D-STAR System Introduction
What is D-STAR?
The term D-STAR means Digital Smart Technology for Amateur Radio.
It is an open protocol for digital communications created by Japan Amateur Radio League (JARL).
D-STAR Adopted in Over 50 Countries
D-STAR is a standardized digital communication protocol recognized in the amateur radio band plans of more than 50 countries.
It is one of the most widely implemented digital voice and data modes in use by amateur radio operators worldwide.
Digital Modulation For Clear Audio
As the digital voice incorporates GMSK modulation with AMBE™’s Forward Error Correction, the result is clear intelligible audio with digital clarity using only 6 kHz of occupied bandwidth*. It provides clearer audio than analog FM mode without typically increasing the white noise level at the fringes of the communication range.
* Emission designator: 6K00F7W.
Routing and Linking
One of the great features of D-STAR is the user’s ability to talk anywhere they want through call sign routing commands. With the basic call sign routing, you can route your communications to a specific user or repeater. You do not need to know the location of the repeater that the person you want to communicate with last used. (The person you want to communicate with must have used the repeater once, and still be within the repeater's communication range, to receive your call.)
Internet Resources and Digital Amateur Radio Community
There are already many D-STAR user communities on the Internet, and below are some major Internet resources.
D-STAR Info
This site is dedicated to helping D-STAR users world wide. From basic information on what D-STAR is, to detailed technical information.
• Repeater List • Reflector List • Application List
D-STARUSERS.org
Your source for D-STAR information.
• Last Heard List • Repeater List
D-STAR QSO PARTY
The biggest D-STAR QSO party in the world is held every year.
Supports Both Digital and Analog Mode
D-STAR transceivers aren’t just for digital modes—they also work in the analog FM mode. So even if your friends are using analog radios, you can still chat with them without any trouble. One of the great things about D-STAR radios is that you can easily switch between digital and analog modes depending on the situation.
DR Function for Easy Setup
With the D-STAR Repeater (DR) function, even beginners can get set up easily.
D-STAR radios come with the DR function built in, making it super simple to configure your settings—no advanced knowledge needed!
Local Area Call — Communication through Repeater
By using a repeater, you can extend your reach farther than your radio can directly reach.
Gateway Call — Internet-Based Communication
With Gateway calls, you’re not limited by distance. You can talk with stations across the country—or even around the world!
For repeaters running DPlus software, you can also link to other repeaters or join a group of them through a Reflector.
Communication Using Terminal Mode and Access Point Mode*
* ID-52A/E PLUS, ID-50A/E, IC-9700, IC-905 and IC-705
Terminal Mode
By connecting your D-STAR transceiver to the Internet through a Windows™ PC, Android™, or iOS™ device, you can make Gateway calls without needing to use radio frequency (RF) signals. All communication is done through the internet.
Access Point Mode
Your D-STAR transceiver connects to the Internet and works as an access point. Another D-STAR radio can link to it over RF and make Gateway calls.
Internal Gateway Function
By connecting the IC-705, IC-905 or IC-9700 transceiver to the Internet using a LAN, you can use Terminal mode or Access Point mode. With the Internal Gateway function, there’s no need for a Windows™ or Android™ device running the RS-MS3W or RS-MS3A application.
Share Picture Function
You can send pictures taken on your smart device to your D-STAR transceiver, and then forward them to other stations. With models like the IC-9700, IC-905, IC-705, or ID-52A/E PLUS, you can even send and view pictures directly from the radio.
Remote Control with a Smart Device!
Install the RS-MS1I (for iOS™) or RS-MS1A (for Android™) app on your smartphone and connect it to your D-STAR transceiver. This lets you easily manage settings, send text messages, and operate your radio—all from your phone.
Integrated GPS Receiver*
In the digital mode, you can send and receive location data while talking.
You’ll also find handy features like Auto Position Reply, GPS logging, and Near Repeater Search functions based on your current location.
*Except for the IC-9700 and IC-7100. External GPS receiver required for the IC-9700 and IC-7100.
Enjoy DD Mode with the IC-9700 and IC-905!
The IC-9700 and IC-905 come equipped with D-STAR’s DD mode, supporting data communication at up to 128 kbps (theoretical speed).
Because it uses the same protocol as the internet, you can browse websites, use webcams, and run Internet-ready applications—all over RF.
