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DEARG.Driven Elements Amateur Radio Group

DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS / VOICE, MESSAGES & DATA

D-STAR & D-RATS

Two different tools that can work together: D-STAR provides the radio link, while D-RATS helps operators exchange written information.

What is D-STAR?

D-STAR means Digital Smart Technology for Amateur Radio. Icom describes it as an open digital communications protocol established by the Japan Amateur Radio League (JARL). Compatible radios support digital voice and data.

Local radio-to-radio operation and repeater access are distinct from internet-linked routing. Gateways and reflectors can connect distant stations, but those paths depend on the facilities and connections involved. Check which parts of your planned route require internet access.

D-STAR’s low-speed data in DV mode is different from DD high-speed data on compatible equipment. Do not assume every D-STAR radio supports DD.

Icom D-STAR introduction ↗

What is D-RATS?

D-RATS is a software application for exchanging information over D-STAR’s low-speed DV data channel. Its project documentation lists multi-user chat, file transfers, structured forms, and position tracking and mapping.

The software runs on a computer connected through a supported interface. It does not replace the radio. Network connections can also be used for practice and linking where configured; document the transport you are testing so a successful internet exercise is not mistaken for an RF test.

Installation methods and dependencies vary by operating system. Use the maintained project instructions rather than assuming an old installer or tutorial is still compatible.

D-RATS project & installation guidance ↗

HOW THE PIECES CONNECT

From a written message to a radio link.

  1. Computer + D-RATSPrepare a message, form or small file.
  2. Compatible interface + D-STAR radioCarry the data over the configured RF path.
  3. Receiving radio + D-RATSReceive, check and acknowledge the information.

Illustrative direct RF workflow. Repeaters, gateways or network links add dependencies; identify and test every part of your actual route.

PREPARE YOUR STATION

Start with compatibility.

  • Confirm the radio supports D-STAR DV data and identify the correct data connection in its manual.
  • Check the required computer cable, interface and drivers for that specific radio.
  • Follow the project’s current operating-system installation instructions.
  • Agree on the permitted RF path, mode and station settings with the other operators.
  • Verify call signs, ports, data settings and the receiving station before an exercise.

D-STAR system overview ↗
D-RATS documentation wiki ↗

A useful first exercise

  1. Arrange a test with a second operator.
  2. Exchange a brief chat message in both directions.
  3. Send a small practice form or text file.
  4. Check content and obtain an explicit acknowledgment.
  5. Record the path, equipment and result; repeat using the backup power and connectivity you expect during an outage.

These are suggested practice steps, not radio-specific programming instructions. Use the equipment manual and local communications plan for actual settings.

EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS

Choose the message and the path.

Written messages can help teams preserve details, track requests and reduce repeated voice read-backs. An exercise might exchange a supply request, situation report or equipment-status form. Agree on the format, priority and acknowledgment procedure before using it operationally.

Keep files small and test realistic transfer times. Record delivery and keep a voice or other fallback available. A map display or an internet-linked connection should not be assumed to work offline without preparation and testing.

DEARG’s experience

DEARG’s own historical account describes using Icom D-STAR equipment and D-RATS in a 2020 hospital-coalition communications project. The complete account is preserved in Over the Years.

This historical reference does not establish the current status of any hospital station, repeater, gateway or network.

Read the complete DEARG history →

Documentation & next steps

D-STAR fundamentals

Read the manufacturer’s explanation of digital voice, routing and linking.

Icom introduction ↗

Sources reviewed October 22, 2026. No local D-STAR frequencies, reflector assignments or current network availability are asserted here.