Required Equipment

[k4sdj]

I am interested in setting up a D-STAR system for my club.  I know that a controller, 2 meter, and 440 module are required along with antenna and computer w/internet access.  What I need to know is what other equipment is required to get a system up and running.

K4SDJ

[n5ebw]

Actually, you only need one RF module to get up and running, so, either 440, or 2 meter.  You don't need both unless you want both.

Basically, in addition to what you have already listed, you will need anything else you would normally use on a repeater system.  So, duplexers, etc, still enter the mix.

[ki6mpa]

  I thought you also had to have a Linux computer to manage accounts and things?  Doesn't it need two Network connections?

Just clarifying.. . .   

Eugene / KI6MPA

[n5ebw]

Yeah, I did leave that out didn't I.  You need two NIC cards, but that's a negligible undertaking.  I believe I did mention the computer rather inauspiciously albeit, when I said "in addition to what you have already listed" 

Good catch on the NIC cards I left out.  Thanks for being here, and welcome to the forums!

[W5MAY]

Requirements for Repeater

• D-Star Repeater Module: (2m 440Mhz, 1.2GVoice 1.2GData) You choose which ones you want
  For each repeater module you will need appropriate antennas, duplexers, amplifiers etc.  Remember if you use any of the 1.2G modules that the loss thru coax at these frequencies is much greater than 2M, use high quality coax/transmission line to avoid too much loss
• D-Star Controller Module which the Repeater Modules connect to
• Computer 2.4G 1g Ram, with Dual NIC cards One NIC connects to the D-Star Controller the other connections to a Router which can handle class A routing of 10.0.0..0/8 (Many will not) connected to the internet if you want to be able to talk all over the world.  If you are going to be locating at a tower site, remember the enviroment you will be in an base your computer selection on those factors.
  
• Some computer knowledge to install and configure using the manual, the Linux software needed to run on the computer.  We have found that non-Linux users have the most success in getting their systems configured and operational from following the directions in the manual.  They tend to not let their "Linux Expert Expierence" interfere with configuring the system the way ICOM has engineered it and not as they expect it to work.
  
• Desire to have fun and learn a new way of using ham radio and being on the leading edge of technology.

For a more specific list of hardware, we will be posting that list soon elsewhere on this forum.

Gerry
W5MAY