Review on Jstvro Hotspot Station Raspberry Duplex Board Antenna by Lawrence George

As a complete novice to using APs and Pi-Stars and new to D-Star, I wanted the AP to be able to gain confidence in using D-Star , before I use public repeaters my area. I didn't want the locals to get upset about the mistakes I might make connecting or disconnecting their systems. So I gave it a try for a modest investment. The packaged instructions contained some useful information to ensure certain settings in the Pi-Star were correct for this device. The preinstalled default was already correct, but it's nice to see it printed too. I had to use several other online sources to finally find the clearest step-by-step guide on how to set it up. There was no calibration information. I got BER = 0.3% out of the box with zero offset, which seems a decent value, but trial and error editing the RX/TX offset I got it at 0.0%, so I didn't use mmdvmcal method. I found frequencies in my area that were clear (not used by repeaters, access points near me and quiet according to my monitor). I used the small UHF antennas that came with the access point. I didn't need a better quality antenna as my radio would never be far from the access point while in use. The echo test has shown that it works correctly. The only test I have yet to do is determine the range of the access point, which I can do since my D-Start radio is mobile. I will say that the arcane tuning process itself was very educational on how these items work and how to set up and tune the parameters properly. Ultimately I'm better for the learning curve that was needed. However, I have to deduct a star for the ease of use. Yes, there are access points on my LANs that are better recommended by those in the know, but they cost in the $300 range. In short, this hotspot will satisfy my modest needs and save me some money.