After Trevor and I visited South Peak and updated the multimode modem's firmware and the Pi's software to the latest versions, the new M17 Open Source DV mode was possible.? I enabled it, but had no way to test it.?

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The M17 developers ( ) have done a pretty complete job of developing open hardware designs and software with networking, reflectors, etc.? They are currently in talks with a radio manufacturer about making and selling a radio with the new M17 DV mode. But there is no timeline I'm aware of.

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In the meantime, and after some ups and downs, I was able to cobble together an M17 radio using an MMDVM modem, a Pi running special software and an analog FM transceiver.? Got it working now and I am able to use the W6CX DV repeater (145.0 +2.5) from here in Danville to have M17 QSOs.? My first one was with someone in SoCal using an M17 reflector.

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I realize there won't be much local RF activity using M17 until people can purchase M17 radios, but having M17 enabled does not appear to create problems for our repeater or users of modes like D-Star.? Obviously, we don't want a lot of network traffic from a little-used mode, but I am monitoring that.? The underlying goal, when M17 radios become available, is to have people to talk to, both local and networked, as an incentive to get into this new mode.

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For DIYers, there are some interesting options for getting on M17 now.? I'd be happy to give more info to any and all who might be interested.?

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??? Jim - K6JM

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