Hi all,
I’m pretty new to two-way radios and DMR, so please bear with me. I’m trying to figure out how to improve communication between three sites using a Hytera DMR repeater, and I’m a bit lost on the best setup and equipment.
Here’s what I’ve got:
Site A has a Hytera DMR repeater (not sure of the exact model yet—happy to check if it matters). It reaches Site B and Site C, but only to the upper floors of the buildings there (the DMR repeater antenna is up on a 200 foot tower).
At Sites B and C, I’m using 4W handheld radios (Hytera PD602i, PD502i, PD362 and X1e models), but they can’t reliably talk back to Site A, even when on the upper floors.
My goal is to boost the signal from Site A to fully cover Sites B and C (not just the upper floors), and also make it so the handhelds at B and C can send signal back to Site A. I’ve read a little about repeaters, antennas, or maybe linking systems, but I don’t know what’s practical for this.
Could anyone help me with:
If I were to set up repeaters (or some sort of signal boosting) at Sites B anc C, how to best configure this? Over IP? Other options?
How to improve Site A’s coverage to B and C—better antenna, more power, or something else? (I don’t think I can go any higher on power than I already am, but might as well ask.)
How to get the 3-4W handhelds at B and C to reach Site A—do I need repeaters at those sites too? Signal boosting?
Any specific Hytera gear (or compatible) you’d recommend for this?
Tips for a newbie setting this up—I’m still learning the basics!
I’d love to hear what’s worked for you or any pitfalls to avoid. Thanks so much for any advice.