I have not read any studies comparing analog FM vs. D-STAR performance under weak signal conditions. My own experience is that unless there is multipath, D-STAR tends to work better. Here's an unscientific example -- I have worked a D-STAR repeater with very tall antenna from over 40 miles away using an HT, and I assume I was getting close to 5 watts. I used a 17 inch rubber duck antenna. No R2D2 garble either direction. Analog FM might have been possible, but with more noise.
However, if the signal suffers from multipath, in my experience D-STAR is hit harder by that than analog FM. If you are interested in D-STAR, one way to ensure you can enjoy it no matter what is to get either a DVAP (DV Access Point) or build yourself a D-STAR HotSpot. This would allow your D-STAR radio to run on low power, but the DVAP or HotSpot would connect into the D-STAR DPlus network of worldwide repeaters and reflectors. This may not be for you, but if you are interested in the HotSpot idea, take a look at what I did -- it's at http://www.k6jm.com/hs-setup.htm Jim - K6JM ----- Original Message ----- From: n9aa To: [email protected] Sent: Sunday, May 30, 2010 8:34 PM Subject: [DSTAR_DIGITAL] Re: Dstar The is no single answer to your question, Tom. As with any analog repeater, your ability to get into the D=Star repeater is going to depend on your antenna, how high it is, and how much power you're running. It's certainly possible to hit a repeater from the distances you're talking about, but having an antenna high enough will certainly make it easier. If you can hear the repeater well with your beam, there's a good chance you'll be able to get into it. 73, Scott, N9AA --- In [email protected], "billyjack2682006" <billyjack2682...@...> wrote: > > Hi this is N9HSM Tom, I am learning alot from this group. I got a question How can you be be from the Dstar repeater before you drop out? or How close the Dstar has to be before you can get into. The closer Dstar is about 50 to 75 miles away. I have a beam. but not the Dstar radio yet. Also I like to thank the person who put it on radio reference., Thanks alot for your help.... N9HSM >
