DMR (Digital Mobile Radio)

 

DMR

What is DMR (Digital Mobile Radio)?
Digital Mobile Radio, or DMR, is a modern digital voice and data communication system used by amateur radio operators and commercial users worldwide. It offers clearer audio, greater range, and more efficient use of radio spectrum compared to traditional analog FM. DMR allows users to connect directly over the air or through the internet using repeaters and personal hotspots. This site introduces the basics of DMR and provides practical guides — including setting up a Raspberry Pi Zero hotspot and using DroidStar on Android or Windows to connect to DMR networks from anywhere for FREE.

How DMR Works — Repeaters and Hotspots
DMR operates on a digital network that uses repeaters and internet-linked systems to extend communication far beyond the range of a single radio. A DMR repeater receives a digital signal from one user and re-transmits it on another frequency, allowing many operators to share the same channel efficiently using two time slots (TS1 and TS2). Each time slot can carry a separate conversation, effectively doubling channel capacity. When a repeater is connected to a worldwide network such as BrandMeister, users can communicate globally by selecting a Talk Group. For personal or portable access, a hotspot—often built with a Raspberry Pi running Pi-Star and a small radio module—acts as a personal gateway to the DMR network via the internet, letting users connect even without a local repeater.

Getting Started with DMR — ID and BrandMeister Access

Before you can transmit on DMR, you need two essential things: a DMR ID and access to the BrandMeister network. Your DMR ID is a unique digital identifier assigned to your amateur radio callsign and is used to identify you on the network—similar to a digital callsign. You can request one for free from radioid.net. Once you have your ID, you’ll need a BrandMeister account, which links your ID to the BrandMeister network. After registering, log in to the BrandMeister SelfCare portal and set a hotspot password—this password allows your personal hotspot or DroidStar app to authenticate securely with the network. With your DMR ID and BrandMeister credentials set up, you’re ready to connect and start exploring the world of digital mobile radio.

1. Getting a DMR (Digital) ID via RadioID

  1. Go to https://www.radioid.net/register.

  2. Fill in your personal information:

    • Name

    • Callsign

    • Email address

    • Country

  3. Agree to the terms and submit your request.

  4. You’ll receive a verification email—click the link to confirm.

  5. You'll need to upload your Amateur Radio Licence Document. This can be obtained from Ofcom

  6. RadioID will assign you a unique DMR ID (usually in a few minutes to a few hours).

  7. Note this ID carefully—you’ll need it to log into BrandMeister and to configure Pi-Star / DroidStar.

2. Setting up a BrandMeister Account / Password

  1. Go to BrandMeister SelfCare registration.

  2. Fill in your callsign, DMR ID, email, and choose a password.

  3. Submit the registration.

  4. You may receive a confirmation email—verify your email.

  5. Once logged in, navigate to the SelfCare page. Here you set your BrandMeister password. This will be needed to configure Pi-Star / DroidStar.