Why are digital data modes so difficult? - DigiRig + Baofeng + Linux (Part I)

In this video, we're kicking off a series discussing why digital modes are so difficult. I'll try my best to explain the topic of digital modes simply. As an example, we'll configure a station using the DigiRig Mobile, a Baofeng UV-5R and Linux.
00:01 Introduction
01:50 What are data modes?
03:35 Station components
05:35 Baofeng settings
08:15 Station assembly
09:30 Sound card configuration
12:25 Adjust audio levels for receive
18:31 PTT configuration
20:30 APRS / YAAC Demo
25:00 Recap
DIGITAL MODES PLAYLIST: • Digital Modes Series
BLOG POST
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SUPPORT
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Station A:
Baofeng UV-5R - amzn.to/36L3C5w
DigiRig Mobile - digirig.net/pr...
Baofeng cables kit for Digirig Mobile - digirig.net/pr...
Coiled USB-A to USB-C cable - digirig.net/pr...
Station B:
Ulefone Armor X7 - amzn.to/3v9Dmv0
APRSDroid - play.google.co...
Yaesu FT-60 - www.hamradio.c...
Mobilinkd TNC2 - www.mobilinkd.com/
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
#TheTechPrepper #DigiRig #Baofeng

[@BentConrod]

RF in the shack can cause a myriad of problems. All those interconnecting cables are unintentional antennas. RF chokes are your friend, along with transmitting the lowest RF power possible. Also, given the extremely close proximity of the two transceivers, in demonstration situations such as this, I'd replace both of those greater gain than stock antennas with simply dummy loads. Sometimes problems are created by the humans.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Great comment! I pinned this post as you nailed the problem on the head. As soon as I gave the radios some distance it started working flawlessly. I have ferrite beads on the cables already, but need to get some dummy loads. This human caused the fail during the TX portion of the demo.

[@BentConrod]

@@TheTechPrepper Glad to hear the suggestions helped. Great content, keep up the good work. 73 from VK land.

[@xanatax1844]

Solid Comment/Reply! 💜👍 like, I *KNOW* to to wary of this, but I haven’t personally seen the fail-case, in action. … and that looks like a solid solution! if anyone sees this comment: have you seen the “Standing Up for Standing Wave” demo? … must be VERY analog. (can be found easily on KZbin) … okay, that’s pretty old, but they estimate they’re putting 30 Watts into the demo-rig. 😳 I’m not sure why this would need more than low-power / 1-Watt-mode on a BaoFeng … with LED indicators & whatnot? 🤨 LEDs work fine at 5mA … we *can* get that from a 1 Watt signal, right? (on the transmission line, tho) anyhow, I’ve done multiple experiments/projects on ISM bands, all under 500mW … and 🤷‍♀️ no idea why this demo needs 30 Watts, when all the equipment is in the same small room. … but it’s Ham Radio, not ISM, so … 100x Power is fine. 💜🤣👍

[@xanatax1844]

short follow-up: I mean … 😂 the parts where the Incandescent Light Bulbs are lit up with just RF energy. 😅 We could drop the radio power 10dB or so, and use LED indicators? because they just way lower power. cool, but it’s 2023 … put some small chips, and watch batteries on all the indicators … and just AMP. 😮 We could do this demo under 500mW, RF power? 🤷‍♀️ in a room.

[@Indigenous_Patriot_1175]

Love the digital capabilities and the content you presented 😊

[@ericbjorkman4665]

Looking forward to seeing more in this series. This stuff is more like leaning how to rebuild an engine vs. changing a flat tire. It takes time and many teachers. So thank you for taking a shot at clearing up the confusion.

[@TheTechPrepper]

You got that right. I think it will become easier as we work through the series together. There are some configurations that are less involved, but come with a couple of drawbacks. I look forward to sharing those with you and the community.

[@xanatax1844]

@@TheTechPrepper… I can do ALL of the linux stuff, but I’m “rusty” on the actual radio stuff. (been relearning it all pretty hard recently, so, “less rusty” now) 😂 just an observation, but I have friends that are also *crazy* good with linux … but they’ll be stone-cold-new to RADIO. 😮 not new to modems tho, very nerdy frens. can modem! … 😳 I’m going to have to “teach radio,” wowowow.

[@xanatax1844]

LOVE the “rebuilding an engine” metaphor! 💜👍 Thanks! I’m not amazing with gasoline-engines, but I can do Linux … it’s cool to compare the complexity … as mutual respect between different skills. 🥰

[@owlcricker-k7ulm]

OMG G-Man! I am trying to up my game and get on digital in HF. You did a great job with well presented information, but I'm a human. I think you are on to something here and hope you stimulate a simplified development in technology for us average joes. Two thumbs up.. I need an ice bag and adult beverage now so see you later.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I hope you enjoyed a tasty beverage after the propeller head content. We'll get to HF digital at the end of the series. It will be Winlink and JS8Call.

[@WisconsinGabe]

Love the chapter links, another great video!

[@TheTechPrepper]

It forces me to watch the whole video before I upload. Glad you like them.

[@CivilDefenseEngineer]

My friend is deaf, so we're going to have to set him up with some sort of digital mode for backup comms. Thanks for this.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad I could help!

[@ghostmandka5498]

Got the DigiRig for use with my Icom 706mKiiG but have yet to get time to set it up. Best for me so far is the Mobilinkd. Too bad they won't be back in production for a few months. Keep up the good work.

[@TheTechPrepper]

The Mobilinkd is packet only, but I agree. It is the simplest interface. I recommend this device to everyone. The 706 is a fantastic rig. I love all band, all mode rigs. If you ever want to sell it, give me a shout.

[@chrissewell1608]

I got a Hand-Me-Down (brand new!) Icom 706 Mark 1. I haven't set it up yet. Glad to hear you can set up a Digirig to it.... somehow?

[@benwilliams36]

This was excellent. It’s the right level of detail at each step of explaining the process of digital modes. Really helpful. Thanks!

[@TheTechPrepper]

I am glad to hear it. It was really difficult to package the information in this video to make it as accessible as possible. I am working on some software and hardware to make this a whole lot simpler for the average Joe.

[@mattkob]

Just found your channel and I am gobbling up your content. I really appreciate all that you are doing. I know this takes a lot of time to put together but it is super helpful and educational.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome to channel! I have struggled throughout my journey in amateur radio, so it's fun sharing my experiences with the you and the community after I tackle something. Cheers!

[@czmg22]

I haven't had the chance to watch yet, but I've been waiting for this since you said you were going to do this. Thanks in advance!

[@TheTechPrepper]

It's my pleasure. Hopefully each video will help reinforce the material. There will be a ton of overlap of the basics even as we cover other radios, hardware, software and modes. 73

[@THESPORTINGCAMP]

Came back to watch this series once again. 🏆

[@alexalonso2093]

Ty so much for breaking it down ,taking the time your delivery is spot on which is why iam going to to follow this series 7 3.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I really appreciate you taking the time to write this. I'm taking a short break from my normal backcountry videos and want to help everyone navigate this overly complex subject. 73 de KT1RUN

[@understandthetimes5721]

I watched this on the way into work. I'll have to view it again so I can take some notes. Enjoyed the video! 73

[@TheTechPrepper]

I think the companion blog post will help. I need a few days to finish it. I hope you were taking a train or bus and not driving.😂

[@bthemedia]

Kudos… well done and thank you! Perfect execution, including the reliability and human interface issues. Excellent tutorial walk through that simplified the complexity and multiple pieces, made it easy to follow along, and is a time-efficient project to get new hams (including myself) to dive in and learn by doing.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you. These technical videos are more entailed to produce, so it's great to hear that you're finding value. The next video in the series should be ready in a week or so.

[@fabiogilbert]

I totally agree with you. I'm in a position where I need to learn how to use digital tools for sending text, emails.

[@edwardwilliams7213]

Hi Gaston, I watched this video and on the map it looked like you were located North of Phoenix. I looked up your call sign and found you live one mile from my Dad in Cave Creek. He used to live on N. Paseo Oro and now he's on Mark Way. Small world! Thanks for all the videos. Ed W6EJW

[@motorcityman8982]

I too have an unhealthy bias towards Yaesu radios. Don't let that stop you from trying an occasional Icom or Kenwood. Great content. Thanks!

[@TheTechPrepper]

I have two Kenwoods that I love. They are both D710GA's. It has my favorite APRS implementation and I love that it has a user accessible TNC. I also really enjoyed my Kenwood D74A that I recently sold. I only have enough cognitive overhead for one menu system. Ok, maybe two.

[@chrissewell1608]

That sounds healthy!

[@MikiStrange]

Thanks for this video. I've been looking like a setup like this for a long time.

[@TheTechPrepper]

You're welcome. Outside of a few one time software configuration steps, I think this setup is pretty streamlined. Enjoy your new setup.

[@backcountryamateurradio]

Excellent Gaston. I have so much to learn. 73

[@TheTechPrepper]

NBEMS is surprisingly simple. Good luck, bud!

[@anonymous_friend]

Great idea. Looking forward to more videos! I wonder if making audio level changes from the software instead of the radio is the best way to gain stage the audio properly?

[@TheTechPrepper]

I've tried to figure out how to that, but all of my radios have required adjustments on both ends. It's a bit easier on the base stations compared to the HT's as there are typically settings for digital mic gain (as well as other settings) that let me set it once and forget it.

[@antchia512]

Outstanding job. clear and consistence

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed the presentation. Digital data were personally very frustrating at first. Take care.

[@Bradsyoutube11]

Great video! I’m looking forward to this same walk through for winlink email via TNC and android app. I’ve done it before but it’s a coin toss if I can remember how to make it all work together

[@TheTechPrepper]

Very good. I have a few plans for the Android video. I have successfully connected the Mobiblinkd TNC and DigiLink Nano with an OTG cable (should be possible with the DigiRig, but I have not tried it yet). I installed WoAD on Android, but still need to test it. It will be nice to have Winlink capabilities on my phone. Thanks for the comment.

[@wild-radio7373]

Absolutely perfect timing for this♡ 🔥📻😎👍

[@wild-radio7373]

I am learning on a new to me FT-2980 also went with the digiRig ! :)

[@TheTechPrepper]

That could be an issue. I don't think there is a cable for that yet. I would recommend the SignaLink USB if you're going to use that radio. The recommended video at the end actually covers the the FT-2980 + SignaLink.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for stopping by, hamfam!

[@1crazynordlander]

Thanks for the video. I’m sending my Digirig back to have it tested. I first built a Digipi. It works great with my IC-705. I then purchased a FT-2980 because of its power and simplicity. I have that working great with my Digipi using the Digirig cable for the FT-2980. I decided to buy the Digirig at the same time. I tried the Digirig and could not get it to work. No receive or transmit sound. I have PTT but zero sound. Denis from Digirig agreed to take it back to check it out. I tried all his troubleshooting steps. Nothing.

[@ohiorivervalleyhomestead]

I wish I took some type of programming in school. What a great idea. It would be nice if there was a more PnP software for this. I can see the value in having this method of communication in the tool box for sure.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I'm not sure a programming class would have a helped, but a Linux class, absolutely! We need a company to step up and make this stuff easy for users. Keep at it. There are at least 5 more in the series. Different radios, different cables, different interfaces, different software and even a couple of integrations with just a phone.

[@ohiorivervalleyhomestead]

@@TheTechPrepper You really need to chat with Abboud.

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@ohiorivervalleyhomestead I have been. ;-)

[@benwilliams36]

@@TheTechPrepper Maybe we need a kind of Ubuntu of the amateur radio digital modes. By that I mean, Ubuntu tried to standardize the easiest way to get Linux setup for the “normal person” and aimed to avoid some of the difficult items to navigate around.

[@thomthumbe]

I have a stack of Kantronics KPC3’s, some old, some newer, and this is what I use for all my data links. But that’s just me. I think your setup is very good to know. Your setup may be a bit more complex, but it is correspondingly much more flexible for use with all kinds of interfaces and terminals.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Those are classic TNCs. The hobby started moving to virtual TNCs built in software (Dire Wolf) once computers were fast enough to handle DSP. I'm a fan of hardware appliances. They're purpose-built and much more reliable. I may get one for a permanent packet station. Cheers.

[@spudhut2246]

Excellent breakdown of equipment needed, etc....The best I have seen yet. Thank you for dumbing this down to the dirt level, your level of explanation is exceptional. Question: You used a Linux software. It would be great if you can show how it can be used or requirements needed on windows platform? From a 50k foot view? 2nd Question: You use an android phone, does the phone need to have a special operating system on it or a basic phone/device be okay to use?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Sorry, I have not used Windows since the XP days. It's been more than 20 years. Windows makes me feel stupid. With that said, all the software that I show on the channel and write will only be for Linux. The good news is that the majority of hams use Windows, so there should be plenty of videos.

[@spudhut2246]

@@TheTechPrepper Thank you, I completely understand. Ill do a search and see what I can dig up. Great work, thank you for taking the time to reply. Priceless!!!

[@kevinbrouelette6361]

This is very helpful as I’m understanding digital packet radio more and more. I appreciate you leaving in the problems that you had to work through because that is the norm when setting this up for all of us. I have my ftm-6000r/digirig working with Winlink packet and vara fm on windows and I’m comfortable with Linux so will give it a try. 73 de AJ6EE

[@TheTechPrepper]

Congrats on getting your setup. The failures and challenges are always a part of the process, so I'm happy to share them along with the way. They're more valuable than the successes. 73

[@The_Privateer]

As you mentioned, the setups you demonstrated are "unnecessarily complex" which also means they dont do well in a field environment; bouncing around in a ruck and trying to deploy them in... "austere conditions". The fix? Spend more money on higher end rigs that integrate 2 or 3 of the different devices and associated wire tangle and make these things 'just work' when you're hiking around in the middle of nowhere. That being said... the systems you demonstrated are *GREAT* learning platforms that force you to understand the nuts and bolts under the hood that make work.

[@TheTechPrepper]

You're right on all accounts. It's never a bad idea to know how this works at a fundamental level. Clearly, this setup is not suited for the field. I am trying to solve this problem with my EmComm Tools platform. The current version is a light-weight CF-20 Toughbook pre-configured with all the necessary software with a single cable interface to a manpack radio. I have a special piece of software that I am writing called EmComm Tools that simplifies the user interface and hides all the details from the user. It's been a battle getting everything to work cleanly as a field appliance. In fact, I'm still working on it.

[@The_Privateer]

@@TheTechPrepper Have you ever checked out the "OH8STN Ham Radio" youtube channel? That guy definitely has a pretty compelling setup for field use.

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@The_Privateer I have, but it's been at least 6 months since I have seen any of his videos. He's done some good work. I am actually focusing more on VHF/UHF and smaller mobile manpacks paired with a CF-20 Toughbook. Most of my operating in the field is around providing support for endurance races/ultra marathons in the desert.

[@grinch45]

Here is state of the art for the US Military and allied forces such as NATO, they use a waveform to select frequencies from a set determined by the planner with a mode called ALE so we get the best frequency for the time of the contact, then automatic modem that has FEC and ARQ protocols along with auto bauding speed adjustment to over come all problems with the link, we have encryption on all of this as its digital anyways. All radio programmable by a file to reduce training and human error to concentrate end users on procedure and antennas. I retired from that work and now try to learn something new and have a completely unused extra class license earned in 1991 as I had learned IMC in the Army. Thanks for the videos.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for jumping in here. I'm working on adding ALE to my EmComm Tools communications platform for the reasons that you described. The goal is just to have an operator deploy a broadband antenna and then do selective calling with ALE. Cheers!

[@HectorReviews]

Great video!

[@corvus-ch]

Funny: recently, I had exactly the same thought: why is this so complicated. Not so funny: I work in IT and I am familiar with a lot of the underlying concepts and I still have a hard time. I plan to write a blog post of my own. Not explaining once more how to set things up but looking at the concepts. What are the components that makes this tick and how do the connect with each other?

[@TheTechPrepper]

I look forward to your post. I've been in the IT industry for 25 years and this stuff makes me feel stupid every time I need to setup a new station (e.g., computer/phone, radio, interface and software).

[@benwilliams36]

I’d be very interested to read this blog post! If you have a blog now and you’re gonna add this post to it, would you mind posting where I can locate that?

[@adubs.]

Great video. I've been meaning to play with direwolf but time is short for me. I have a TNC4 and have played some with DACs I have laying around with a little success. I am curious about your emcom tools OS as well. Is this still actively being developed? I'm a linux guy where I can get away with it, and it seems amateur radio software is primarily geared towards windows.

[@edwarddavis7018]

Thank you for this Video It was very helpful to my ego. LOL I thought it was just me struggling with packet but you have said it best not for human use.

[@TheTechPrepper]

This stuff was not made for humans. You are in good company. Cheers!

[@Androctonus84]

Everything in HAM radio is unnecessarily complicated. It’s sort of a feature, not a bug.

[@mikenl3d]

I like the video, but I disagree that this is unnecessarily complex and that Apple would have done it better. If this stuff were in a closed ecosystem, we’d be at the mercy of the developer with regard to capability. We have the flexibility to operate ham radio digital modes on pretty much any device running nearly any OS because the standards are open. There is a learning curve, but Ham Radio is an innovate hobby, and innovation requires understanding. It’s hard (or impossible) to be innovative with an appliance. I’m looking forward to watching the rest of the series. Thank you for taking the time to make the videos and sharing your experience! This is a very interesting topic. 73, de NL3D

[@TheTechPrepper]

Always happy to get a counter point. I am personally working with a group of older hams that have been licensed for decades but are completely overwhelmed by the freedom in choices to select their digital equipment and software, and then make it all work together. I have been working on an appliance/platform called "EmComm Tools" that attempts to solve this problem. It's basically a reference implementation of hardware and software that is designed to be an appliance with simplicity and field expedience in mind. I released a video a couple months back called the "EmComm Tools Story" that describes my goals with my project. 73 de KT1RUN

[@mikenl3d]

@@TheTechPrepper I'm new to your channel, so I will check out that video. I think creating an appliance is a great idea. But I also think that the core technology should remain as open and flexible as possible to allow for future innovation.

[@kennethausten]

They are not difficult. Been doing it for 40 years. With the early telex. Simple job to interface. Main problem is many lack computer knowledge. I learnt early about rs232 ports, audio interfacing etc. it became second nature and is still the same today really. Been made easier with rigs now with built in audio sound for data modes. Cat has been a boom. I hardly use cat , just certain circumstances only. . Thanks for your time on this subject.

[@JonSmith531]

Good video. Thanks for the information. I am looking for a way to set up HF to smtp. Does anyone have any advice on this? Does direwolf have an smtp interface?

[@andrewbeal9997]

Another great video. Still trying to learn all this myself so your contribution to the learning process is very much appreciated. In other videos I've seen you mention and use the DigiLink Nano. I am curious what your thoughts are on how it compares with the DigiRig (aside from the lack of CAT control)?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you. Don't worry, I have one more video with the DigiRig Mobile and will then make a video on the DigiLink Nano. I'll share all my experiences and do a comparison in part IV.

[@Ian-jt2kl]

Great video! I played around with andFLmsg and other digital modes with HT's and was getting some weird problems where the messages were broken up, letters of the message were missing, etc. Do you know if this is caused by the clocks not being synchronized? Couldn't really find anything on the issue on YT.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I haven't run into this problem with flmsg since the messages include a checksum when wrapped with flmsg, but I have seen this issue with fldigi when sending text messages as those are not wrapped.

[@bluepearmedia509]

New subscriber here. I don't think digital data modes are very difficult at least for the physical setup process. Computers are inherently not made for humans but this is why we have interfaces like mice and keyboards. Just think of the radio as another attachment to the computer. In essence, all your doing in getting audio from your PC to your radio and vice versa but how complex that gets depends on the equipment available to you. The setup and user interface for some of the software can be very unintuitive and takes a bit of research to get it up and going. Digital modes are certainly not as easy as using voice and not something you need to use all the time, but it does have its advantages. You can disseminate information much more quickly than using voice alone and some digital modes can be used in a low signal to noise ratio environments. I would like to see some more positivity with digital modes and their advantages rather than just the disadvantages. Keep up the good work and I look forward to future videos. 73 K7DMG

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome to the channel. It wasn't my intention to make it sound like there are no advantages to digital modes. There are many. The trick is getting over the hurdles. They are certainly worth the effort otherwise I wouldn't be making this series. I am a proponent of them for fun (FT8 and SSTV) and for emcomm and public services events/scenarios (APRS, Winlink, NBMES and JS8Call). My mail bag fills up every month with people that watch me use digital modes in the backcountry, but they are constantly struggling. The'll ask: Which radio? Which cable? Which device? Which software? How do I adjust my audio? My goal is to show the diversity of options and let users determine which setup is best for them. I may not be the right person to solve this, but I am taking a stab at it with my EmComm Tools project. I made a lengthy video a few videos back on my vision for a digital mode platform that is built for humans and public service/emcomm. It's called "The EmComm Tools Story - The what, why and how?" if you're interested. Thanks again for the wonderful comment. 73 de KT1RUN

[@bluepearmedia509]

@@TheTechPrepper I am part of a local prepper group and just joined ARES a few weeks ago, so my focus is on EmComm. There is much for me to learn even when I think I am getting close to mastering it haha This is why I watch as many different takes as possible cuz there's always something I can take away from it. Appreciate your response and I will definitely check out that other video.

[@DominicMazoch]

George Jetson reaction to digi modes: JANE! At the top of his voice!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Pretty much. Man, did I struggle. I loved watching the Jetson's growing up. Cheers and thanks for the laugh.

[@maytronix7201]

If Steve Jobs designed it... he would charge x4 what you paid for that one and you would have to buy a new power cord every year

[@FOX21776]

Great video, even for the technologically illiterate like myself. Thanks for breaking down for us. I have a few questions, I think I have the mobile phone bases down, but I would love to be able to use my Getac toughbook as a base. I have a Getac with windows 10 (I believe), do I have to run linux on it? I ideally want to use this system for gps capabiilities independent and separate of any internet, wifi, cellular networks. DO I have to use linux or can I use my windows op system? Again, we really appreciate your time, effort and help.

[@TheTechPrepper]

You can absolutely accomplish the same types of communication using Windows. However, that's not my area, but there are like lots of videos that cover this. Good luck. Search for OH8STN on KZbin. He's a Windows guy.

[@chrissewell1608]

I recently setup my Baofeng UV-9R Plus radio to APRS Droid. (It required a mic adapter plug). What a pain in the A$$, it was to set everything up! No one's videos or articles, seemed to cover every little configuration setting, for the radio &/or the cell phone program. But you hit the high points. One major problem I had w/ the phone, was having to cut off ALL NOTIFICATIONS. And adjust the phone's volume. Setting up the radio's squelch & Vox, was minor. Digital radio stuff, is all a balancing act of settings, on your phone (or computer) with the converter device (DigiRig, SignaLink, etc...), and your radio! For APRS, It is almost worth having a stand alone radio & phone rig. Just setup and used for nothing else! Because if you change its function, its a 😠 pain to return to APRS. I am making a cheat sheet, of setup notes. Just to refer to, when needed! I have not even attempted setting up Dire Wolf on my Win-10 laptop yet.... So, I-Gate of Hell, is next. 😈

[@aperson1181]

Thank you, do you have a tutorial for Windows PCs?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Unfortunately, no. I am not. Windows guy. However, there should be plenty of videos and articles on the Internet covering the Windows side. Most hams use Windows.

[@seanwieland9763]

I’d love to see someone implement data modes onto a Raspberry Pi Pico W to interface with the data ports inside mobile radios. This will also be especially important for getting M17 off the ground as more than an experimental curiosity.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I would like to see that as well. I had ambitions earlier in the year of trying something like this by building my radio with these capabilities using something like the HackRF with GNURadio and including everything in a 3D printed enclosure. By the time I realized that I needed an amp, power, filters etc., I decided to table the project. Like you, I am keeping my fingers crossed that a group of like-minded individuals picks this up.

[@gm743633]

Can you replace the analog baofeng with a dmr? I have tyt mduv-390 and md-9600 dmr radios. Also will enhanced privacy with hex key pass the modem info from a laptop?

[@TheTechPrepper]

I have never tried this with a DMR radio. Most of the digital data mode services will only work over analog. However, there are HT's that do both analog and DMR.

[@gm743633]

@@TheTechPrepper yes, mine do.

[@pathopkins4500]

Very good tutorial intro to digital modes to new to digital modes Ham =) I have a class to teach Tech exam to a county group of Rural Firefighters .... this looks like a good addition for them to learn after the exam =) Thank you and Jason KM4ACK and the group of Preppers world wide =) de N5VMO Pat

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad you enjoyed it. You're doing an excellent service by introducing the FD to amateur radio. I am looking at getting to know my local FD the next time they hold a CERT training.

[@pathopkins4500]

@@TheTechPrepper I would encourage ALL people to take a CERT class ... Hams and non- Hams alike ..... you really learn a lot of things you thought you may be able to do and what you can do and improve on it =) Also working together as a group of people =) I love to do SOTA and POTA and my favorite is RaDAR ( Rapid Deployment Amateur Radio --- look it up =) Maybe in a few days have the little ( tr ) SDX in hand to try out in a activation =) de N5VMO Pat

[@aaronakiyama]

The device setup is a lot simpler on Windows. You don't have to spend any time in command line. Everything can be accomplished through GUI

[@TheTechPrepper]

Windows has always been more user friendly. Us Linux guys like punishment. ;-)

[@douglasvamateurradioandmore]

I do find data modes difficult. But, my patience for such things is minimal at best sometimes.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome to the party, Doug. I can't make any promises, but hopefully there will be at least on nugget in this series that helps.

[@douglasvamateurradioandmore]

@@TheTechPrepper Im sure i there will be stuff to help. I tried using digital modes on a g707 kenwood and a pi with a hat. Got so frustrated, had to stop. Now that I have more hf privelges, I'm going to try more that way. I'm going to try with the digirig and a feng and separately with my 891.

[@ashton403]

Which is better to use with this? Windows or Linux? I have all apple products (which suck for HAM radio) but looking to get a tablet that runs windows. I would think it could work on either right?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes, this can work with either Windows or Linux. It's really your preference on which operating system you're more comfortable using. My Mac can do all this too but it is very complicated to setup.

[@ashton403]

@@TheTechPrepper thanks for the comment. You have definitely sparked my interest in this. Keep up the good work!

[@tannerwilcox8942]

Can anyone explain to me what the point of the digirig is especially if you're not going to use the cat control and just go with vox? The laptop has a headphone jack that can plug directly into his combo jack on the yaesu. Since he's not using cat he's relying on vox so I just don't get it. What's the point of adding another sound card when the laptop itself has one built in that will work for this?

[@TheTechPrepper]

I am not using VOX. The power of the DigiRig is that triggers the PTT view the serial interface. VOX has too many issues when dealing with various digital modes.

[@pincus321]

Can you do one with u 5 Link there are no videos out there and when it works it is nice to use, a review would be good

[@3asyrider75]

To communicate with Android phone are you connecting to a repeater with EchoLink?

[@TheTechPrepper]

I am not sure what you mean. Did I cover Android or EchoLink in this video? I have never used EchoLink before.

[@3asyrider75]

@@TheTechPrepper I understand how the Baofeng connects. I am ordering the cable and USB sound card. How does the Android communicate with it? I have EchoLink on my phone to connect to echolink repeaters. How does the android app work?

[@temporarilyoffline]

how does digirig compare to mobilinkd?

[@TheTechPrepper]

If you only want packet radio, the Mobilinkd is more convenient and simpler. The Mobilinkd is a packet-only. I personally use the Mobilinkd with my HT go kit, but I have used it with the FT-818 and FT-857D successfully. It also works nicely with Linux and the RPi. If you plan to run digital modes beyond packet radio (e.g, fldigi, JS8Call, FT8, etc.) you will need to go with the DigiRig or related sound card interface like the SignaLink.

[@Jay-hr9ci]

Would be good to get Android Phone --> (running FLMSG) Digirig --> Yaesu HT working

[@TheTechPrepper]

That works. I did a video on that in this series. The new version of AndFlmsg supports the serial interface on the DigiRig. I believe it tested it with my VX-6R, but it works with the UV-5R, too.

[@forgetyourlife]

Whoa, I have no idea what window that is on your screen for step 1. I'm over 40 and do know what a modem is though but unfortunately I must be human for everything else.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Like I said, not for humans. It's a terminal window or what some call the command line interface. I'm working hard on some other projects to make all of this an appliance. It's proving to be one heck of a challenge. Happy Monday!

[@va7dgp]

I have a CF 19 Toughbook. How did the drivers etc work. I know Windows better however I know how Winlink Express and works. If it wasn't for KM4ACK BUILD A Pi. I have an old toughbook very early version. I could try it but getting the drivers to work for linux

[@TheTechPrepper]

Sorry, I am not a Windows guy. The current version of Ubuntu 22.04 supports everything with the exception of the stylus. At one point I had a separate partition that ran Windows 10 and was able to get Winlink Express and VARAFM working nicely with the DigiRig. I was also able to run YAAC for APRS and NBEMS software suite (i.e. fldigi and flmsg).I don't recall if I ran into any driver issues with the DigiRig. I ditched Windows as soon as it tried to force an update while I was in the field and would not let me shutdown without installing the update.

[@donaldsmith3048]

How do I do that with Windows 11?

[@WisconsinGabe]

Ft3d and I suspect other radios with aprs built in make this SUPER simple like turn on aprs and tune to 144.39

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes, the all-in-one radio's make it easy, however, you only get that one mode. If you want Winlink, fldigi and host of other modes you'll still need a sound card interface. I plan to touch on this topic. 73

[@KI1ICE]

Nice shirt!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for the t-shirts. You're right, they're the most comfortable t-shirts around.

[@jeffallen6459]

In the digital world its simpler hardware wise if you have a radio with a built in soundcard such as an Icom 7100. Just have a usb cable between the radio and laptop. Though that doesn’t obviously work with an HT. Lol

[@TheTechPrepper]

You're right. I'm still waiting for Yaesu to catch up with Icom and start putting sound cards into their rigs. It would be nice to have a simple interface. It's a pain using the data port and an external sound card on my other base stations.

[@ronlongwellphoto]

This seems really cool. I really like that you can use your Baofengs to send text data. But as you said, it's way too complicated and it seems (to me) like you have to be a multi-platform computer programmer to make it work. If it only worked for non-computer programming humans using Mac OS. Keep up the good work!

[@TheTechPrepper]

This setup should work on a Mac, but the devil is in the details. I have a Mac on order that will be arriving in June. If I remember, I'll put together a video for Mac users.

[@ronlongwellphoto]

@@TheTechPrepper that’d be awesome!!! I feel like there are a lot of us who’d love to be more involved in amateur radio, but so much programming/logging/CAT control software is windows only. And everybody says, “Well, just get a cheap windows machine.” But I don’t want another machine that I’ll only use for one thing. Amateur radio could grow more if they’d embrace and support the Mac community.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I've been a Mac user since 2005 and loved them up until Steve Jobs passed. The Touchbar and Butterfly keyboard on my $4000 2018 MacBook Pro really turned me off. Don't take a man's escape key away! But, the high price point is what is keeping the hams away. Now that Apple has corrected the keyboard and back some ports, I'm going to give them another shot. Don't get me started on Windows. Take it easy.

[@suttonmatthew]

I wish there were a Windows version of instructions.

[@waverider227]

Why are digital modes so complicated in ham radio As a ham operator and a computer tinkerer i can say one thing NO Standardization! Every radio has different mic and data ports, every mic on every other radio has different wiring or a different type of connector ie 9 pin DIN, RJ 45 modular (ieCAT 5 ) , no USB or Toslink fiber optic connections on most ham radios. Some still even depend on long obsolete DB9 serial ports and you need to know what frequencies and what mode IE Upper or Lower Sidebands are being used . Buggy and incompatible software and drivers. All this lack of one standard creates confusion. Above all a lack of local activity on anything digital...for local radio checks ....... at least where I live.

[@malanalan1]

It should read: Why is packet radio so difficult to use? The answer is radio manufactures don't care about it cause there is not enough demand/feedback from users.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I think you're mostly right about the manufactures not understanding the different customer demographics and needs. Why isn't a sound card standard in all new radios? Why are we still using RS-232 serial ports?

[@benwilliams36]

@@TheTechPrepper can I just add why isn’t usb 3 standard on all radios?

[@TennesseeFrank]

Alright, someone else who's running a Linux Distro on their computer. I've been using a Linux system of one flavor or another since mid-2012.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Good for you. I started with Slackware on floppies back in 1996, then moved to RedHat in 1997. These days, I'm a Debian/Ubuntu fan for the desktop. Cheers to another Linux user.

[@TennesseeFrank]

@@TheTechPrepper I did a lot of Distro Hopping until I landed on MX Linux with the KDE desktop. It's Debian based so it's rock solid stable and I can set up KDE to look just the way I like it. I have quite a few "First Looks" for a few different Distros on my KZbin channel. It's good to see another person on the KZbins that's in AZ.

[@caseygillock8131]

i need the vx6r and an android device connected with my digirig. so far i wasted my money on a digirig, so pissed.

[@TheTechPrepper]

The DigiRig works with a large set of radios. A VX-6R is not required.

[@caseygillock8131]

@TheTechPrepper thank you, ya I only have this hand held. Don't have the money to switch to a different radio to use digirig.

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@caseygillock8131 No problem. Good luck with your setup. I am pretty sure I covered the DigiRig Mobile and VX-6R as part of this series. It's been a couple of years.

[@PatrickKQ4HBD]

I love what you're doing here, but I think the "not designed for humans" problem is that you're using Linux programs from the command line. There's a very good reason that the technically superior Linux environment has not taken over the retail computing world. Windows ($$) software doing this task would be easy enough to get working, while Mac ($$$$) would be essentially plug and play. I don't even know if it's currently possible under the big players, but they're the big players for some legitimate reasons. Is there some sort of org chart that will describe what things are what and go in between which other things? Something like (software A laptop B cable C device D cable D radio E) or (app L {see what I did there?} phone M cable N device O radio P)? This would be helpful Elmering for us beginners.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad you're enjoying the series. You're absolutely right. I have been a Linux user since '97 and it's still not ready for the desktop for the average user. The next video is delayed as I am waiting some cables to arrive. Stay tuned for fldigi and MT63.

[@emoisit]

Go ask you parents. HAHAHAHA

[@TheTechPrepper]

That just came out. 🤣

[@michaelnyden8056]

So just get dmr radios? Making analog radios do digital is painful!

[@Spookieham]

The reason it's not user friendly is the technology is built on protocols that were designed to be buried deep inside equipment and amateur Radio is a highly technical hobby. It was never designed for preppers. Most amateurs would laugh at the use of Baofengs as they are junk and break FTC rules.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Understood.I am grateful for all the ham radio software that has been created and is available to the public. I've never cared for the general elitist attitude of some hams when it comes to radio. I will change that by making communications accessible to all people. As a software engineer, product manager and prepper, I am developing products that will make digital communications easy for anyone. That's the plan at least.

[@Spookieham]

@@TheTechPrepper that's admirable. I'm a software engineer myself and the majority of tools in this space are old, badly written and terrible to use.

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@Spookieham Glad to meet another software engineer. The UI is rough on modern equipment with touch screens and/or old eyes. My EmComm Tools software project delegates to a lot of tools on the backend to do the heavy lifting (Dire Wolf, YAAC, fldigi, Pat, etc.). For the most part, I figured out how to run all of those amateur radio applications headless and build an API and integration layer that my React front-end uses. What kind of software do you write? I am a Java and UNIX guy.

[@Spookieham]

@@TheTechPrepper I don't do much commercial work now as I run a team at a consultancy but it was Java and Unix before also - never liked C# etc. I do a lot of hobbyist microcontroller now though for fun mainly around amateur radio. Our commercial work is corporate application development for mining companies, utilities, government etc in Western Australia.

[@JonSmith531]

Rattlegram solves all of this

[@chrissewell1608]

Data modes are like VooDoo... When mixed with Windows10, it suddenly becomes PooPoo. 🐫💩 But thats just all the damn audio settings in Win10, and the fact they seem to just change on their own!

[@chrissewell1608]

I know many people Love Linux. But it seems to be very antiquated, like line controlled code. Windows seems 10x easier to me! Just my opinion 🤔

[@TheTechPrepper]

It all depends on what you are familiar with. I've been using Linux since 1996 and honestly like the control I have over the entire the system. Windows is not friendly if you're a developer or power user. But, yes, it seems to be easier for most people.