Connecting to the TGIF Network and Participating in Talk Group 1938

This guide will walk you through connecting your WPSD hotspot to the TGIF DMR network and successfully using Talk Group 1938, including participating in the weekly Thursday Net at 20:00 UTC.

Step 1: Gather Essentials

To connect to the TGIF Network, ensure you have:

1. DMR Radio: Compatible models like AnyTone, TYT, or similar.
2. Hotspot Running WPSD: A Pi-Star fork (e.g., ZumSpot, JumboSpot) configured with WPSD firmware.
3. DMR ID: Register at RadioID.net for a unique amateur radio DMR ID if you don’t already have one.
4. TGIF Network Account: Create an account at TGIF Network to access network features. Note your API key if you’re using TGIF Prime.

Step 2: Configure Your WPSD Hotspot

1. Access WPSD Dashboard:
   • Open a web browser and navigate to your hotspot’s local IP (e.g., http://wpsd.local/).
2. Set TGIF as the DMR Master:
   • In the Configuration menu, set the DMR Master to TGIF Network.
   • If using TGIF Prime, input your API key from your TGIF dashboard.
3. Set Hotspot Frequency:
   • Match the frequency to the one you will program into your DMR radio.
   • Common frequencies are in the 433-439 MHz range (check your local regulations).
4. Apply Changes:
   • Click Apply Changes and allow the hotspot to reboot.

Step 3: Program Your DMR Radio

1. Create a Channel for TGIF:
   • Set the frequency to match your hotspot.
   • Use Color Code 1 (default for most setups).
   • Assign Time Slot 2 (TS2) for TGIF communications.
2. Add Talk Group 1938:
   • Create a contact for Talk Group 1938 with the call type set to Group Call.
   • Assign this contact to the TGIF channel.
3. Save and Upload the Codeplug:
   • Save the configuration and upload it to your radio.

Step 4: Verify Your Connection

1. Check the WPSD Dashboard:
   • Confirm your hotspot is connected to the TGIF server. The dashboard should display the TGIF Master and your radio activity.
2. Key Up to Test:
   • Press the Push-to-Talk (PTT) briefly on Talk Group 1938 to ensure you’re connected.

Step 5: Participating in the Weekly Net

The Talk Group 1938 Net takes place every Thursday at 20:00 UTC. Here’s how to join:

1. Join Before Start Time:
   • Ensure your radio is tuned to Talk Group 1938 a few minutes before 20:00 UTC.
2. Check-In Procedure:
   • Wait for the Net Control Operator to call for check-ins.
   • Respond with your call sign and location when prompted, e.g., “This is [Your Call Sign] in [Your Location].”
3. Net Participation Guidelines:
   • Listen carefully to instructions from the Net Control Operator.
   • Speak briefly and clearly during your turn.
   • Use your call sign at the start and end of each transmission.

Step 6: Static vs Dynamic Talk Groups

• Static Talk Group:
  • Set Talk Group 1938 as static in the WPSD dashboard if you plan to use it frequently.
  • Navigate to the DMR Gateway settings and add 1938 to the static groups list.
• Dynamic Talk Group:
  • Key up on Talk Group 1938 for temporary access.

Step 7: Troubleshooting

Common Issues and Solutions:

1. Hotspot Not Connecting:
   • Ensure the TGIF Master and API key (if applicable) are correctly entered in WPSD.
   • Verify your hotspot has internet access.
2. No Audio or Response:
   • Check if your radio’s channel settings (frequency, Colour Code, Time Slot) match the hotspot configuration.
3. Poor Signal Quality:
   • Ensure your hotspot and radio are within range.
   • Check the RSSI (signal strength) in the WPSD dashboard.

Step 8: TGIF Etiquette and Best Practices

• Identify Yourself: Always state your call sign at the beginning and end of your transmissions.
• Be Brief: Allow others time to participate, especially during nets.
• Respect Rules: Follow amateur radio and TGIF-specific guidelines.