Connecting to Zumspot (PiStar)
Posted: Sat Dec 21, 2024 12:27 pm
I've been using the Zumspot with my FT-70D for several years now and have had no issue. I'm able to connect in using the HT's WIRES-X commands, change reflectors and disconnect from them just fine. Works perfect!
I recently picked up a FTM-500DR for the car. If there is no WIRES-X repeaters in the areas when traveling, I will use a Pistar in the car, tethered to my mobile phone as a hotspot. Here is the problem. With the FTM-500DR, when I press the WIRES-X (red DX) button, it will not connect in reliably - it may take a dozen, or more tries to connect. What I have found that does work, if I key the radio for several seconds, unkey then use the WIRES-X button it will connect in just fine and I can pick a YSF reflector and all seems well. I am getting a BER 0f 0.1-0.3% with the FTM-500DR.
The FT-70D handheld continues to work fine.
I contacted Yaesu tech support and they were aware of the problem. Their explanation? The PiStar is not WIRES-X and either the BER is too high, the deviation is too wide/narrow or frequency is slightly off. They claim their WIRES-X system is more tolerant then the Pistar. They also told me that if I sent the radio in to have it serviced they can't guarantee that it will resolve the issue connecting to the pistar.
Has anyone else experienced this and if so, how did they resolve this? I've ordered a service manual for the FTM=500, but it won't be here for at least 4-6 weeks. I don't even know how to get into the service menu.
Many thanks!
73 de NO8J
I recently picked up a FTM-500DR for the car. If there is no WIRES-X repeaters in the areas when traveling, I will use a Pistar in the car, tethered to my mobile phone as a hotspot. Here is the problem. With the FTM-500DR, when I press the WIRES-X (red DX) button, it will not connect in reliably - it may take a dozen, or more tries to connect. What I have found that does work, if I key the radio for several seconds, unkey then use the WIRES-X button it will connect in just fine and I can pick a YSF reflector and all seems well. I am getting a BER 0f 0.1-0.3% with the FTM-500DR.
The FT-70D handheld continues to work fine.
I contacted Yaesu tech support and they were aware of the problem. Their explanation? The PiStar is not WIRES-X and either the BER is too high, the deviation is too wide/narrow or frequency is slightly off. They claim their WIRES-X system is more tolerant then the Pistar. They also told me that if I sent the radio in to have it serviced they can't guarantee that it will resolve the issue connecting to the pistar.
Has anyone else experienced this and if so, how did they resolve this? I've ordered a service manual for the FTM=500, but it won't be here for at least 4-6 weeks. I don't even know how to get into the service menu.
Many thanks!
73 de NO8J