[Dstar] Further notes regarding DV cross-banding via the IC-2820H

[Nik Presser]

G'day again all,

Some further findings regarding my D-Star cross-banding experiments via the IC-2820H...

Firstly, I'm using the Ch3 assignments on each band for the simplex end:
2metre DV Simplex ch3 : 145.1375
70cm DV Simplex ch3 : 438.9250

I'm not sure what the D-Star hotspot operators are using for their local simplex link but I've settled on the ch3 assignments or gentlemen's agreements for now. From my QTH here in Geelong at 75mASL, I've yet to hear any traffic on the ch3 assignments on each band. I've heard some traffic on ch1 and rarely ch2 of the 2m band but I think it's safe for now to use the ch3 assignments for the simplex link. 

I'm utilising the FM-Narrow mode in order to reduce the deviation.

In order to add some protection, I was hoping to utilise some form of CTCSS, DTCS, digital code, etc that's common to the DV and FM-N modes but it appears there isn't. Therefore this x-banding idea should be used with some caution and use the lowest possible RF power level. 

Are you wondering how the cross-band mode is enabled on the IC-2820H???

1. Set the left band with your desired 2m freq
2. Set the right band with your desired 70cm freq
3. Simultaneously press both VFO knobs and then press the F / Lock button for a second or two until you hear a double beep. If it's been successful, you should see the keylock icon illuminated. 
4. To undo or disable the x-band mode, repeat step 3. 

I have two IC-2820H's that have been purchased locally in VK at an Icom authorised dealer and this cross-band mode works without any physical mods. You won't see any instructions regarding this in the user manual.

Further testing has shown that all DV data has passed through the IC-2820H in x-band mode, including all callsign, short message and DPRS data without any problems - both ways. I've yet to do another test using D-Rats via the IC-92AD whilst linked to a repeater via the IC-2820H x-banded but I can't see why this wont work. 

That's the story for now.


Cheers,

Nik Presser
VK3BA  
Geelong
vk3ba at wia dot org dot au
Or see my QRZ page for more info

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