At 03:08 AM 7/15/2010, you wrote:
>Will, > >Even though the DVAP and the HotSpot approaches are architecturally >similar, they target different situations. The DVAP is really quick >to set up, doesn't take much space in the shack and it is perfect >for travel. Imagine checking into a hotel with internet access, and >within a minute or so, you can have coverage there into the D-Star >network. Heck, sit out by the pool and monitor your hometown >repeater. Also, the DVAP is a cheaper solution unless you have a >spare analog radio and computer for a HotSpot. Agree. The DVAP is the ultimate in portability, and brings the best of both worlds - Local Internet connectivity and the portability of your D-STAR radio. The hotspot, OTOH isn't as portable, but it allows for _much_ greater range, so you can offer services to local hams. > The HotSpot takes a bit more to set up, but it is surprisingly > easy, and there is a ton of support available, particularly on the > gmsk_dv_node Yahoo group. On > <http://www.k6jm.com/hs-setup.htm>http://www.k6jm.com/hs-setup.htm > I documented each step in some detail, but really there are only 5 > basic steps: register (which you have to do for the DVAP also), > install software, load firmware (depending on which board, this may > not be needed), configure firmware, install DVAR application. In > generally works the first time. And don't forget to configure and align the radio! Tx modulation level, in particular, is quite critical when setting up a hotspot. The use of test equipment is highly recommended (that said, I did mine by ear and got it right). I don't own a DVAP, but it is on my wish list, because the problem space it deals with is different enough to the hotspot to warrant the expense, even though both actually do more or less the same thing. I'd use the DVAP for travelling and nets where there was no local interest, leaving the hotspot free for local users to enjoy. 73 de VK3JED / VK3IRL http://vkradio.com
