At 06:40 AM 3/18/2010, you wrote: >The one thing I hate is using memories to do everything. Go to a new >area and you've got to program new memories. Ever see one of Mark's , >KJ4VO, files? He has everything in there. I get confused just looking >at one.
I think the way memories currently work is wrong. To me, you need to be able to specify the frequency independently of the callsigns, because the same frequency can be used by different repeaters in different areas. You could have a "favourites" list, which works like an independent set of memories, and can be applied. Also, D-STAR radios really need a decent text interface. I've recently upgraded from a phone with a standard numeric keypad to an iPhone, and the difference the interface makes to text messaging is huge. D-STAR radios need a better keypad entry system, whether it's a full keyboard (like a Blackberry), or a touch screen (like an iPhone), since there's so much textual information. Voice command would also be useful for mobile operators, so you could say: "Set gateway W1ABC port C", which would set R1 to W1ABD C and R2 to W1ABC G (since the command contained the word "gateway". "Set route W1ABC via VK3RWN port C" - does a complete route to W1ABC, setting R1 to VK3RWN C and R2 to VK3RWN G along the way. DPlus linking could be done also "Link VK3RWN port B to REF013 port C" A decent interface between the operator and radio would make D-STAR _much_ easier. >If Open D-Star could use the data portion to send linking commands and >Kenwood would implement an ability like that then I think they could >retain some reasonable margins. If Kenwood implemented a better user interface, like my 3 examples (keyboard, touch screen, voice), I think they'd sell like hotcakes. No need to change the protocol, just the interface. Then add to that, field upgradeable radios (like modern phones), and I'm sure they could justify a decent margin. Consumers get to upgrade firmware in their phones, routers, DVD players, etc. Why should mass produced ham radios be stuck in the dark ages? 73 de VK3JED / VK3IRL http://vkradio.com
