Looking to build a repeater

[Guest]

I am looking at building a private repeater, since the Columbia, SC area is so saturated I wanted to have something for my family and SHTF situations. My thought was to use DPL or reverse DPL... but I was really thinking about a system where only specific MDC1200 IDs can access the repeater. What kind of setup would be able to take advantage of that function?

[JohnE]

split codes or DPL/PL or my personal favorite an LTR trunking controller. that would require trunking capable radios though.

[batt63]

stick with pl or dpl ( dcs ) more than likely dcs. that helps keep the kids out of your hair.

[zap]

Pick a regular PL'ed output and a DPL on the input. For one this opens one up for any HT that you may be able to program (not all radios offer MDC signalling). 

 

MDC1200 would be a fun setup. It can be set on most MDC capable repeaters, especially those built with MDC capable receive and transmit radios.

[W4ATN]

If you want something PRIVATE go with Digital Mobile Radio (DMR). You can pick up a repeater on eBay for around 1K +/- and the ability for someone to listen is almost zero unless they have a DMR radio and know your color code and talkgroups. There are inexpensive DMR portable radios for around $225 each an mobile radios that don't break the bank if you're only looking for simplex operation. Your will have to get a license (simple process) if you want to use a commercial frequency. 

You can make an entirely portable DMR repeater package that will operate off solar, battery, generator or electric. Since it is digital it is easy to use encryption and most radios are encryption ready. It isn't a high level of encryption but it will certainly keep all but the very determined from listening to you.

 

Let me know if you want more information about DMR or pricing on radios.

 

Paul

WQMM-856 / W4ATN

[PastorGary]

Staff Note: As stated many times in the past, CURRENT GMRS Rules disallow the use of digital equipment on GMRS frequencies.

 

As Paul mentioned, If a digital system is to be established, a Part 90 license will be required (and frequency coordination will be needed unless a simples itinerant frequency is selected).

[W4ATN]

PastorGary is correct and I had just assumed the digital thing was understood on GMRS and thanks for clarifying that point. Sorry if there was any confusion.

 

Paul

[zap]

Easy to make digital repeater? I could use some info on that as the only semi portable repeater I'm aware of for DMR is from Hytera whom the rumor is just fired all their U.S. Sales reps and a lot of the U.S. Based support.

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[W4ATN]

Zap,

If they did fire the US Sales reps GOOD FOR THEM!!

I attempted to become a local dealer and because I didn't have an outside sales force they would not allow it. They had a distributor in New England somewhere but I don't remember the details. I sent them a "not so nice" email. I sell lots of used Motorola equipment and now have also sell the Connect Systems line.

 

I use a Gator case (19" rack). The Motorola XPR-8300 and XPR-8400 are 3 rack units or 5 inches. Add another unit for a duplexer two more for connections (Anderson Powerpole power distribution (which you won't need if you're using only one repeater and no other electronic equipment). Both the 8300 and 8400 have DC an input for DC power (battery backup). I use a deep cycle battery and a "box" (can't remember who makes it but I'll look it up later today and post it) which has the connections to connect the DC Charger / Solar panel.

I just built a unit that has a VHF and UHF XPR-8400 with two duplexers, fan, power strip and vents in a 12 unit Gator case.

 

I recommend Sweetwater for the Gator cases. They are knowledgeable, friendly, good prices and ship very quickly. Although, eBay has several suppliers of Gator cases. I can get the specs for the trays I use as well.

 

I'll see if I can get a pic of the latest unit I built (may take a few days as the unit has been delivered).

 

It isn't inexpensive to build the way I build them but if you need to go to a mountain top, roof top or other remote area and set up a repeater with solar panels it works. Est cost: Repeater $1,200, Duplexer - $250, Cables (repeater to duplexer) $85.00 (don't skimp on these - good shield is necessary) Solar Panel $200 (all accessories included), Gator box with panels, trays, etc. $250 - 300, Battery and box with electronics- $350 - Coax (LMR-600) and Antenna about $400.00. Total cost will be around $2500 - $3000 depending. The 2 repeater unit that I just built cost me about $5,200 and sold for $7,200, tested and delivered.

 

AGAIN, as PastorGary pointed out - THIS IS NOT GMRS! These repeaters are commercial equipment on itinerant frequencies (the only way you can get a portable repeater licensed). FCC license (do it yourself) is just over $200 for 5 years. If you go through a coordinator and licensing service expect $650 or more.  BTW, when I get a license I get analog, DMR (voice and data) and P-25 (voice and data). Most of the repeaters can do Analog or DMR and now P-25 equipment is also becoming affordable for business (and private repeater) applications. It doesn't cost any additional so why not.

 

Easy to make digital repeater? I could use some info on that as the only semi portable repeater I'm aware of for DMR is from Hytera whom the rumor is just fired all their U.S. Sales reps and a lot of the U.S. Based support.


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[Guest]

AGAIN, as PastorGary pointed out - THIS IS NOT GMRS! These repeaters are commercial equipment on itinerant frequencies (the only way you can get a portable repeater licensed). FCC license (do it yourself) is just over $200 for 5 years. If you go through a coordinator and licensing service expect $650 or more.  BTW, when I get a license I get analog, DMR (voice and data) and P-25 (voice and data). Most of the repeaters can do Analog or DMR and now P-25 equipment is also becoming affordable for business (and private repeater) applications. It doesn't cost any additional so why not.

 

Paul - willing to PM me some information regarding the FCC license? I looked into starting an application but didn't know where exactly to start with the whole idea. I was liking the idea of owning a repeater pair or two to make my own closed setup with DMR or P25 on the itinerant frequencies but didn't know the actual legalities of keeping a "portable" repeater in the same location(s)? I would definitely love the help!