality looks better. I need to get on TGIF more. I have my hotspot setup to do both...

[@HamRadio2]

Both of them work well, imo.

[@nevets68]

If you go to the DX mini site, it says that builder isn't making them anymore.

[@cfisupply]

You mentioned the "ID Loop" on DMR. I wondered if DMR would do that. Right now I do have 2 hotspots (one OpenSpot, one MMDVM on a Pi Zero W). They're on different frequencies, but I was thinking of putting one in my car for a mobile hotspot. Anyway... I got into one of those loops when playing with AllStar linking in (as a client radio or a normal user) to a repeater. The two systems IDing kept both systems awake. LOL

[@HamRadio2]

Yeah I have heard it on Allstar too, just not as often.

[@grantar2]

Jason, some thoughts now that I have my TGIF Jr. up and running thanks to Roberts excellent technical support. First I have discovered that pi-star doesn't like special characters, which means the work to mate my spot to my network would have required changing the password, and a house and multiple offices full of devices. Went an alternate route and paired it to my phone hot spot. Here in lies a topic besides the TGIF Jr. that you haven't covered, and it leads to either the best known secret in DMR or a loser, I am not sure which, and that is the TGIF network itself. I can access Brandmeister via a local repeater, so am happy with than and on Tac3100, the California groups and World Wide there is almost always activity. There is however surprisingly little activity (based on monitoring the network activity) and this can be dull or it can be a boon for people looking to QSO and have space and not be trampled on. Suggestion would be a review of the network so that people become more aware of it. I am going to review your tutorials, but a good one would be how to shift networks on the hotspot. By the way got my beer glass, very nice quality. Also appreciate all the personal contact, joined your group, as well as being a subscriber. Lastly the PAPA system is having a sun spot briefing during their Saturday virtual club meeting in your interested.

[@amsoiltek]

We not just spin another SSID with a less complex password. I know this is 8 months old but maybe it come in handy.

[@RichCasey]

Thanks for the video Jason. I've had my TGIF Hotspot for a couple of months now and am very pleased with it. The screen is large enough to read that you don't need to tie up a monitor. Thumbs up! 73 de Rich N5CSU

[@HamRadio2]

Great to hear!

[@johnckerner1007]

Jason could you do a video on how to add a personal picture for the TGIF Spot like Robert K4WZV has when he transmit. Thanks John K KB4SGA

[@DanClark-kq1dq]

Jason, thanks for your informative videos. I have been using BM network for over a year and thinking of trying TGIF, first on a second hotspot. How practical would it be to use both hotspots at the same time, on separate frequencies. I have also been thinking of how to set up separate zones for each network, within the same code plug.

[@HamRadio2]

As long as they're on different frequencies, you should be good

[@K1EDH]

Jason, can we set a time up so you can help me set up my phone to work with my hotspot?

[@garykamm2012]

I just ordered one of these. Thanks for all the info. I have a Th D-74 and plan to use the hotspot for D-star. I was wondering if I'd be able to change reflectors from the radio ( as if I was connecting via repeater) or would I need to use the screen to do that?

[@jerryk7er686]

I ordered one last night... I have a Zumspot it drives me nuts trying to change rooms so looking forward to the TGIF Thanks Jason 73 Jerry de K7ER

[@HamRadio2]

Let me know how you like it.

[@bluewatermike9249]

It asks for a frequency when you purchase, was not sure how to decide what frequency to choose to avoid? He makes that choice?

[@ThorinOakenshieldGSD2023]

Did you ever do a review of the TGIFSPOT Jr?

[@HamRadio2]

No

[@grantar2]

Jason a couple of questions. 1 you note you have the 2.4" TGIF but I don't see a review of it in your library, as well there appears to be TGIF Junior at less than half the price that appears to be a dual band, but I don't see a review on that. In fact I can't find a review of it anywhere on KZbin by anybody. Being new to DMR and just casually interested I purchased the RT72 which I am finally coming to grips with, and even enjoying. It's main failing at this point is the volume knob functionality. I also purchased an assembled Jumbo Spot from eBay. It powers, transmitted for awhile but I have never been able to connect to it. (by the way DuckDuckGo gets in the way of pulling up the pi-star page at least for me). So I am looking at other hotspots well playing with Dude Star or using my RT72 off the local PAPA System DMR repeater. I really don't want to buy a TGIF 3.5" and Open Spot, etc that is four to five times the cost of my radio. By all appearances all three of these TGIF hotspots do exactly the same thing, but even their Facebook site doesn't clarify differences. Just saying. Vs a generic Jumbo Spot the TGIF Junior looks like a bargain if it comes per set up as it appears it does.

[@HamRadio2]

I have reviewed two of the TGIFspots on this channel, the one with the smaller screen and the one with the larger screen. I'm not aware of one called "Junior" Perhaps he released something new recently, I will go check it out and see what I can find. as far as the price, what you are actually paying for is build quality and longevity. I've used jumbo spots in the past that died after a few months. Also, apparently there are many copies of the jumbo spot, and a lot of them are far lesser quality. it is entirely possible for you to buy a cheap hotspot and use it for a long time to come, however experience has shown me that these more expensive ones, that are tested before the customer gets their hands on them, last longer and perform better.

[@grantar2]

@@HamRadio2 Roberts service is outstanding. May be the hotspots don't like my AT&T supplied router.

[@Donkarnage223]

at 6:20 in your video what needs to be typed in to get to the Pi-Star dashboard?

[@schoocg]

Jason, thanks for reviewing this version of TGIF SPOT. It needs the exposure it deserves. A GREAT product and the support is outstanding. I posted a couple days ago on your other review of this versions little brother. I am reposting my same comments below because it is pertinent mostly to this model. Great review thank you! ================== This is a repost of my comments from the other TGIF Spot, I have the version you just watched,: I have had one up and running for a couple days now. I am not new to Ham but for sure new to digital and D-Star. After watching your video I decided to make this my first hotspot purchase. I am mostly a full time RVer and I need the ability to link to different WIFI signals often. The function of seeing and choosing a WIFI connection was a big deal to me. But, mostly connect to my iPhone's cellular hotspot when WIFI not available. Its very easy as you pointed out, I have a newer version of screen s/w and its even better now. The TGIF Spot is very well constructed and the display is better in real life than your video depicts. I am new to hotspots and configuring etc so I emailed the owner, Robert Bretzman, and he replied with his cell phone number and he was very helpful getting me started up. I do have a couple recommendations for the TGIF Spot and its not about the device itself. If you are new to the digital world the documentation will leave you at a loss. This is one area he really needs to up the game and it would not take very much effort. Second, yes you can see his products on his web site and order one, but it too needs a major facelift to attract customers. It does not have that professional look and feel...nor is there any link or documentation in support of his hot spots on his site. That did not deter my purchase because Robert was so helpful in getting my order in and helping me out. As he scales this kind of service won't scale and his web site and documentation needs to fill that gap. I do really like his product and would highly recommend it too.I would like to see more reviews out there, great product needs more people like you reviewing.

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks for commenting

[@N4EJM]

Dang I saw KB4QCE Paul show up at the 18:20 mark, he lives in the next town over from me. I’ll have to share this video with him.

[@jemalone1]

Thank you for reviewing the TGIF Hotspot.

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks for commenting

[@jdoolan21209]

It looks like it came with TGIF Network for the master. Can you simply change the selection in the drop down to the Brandmeister network and get their TGs?

[@HamRadio2]

Yes. Same as all Pistar devices

[@AI5HV]

I really like your video. Do you have an affiliate link to the site where I can order one of these TIGF Network hot spots ?

[@jacksarebetter]

Looking at buying this and on the website it asks for your wifi name and password so they can set it up before they ship it..but if that is true. Wouldn't it be locked into only that wifi? What if I wanted to take it in my truck and use my truck wifi..or use it anywhere with my jetpack Hotspot?

[@DeltaWhiskeyBravo13579]

Excellent review there Jason. Thanks for the info on this. It looks nice. 73s KC3PRU

[@68vmoore]

I'm new to Ham radio and just got a 5100 and intrested in getting something like this. I have more wants than $$$. So where does the hotspot get internet access from when you are not near a wifi network? 73 from KO4MAQ

[@HamRadio2]

You have to be near WiFi, or Ethernet. You can connect the hotspot to your smartphone's WiFi hotspot if you want, lots of folks do that.

[@danielgrassi4165]

Hi Jason, great video! Would you consider this still a top pick in 2022 for System Fusion? I am just diving into digital modes. I just ordered a FT5DR and also run a FTM 400DR in my truck.

[@HamRadio2]

Yes these hotspots are great

[@coolvideos8864]

The delays between the overs.... Is that normal?

[@HamRadio2]

Yes. If you key up too quickly you might key up on top of someone. Any time you are talking over network-connected devices, it is good practice to leave some extra space in there to allow for the network latency to catch up.

[@AntoninoVasta]

Hi, where can I find the .HMI file for my Nextion 3.2 inch. Thanks and congratulations for the beautiful Hotspot.

[@kc9sioreiners308]

The HMI file is not available.

[@corydavis4717]

There are so many hotspots, which is best for DMR?

[@edwardharding8148]

You mentioned you prefer to use your second DMR ID for your hot spot. How do you get more than one ID (asking for a friend) ?

[@HamRadio2]

You automatically get 2 when you register on RadioID.net

[@edwardharding8148]

@@HamRadio2 I did register on RadioID.net and was only issued one. You can add a two digit suffix, but they don't issue but one ID. Maybe they changed the process . Oh yes, your review impressed me and I ordered a TGIF hot spot.

[@rickscott5725]

Jason, How are you viewing the dashboard on your computer when the pi-star is working wirelessly? I'm having issues linking my phone to the Pi -Star 0W and even when it was working I could not view dashboard on the computer. Just interested....

[@HamRadio2]

They are both on the same network, so you just enter the IP of the Pi-star device into the browser.

[@MidFiMan]

Jason, what’s the real difference between the 2.5 and 3.5 except the obvious screen size? I’m trying to figure out which one to buy.

[@HamRadio2]

That's it. The screen size. AFAIK, the updates he does to the screens are done on both models. I can confirm that, though.

[@MidFiMan]

Ham Radio 2.0 thanks! Me and close friend are trying to figure this out. He’s a lawyer in a rural Missouri town w/ no local DSTAR and I’m in NC in the same situation. We both hate DMR. As far as hotspots go, somebody in his local club lended him a ultra basic and old RP hotspot and he said “Hell, I have to think hard enough for my job, I’m not going to think this hard for my hobby!” I feel the same way. LOL. We need something relatively easy.

[@MidFiMan]

Ham Radio 2.0 it is frustrating that nobody that I’ve seen has demonstrated it with Dstar.

[@donaldsmith3048]

I do DMR! Can I use this and just program my radio for duel time slot? I need something for when I travel and have trouble getting back home to talk to my friends and check into my local nets.

[@HamRadio2]

This device isn't dual timeslot

[@donaldsmith3048]

@@HamRadio2 I got a TGIF Spot. It only does time slot 2 but it does what I want it to do. It gets me on the radio when there is no DMR repeater near, or I don't know what is near.

[@Harvey-Paul]

How do you get updates?

[@jeffkohn2433]

Can I access the brandmeir network with this

[@HamRadio2]

Yes

[@allenvestal4474]

My new hotspot has the Nextion 3.2 inch display but I only see the call sign and DMR number. Less information than I get on my 878 plus screen.

[@HamRadio2]

Allen, not sure which hotspot you have, but contact whoever you bought it from and see if there is a firmware update to the screen. Or if you built it, do the same thing...make sure the screen has the latest firmware/version.

[@bthemedia]

@6:42 and 23:35 Single Timeslot hotspot - does NOT support DMR!?! 🧐That’s what I want to use, so I guess I will have to wait for a future version to support dual time slot and DMR. 🤷‍♂️

[@bthemedia]

Yet the video description says to “for DMR and make some DMR QSOs”!?!

[@HamRadio2]

Huh? No...no, that isn't what I said. What I said was... a DUAL timeslot hotspot is ONLY good for DMR...meaning it isn't needed or usable for Fusion, DSTAR, etc. You can use a single timeslot hotspot for EVERYTHING, including DMR. The dual timeslot is ONLY for DMR, not other modes.

[@bthemedia]

@17:35 can talk “Fusion” to this Hotspot, and the HotSpot converts/relays it to “DMR”. That is interesting.

[@HamRadio2]

@@bthemedia Yes....most of them do that, though.

[@africantwin173]

We need some affordable f3e SVXLINK Allstar hotspots in EU. There are too many Digital DMR ,Pi-star hotspots.

[@HamRadio2]

I'm not familiar with SVXLINK but I have an Allstar hotspot that I built myself from the RIM_Alinco device from RepeaterBuilder.com

[@carlhale8990]

Two questions, sorry if they are dumb. 1. Does the TGIF Spot work on the Brandmeister Network, or will it only work with TGIF? 2. Do you know if the TGIF Spot 2.4inch version also has the option to set WiFi from the screen?

[@HamRadio2]

The TGIFspot will work on any network. Not sure about the version with the other screen

[@timw8ngt]

I have a question about this hotspot. I have a Anytone 878 and am wondering is this hotspot better than the one Bridgecom has for the 878? What are you thoughts and thank you for your opinion on the subject.

[@HamRadio2]

Yes...this hotspot is better than the one that Bridgecom sells. I use my 878 in this video with this hotspot.

[@timw8ngt]

Ham Radio 2.0 thank you for the answer. I appreciate your opinion and letting me know. Thanks for the video and information on this subject. Stay safe.

[@adamw1ami804]

TGIF 3.5 or Zumspot 3.5? Which is better? Why?

[@HamRadio2]

Both are pretty good, although I have not used the Zumspot

[@vparmato]

What is the difference between the TGIF Spot and the HRO Zumspot Nextion?

[@HamRadio2]

I don't have the Zumspot, but I know it is a Pi-star device. So the 2 devices are probably similar

[@SbrGrendel65]

From reviews online it appears you have to connect to the zumspot with a computer to set it up. Possibly to do other things on the zumspot. TGIF everything can be done on the actual device, so you don't need a computer. This is from watching videos on KZbin, most of them are older so not sure if things have changed to date with either device.

[@vparmato]

@@SbrGrendel65 I ended up purchasing the TGIF spot having a Jumbo spot previously from a few years back. I'm really happy with it. The greatest value is having the dashboard on the TGIF spot display. This really helps when I want to use it in a portable form when I don't have a computer handy.

[@mraleksk1]

Thank you, Jason. Great review and show. Very nice hotspot! KM6LBV 73

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks 👍

[@rtcy2008]

Jason as a new user to DMR , i have the Anytone 878uvplus , and using a papasys.com plug here is Los Angeles, If I bought this hot spot , what would I set my frqency to ? I noticed the spot you were using was on 434.500 would i set my Anytone to that FREQ ? and it would then connect to the hotspot ?

[@tbatt469]

I'd like to see a better explanation of the "profiles". I get all of the frequency entries, but the rest has me puzzled.

[@robertbretzman9121]

You can save 6 profiles all with different modes, frequency's, rx and tx offsets, and networks. you can easily switch between them with a couple touch screen functions.

[@tbatt469]

@@robertbretzman9121 Where do you get the IP/DNS Name, the password and server port information?

[@robertbretzman9121]

@@tbatt469 It is under expert under mmdvm in DMR window.

[@PU2RLM]

how do I install the Nextion Drive on the pi-star ???

[@HamRadio2]

I've never done it. The TGIF Hotspot comes with this pre-installed.

[@coolvideos8864]

Do people on DMR only talk about DMR? Or is it now used just to have a chat?

[@HamRadio2]

Anything

[@wesleyjustice3686]

Fyi use something other than a white background camera trying to adjust to the white

[@HamRadio2]

I used to use a medium gray background but that was harder to adjust for than the white. I have a couple of other ideas I'm going to try.

[@YourFeatheryFriend]

I'm interested in this hotspot but when I go to the website it says "5.6.0+ Required for AbanteCart to work properly! Please contact your system administrator or host service provider.". Does anyone know why i can't access the website?

[@HamRadio2]

I just pulled up the website and it is working fine. Are you on your company laptop or internet? You might have some firewall or permissions blocking going on.

[@YourFeatheryFriend]

@@HamRadio2 Just home internet with BT and I'm only using windows defender. Tried searching google with the error but didn't get much there

[@robertbretzman9121]

Simon, not sure why you cannot access website. This is the first I have heard of a issue. Try another browser. If you could take a screen shot of the error you are getting. You can also email me and I will give you my phone # and would be happy to answer any questions. Thanks, Robert

[@lawrencemayfield9669]

I bought one love it for the anytone 878 uv plus from bridgecom. Duane at bridgecom hooked me to get up and running. Now wondering how touse my yaesu FT-3d and system fusion working on this hot spot.

[@lawrencemayfield9669]

Plus I told robert your the reason I bought it -73

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks. But check the FTM-300 video, I do show setup instructions for connecting to 2 different YSF rooms from this hotspot.

[@michaelanthony8204]

Just curious, so I understand, I need to take a test, get a license, so I can transmit to the hotspot, then it just becomes a network radio? - not trying to be rude, just not understanding, why not just buy a network radio and no license? please help.

[@robertbretzman9121]

Because the networks are bridged and connected to many repeaters around the world which transmits over the air. Also the radio you use to TX to the hot spot is required by the FCC to have a license to use.

[@michaelcorrothers8340]

It goes well beyond feelings...

[@HamRadio2]

Sure

[@lawrencemayfield9669]

what HMI file is he using? is it on github? can i buy it from him for a 2.4 nextion on 2.4 screen?

[@HamRadio2]

Reach out to him through TGIFspot.com - there is a guy who designed the screen firmware, can't remember his name atm.

[@lawrencemayfield9669]

@@HamRadio2 Thank you sir

[@kc9sioreiners308]

@@lawrencemayfield9669, as per the request of the developers of the HMI file, he can NOT give that out.

[@josephschmidt9298]

My hot spot will never sync up to my iphone hot spot. Would love to use it in my vehicle but limited to the house. Any suggestions? Thanks

[@robertbretzman9121]

I sent you a e-mail Paul. I have customers that just tether to their iPhone with a cable. That works most of the time. The problem is a authentication issue that a Apple update seemed to have caused this issue. Try this. Connect your iPhone to your pc and when your phone ask if this is a trusted device answer yes. Then sign into your hot spot with that pc (which is now a trusted device of the iPhone. reconfigure your wifi settings and hit save and connect. Do not use special characters for SSID and password. The sequence is also important to connect. Turn hot spot on in phone first wait 30 seconds then power up hot spot. Good luck

[@louism9891]

Jason, I bought this hot spot works awesome, I like the shut off on the screen and the reboot , Thanks Louie W1CH

[@HamRadio2]

Glad to hear it, thanks for commenting.

[@W9HJBill]

I have one and I love it!

[@HamRadio2]

It like mine also

[@steadfast666]

do we really need another network???

[@HamRadio2]

That is a good question. But this network has been around for a while, this isn't really new today, it is just the "newest" one.

[@johnlwilkers]

Yes.... Yes we do.

[@manosmargaronis]

Can you adjust the rf power? Is there a discount coupon? Thx

[@robertbretzman9121]

Yes, You can adjust the RF output to 10mw. Sorry no discount coupon at this time.

[@talbizle]

Hey everyone. I really want to know if you can link pi-stars to each other directly? I called about a c-bridge and after a few emails I never heard back. I think they are busy.

[@talbizle]

I was told that a c-bridge is not needed to link Motorola repeaters. The problem is that only one of my repeaters is Motorola. The rest use an mmdvm board with pi-stars.

[@randyhavener1851]

Thank you Jason!

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks for watching

[@EdVelez]

Sounds like a gimmick to me. A pi is a pi, a hotspot is a hotspot. I can use my OS2 and Zumspot to access TGIF. Unfortunately they dont link the TG I use to external servers.

[@HamRadio2]

It isn't a gimmick, it is a brand of hotspot made by the folks who run the TGIF network. Nowhere was it ever said that this was the only way to access TGIF. In fact, I mention several times in this video, and also in the video for the previous model they have, that you can access TGIF from any hotspot because they added it to the pre-populated menus of Pi-star and the Openspot. Just because they decided to make one with their name on it, doesn't mean that you can't use another one.

[@EdVelez]

@@HamRadio2 I agree Jason that any Hotspot will do. I would prefer to see them stick to their core product in providing connectivity to hams. I am not a fan of BM these days with all the issues that come with that network. There are plenty of hotspot manufacturers to go around these days and if TGIF came out with a hotspot that could differentiate itself from all the others...for sure I would take more interest. So I will be watching tonight to see what they have to offer.

[@BrianMackey2010]

@@EdVelez It has and does Not sure why your here if you don't like the view? I worked close with Robert and His team they have created a fun enjoyable item - Needed? nope, fun yes! KC1MAC

[@EdVelez]

@@BrianMackey2010 After seeing the price...I decided I would build my own. For those that dont have the skills..and can afford it, this is right down their alley.

[@BrianMackey2010]

@@EdVelez Understood, i can no longer solder and Im not alone, I have no clue about the next-ion editor and have much better things to do with my time than learn it. Its not always about how much something is, but more about what it will do for you. Pricey? Yep, worth it YES. But I hear you :)

[@pstgh]

Very nice..... but $280 !?!? yikes!

[@robertbretzman9121]

Flip it comes with a 1 year warranty and 24-7 live customer support on our DMR network....

[@WeirdMedicine]

@@robertbretzman9121 IN ADDITION...understandable instructions, and reliable customer support. Try that with some of these dirt-cheap imports. ;-)

[@josebrivera1716]

Dude! What’s up with hitting us with a commercial just a minute and a half into this video?

[@HamRadio2]

Typically those are auto-set by YT but I will go and adjust it

[@erics6177]

The downside to the tgif spot is that they default it to be connected to the tgif network. You deal with rodger, rodger. Those hotspots are expensive.

[@gary1649]

In my experience, the TGIF hotspot defaults to whatever network it was on when last shut down. It will stay on that network until you change it.

[@HamRadio2]

Gary is correct. The hotspot is set to TGIF when you first purchase it, but it doesn't 'default" back to that connection after you change it. If you set it to another server or mode, it will be at that same place the next time you go to use it.

[@robertbretzman9121]

@@HamRadio2 That is correct. We have it default to TGIF 31665 when it first turns on. that way customers can get a first time check with their new hot spot. What better way than they are able to talk to who built the the hot spot. Help them live one on one with any bit error adjustments. And answer the questions that a new user might have. I even show my customers how to switch between the different networks and save profiles for each of the networks.

[@steadfast666]

TGIF = Thanks god is friday???

[@HamRadio2]

I assume that is what it stands for, yes. It is the name of the newest DMR network

[@Harvey-Paul]

What's your favorite hotspot?

[@davidsradioroom9678]

Would you consider this the best hotspot on the market?

[@HamRadio2]

One of the best. Lots of them are good.

[@keving5211]

I would suggest that the openspot3 is the best in terms of capability, cross mode features using hardware decode. The device is all running in hardware, not on a Pi platform. Battery for those who like that. In terms of Wi-Fi on the OS3, I've been having issues but still trying to resolve.

[@diamondan38]

Go get an os3 you'll be happier. They actually support their product with updates.

[@keving5211]

Purchased a TGIF 3.5" spot. Big Mistake. On receiving the device, I contacted the seller and asked where his support files are or a list of files needed to rebuild from scratch. Obviously Pi-Star is available but anything else that he's added. He responded with "Make a clone of the SD card". Okay, I get it and I usually do that too with Rpi based devices. But, my questions was how to load up from scratch. Turns out, the screen software he does not make available. He said he has 1000's of hours into it and does not want to share his business with me. I was unhappy with this proprietary approach so, I politely asked for a refund. He said - NO REFUNDS. Buyer Beware. The device is okay, Pi3b, C4 case, not sure on the radio board. Odd antenna location but manageable. If I ignore the proprietary nature of the display drivers, it’s okay just a tad high in cost. Close to the OpenSpot 3, a far superior device. Obviously I can rebuild my device if needed and just not use the same screen gimmicks or the so called by-directional screen. In my opinion, do yourself a favor, look elsewhere or buy the bits and and make one yourself. This one will be for sale very soon. Still got the screen protector on it and never plugged in. Happy to share pics or any files on the SD card if you need them.

[@breakfreetv]

Rebuild from scratch? Why would the seller need to provide you anything if you can rebuild it from scratch? The pi-star files are out there which are open source and the *TGIF* screen files are proprietary *_"because they have 1000's of hours in building them"_* just like you said. The OLED screen on the TGIF has all of the supporting documentation you need to build your own screen files, if you could rebuild it from scratch you wouldn't be asking for such nonsense. Sounds like you just bought a TGIF unit to copy it and re-brand it as yours but since you would have to be able to code to build the screen files instead of just editing what someone else already spent 1000's of hours coding now you wanna cry like a b*tch with a no content sock account on SOMEONE ELSE'S video comments... *Grow Up and Learn to Code* and then go make a video on _YOUR_ account showing how much better your coding is than the folks over at TGIF, then go shove your BLM Cancel Culture BS up your a$$ sideways. Hey TGIF, once this noob "learns how to* and codes his own screens *_"from scratch"_* (lol) be sure to send him a *how to* pdf on how to build a dmr network including all your site coding... please! I totally ran out of cheese for the whine and can't take anymore already. Anyway, I'm off to Microsoft to see if ole Billy boy will send me his OS coding files so I can sell a re-branded windows OS to unsuspecting noob nutjobs that can't code either. If he doesn't, I'm gonna ask for my money back, then complain online about it, then offer everyone DLL files if they need them. _holy cow!_

[@callsignk4zxx900]

@@breakfreetv hehehe , learn to code, it's a trigger phrase for sjw's... anyone with a basic understanding of rpi's & linux can extract, dcode, edit and rcode the screen libs... they should blacklist this dude on all the networks because he's an obvious clueless troublemaker, maybe someone will post his callsign. what do you think he would call his re-branded tgif? the CopySpot? ;p

[@breakfreetv]

@@callsignk4zxx900 The *CopySpot!* That's priceless! On sale now with very limited support on Ebay! HAHAHAHA I found it, KD6QFO. He posted this at e-ham; _I purchased this TGIF Hotspot a few days ago. When received, I looked for supporting software, manual, etc on sellers website. None of which to be found. My goal with any device like this is to take a backup at the very start and be able to build a new software setup from scratch in the event I need one. I asked the seller for the software components, locations so I can build a fresh install to learn and have as a backup. The seller pretty much said, the display driver is not available, not posted for download, etc. He recommended I clone the original card, which I would do anyways. But, the issue is that he will not provide the display files if you need to rebuild._ _Looking at the device, its okay but you can save a lot of money and learn more by building your own and sticking with a commonly available display. The included instructions are all in caps. No manual available to view or download. Constant referals the the TGIF network. I contacted the seller and requested a refund (Hotspot still in box). He said "No Refunds". Buyer beware. My recommendation is to avoid or stick with a well supported Zumspot._ So he wants to build it himself but recommends the Zumspot. Holy Christ Almighty will someone shoot me please!

[@callsignk4zxx900]

@@breakfreetv ah, he's a uk carpetbagger living in mexifornia, can anyone say cucked sally? bet he drives around alone in a car wearing a mask while pushing covid propaganda on his local repeaters.

[@keving5211]

@@callsignk4zxx900 - Hey Jeff - Keep your panties on please. I can see this going like most TGIF things, into the dirt. Howabout keep it factual and respectful, if nothing, for Jason's sake. I gave my opinion and experience with the seller, which I will share with many others, in person and on social media. Have you google'd the sellers callsign and TGIF in general, oh boy, what a mess. I don't beleive much I read on-line but there is some compelling threads out there. I state it again, the device is over priced and has a propriatory element. I have no interest or time in trying to copy his screen code, I focus on bigger things in life and life itself...

[@Taras-Nabad]

The screen has no purpose. I use a $50 Chinese hotspot, been working perfect for one year w/o a reboot.

[@HamRadio2]

The screen does indeed have a purpose. If you don't want to use it, that isn't a bad thing, but claiming it has no purpose is false. Always finding the cheapest option available and then trying to justify your cut-rate choice doesn't bode well for your argument.

[@Taras-Nabad]

@@HamRadio2 The hot spot typically sits high on a shelf to get he best signal . If you want to see the stats, the web UI is way more useful . The screen simply justifies the crazy high price. Not necessary and will be be received well by the frugal ham community.

[@HamRadio2]

@@Taras-Nabad Well like I said, if that is what works best for you, then that is what you should use. However, this video is 4 months old and has already been well-received by the Ham community. It isn't for everyone, no. But it is quite useful if the hotspot is sitting on your desk and you want to be using your computer screen for something else. And I have never had any issues with the hotspot sitting on a low-shelf, etc either.