Hamspot 5

There are many digital modes in amater radio. The ones popular on handheld VHF/UHF radios include:

• D-Star
• DMR
• System Fusion
• NXDN
• P25

To use these modes you typically need two things:

• a handheld radio that supports the mode you want to use
• a nearby repeater or reflector that supports the mode you want to use

There are many options for handheld radios. These repeaters are usually connected to the internet which enables communications with others around the world using that same mode. If there isn’t a repeater in your area that offers the digital mode you want to use, you are out of luck. Unless you have a hotspot.

A hotspot is a pocket sized low power repeater that connects to the internet and can communicate with your handheld using various digital modes. You can buy commercial devices, or build your own with a Raspberry Pi, radio boards, and open source software.

The Hamspot 5 by Collin K0NNK is a new option which gives you the flexibility and upgradability of your own Raspberry Pi based solution, without you having to do all the tinkering to get something that works.

This looks like a great option, with full duplex operation and a nice looking case. Runs from USB-C power, and connects to the internet via Ethernet or Wi-Fi.