D-STAR stands for Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio. It is a digital voice and data system designed specifically for amateur radio.
D-STAR allows licensed radio amateurs to communicate digitally, either directly with another station or through a network of D-STAR repeaters and personal hotspots.
One of the advantages of D-STAR is that repeaters and hotspots can be connected through the internet, allowing radio amateurs and Scouts to communicate with stations around the UK and across the world.
D-STAR and Radio Scouting
D-STAR is a great way for Scouts to experience digital amateur radio and make contacts with other Scouts and radio amateurs around the world.
It is particularly popular during Jamboree On The Air (JOTA), when thousands of Scouts take part in amateur-radio activities internationally.
The main D-STAR reflector associated with JOTA and Radio Scouting is:
REF033A
REF033A is used as a dedicated D-STAR JOTA and Radio Scouting reflector.
During JOTA and other Radio Scouting activities, you may hear Scout groups and amateur-radio stations from around the world using the reflector.
When calling, listen first to make sure the reflector is clear before transmitting.
A typical call might be:
“CQ JOTA, CQ JOTA, this is GB2ABC calling CQ JOTA and listening.”
If another station replies, exchange callsigns and information about your Scout groups, locations and activities.
Using REF033A
You can access REF033A using a compatible D-STAR repeater or a personal hotspot.
The exact method will depend on the radio, repeater or hotspot you are using.
When using a hotspot, select D-STAR as the operating mode and connect to:
REF033A
Once connected, listen for activity before transmitting.
Good Operating Practice
Radio Scouting reflectors can become particularly busy during JOTA, so good operating practice helps everyone get a chance to make contacts.
Remember to:
- Listen before transmitting.
- Leave a short gap between transmissions.
- Keep contacts reasonably short when the reflector is busy.
- Clearly identify your station using your amateur-radio callsign.
- Give other Scout groups an opportunity to call.
- Avoid repeatedly calling if another contact is already taking place.
- Disconnect from the reflector when you have finished using it.
For longer conversations, experienced operators may choose to move to another suitable reflector or repeater where appropriate, leaving the main Radio Scouting reflector available for new contacts.
Scouts Using D-STAR
Scouts do not need to understand all of the technology behind D-STAR to enjoy using it.
With an appropriately licensed radio amateur supervising the station, young people can experience amateur radio, speak to Scouts in other parts of the country or world, and learn how modern digital communication systems work.
It can also provide opportunities to explore:
- Amateur-radio operating procedures
- Callsigns and phonetic alphabets
- Digital communications
- Radio repeaters and networks
- Geography
- International Scouting
- Electronics and radio technology
Jamboree On The Air
D-STAR is just one of the many ways Scouts can communicate during Jamboree On The Air (JOTA).
JOTA brings Scouts together using amateur radio, with contacts taking place using traditional HF and VHF/UHF radio as well as modern digital voice systems such as D-STAR.
Whether you make contact with another Scout group a few miles away or on the other side of the world, the important part is getting young people talking, learning about amateur radio and experiencing the international friendship of Scouting.
Always ensure that amateur-radio activities are carried out in accordance with the conditions of the supervising operator’s amateur-radio licence.
