W4HPT has established VHF and UHF D-STAR repeaters in Hampton, VA. We welcome all licensed amateur radio operators to use the W4HPT D-STAR System whether you’re a local user, passing through the area, or linking to us through the Internet. The information that follows will help you set up various radios to use this exciting service and capability. You will also find many links that lead to information you should become familiar with while using D-STAR.
W4HPT B UHF and C VHF Repeaters:
Our frequencies are:
| Band | Frequency (MHz) | Offset (MHz) | Tone |
|---|---|---|---|
| VHF | 145.2000 | -0.600 | None |
| UHF | 444.2125 | +5.000 | None |
Getting started with D-STAR:
Note that the W4HPT repeater and gateway are shared resources and that registered gateway users agree to give priority to emergency communications per FCC Part 97.101(e), and to observe a 15 minute limit per QSO contact.
Gateway users should be mindful of:
- Third Party Operating Limitations (FCC Part 97.115)
- Reciprocal Operating Agreements (FCC Part 97.107)
- International Communications (FCC Part 97.111)
- Limitations Against Compensation for Using an Amateur Radio Station (Part 97.113)
and observe practices that promote international and domestic goodwill.
See: ARRL.ORG for information on FCC Part 97.
International third party (non-ham) communications are not allowed. Contact W3AF if you wish to use the repeater for third party events such as JOTA (Jamboree On The Air).
Operational Aids:
These sites list real-time information about D-STAR activity, plus other helpful sites:
- List of users last heard on D-STAR
- Repeater/reflector activity
- DSync Gateway Status Reporting System
- D-STAR Repeater Directory
- Global map of D-STAR systems
- List of users reporting on DPRS positioning
- W4HPT Repeater registration details – COMING SOON
- D-STAR – Getting Started
- Progamming your D-STAR radio
Video Aids:
These are some of the many YouTube Videos that may prove helpful:
- COMING SOON
D-STAR Reflectors and Links:
Reflectors are like phone conference bridges. They allow more than one DSTAR repeaters to link together and allow all linked repeaters to hear the person talking.
You can also link two D-STAR repeaters together and disconnect them at your leisure. When you link the repeaters and make a call with UR=CQCQCQ, RPT1=W4HPT B and RPT2=W4HPT G, persons on both repeaters can hear your conversation.
- Write-up on linking, multi-cast and reflectors
- D-STAR Reflector List
- Real-time reflector activity
- D-STAR Quick-Start Guide
- D-STAR REF097 D-Plus Information
Gateway Voice Status Messages:
Here is a list of D-STAR Gateway Voice Status messages.
- “Remote System Is Currently Busy” – Normal: You attempted a “L” command to link to a remote repeater and the remote repeater is already linked or is having issues establishing a new link. Abnormal: You attempted a “L” command to link to a repeater and your local gateway is not synchronized. Check W4HPT Gateway Status for the latest reported status.
- “Not Currently Linked” – Normal: The repeater was unlinked, and you used an “I” command to inquire or you attempted a “U” to unlink it. Abnormal: The abnormal condition has not yet encountered and documented.
ID-52A and ID-50A/E radio information:
- Basic information on the ID-52A
- Basic information on the ID-50A
- Windows Device Drivers
- Cloning Software
- Configuring for DPRS (DSTAR Position Reporting System)
ID-31, ID-51A and older radio information:
- Configuring your ID-31 and ID-51A for the first time
- Windows Device Drivers
- Cloning Software
- Configuring for DPRS (D-STAR Position Reporting System)
ID-31, ID-51A and older radio Repeater List Update:
The ID-31A, 51A, or older radios may contain an internal repeater directory feature. Occassionally, it will need to be updated. For information about doing this please follow the link below.
GPS:
How to set up the ID-51A or ID-51A settings to enable DPRS position reporting.
- GPS > GPS Set > GPS Select > Internal GPS (If you want to turn on and use the built-in GPS)
- GPS > GPS TX Mode > GPS-A (DV-A)
- GPS > Auto TX > 1 min (if you want to automatically report your position every minute)
- Make sure your D-STAR repeater gateway is specified in the RPT2 field.
- SSID -7 is recommended for the ID-31A. APRS SSIDs.